6 answers
Isabella
Student
Bangor, Pennsylvania
1
Question
Updated
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How do I overcome the fear of going to college?
I am. Scared to go to college. How do I overcome this challenge. I need help. Please and Thank you.
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6 answers
Jim Carlone
Compliance Officer
18
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Jim’s Answer
Hi, Joslyn! First off, don't put pressure on your self or feel bad for being fearful for now of college. It is a big step and it is an unknown, which makes everyone at least nervous. The thing that struck me in reading your question is that you have probably heard many different things about college, some conflicting, and don't know exactly what to make of it. My suggestion to you then is to take some of the the mystery out of it. First, your local colleges and community colleges offer non-matriculated classes or continuing ed classes on campus (or virtual now too, I'm sure). Get a catalogue, in print or online, find a class of interest, and take it. That way, you get the experience of being on a campus and an idea of what a college-level class is like. And who knows-maybe you'll enjoy it!
Another option is to tour a college. It doesn't have to be one you're particularly interested in going to. Your high school may organize college visits that you can take advantage or you can contact college admissions departments directly. They have set programs where they show you the classrooms, the dorms, and campus life areas like the student center, gyms, cafeterias and so on. Dipping your toes in the water, so to speak, may get you more comfortable with the idea of college and allow you to focus more on what you want to get out of college instead of what college will demand of you. I
I hope this is all helpful to you; I wish you the best of luck!
Another option is to tour a college. It doesn't have to be one you're particularly interested in going to. Your high school may organize college visits that you can take advantage or you can contact college admissions departments directly. They have set programs where they show you the classrooms, the dorms, and campus life areas like the student center, gyms, cafeterias and so on. Dipping your toes in the water, so to speak, may get you more comfortable with the idea of college and allow you to focus more on what you want to get out of college instead of what college will demand of you. I
I hope this is all helpful to you; I wish you the best of luck!
david kirk
Retired Computing Manager
480
Answers
Syracuse, New York
Updated
david’s Answer
Hi, Isabella,
Yes, it can be scary. Many colleges have huge campuses, upper classmen who ignore you, indifferent professors, and you're largely on your own as to whatever classes you take, and you are the only person looking after how you spend your time. No one shakes their finger at you if you skip a class or don't sit for an exam or don't hand in a homework assignment. In summary, you are now the responsible adult. But it's not all that people say. For example, most professors care a lot about the success of their students, but YOU must take the initiative to seek their advice. You will find that all the other freshmen are just as lost as you, and that makes it easy to make many friends because you are all in the same situation: figuring out how to register for classes, finding the right buildings, getting a lunch pass, setting up your dorm room, and all the many tasks to get you settled in college. Do your best to just take each day at a time, set up a time schedule for classes, homework, and fun. You need all three, but since there will always be a party somewhere, you need to take ownership of how you spend your time. Focus the first week on just figuring out your schedule and your study schedule. With that first week behind you, college life will start to look much better. A word of advice: a college far away from home may cause more stress, especially if you have never traveled much. Also, a huge university can be imposing, much more than a smaller, more local, college. Those are also important considerations. You will be able to earn a degree at either, but some people enjoy large universities, and some prefer smaller colleges. Follow what is important to you, not whatever your friends recommend. And I wish you the best.
Yes, it can be scary. Many colleges have huge campuses, upper classmen who ignore you, indifferent professors, and you're largely on your own as to whatever classes you take, and you are the only person looking after how you spend your time. No one shakes their finger at you if you skip a class or don't sit for an exam or don't hand in a homework assignment. In summary, you are now the responsible adult. But it's not all that people say. For example, most professors care a lot about the success of their students, but YOU must take the initiative to seek their advice. You will find that all the other freshmen are just as lost as you, and that makes it easy to make many friends because you are all in the same situation: figuring out how to register for classes, finding the right buildings, getting a lunch pass, setting up your dorm room, and all the many tasks to get you settled in college. Do your best to just take each day at a time, set up a time schedule for classes, homework, and fun. You need all three, but since there will always be a party somewhere, you need to take ownership of how you spend your time. Focus the first week on just figuring out your schedule and your study schedule. With that first week behind you, college life will start to look much better. A word of advice: a college far away from home may cause more stress, especially if you have never traveled much. Also, a huge university can be imposing, much more than a smaller, more local, college. Those are also important considerations. You will be able to earn a degree at either, but some people enjoy large universities, and some prefer smaller colleges. Follow what is important to you, not whatever your friends recommend. And I wish you the best.
Karen Kitchel
Community Volunteer
355
Answers
Saint Paul, Minnesota
Updated
Karen’s Answer
It's good that you are aware of your fear and want to address it. Know that many others have the same feelings as you.
Perhaps you can talk to a high school counselor to find out what has helped others. For some, just writing down their fears is helpful because it means you've acknowledged them and now want to move on. Think about what specifically scares you. If it's meeting new people you could set a goal of just getting to know one new person during an orientation session or your first week of school. Also good if you can let your family or close friends know about your fear so they can support you while in college.
Choosing a smaller community college might make it easier to adjust. But most of all try to convince yourself that you have the ability and skills to be successful and stay open to enjoying this experience.
With every good wish.
Perhaps you can talk to a high school counselor to find out what has helped others. For some, just writing down their fears is helpful because it means you've acknowledged them and now want to move on. Think about what specifically scares you. If it's meeting new people you could set a goal of just getting to know one new person during an orientation session or your first week of school. Also good if you can let your family or close friends know about your fear so they can support you while in college.
Choosing a smaller community college might make it easier to adjust. But most of all try to convince yourself that you have the ability and skills to be successful and stay open to enjoying this experience.
With every good wish.
Roma Vrijhof
HR analyst
6
Answers
Tampa, Florida
Updated
Roma’s Answer
Hey there! As someone who's about to become a senior in college, I totally get where you're coming from! It's natural for anyone starting college to feel a bit nervous, but remember, new experiences can be a little scary for everyone! The key is to embrace your vulnerability – whether that means asking questions during lectures, stepping out of your comfort zone to join a club or team, or simply knocking on your neighbor's door to say hi. Trust me, most people are feeling the same way you are. Everyone is new and eager to make friends, and we're all trying to figure things out together. Through this shared confusion, you'll form strong bonds with so many people. One thing that really helped me feel less overwhelmed was joining social media groups and pages for my university class, which allowed me to start connecting and making friends with others. So, go ahead and give it a try!
Sachin Joshi
Software engineer
23
Answers
San Jose, California
Updated
Sachin’s Answer
Isabella I am glad you asked this. Please read all the answers every answer has valuable insight.
I would like to encourage you by telling that college is also most beautiful and memorable part of your life. Enjoy it. I have made life long friends in college who I still treasure. You may get to meet all types of people and some may connect with you very well.
Stay focused on your educational goals and take one step forward. You will do excellent.
Best wishes for your success.
I would like to encourage you by telling that college is also most beautiful and memorable part of your life. Enjoy it. I have made life long friends in college who I still treasure. You may get to meet all types of people and some may connect with you very well.
Stay focused on your educational goals and take one step forward. You will do excellent.
Best wishes for your success.
Madi Dunlap
Forensic Consultant
193
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Madi’s Answer
Hi Isabella,
Experiencing anxiety about starting college is quite normal, and I felt the same way too! Honestly, it will require some adaptation when you initially step into college life. You'll gain more independence, yet also encounter increased responsibilities. However, after some time, you'll adapt to these changes and start having a great time! So, my advice is to welcome new experiences, participate in clubs, form friendships, and strive to make the most of your circumstances.
Best of luck!
Experiencing anxiety about starting college is quite normal, and I felt the same way too! Honestly, it will require some adaptation when you initially step into college life. You'll gain more independence, yet also encounter increased responsibilities. However, after some time, you'll adapt to these changes and start having a great time! So, my advice is to welcome new experiences, participate in clubs, form friendships, and strive to make the most of your circumstances.
Best of luck!