Moving to a new place whether it is far or close is one of the most stressful things a person can do. It affects us emotionally, socially, and practically. With the school year just getting started many of us have moved away from our homes. Or maybe you are anticipating a move to a new place. Whether you are a freshman, sophomore, junior, or senior we are all experiencing change when moving to or back to our humble college town.Â
Moving away can often bring anxiety and nostalgia, even when it’s a positive change. But without change, nothing changes – which makes moving exciting because it offers a chance for a fresh start and new opportunities. Although we leave things behind, there are so many new things to look forward to. Putting yourself first and living a life for yourself is a great form of self-care.
Relocation can also significantly affect our social lives. We often leave friends and family behind, which can feel nerve-racking and isolating. Building a new social life takes effort and often pushes us outside our comfort zones. I remember my freshman year in the dorms; my roommate looked at me and said, “Let’s go knock on people’s doors and say hi!” It was mortifying to knock on strangers’ doors I didn’t know. But after that, I met some of my best friends, who I still talk to today, and it made the dorms that much more enjoyable. Altough its sad to leave friends behind it is so exciting getting to bring them into your new world and getting to experience their new chapter with them as well. You aren’t leaving anyone behind, but you are creating new experiences to share.
On top of that, we have to worry about packing, unpacking, organizing, etc. Although moving can be difficult and stressful, it’s often the start of a new, exciting chapter. Let me tell you, I still dread this part; it can cause a lot of stress and honestly just takes a lot of time and energy. But the product of all that work is so rewarding when everything finally comes together, and your space starts to feel more like home. I feel like I didn’t get the decorating part down till this year. This is the most homey my room has ever felt. So, it takes time but that is what makes it so special because over time these changes are what shape who we are.
If I had any piece of advice for freshmen that might be having a hard time with the transition I would say…
Moving to Chico my freshman year was a huge change, and I struggled to settle in, but now, being a junior, this small town has shown me how much it has to offer and has made these last few years of my life super memorable. Nothing is permanent, and you can always change your path, but I am grateful I stuck it out. I have truly found my people and have grown in so many ways. A saying I live by is “A negative mindset won’t give you a positive life.” So keep your head up and live every day with an open mind. Doing hard things can only make us stronger.
Change is hard and scary, but the product is often worth it. So take the challenge head-on because you never know what might come from it. I can’t believe I am already in my third year at Chico State, and I am sick thinking about having to leave this place in a little over a year. Even though I wanted to go home and transfer so badly my freshman year, I can’t bear thinking about leaving now.