It’s been many weeks into college, and things are hopefully beginning to settle down for us first-years. The concept that this place is actually home sinks in. However, with such easy access to social media, it is tempting to keep tabs on all of your friends and acquaintances from back home. You can’t help but peek through their Facebook albums and Instagram pics of what seems like a blast at their schools. Tons of selfies at parties, and poses with all these unfamiliar faces. You also may be wondering: are they having a better college experience than me? To ease this anxiety, here are three entirely false assumptions social media gives first-years about work, friends, and feelings.
Assumption Number 1: Everyone has less work than me.
Why it’s false: Social media can be extremely deceiving. While all of the Snapchat stories may seem like your bud is constantly having a grand ol’ time, it’s just because they aren’t documenting the times they’re bored while studying or drowning in homework. Think about it – how often do you snap pics of your biology lab report? Don’t just assume that they’re not struggling through the same stressful work as you are.
Assumption Number 2: Everyone has a new friend group already.
Why it’s false: College is a major adjustment. New friends don’t come immediately; it takes time to develop real, lasting relationships. Don’t assume that all the “squad” pics you see on Insta are of a true, permanent squad. While it’s totally possible to form a new group right away, a lot of the times, people exaggerate on social media. In reality, that girl/guy in your freshmen squad may end up just being a familiar face by the time you graduate. It’s probably better to branch out and not confine yourself to a set group too early on. Also, don’t underestimate the power of being alone. College is all about independence, and being outside of your comfort zone. It’s perfectly okay to eat in the dining hall by yourself for early breakfasts before 8 AMs. Being independent is super empowering, and a great way to meet people you may not have otherwise paid attention to.
Assumption Number 3: No one seems homesick.
Why it’s false: This one is similar to the first assumption. No one likes to document their struggles. When everyone is posting pictures of themselves having fun, no one is going to post a picture of themselves hysterically crying about missing their dogs and their bedroom. It’s basically inevitable to miss home after being away from it so long. Not only is homesickness normal and more common than you think, it could actually be a good thing. Think of it like this – you’re feeling homesick possibly because you have awesome friends and family at home. Having them to fall back on is really amazing and special. Just because you’re away at school doesn’t mean these people are gone forever.
Every single person at college is going to experience a time when they are not all that happy. Whether it’s the workload, feeling lonely, or missing home, no one can be happy 24/7. That’s not only normal, it’s human. We tend to get caught up in what everyone else is doing, and compare our experiences to those of others. We don’t realize that the assumptions we make are silly, and most of the time, entirely false. So put down down your phone and turn off your laptop. Start focusing on your own college experience and making it the best it can be.