Matriculating at a college or university is
a big deal—both exciting and anxiety-producing.
This past week I reached out to my 2016
advisees asked them to respond with their “highs” and “lows” for their freshman
year in college and to send any advice they might have for incoming freshman. Here’s a summary of their replies:
Highs:
· Making new friends
· Late night talks with fellow
dorm mates
· Enjoying stimulating classes
· Forming close relationships
with professors
· Research and job opportunities
Lows:
·
Coping with failure (not making
it for auditions, club positions, etc.)
·
Feeling overwhelmed by the
college course load
·
Not yet feeling “at home”
socially
·
Tension with roommates
Advice:
ü Be sure to thank everyone who helped you get to college and everyone
who helps you settle in. Write thank
yous for scholarships.
ü Not all roommate situations can be perfect—or even good. Talk to
your roommate as soon as friction occurs—don’t wait to see if the situation
will improve on its own.
ü Don't procrastinate. Every morning look over your schedule to plan
your day effectively.
ü Take time to learn about yourself. Forgive yourself for mistakes.
ü Don’t be afraid to approach new people, even those who don’t look or
act like you.
ü Be aware of FOMO—“Fear of Missing Out”—you don’t have to attend
every social event or club; choose a few to get involved in.
ü Stay in touch with family and friends back home.
And here’s a link to a previous blog post
on the transition to college from my own daughter who is now just about to
begin her senior year at Tufts University:
Best wishes to all incoming college freshman
for a great year ahead!
