High school is over and summer is drawing to an end. College is right around the corner! As move-in day approaches you might find yourself getting a bit nervous.
For most of you this will be your first time living on your own away from the comforts of home. It is natural to have mixed feelings about moving away to college. You are excited about starting something new, meeting new people, and finally being on your own to make all your own choices but at the same time now you are responsible for yourself. That’s a scary thought!
The easiest way to make this transition is by remembering that you are not alone. Most of your new classmates are going through the same changes as you are. Talk to your new peers and talk to friends and family about their experiences. It’s a new time in your life so here are a few tips to help you adjust to the newness.
1. Facebook is for more than just your old friends
Look for groups pertaining to your new school and others who are planning to attend. It’s an easy, non-stressful way to meet people in advance so that you have some sort of connection with people on move in day.
2. Participate in orientation activities
This is a great way to meet new people and to get a sense of what life on campus will be like. Most colleges require freshman orientation attendance with activities planned. They are usually run by older students who can share their experiences and answer questions that you might have.
3. Give it time
Adjusting to something so new is not necessarily going to happen overnight. Give yourself some time to get used to such big changes. Take it one day at a time. Eventually, you will get into a routine and the next thing you know college doesn’t seem like such a drastic change anymore.
4. Get involved
The best way to meet new people is to participate in activities that interest you. If you take the time to look you should find that your college has lots of options for getting involved. Whether you are interested in sports, music, drama, volunteering, religion, or academics most colleges will have clubs or activities for you to join. You will be able to meet people who have similar interests and values as you do which may lead to lifelong friendships.
5. Make your space feel like home
Take your favorite pictures, blankets, movies and music with you to college so that you feel at home in your new environment. Having some comforts of home will help make your transition easier especially if you have something like your car transported to school.
6. Don’t forget about mom and dad!
It’s okay to return home or to call just to say hi sometimes. Make sure you don’t over or under do it, though. You want a chance to experience campus life on weekends but sometimes you’re going to need a break. Along with that, stay in contact with old friends. It can be just as exciting hearing about their college experience!