By Nadia Dudley
Beginning college is an exciting new chapter in many people’s lives, myself included. It’s thrilling to think of all the new experiences and people you’ll get to meet. However, starting this new chapter and turning the page on a life you’ve grown comfortable with can present its own fears and anxieties. I’ve realized that’s completely normal, and I can offer some advice on getting through the growing pains of starting college.
#1: It’s Okay to Feel Nervous
You’re probably going to feel homesick and a little anxious in a new environment. I felt exactly this way the first few weeks, and all I wanted was to be home with my family and friends. Remind yourself that many other students are struggling with the same thing. Recognize that your loved ones are only a call or message away, and that your new community can offer support to help you settle in. I highly recommend going to events on campus, and participating in orientation to help get used to your new home away from home.#2: Get Comfortable With Being Uncomfortable
Taking the leap to get out of your comfort zone can lead to a plethora of new and exciting experiences, but you have to be willing to open up and participate. It’s more than likely that Nazareth has something on campus that would interest you, whether a club or intramural sport or social event. I recommend checking out this list of clubs and attending the Student Engagement Expo (pictured above) to explore even more. This is a great way to meet other people with similar interests, and make some friends around campus. If you don’t see something you like, you can always create your own club too!#3: Adjustment Takes Time
It’s no secret that college is vastly different from high school. Schedules, classrooms, professors, classmates, and many other things can be surprising and difficult to adjust to at first. A lot of the adjustment period is getting used to your new surroundings and schedule. The good news is, you have more freedom to explore your interests and take hold of your life.Pro tip: Learn to manage your time — classwork and your social life — to help in the adjustment period and the long run. Check out Success Resources. Reach out for Academic Success Coaching, if that would be helpful. Once you can master that, there’s nothing that can stop you from leading a successful life at Nazareth.
#4: Communication Skills are HUGE
I cannot stress this piece of advice enough: Communicate, communicate, communicate! My mom taught me this from a young age, and you never realize its importance until you need it. This will apply to many areas of your new life as a Golden Flyer, including your personal relationships, roommates, classmates, and professors.If you need help or have a problem, no one will know unless you communicate. Unfortunately, no one is a mind reader (although I’m sure we all wish that at times).
 |
| The fountain is a popular place on campus to hang out. |
#5: There May Be Classes You Don’t Like, and That’s Okay!
As a first-year student, it is likely that you will have some PEQs (required courses). Unless you were an absolute rock star in high school and racked up a serious amount of credit, these are pretty unavoidable.I will be completely candid: There may be some you might not enjoy. On the flip side, these courses could help you discover new interests! Give it a chance. And even if you don’t love it, still put in the work.
Expecting nerves and some discomfort, giving yourself adjustment time, prioritizing communication, and not expecting to like everything will help you embrace this new chapter more smoothly. I wish you the best of luck heading into college life. I know you’re going to love it!
