Going outside of your comfort zone is something that many people have issues with. Some people have trouble getting outside their room, while others have anxiety about being in front of people. Others cannot stand the idea of having to move and some have never left the familiarity of home. None of these things are issues that should be feared, but rather issues that should be attacked head on.

College gives people chances for better jobs, but it also gives us the opportunity for so much more. With an education comes the chance to experience things that you would never get to experience otherwise.

Students should take full advantage of the opportunity college presents to experience new ideas and cultures. For example, there are classes at USAO that make people have conversations about touchy subjects or unfamiliar topics. Take the chance to take a class where you will have to discuss those tough issues. Take yourself out of your comfort zone and talk about religion or politics. Humans grow through conversation and debate, and you are no exception.

There’s always the issue of being socially awkward or having a fear of social interaction. College and the degree that comes with it allows us to meet new people, which is something we should exploit. Have fun and meet new people. Worst case scenario, a friendship won’t arise and then you’re no better or worse for it. Besides, if they have a problem with you for sparking up a conversation, they probably aren’t worth the time anyway.

The biggest fear I see, at least in Oklahoma, is the fear of being away from home. I have met so many people who are afraid to leave. This world has so many experiences out there for us to find. We shouldn’t let fear of the unknown hold us back. We should instead be excited about what we do not know. So many people do not get the chance to live somewhere else, so if you get the chance, take it.

This is written from my own experience and witnessing of these “small town” fears. College has allowed me to see other places and experience new people and culture, but we all have the rest of our lives to go. This is just the beginning of what can be an exciting life. We have so many opportunities in life that many times we don’t grab because of self-imposed fear. There are so many challenges in life, but none of those things should hold you back. Above all else, you yourself should not be one of those obstacles. Use the things in life that scare you to propel you forward, not hold you back.