It is easy to get lost amongst the sea of people that you meet when first arriving at a new place. Easy to get sucked into a new routine and to continue to follow that path steadily, simply because you find comfort in the familiarity. However, surviving does not have to mean that you suffer through the whole journey, and leaving your comfort behind does not mean you will never find it again.
As a first year student I was both extremely excited and terrified for what college would bring my way. Even though I have loved most of my time here, there have been moments when I still question my decision to leave my family and my home behind. I’ve come to learn that I am responsible enough to take care of myself, and even take care of others. I am strong enough to overcome the hardships which one may encounter along the way, and I am wise enough to know when to stay and fight, and when to walk away. So here are some things I have learned in these months, and hopefully they help you.
1. Try new things
It’s important, in the first months here, to try new things. Things you’ve never tried before, something you’ve always wanted to do but were always afraid to. Things that don’t usually cross your mind. Because being open to new things will give you a good idea of what you enjoy doing and what it is that you want to do with your time.
2. Explore your surroundings
Try not to stay trapped within the walls of your dorm. There is a whole world out there that is patiently waiting for you to join. And even though the occasional night in, watching movies with your roommates is completely fine, do not let that small space make you feel like it is the only safe place for you. Even when it comes down to simply doing homework, find a park bench or a coffee shop, explore the beauty of the city and get things done.
3. Make connections
Find people you can connect to. This one is important, as you are most definitely not the same person that left high school some months ago, and as the year progresses you will continue to change and adapt. The friends you make during the first week may not be the same friends you have at the end of the year, and that is perfectly fine. Keep meeting people, keep trying to be that social butterfly that smiles and laughs. You will come across the right kind of people for you. Simply give it time.
4. Remember you’re not alone
Whenever you feel lost, scared or lonely, just remember that you are not. Everyone around you is most likely feeling the same way; try to find comfort in those around you. Find things that you love and you’ll see how fast your mood can change once you’re doing something you enjoy. And always remember, your family is only a phone call away.
Surviving sounds like something that might take courage and bravery, but really, all you have to do is keep your head above the water. Things have a tendency of working out on their own, so don’t stress too much about everything. Most importantly, remember to enjoy your time here. You will never be as young as you are right now, and you will never have an experience like the one that college offers, so try to make the most of it.