College students have a great opportunity of living in a variety of communities in a short period of time. Maybe you lived somewhere over the summer where where you had never stayed before. Each community has a different lifestyle, and a different amount of impact on the environment. Being able to learn from new experiences and apply them to living in college has guided me to this message for new and returning students.
I have experienced about 5 different communities in the past 3 years of being in college. Each has a different attitude about recycling, sustainability, and their impact on the environment. Comparing these different lifestyles after living in them has made me realize how your own actions can be influenced by those already living in that community. This brings me to my message for first year students:
College is a time when you can turn over a new leaf, in your personality, actions and beliefs. GreenAlfred, and many other groups and individuals, have worked to create a community where it is welcoming and easy for you to live green. Ultimately, it is your decision, to have green actions and get involved for real change to take place.
My message is similar for returning students. College life at Alfred can become a place of comfort and routine. For those interested in making the change for a greener life, the basis for that new lifestyle will be change in your routine and habits. GreenAlfred is working to make these changes easier.
Overall we need your help to get involved, show your support, and spread the word.