What a crazy, stressful, eye-opening first-week college experience this has been. There are so many words to describe how I have been feeling the past few days. I have probably experienced every range of the emotions spectrum. I'll go through some feelings you should expect to have at least once during your first week of college. Remember all these feelings are normal for a freshman to have when being on your own for maybe the first time in your life.
Scared
We might as well get this feeling out of the way. No matter how prepared you think you are for college, it's not going to be exactly how you pictured it when you were laying in your bed awake at 2am. You will be brought new challenges, opportunities, and friendships. All this change can make you a little scared. Scared you can't do it, you're not enough, and you don't have what it takes. I had this feeling multiple times over the past week mostly in the sport I am participating in and in difficult classes. I promise it gets better as you go on. The quote, "What doesn't kill you makes you stronger" fully stands. What I have experienced this past week has been one of the most mentally exhausting weeks of my life, but I am made stronger because of it. You will encounter situations you don't know if you can handle, but don't be scared, these things will only make you stronger.
Excited
Will go to the opposite side of the spectrum and discuss the excitement your first year in college brings. I had this feeling many times through the week as well. I am so excited to finally be here. I have been thinking about it since I was a junior and to actually be here is exhilarating. And you should be excited! This is a new chapter, a new start, a new leg of your journey. College is a time to focus on you and where you want to see yourself in 5 years. When you put those goals in your head, you can't help but be excited to do everything in your power to achieve them!
Intimidated
You will be intimidated whether it's your first day of class, first day of practice, or you're moving into your dorm. It's pretty much inevitable. My first full day of being on campus was full of informational meetings and expectations for the sport I am participating in. I was intimidated to the point of wondering if I was cut out for this. 20 minutes into my first practice I remember thinking to myself, "I want to quit." But I persevered through the practice and it has been getting better and better ever since. So please whatever you do, don't quit. Be sure to make friends, don't look at your phone when waiting for class. Talk to people! That is the only way you will ever feel comfortable with your surroundings.
Confused
Along with intimidation comes confusion. Confusion of where your classes are, what you have to bring to classes, and details of the class. College is so different from high school, it will definitely take some getting use to. Don't worry if you feel confused, ask another person that is in your class or anyone passing you by while walking to class. Other students will be more than happy to help you.
Thankful
The first week was a big eye-opener for me. I have started to understand how thankful I am for my University. The students and professors here are more than I could ask for. The facilities this school has are incredible. I am so honored and thankful to be apart of this school. When walking around campus, make sure to just think about all of the things you have to be thankful for. You are able to go to college, and that is a privilege that not every person will be able to experience.
This is only week one and I have met incredible people, experienced fantastic adventures, and learned a lot about myself. The ultimate goal of college may be for getting that degree, but don't forget the journey it takes to get there. Prepare to take it one emotion at a time.
