College can be an intimidating thing, and transitioning can be difficult for people who are introverted (like myself). But it can be especially difficult for people whose only previous knowledge on it are images flashing across television screens as a kid, seeing the partying aspect, making it seem as a carefree experience all around. Media trained us to think it’s solely about this, and nothing about connecting to the people around you.
So, introverted first generation students, this is for you! I know firsthand that it’s easy to stay in your dorm, watching Netflix, napping, and snacking on the food you stocked in your mini fridge, but that won’t necessarily make your college experience fulfilling. Sure, you’re training yourself to live on your own, which is an important asset to have, but you aren’t reaching out to the resources available to you or making meaningful experiences with the students and educators that are also on campus.
I admit, my first year was rough, and I did exactly what I wasn’t supposed to do. No surprise there. My grades were good, but I felt as though I was an imposter on the campus. I was illiterate to the processes of financial aid, and how the whole system worked. I didn’t know how to merge into new friend groups, so I stayed to myself. My dorm life wasn’t very good either, and I was going home every weekend to get away from campus. Looking back now, I know it wasn’t the best idea. It furthered me away from campus, emotionally, and I barely had any attachment to it.
Now that I’m a sophomore, I realize what I could have done to have a happier experience on campus, and I’m pushing myself outside of my bubble now.
Here’s a small list of things I recommend doing that that have been positive experiences for me:
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Explore parts of the campus you haven’t been to before. Take a book, study, get out of your dorm room!
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Get lunch with your neighbors in your dorm! This is a simple way to make close connections, since they share the same spaces with you and you’d see them often.
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Try to participate in class! This may seem like a small thing, but it’s these little things that will add up, making you a feel more involved and heard.
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Introduce yourself to faculty! These interactions can lead to campus jobs, and more positive opportunities for you.
As a first-year student, I didn’t realize how important it was to connect with people when you’re on campus. It’s not easy by any means, but I guarantee it will make your college experience better. My list might seem hard but doing these minor things will ensure you have outlets on campus when you need them.