Jalyn Thomas, Contributing Writer
I have been going to VCU for four years and, consequently, have lived in Richmond for four years. But I only recently started immersing myself in the Richmond community.
When I first started out at VCU, I didn’t see any point in trying to be part of the community that Richmond had to offer — I never thought that I would be here for longer than the four years it took for me to get my degree.
I was obviously wrong about that. Unbeknownst to past-me, I am going to be here longer than initially planned.
While looking for apartments and jobs in the city — a feat of considerable difficulty — I have been constantly asking myself why I decided to stay. The answer is simple; Richmond’s community just has so much to offer.
A previous editorial published in The CT helped me put things in perspective. The article reminded readers that VCU is in Richmond and that “we are visitors to this city.” I believe this is a great way to put it — we are first and foremost in Richmond, not the other way around.
That notion has made me think about how I should interact with the city and it has encouraged me to find ways to really be a part of the local community.
My newfound desire has allowed me to create a great life in Richmond, a life where I go to the RVA Big Market, monthly First Fridays and local coffee shops like Abi’s Books and Brews near campus.
Integrating with the community has changed my life for the better. I get to meet new people every time I go out and find and create third spaces.
Beyond that, Richmond has its fair share of unique events, locations and people, such as the free tiramisu drops, the numerous walking clubs and the regular flea markets at Monroe Park and Main Street Station. Richmonders have a special way of creating a unique and vibrant community.
VCU itself does have its own community — made successful by students who understand the need for third spaces. There is something for everyone; the Historical European Martial Arts club for sword-fighters, the Student Literary Association for the readers and a variety of fantastic cultural and ethnic clubs such as the Black Student Union and the Latine Student Alliance.
Community is a necessity, especially in times like ours when society feels so unstable. It is up to us to not only seek out that community, but also take part in building it. I urge you to look at the area around you — not just at VCU — and see what you can offer, not just what it can offer you.
We need to be there for our neighbors and create and nourish the people around us.