Places to be alone on campus (that are not your dorm room)

Freshman year Haley circa 2019 (pictured left).

College was the most exciting and overwhelming time of my life.

The moment I stepped on campus my freshman year, I was introduced to so many new people, traditions, concepts, routines, and possibilities. This was the exciting part—creating relationships and encountering aspects of life unique to the college experience.

But this was also the overwhelming part.

My mind was constantly being filled, and I was always surrounded by other people.
I felt like I didn’t have the time or space to process my thoughts and emotions.

As a freshman, I was desperate for stillness. One night, feeling so overwhelmed, I climbed into my tiny dorm closet and cracked the door so my sleeping roommate wouldn't hear me cry. Many times, I wept quietly in the communal shower and played music to try and drown out my tears so others wouldn’t hear.

I started to avoid people and turn down social invitations. Anxiety began to creep in, and I found myself trying to numb the overwhelm with YouTube videos and Instagram.

Even as an upperclassman, I was tempted to stay in my room and isolate myself—to not let my roommates and others see that I was hurting. That way, they wouldn’t ask questions, and I wouldn’t have to feel my feelings even more.

With so much input in our daily lives, we need an outlet.

A way to process all the new information overloading our brains—not just the facts from classes, but also confusing social situations, heightened emotions, and the mental weight of figuring out what to do with the rest of our lives. These things hold weight, and having a way to think through or let go of them is crucial.

We also need a way to connect with God outside of Sunday mornings or Thursday nights.

If you’re like me, your physical surroundings play a huge role in your mental space. If my room is a mess, my mind can only think about how I need to clean. If I’m surrounded by people working, I immediately feel the urge to be productive too. I need a space—away from my room and others—to be alone.

I want to help you find that space at JMU!

Listed below are a few places on or around campus where you can be alone. The catch? None of these places are your room. Wanting to be alone in your room isn’t bad, and sometimes it’s the best place to be. But it can’t be your only place. Otherwise, loneliness may begin to creep in.

P.S. Each of these places are walkable, so they are first-year friendly!

HALEY’S FAVORITE JMU SPACES TO BE ALONE:

1. NEWMAN LAKE

In between the football stadium and Greek Row is Newman Lake. A pebble path lines the perimeter, perfect for a quiet walk. I personally love listening to audiobooks or voice-messaging friends as I stroll. Take refuge under the shade of a weeping willow as you watch the water ripple and geese swim across. Bring a blanket to sit on to journal and pray. This area receives little foot traffic, so you are sure to get a moment to yourself. If you are feeling more sociable, this would be a great place to meet up with friends for a chat or picnic.

2. ARBORETUM

Located on the far side of East Campus, the Arboretum may seem like a long walk, but there is a bus stop nearby! Take a stroll around the main pond or explore the forested paths. My favorite trail connects to the UREC disc golf course—it’s hidden, and the end feels like standing on top of the world. Not sure how to get there? Reach out through our connection form on our website—I’d love to show you!

3. BCM PRAYER ROOM

This is a room where you can be alone with God. Write a prayer on one of the index cards and clip it to the wall to be prayed over. Use the chalk to write a verse of lament or encouragement on the wall. Bask in the beautiful stained-colored glass. We invite you into this space at 711 S. Main Street (across from Hotel Madison).

4. EXPLORE!

I challenge you to take some time when you first get to campus to explore and find a space that speaks to you. There are many little nooks, inside and out, hidden around campus. It can feel intimidating to go alone at first, so ask a friend to explore with you! Even if you don’t live on campus anymore, I encourage you to utilize this amazing space that is available here and now.

Disclaimer:
Solitude is a spiritual discipline, but it can become an idol. God gave us the gift of solitude not to feel lonely or shut everyone out, but to offer a way to get out of ourselves and connect more deeply with Him. Be open to interruption, and don’t be afraid to let others in on how you’re feeling.