We all have thoughts when preparing for college, whether they express feelings of excitement or dread. It is a whole new set of people and challenges which we will have to face on a daily basis. As an introvert, I often find myself imagining exactly what college will be like and how I'm going to get through it. Here are some of the recurring thoughts I have that I feel other introverts may be able to relate to while preparing for college.
1. I’ve got to start planning how to make friends here.
Yes, believe it or not, this is something we have to plan out. We don't just want casual conversation and small talk. We want to make a lasting first impression of ourselves. That's not always the easiest thing to do, though, so a good plan can't hurt. Right?
2. It’s going to be weird sharing a space all the time.
Let's face it, the idea being around someone else a lot more than usual will take some getting used to. I constantly find myself thinking about what it will be like to share the amount of space I'm so used to having to myself.
3. I wonder how the WiFi reception in my dorm will be.
Ahh the majestic Wifi, without whom the mighty introvert might be lost. Though I don't plan on spending all my time on my computer, it's nice to have something to do in the time it takes to recharge from interaction.
4. Oh, the dread of all the awkward small talk to come!
Small talk is always awkward for me and a number of introverts. Yet as we enter into college, it is going to become an inevitable necessity. Brace yourself!
5. I’m going to be more social. It'll be like I'm a new me.
We are all looking to to put a new best version of ourselves forward as we head into college. I'm constantly assuring myself that things will be different in college. And they will be. The real question is, will it be in the way I think?
6. We just know group projects will return from the shadows.
And this time your high school friends aren’t going to be a part of the group. Hopefully, this won't be too much of an issue though. The people I met at orientation seemed really nice.
7. I'm definitely going to party more.
Hopefully, in college I'll get out a little more and have new experiences. It's about putting yourself out there right and enjoying yourself (within reason).
8. So many phone calls.
As you prepare for college, you start to realize texting will not suffice. Phone calls - though they are dreaded - will become a necessary part of transitioning into adulthood. However, this doesn't make them any less terrifying.
9. At least I’ll have coffee.
Coffee can be great. It wakes you up, makes you feel more energetic. It's going to be a handy tool when I and many others get into college.
10. This school better be prepared for my awkwardness.
I am more excited for college than I have been for anything. I know I'm going to have my awkward moments. But I'll worry about those when they happen. So, watch out world!