Moving from high school to college is a major change, and it’s normal to feel excited, nervous, and well, overwhelmed. Living in a new place, meeting new people, and learning how to manage roommates, course loads, and your newfound freedom can be a lot. But there’s one thing to remember — you’re not alone. Every other new student is in the same boat, even if they don’t show it. Whether it’s worrying about making friends, conquering your statistics class, or finding the best dining hall, you’ll inevitably experience some highs and lows during your first year. Here are some tips to help you adjust to life at college.
Be Open to New People
Unless you’re naturally extroverted, you may feel awkward starting conversations with strangers during the early days at college. It helps to know that just about everyone is eager to make friends, so push yourself to say “Hello” — and make time to talk with others when they reach out to you. The best way to meet people and make friends is to get involved in campus activities. Join a few clubs, intramural sports teams, or volunteer groups. Not only will they fill some of your downtime, but they will allow you to meet people beyond your dorm and classes.
Communicate with Your Roommate
Whether your roommate is a friend from home or a random match, it’s important to establish mutual respect. Open communication is the key to getting along with your roommate, and the sooner you learn to discuss issues, the better. Be open about your preferences when it comes to noise levels, sleep and morning routines, and cleanliness. Little annoyances left unaddressed will eventually turn into a major conflict. Set boundaries early and know when to compromise for the goal of a fair, peaceful coexistence. Should an issue arise that you and your roommate can’t resolve on your own, be sure to seek help from your resident assistant (RA), who is trained to help mediate conflicts.
Cope with Homesickness
It’s very common for first-year students to experience homesickness. Being away from your family and support system can be scary, but there are ways to cope with those feelings. One simple way is to stay connected with parents, siblings, and friends through regular phone calls or video chats. But it also is important to call on your own strength. Try to push through by putting yourself out there, trying new things, and following your own passions, which in turn will help you to find a sense of belonging. If you do find yourself struggling with extreme loneliness or homesickness, reach out to the folks in campus counseling services who can provide you with coping strategies.
Go to Class
With the absence of an adult waking you up for school comes the temptation to skip that early morning class. Resist. You worked hard for a seat in that course, and you owe it to yourself to reap the rewards. Remember, a college course moves very fast and you can quickly fall behind. Attend all your classes regularly to stay engaged with your learning and continue to build strong study habits. Your mature, responsible approach to academics will pay off.
Don’t Be Afraid to Fail
We learn best when we make mistakes, so don’t let the risk of failure stop you from challenging yourself. If you find yourself struggling in a class, ask for help. Meet with your professor, teaching assistant, or even a tutor to get some clearer direction. Outside the classroom, push yourself to try something new. Join a club because it interests you, even if it’s something you don’t know anything about. College is a time for growth and exploration — you already know what you can do, and now’s the time to discover what else is out there.
ON TOPIC
Heading to college is an exciting, albeit nerve-wracking time. There are so many questions, from who will I live with and what should I pack to how many classes are too many to stay sane and enjoy my college experience. We asked a group of rising sophomores for their top tips for incoming students. Here’s what they had to say:
Find your classrooms before the first day. Don’t rely on your memory from the campus tours you took. Take the time to do a run-through of your schedule so you know the best route to take from one class or building to the next.
Don’t forget about your friends and family back home. Check in on your friends who are also adjusting to college. It can get lonely, so let them know they’re not alone, even if you’re miles away.
Get out of your comfort zone. Don’t choose do things or hang with people because they resemble what you’re used to. Doing so will just limit your growth.
Force yourself to talk to five new people every day. Saying “Hi!” can go a long way, especially when there are hundreds of other students on campus feeling just as awkward as you. You never know where that one syllable will lead.
Ask for help. If your college is like mine, there are endless resources available to help students succeed. Whether it’s regarding academics, physical or mental health, athletics, or career advice, there are teams of people ready and excited to help. Take advantage of their knowledge.
Do your work early. College is a busy place and you never know when things are going to pop up. Don’t procrastinate. Get your work done as assignment come in so you are free to join in unexpected, fun opportunities.
Don’t stay in your room! College is what you make it — and it’s more than just academics. Get out of that room, meet people, and make the most of your time on campus.
Be more than just a number or a face in the lecture hall. Make a point to get to know your professors by going to their office hours, even if it’s just to introduce yourself.
Go to class. Skipping classes is wasting money — and opportunity.
Master time management. Be sure to separate work and fun. When it’s time for homework, focus and get it done — TikTok can wait. And when it’s time for a break, relax and have fun!
Be you. Good people attract good people, so put your best self forward and the best people for you will come. Don’t focus on what made you you in high school. Determine what your mark in college is going to be — and figure out whom you’re going to make it with.
