Written by Kenzie Kesselring, Opinions Editior

Want to create some good karma for yourself? Consider taking VSU’s two credit course, KARMA. KARMA is a course offered every fall and spring on campus that grants students with the opportunity to become a peer mentor.

KARMA, which stands for knowledge, awareness, respect, maturity and achievement, teaches students how to effectively help their fellow students deal with difficult situations such as eating disorders, substance abuse issues, mental health issues, HIV/AIDS and much more.

The KARMA class is a long standing tradition on VSU’s campus. The class has been offered for the last 18 years and contributes so much to the VSU community.

Through grants given to the program, previous KARMA students were able to attend a seminar on how to affectively reduce drunk drivers around the Valdosta community. They have also participated in Sexual Assault Awareness Month by having an information booth for students. These students also help with VSU’s annual Safe Spring Break and the VSU Health Fair put on by the Health Center every year.

The KARMA students are also given the opportunity to teach their classmates about a subject that is important to them, or they can teach something that they just learned about through the end of the semester project. These projects are an amazing way to educate fellow students outside of the classroom through seminars, informational flyers, or forums as well.

KARMA is a great class for Resident’s Assistants, organization leaders, or anyone looking to learn how to help a student in need. Becoming a peer mentor while also receiving two credit hours is a great way to give back to yourself, your friends, and your VSU community all at once.

If you find yourself looking for an extra class in the spring, keep KARMA in mind!