I can't actually think of any other place to put this, so here I go

I am a practicing Pagan at a college in New Jersey. I don't do a lot of spellcraft, mostly because I haven't learned enough about it to do it properly (and safely)in my opinion and partially because I don't have a really good area to work in. This is also why I don't do a lot of rituals, although I have found ways to draw a circle in my room (when the roommates are away!) and just pray to the Divine within my space. There aren't a lot of places on campus or in the area where I can just go to be in nature, and I have no way to get to any stores nearby that offer classes or sell items/books for Pagans, Wiccans, etc.

There is a Pagan student group on campus of about 20 members. Recently, I went their first meeting of the semester to try and meet some of them and see what they did as far as practicing their craft. However, I felt very excluded by the group, who judged me as a transfer student and an out-of-stater (which, both, apparently, were bad) instead of a Pagan or even just someone who was interested. Also, every single member of the group commuted to the school and therefore had places in their homes or apartments to do rituals, spells, etc. I don't think I'll be attending any more meetings with this group, although they do host meditation nights that are very popular with other groups of people that I might try.

I was wondering if anyone had advice on what I could do to become more involved in my religion and my studies of it, or if anyone could make suggestions as to what I haven't tried yet and could try on or off campus. Any comments, suggestions, or advice would be greatly appreciated. Thank you all!

you could try searching witchvox for other groups in your area to mingle and meet other people in. when i was in school, we had some really great places on campus that people could go and experience a taste of nature inside the busy campus. there were greenhouses, groves of trees, an sunwheel and a labrynth. another college near by had wonderful gardens. they usually had people in these areas but individually you can connect with nature in your own bubble.

You might try the local library. I've found many books with useful information at mine. Look in the "New Age" or "Occult" section. You don't have to belong to a group to have Pagan beliefs. I've been a solitary all my life. Pushing 50 now! (ancient) Keep searching you will find the right path.

Sundac3r,

I am a college student and understand your conflict. In my experiece, most student pagan organizations are more of a path of rebellion for college students rather than a dedicated spiritual path. If you are stuck on campus, you may have to depend on forums like ours or use Zhiva's advice and look up people on Witches Voice. As far as classes that may assist you, try taking anthropology, sociology, philosophy, and religious studies. At the higher levels, you may be able to write research papers on paganism relative to these disciplines. Also, checkout Alora's wonderful lessons in the Witches Key forum. There are covens in New Jersey that you can contact, which are listed below. Good luck with your search. Do not be disheartened--there is always a way to learn if you are willing to make the effort. (campfire)

Coven of Rhiannon
Daughter's of the Moon
Balefire Coven
Willow Bough Grove
The Celtic Knot
Hands of Change Coven
Haloowed Harvest

Thanks for all the suggestions everyone! It's nice to know so many people are willing to help out. I actually did find a library in town the other day that has an entire section dedicated to New Age and Spiritual books, so I can't wait to dive in. I'm also on the lookout for different classes that you guys suggested.

Thanks again for everything! You guys are great!