Lauren Carnes, Campus Carrier online editor

Despite being part of a tight campus community, even one as cohesive as Berry, it’s surprisingly common for students to struggle with isolation. When things get difficult, many of us retreat inward, telling ourselves we’ll handle it on our own. Part of that comes from the pressure to seem independent; it might also come from the assumption that no one else is struggling in the same way or from a concern about burdening others with our struggles. That combination makes it easy to feel alone, even when we’re not.

That’s why community is so important, especially during sad, stressful times. When we let others in, even in small ways, our struggles feel less isolating and more shared. Hearing that someone else has felt the same way can change how we see our own situation. Community doesn’t always eradicate our struggles, but it reminds us that we don’t have to carry them alone. 

If community is going to matter, it must be something we actively choose. That can start with small actions like checking in on a friend beyond a quick “how are you,” being honest when we’re not doing well or making space for more meaningful conversations.  Sending a small message is an easy way to make their day, no matter how trivial or unimportant the task might seem. These aren’t big changes, but they can drastically shift how supported people feel. A stronger campus community doesn’t come from policies alone; it comes from how we show up for each other every day.

College is a challenging journey for everyone at some point, even if the students around you don’t show their struggles. Choosing community over isolation won’t solve every problem, but it can make those moments easier to get through. Berry is a school that prides itself on meaningful conversations, by providing students with opportunities to be heavily active on campus and in the Rome community. At a school that values connection, it’s worth asking whether we’re truly supporting each other or just assuming everyone else is fine.