This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Tufts chapter.
Coming into your freshman year of college is daunting… and overwhelming, exhilarating, and jam-packed, to say the least. I’m still figuring out college life day by day and being patient with myself to adjust to my new environment. But in these past two months, I have definitely become more accustomed to my surroundings, and I’ve learned some helpful tips along the way!
- Introduce yourself and talk to everyone you can during O-Week! It may not look like it, but everyone feels just as unsettled as you do, and is looking for that same companionship with their fellow class members. Put yourself out there!
- Take advantage of your common room in your dorm! The common room is a GREAT place to make friends. You are guaranteed to meet people whether you’re doing homework or just hanging out there.
- Be open-minded and don’t prejudge people. First-year college students tend to naturally gravitate to those who seem comfortable and familiar. Make an effort to meet new, different people and don’t isolate yourself to certain friends in the first month of school. You can meet your best friends through the most random interactions. Surprise yourself!
- Experiment with college social life! Go to different parties, events, and gatherings on campus! But be realistic, and keep in mind you don’t typically make your real friends at parties.
- FOMO stands for “Fear of Missing Out,” and you will experience this sensation from time to time. This feeling is entirely normal! It’s okay to not be everywhere at every moment in time. Stay balanced!
- Embrace your independence! It’s totally okay to do things alone. Self care is of UTMOST importance!
- Keep a somewhat steady routine for yourself. Your routine will change from time to time, but finding a way to maintain and manage a schedule is rewarding and keeps you organized and stress free… (for the most part)!
- Utilize on-campus resources. The ARC can be a lifesaver.
- Being sad or homesick is OKAY. Always know that you are not alone in your feelings.
- It is okay to not know everything! Uncertainty and confusion is a standard part of everyone’s freshman year! Roll with the punches — there’s lots to learn!
There will be good days, and there will be bad days, but things will look up! Focus on the good, and good will come to you.