College is a difficult transition, and when you move several hours away from home, it can be even more difficult. You’re moving to a totally foreign place where you have to learn to survive on your own, without your family around to help. For the first time in your life, no one is there to cook for you (I mean, unless you count the dining halls, which sort of does count), no one is there to wake you up in the morning after you continuously hit “snooze”, no one to tell you to go to class. Adjusting to a new bed, new room, and having a roommate (if you’ve never had to share a room before), all while adjusting to new schedules, classes, and friends can be quite intimidating.
Guess what? It’s okay.
It’s okay to find yourself struggling to adjust. It’s okay to be homesick. You might feel like you’re the only one struggling with this, but trust me, you’re not.
When I moved seven hours away to begin my new life as a college freshman just three years ago, I was terrified. Most people I knew were going away to school with at least two or three acquaintances or lifelong friends. I knew no one when I first started college. I have to admit, I was somewhat excited about the idea of starting off on a clean slate. Despite that, it was still extremely intimidating, and while I can’t say I was truly *homesick*, I did feel a little out of place for the first day or so after my parents left.
It might take some time to get through this adjustment period, but there are some things you can do to help ease the rough feelings:
1.) If you’re living in a dorm (which you most likely are), walk around your hall and introduce yourself to your hallmates.
Get to know your roommate(s) as well, especially if you were randomly assigned a roommate. You’re all going to be living together for the next eight months, you might as well get acquainted with one another early. Plus it’s fun to talk about your majors, where you’re from, etc.
2.) Keep your door open when you’re in your room (unless of course you’re sleeping or studying for a big exam).
This kind of goes along with the first point about meeting people on your hall, but keeping your door open allows those passing by an open invitation to stop in and say “hi”, introduce themselves, etc. It also makes you seem friendly and not like you're an anti-social person who hates people.
3.) Attend the various “welcome” events that your residence hall (or school as a whole) hosts.
I remember my dorm hosting a movie night at the end of the first week. It’s a great way to get to know other people in your building, unwind from the stress of school, and just have a good time. It’ll also keep you busy and keep your mind off of everything.
4.) Get to know your resident advisor (RA).
I know to some people it seems like your RA just wants to get you in trouble, but that’s far from the truth. They’re students, too, and they were once in your position. They’re there to help you when you need it, and they want to see you succeed in your first year.
5.) Join a club (or two...or three)
Explore what clubs and organizations your school offers. Attend an interest meeting. Maybe join something you never would’ve thought of trying before. You never know what you might like if you don’t try it!
These were all suggestions given to me by peers, former teachers, and even my RA when I moved in for my freshman year. As a senior, I would kill to go back to my first days as a freshman. While it was pretty scary, it was also equally exciting. Some of my best memories of college yet come from the first couple of weeks. So, if you’re finding yourself in this position as you start your first days of college classes, know that you’re not alone, and things will all fall into place.
