As a first-year student at Bryant University, the biggest transition I encountered involved parting ways with my hometown friends and fostering the openness to create new ones. Though this might appear straightforward to certain individuals, for others, it represents one of the most challenging milestones to overcome.
Here’s how we can help make the transition easier and less stressful for you!
Classes: An approach I’ve discovered, which I still try to do as a third-year student, involves consistent engagement with classmates when the opportunity arises. Whether collaborating on assignments or joining group projects, creating connections through the shared classroom experience allows you to understand others in a way you wouldn’t have normally seen. One of the biggest things that helped me was getting food before class or studying for exams together. Although these may seem small, you get to know a lot about a person in one semester’s worth of classes!
Clubs/Organizations: Joining a club as a first-year student has proven to be one of the most rewarding decisions I have made. Each club offers its own unique opportunities, but when you become a part of one that aligns with your interests, it has the power to grow unimaginable friendships.
Floor Meetings/Room Neighbors: As a freshman, and even as you progress through your college years, attending the floor meetings with the RAs is crucial. These gatherings offer a prime opportunity to meet others who live on your floor (especially if you live on an all-female floor). Just remember that everyone else is nervous about making friends, therefore leaving your door open or even connecting with your neighbors can help form a small connection that will grow as the year goes on. I can attest to this personally, as I still am friends with girls who lived near me in the freshman dorms.
I hope these tips are beneficial and help guide you if you are struggling to transition into college-life. Just remember that every step you take in college is a step in the right direction; there is no right or wrong way to go about Freshman Year. It takes time for everyone to feel fully comfortable at first, so take your time and be patient with yourself!