Aside from a quality education, we all came to college to venture out into life on our own. Early stages of adulting and independence is great and rewarding, but it can also be a little lonely. No one braced us for that part and many of us struggle with being alone for the first time, away from family and home.
Now this might not be the case for everyone. With the shift of virtual classes and social distancing, a great proportion of students still opt to stay home. But, for all my first-year and dorm students, this one’s for you.
I remember my first year at GSU. As soon as my mom left me in my dorm room, I cried a little. Yes, I was excited to be here and I felt like I was ready to be on my own but being four hours away from home and not having the ability to go home when I wanted made me a little sad.
I didn’t know anyone here, and I was worried that I wouldn’t make any friends or have the support system I had back home. Some things that helped me feel more comfortable being on my own was:
Talk to your roommates
You all will be living with each other for about a year anyway, get to know them. Introduce yourself, make quick conversation in passing when you are walking in and out of the room, leave notes around the room, and exchange phone numbers. Just communicate and build a cozy relationship with your roommates. You just might make a friend for life.
Join an organization on campus
This helped me a lot. There are over a thousand organizations on campus that cater to every major and interest, there’s something out there for you. You get introduced to other people who share your same interest on campus, invited to events, community service and other projects. It keeps you active and uplifted outside of class and homework.
Get out and find something you like
Remember, it’s all about you. Find something or somewhere you enjoy. There are plenty of attractions and events outside and around campus (please be careful and watch your surroundings) that you can enjoy on a weekend. Don’t confine yourself to just what’s on campus.
- Piedmont Park has events almost every weekend (again, please be careful).
- Ponce City Market is wonderful and I highly recommend going. There’s stores, restaurants, bars and the rooftop is just a vibe within itself.
- Centennial Park, Coca Cola and Georgia Aquarium are located right next to each other a few blocks behind Aderhold. You don’t even have to “leave” campus.
Check out the student information desk at the Student Center for discount tickets and ideas of things to do.
One issue I would come across was being interested in going places but not having anyone to go with. But what I’ve learned to understand is that it’s perfectly fine to have some “me” time. Allow yourself to have something exclusively for you.
Take this time to do some soul searching
The high school you and college you are two completely different people. Take some time to learn about college you and what you like and want out of life. Growth happens from within and it’s important to have these conversations with yourself to ensure you’re growing in your light.
Kick some bad habits, pick up some good ones, find a hobby or side hustle. Overall, just learn yourself and to love yourself and the journey you’re on.
Being on your own can be a little intimidating but you’re in great hands– your own hands. You know yourself better than anyone on campus or in the world, so venture out and explore what the world has to offer you. It’s time to put your big kid pants on and take on this next chapter of life.