I love to talk about Kansas University.

I know about its history, alums, campus, people, classes and activities. I am proud to be a Jayhawk and show my school spirit daily, whether on the 27 KU T-shirts I have accumulated or in the fact I won’t shut up about my classes. On a side note, you should be happy that in this column I didn’t go on and on about Old English and Middle English verbs, or the origins of the Broadway musical, or the short stories of Hemingway, or Slavic folklore, because I could, and I’d love to.

I admit it: I am a nerd. Yet although I remain focused on my academics, I’m not blinded by them. I have thrived on the cooperative and supportive environment that I have found in KU organizations like Student Union Activities, the KU Symphony Orchestra and the University Daily Kansan. My extracurricular involvement has been one of the focal points of my college career, and it has made my college life that much more meaningful and so much fun.

So, get involved. A little involvement will go a long way. You’ll get to know many more people, expand your viewpoints and make a difference in your campus and community. But whatever you do, remember to have fun. My adviser has repeatedly told me: “Whatever it is you’re doing, try to have a little fun with it.”

• Looking for something fun? Play one of the gazillion club sports, including everything from football to field crumpets. If church is your thing, or if you’re curious about it, there are dozens of religious and spiritual groups registered at KU.
• Want to (or need to) get out of Kansas for a while? How about spending part of winter break in Prague, Czech Republic, or working on one of the alternative spring break sites across the United States, or studying for six months in Costa Rica or for a summer in France?
• Like music? Sing in a choir. There are 10 official choral ensembles and at least as many other student and community groups. If you would rather listen to music than perform it, join the SUA Concerts and Comedy Committee or get involved with the KJHK radio station.

Lauren Stewart, Wichita senior, has been involved in Student Union Activities, the Kansas University Symphony Orchestra and the University Daily Kansan while attending KU.

Whatever your interests, find something fun, and get involved. It’s easy, I promise. If you’d like a list of organizations, stop by the Center for Campus Life in the Kansas Union or check the KU Web site (www.ku.edu).

I have gained so much from my involvement and am constantly challenged and pushed outside my comfort zone to do bigger and better things. I have expanded my college experience in interesting and incredibly memorable ways, whether in having dinner with director John Waters, organizing a press conference for Gloria Steinem, performing in the Lied Center or in a chapel in Sweden, going to dozens of plays in London or to football games at Memorial Stadium, or even just helping to set up a movie on Campanile Hill.

But it’s more than just getting involved. Get to know your environment and the people in it. Talk to your professors. Stop by your adviser’s office.

Be active and explore Lawrence and KU.

And have a little fun with it.