New Year’s Eve often brings a party, but the new year itself often brings hope for change and growth. Many college students approach the new year the way Charlie Brown approaches the football in those famous Peanut cartoons. Although Lucy has whisked the ball away every time, he is still optimistic and hopeful that it will be different. Similarly, in spite of the mixed track record with New Year’s resolutions, students make them again and again, hoping they’ll be successful.

As 2019 rolls in, many people around the world will be optimistically setting New Year’s resolutions for themselves, and the students of Iona College are no different. College is the perfect place to change. No matter whether you are a freshman or a senior, everyone is learning to adapt to the circumstances around them and better themselves. For those who have upheld their resolutions, stay strong and power through. For those who’ve failed or missed the resolution boat, there’s still hope!

First, it’s all about a fresh start. A clean slate helps with new opportunities in changing something about yourself. As people, we sometimes underestimate how long it takes to kick a bad habit or adopt a good one.

“My New Year’s resolution is to visit church more frequently,” freshman Michael Schools said.

Once we decide that we need to change something, creating a resolution allows us to challenge ourselves to change in the upcoming year to be better, just like Schools. No one is perfect. Understanding exactly where you need help and a fresh start can help you get ahead.

Second, making and upholding New Year’s resolutions tends to make people focus more and become more responsible. You can’t always live life in your comfort zone, especially in college. It becomes hard and stressful, and your opinions, mindset and belief system are tested daily. You must find new ways to articulate who you are and what you believe. Many students buckle themselves down and get ready to work hard.

“This year I’m working on my major,” sophomore Maria LoRusso said. “It’s going pretty well. However, I’d like to be less of a procrastinator in the future.”

This is where resolutions come in handy, as it helps you take control of your life in a positive way. Finding ways to fight negativity in peaceful ways – like exercising, volunteering in the community, or recycling – can mentally propel us toward our future self while keeping us firmly planted in who we are. This way life does not pass us by while we are planning for the future.

Lastly, it’s all about self-improvement. One of the things that separates us from other creatures is our capability to rise above our impulses and make better decisions. In nature, animals pretty much live in a defined existence that is set by behavior. Man, by nature, has a much larger range of possibilities to change. Nobody can train for a marathon in just a few days nor can they pay off their student loans with a single check, so it’s important to remember to start off small.

Plus, not all New Year’s resolutions have to be fancy or elaborate.

“My New Year’s resolution is to work on my art skills,” freshman Jaiell Taylor said. “I’m just trying to better myself in something that I like and enjoy.”

Every resolution is important, whether it’s deciding to have a healthier lifestyle, spending more time with your siblings or going to church more often. It allows you to make some areas of weakness stronger, but also aids you in finding out who you are. By working on these things, many of us here at Iona have embraced the new year. Keep pushing through!