Going to college is a very exciting, stressful, scary, and amazing milestone in our lives. No one will truly understand what the transition of college feels like until they've experienced it themselves. There is no specific way to prepare yourself for this dramatic change except to keep an open mind. Having a positive mindset, along with a great attitude, will make the beginning of your college experience even better. Below are several stages and emotions that you will more than likely experience during your freshman year of college.
1. Excitement
You step onto campus for the first time, with a car (or many cars) full of your belongings, ready to start the next chapter of your life. You're unpacking and setting up your new room while meeting your roommate, who will be living with you for the next year. Everything is fresh and exciting. It's only the beginning of a new and fulfilling chapter of your life!
2. Getting involved
You've been on campus and have gotten a chance to witness all of the different activities and social events that are now at your fingertips. It's time to get involved and be a part of a club or an organization. Being as active as possible, is the key to a great college experience.
3. Reality
Soon, reality hits. College is school? Oh yeah. You start going to classes and meeting your professors and remember college is work and it's your responsibility. No one is holding your hand anymore. College gives you a sense of independence but also teaches you how to grow up.
4. Homesickness
Getting homesick is natural. For most of us, home is all that we ever knew. Even at the point where you're becoming adjusted to college and enjoy your own space, you can't help but think about your family. Going home for a long weekend or winter break can make it even harder coming back, but staying busy while at school and making new friends, definitely helps this feeling go away. It happens to the best of us, so don't let it discourage you.
5. Finding your best friend(s)
I believe the key is finding those friends who make you feel at home. The people you can trust and turn to for anything no matter what. Finding your real friends may or may not be the first people you meet. However, when you find your niche, college will become that much more enjoyable.
6. Your second home
After everything that you are now accustomed to, college doesn't feel so strange anymore. You reflect as to why you chose this college in the first place and all of the progress that you've made over the time that you've been here. Your school is officially your second home and it's the best feeling.
Everyone has different experiences through college. Every emotion you're feeling is natural and there is someone else feeling the exact same way. Your first year of college is all about changing, adapting, and learning. College is where you find yourself and form friendships that you will have for the rest of your life. Embrace it and enjoy this fresh and new adventure!
