Starting college in a week and I don’t know what to do!

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I’m going to start college a week from today, moving into my dorm, meeting all of these people, living on my own for the very first time, and pretty much just starting my real adult life. I really love my college, and my roommate, and I’m really excited to go, but I’m also terrified. I’ve always kind of had some kind of anxiety about being not at home; I’ve never even stayed at camp before. I also started a new relationship in the beginning of August with a really great guy who is going to school about an hour away and I’m really happy with him. I’ve never been in any kind of long distance relationship, even if an hour by car or train isn’t really a long distance, but I’m still a bit worried. I don’t know how to go to college and I’m absolutely terrified. What did any of you do to help with your transition into the next part of your life?

Category: Tags: asked August 14, 2013

2 Answers

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accepted
It's not really the beginning of your adult life, trust me... college is still very much easier than real life so take some deep breaths. As far as the boyfriend, an hour truly isn't that bad, plus you get breaks from school and you can text/ skype.. things will be fine. My most serious boyfriend lived 3 hours away, we dated for 2 years with no problems from the distance. There is no reason to be anxious; just be calm, yourself (don't do things you don't want to do to "fit in"), join clubs to make friends, make sure you get your homework in on time and don't sleep through classes. College is like adult life with training wheels. The hardest part is always the first night, then it isn't as bad. First night you're sleeping in a strange place, but you'll get used to it quick. Within a week you'll get yourself in a schedule and it will be good. The first semester of college can be rough (because you're living a new life style) but just hang in there, the second semester is always better and that is when you actually start to grow and become independent etc. Go to the gym, and make sure you eat food regularly (not just snacks!), don't go out late at night.. and just use your common sense. College can be an awesome experience or not.. all depending on how you yourself deal with it. Best of luck, I know you'll handle it well.
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Be prepared to feel some anxiety and sadness. That's completely normal. I'm not a gushy person in general but when it came time to say goodbye to my parents, I was crying. Luckily, so was everyone else. My friends and I later admitted we all spent the first few days of orientation in tears. Don't be ashamed or concerned if you'r flooded with emotion— it's natural and it will fade.

Keep a positive attitude, allow yourself to mourn a little, and try to keep smiling. People are drawn to those who smile. Make an effort to be kind to everyone. Even if someone doesn't look that interesting, say hello. My other advice would be to study hard and JOIN CLUBS. You're going to meet a lot of people in your dorm and around campus. Some of these people will be your close friends. However, I've found that for me, my honest-to-God bridesmaids worthy friends were found by joining clubs, signing up for activities, etc. Find something you're passionate about and pursue it.

Good luck! College has been some of the best years of my life and I'm terrified to leave it. Remember whatever you throw into the world, you'll get in return. If you're kind and open and friendly, you'll attract similar people.