Start the year off strong!!

"To bend a bamboo, start when it is a shoot." ~Malaysian Proverb

Hey PACURH!

So, this next blog post is all about starting the year off strong. Some of you might recognize that quote from the pamphlet I handed out during NACURH at UCSD, and hopefully it's given you some food for thought during the past month and a half since we last saw one another. It's a quote that energized me for the start of the year last year, and I hope it can energize you all as well!

I used it as an RA to build my floor community, and witnessed as countless friendships were made utilizing the energy that everyone has at the start of the year. I wish I had done this as the NRHH director, since our chapter would have been so much stronger... So to make up for it, I'm passing on this tidbit of wisdom to all of you.

First impressions mean a lot... and I mean a lot! When it comes to an NRHH chapter, this is possibly one of the most important things. Every one has more of an open mind at the start of the year. They're willing to do new things. Start going to the rec center again, maybe join that freeze tag club they've been thinking about, finish the first week of reading before the first class... Eventually it fizzles out, but you must admit it does happen, and it does have an effect! Even if they've been around for a while, your chapter's members will probably be a lot more open-minded, and if you impress them (and the rest of the school) within the first few weeks, chances are you'll keep their attention for longer.

(Photo from Florida State University's NRHH http://fsunrhh.com/)

There's no doubt that your members are the busiest in the world (including yourself). However, at the start of the year, everyone's not only less busy, but they have tons more energy. So, capitalize on that energy. Do lots of programming--and lots of bold programming. Try something new! Work with your executive boards to take some risks and have some fun. Lost on ideas? Talk to other chapters about cool events they do at the start of the year to build that NRHH pride.

"I would rather regret the things I have done than the things I have not." ~Lucille Ball

Below is a document all about starting strong that the PACURH Regional Technology Coordinator, Steven Crader, helped me create, and it gives a little more specifics. Thanks to Steven for his hard work and patience! %S%T%E%V%E%N%!

NRHH Start Early Guide

(Also, you'll probably notice this about me, but I absolutely adore inspirational quotes... Just fyi :-D )