The men’s lacrosse team exemplifies the simplicity involved with giving back. The team adopted a young child with brain and spinal cancer. The players’ interactions are simple enough – a high five or pat on the head – but they’ve made a significant difference in the life of a 6-year-old child, Jack Tweedy.

Two other athletics teams at Syracuse University, the men’s basketball team and the women’s lacrosse team, have followed suit. These teams’ involvement with the community is an example all SU students can follow.

There are many different organizations at SU that also give back to charities. The greek organizations work to hold events and fundraise for different charities. There are groups and classes that go into Syracuse city schools to help tutor underprivileged students.

As students, it’s easy to get lost in the campus bubble. Between classes and other extracurricular activities, it can be difficult to look beyond a student’s immediate surroundings. But there are many opportunities to get involved with the surrounding community just minutes off campus.

Not all opportunities to give back require money either. Students can spend time with the sick. There are many hospitals near campus where students can volunteer their time.

Just spending time with those in need, listening to their stories or sharing some of your own can make a big difference. Giving back not only helps those on the receiving end, but can also help those on the giving end. Both parties can be rewarded through simple interactions.