Thriving in Your First Year of College
Starting college is a major life transition. While it's liberating not to have anyone telling you when to go to bed or when to study, you're now responsible for yourself. As you handle problems with professors or roommates on your own, you'll gain real confidence in your ability to manage your life.
You will meet a lot of smart, accomplished students, and this can be intimidating. But remember: admissions officers turn down thousands of well-qualified students. If you've been admitted, you've got what it takes.
High school is over; you don't need to keep proving you can handle the most rigorous curriculum. Give yourself a break in the first semester and sign up for at least one course that sounds interesting and fun. If a class you really want is full, talk to the professor. Faculty love enthusiastic students, and a space may open up.
Your first task is making friends, and there will be many opportunities. In freshman residence halls, the first few weeks are non-stop socializing, and students leave their doors open and visit at all hours. You may not be best friends with your roommate, but chances are you'll get along. In the rare case when you truly can't make it work, the housing office can help.
Everyone goes through a period of adjustment, but there are ways to minimize stress. Even small things like keeping your room clean can impact your mood. Exercise keeps you mentally and physically healthy, gets those endorphins going, and relieves tension.
Creating structure is another way to take care of yourself. With no more than 15 hours a week in class, there's plenty of time to study.
If you treat college like a 9-to-5 job, you can get your work done during the day and have evenings free.
Go to class. Sit up front so you're less likely to doze off. After each class, review your notes and clarify anything you didn't understand. Good handwritten notes are invaluable at exam time. If you're struggling, ask for help. That's what professors, teaching assistants, tutors, and writing centers are there for. It's much easier to keep up than to catch up.
Studies show that students who participate in campus life are happier and more successful. Whether you love film, hiking, environmental issues, or improv comedy, you'll find people who share your passion. Joining a club is a great way to build community, especially at a large university.
Everyone feels homesick at some point. Add midterms and sleep deprivation, and it's easy to feel overwhelmed. The counseling center is a valuable resource that regularly works with students adjusting to college life, and talking to someone really helps.
Getting into college took motivation, commitment, and self-discipline. Give yourself some time, and those same qualities will carry you through a successful college experience.
