College: it's the time of your life, or so they say. And by "they," I mean extroverts. You know, those super social people who get involved with every club, intramural team, and student leadership position he or she can manage to squeeze in between classes and homework. For the introvert, however, even the thought of such an extent of social activity is exhausting; orientation weekend alone is enough to make one contemplate dropping out before classes have even begun. Yet here I am, a true blue introvert starting her final year of college, having survived the craziness. I am here to tell you that it is possible to not only survive in college, but to thrive, and I am here to tell you how:
1. Get to know your roommates!
Seriously. Your dorm or apartment room is your safe haven from the great wide world out there, and you will likely be spending a lot of time there. Therefore, it is probably better if you and your roommates are on good terms, if at all possible. Even if you have a difficult roommate, at least try to come to some sort of understanding--perhaps create a roommate contract to abide by. Who knows, your roommate(s) may very well become your best friend.
2. Get involved.
It's scary, I know. But later on in life, you will regret not trying out for intramurals or going to game night. College is a once-in-a-lifetime experience--don't miss out!
3. Take time for yourself.
While it's good to get involved and step outside of your comfort zone, it's also unwise to burn out. Find a quiet spot on or off-campus to decompress; maybe it's hanging out at a local coffee shop or going for a walk with your headphones in, wherever you find a peaceful place to refuel so that you have enough energy for the next social event.
4. Set goals for yourself.
Whether it be academic, social, health, or something else, it's easy to get overwhelmed in college, especially if, as an introvert, you tend to internalize. Setting goals for yourself helps you balance everything that's going on in your life and in turn last longer before burning out. Creating a calendar or schedule, or mapping everything in a daily planner is especially helpful.
5. Don't let anyone else define you!
You are who you are, whether you take awhile to come out of your shell or are just generally a quieter person. Don't let anyone give you crap for that or try to change you. Be proud of who you are, because if you won't be you, who will be? You're an introvert, own it!
