You’ve finally gotten over all of the “where are you going to college,” and “what are you majoring in?” questions over the holiday breaks and family dinners. You’ve had the answers rehearsed and basically engraved into your mind to the point where they effortlessly rolled off of your tongue. Then you reached the next phase of being badgered with “are you excited?” and statements about how “empty” the house is going to feel when you’re gone. You’ve had plenty of talks with your parents reiterating everything they’ve taught you the past 18 years about using your best judgment, and what to do in “these” situations… “Think of my face when you’re making these decisions.” (Thank you mom and dad for everything you’ve taught me and continue to teach me.) Now you’ve reached the phase where your emotions are all over the place. You’re excitement from prom and graduation rolled into your excitement from having committed to a college, mixed with the sadness of leaving your family and high school friends, and the stress of gathering all of the essentials for college, plus anticipation of orientation and move in day! What a mix. Anyway, I want to offer you a few tips for the whole college transitioning. Although, I’m sure you’ve heard plenty of college stories, and have been given a handful of tips from older siblings and cousins. So I'll keep it brief, and tell you a little about orientation. If you’re anything like me, you like knowing what’s coming. I hope this eases your anxieties a little and up’s your excitement.
Over-night Orientation If I remember correctly we had orientation offered on July 7th and 8th, and July 14th and 15th. I was excited but extremely anxious and nervous given that I had no idea what to expect. And what if I hated it and didn't want to go away anymore? Of course, it’s normal to be nervous, and no, you won’t hate it. Yes, you made the right decision. If I could summarize orientation with one word I would use the dreaded “Icebreakers.” Orientation is filled with icebreaker activities like 2 truths and a lie and when the wind blows, in order to get you acquainted with other people attending in the coming fall and who you might have classes with. So the best advice would be to talk to anyone in your group. This is the time to step outside of your comfort zone. You’ve been given this new opportunity to start fresh and be that outgoing and friendly person that you’ve always wanted to be. “Hey, I think I know you! We’re friends on Facebook,” we’re my first words to someone in my group. Sounds stupid, and awkward, but he ended up being one of my best friends. Although you probably won’t continue to speak to everyone in your orientation group once you move in, it’ll make for a great orientation experience and get you a lot more comfortable and confident in your new home, and the first few weeks of college.
For my orientation we were all gathered in one room and then we were all given folders with our names, group number, and schedules. Then when the introduction was over everyone was told to break up into their groups and find their orientation leaders. This is where the icebreakers began and orientation officially started. You were given a tour (basically walk around the campus and are sent from classroom to classroom.) You meet a few professors, not necessarily yours, but get a general feel for the teachers and the whole college classroom setting. The day is a full day. Trust me you’ll look forward to finally getting back in your dorm and relaxing. (But don’t close yourself off. Just because orientation is over, don’t stop socializing. Invite some friends to hang out.)
My personal orientation thoughts: HOW AM I GOING TO LIVE WITHOUT AN AC, and I want to go home. It was hot. I had had three fans going, and that was just on my side of the room. And honestly, after such a long day I was over it and wanted my own bed. I’m not one to step outside my comfort zone, and especially not a game and icebreaker type of person. Don’t get me wrong; I love meeting new people just not through games I guess. However, stay involved no matter how much you hate them. The later part of orientation was great. We all went to Playland and got to know each other on our own time rather through these guided introductions. Then a few friends came back into my room and we watched movies. Then we decided to go and talk to our orientation leader. I think it’s a great idea to get to know them. They can offer you great advice, and share stories about their freshman year experiences. But also, just serve as a familiar face and friend on campus when getting adjusted on move-in day and throughout the year.
No matter what your thoughts are about orientation, think of it as a "trial run." Once you're all settled in and have all of your orientation friends (you'll make friends, don't worry. Everyone is in the same position as you are.), and have your sheets on your bed and your room decorated, you'll be more comfortable. Orientation is to give you a feel for being on campus, and being away from home, and sleeping in dorms. This will all prepare you, and cause you to be a lot more comfortable and excited on move in day.
Move in day from saying goodbye to my dog, to filling up both of the family cars, letting go of mom and dad's hands, and breaking our backs carrying everything up the stairs and to our dorms; move in day was definitely an adventure. It’s great, the feeling you have once you’re all settled in feels pretty good. It takes a little while to absorb and realize that this is your new home for the next nine months. For me, I wasn’t very upset leaving because I knew my parents were a short 30-40 minute ride away and I could go home whenever I needed a little break. (Although, I recommend sticking it out for a few weeks.) Don’t worry you’ll get used to it and you’ll absolutely love it.
What to expect For this I can simply tell you what you’ve probably heard a dozen times, expect to miss home. Of course, you’re going to miss your mom and dad, your friends, your pet, and your comfy bed. But give it time and I can tell you that you’re going to love everything about your dorm, and the second family you’ll find at school, too. The first semester is going to be a good one. You’re meeting new people, finding your independence, a little more courage, confidence, freedom… with all the up’s there’s of course the expected downs of missing home, and second guessing sometimes if you made the right decision. For me, I second guessed myself and thought about transferring a few times. And although, many people did transfer my freshman year, I knew that wasn’t what I needed. I needed to adjust and wrap my head around this new part of my life. Give it time and settle in, if you have second thoughts transfer sophomore year. But give yourself time. The second semester is all about finding balance. You went and dove into college life, after winter break you'll be beyond adjusted and be seeking balance. College is great, and I’m telling you, you’ll love it. All in all, my best advice would be not to worry, give yourself time to adjust, be excited, and be open.
I wish you all the best of luck and a great freshman year!
