Zainab
What are ways that I could adapt to the college lifestyle?
I am afraid of moving out on my own without any family or friend, and really just want to fit in. #college #life-transitions #adaptability ##adapting-to-college
2 answers
Kirstyn Thomas
Kirstyn’s Answer
From my own personal experience, I found that having a strong belief system helped me endure the difficult times while being away from home during college. Another way to adapt to the college lifestyle is to branch out and find others that are similar to you who make college feel like home. In addition to making new friends, I think its just as important to keep in touch with your loved ones from back home as well so you never feel misunderstood or alone. I found this to almost be the most important aspect of my college experience because being far from home can feel lonely at times until you reconnect with your support system back home, and realize that you have people in your corner. All in all, college is about embracing differences and exploring who you are and where you want to go in life.
Venkatesh Murthy
Venkatesh’s Answer
1. Stay engaged. Take part in college activities or first year experiences to build your connection to your new life on campus and make new friends.
2. Establish a personal routine. Finding your rhythm and keeping each day as consistent as you can will help you get rest and feel more relaxed in your new role as a college student. If you are someone who goes to bed early and everyone's staying up late, it's OK to go to bed early.
3. Do something to feel closer to home. Write a letter, look at a family photo.
4. Talk to someone. Seek out people who either understand what you're going through or have similar feelings. There is probably a student group on campus that is full of people who share your interests and/or background and have felt how you feel.
5. Explore your new surroundings. Look online for new places nearby to check out, or just go for a walk. Asking others about their favorite places to eat or hang out is a great icebreaker, too.
6. Remember time flies. Think that time is actually pretty short to make time go by faster.
7. Exercise. Even just a 20-minute walk can improve your mood, reduce anxiety, and help you connect to your new environment.
8. Refrain from comparing yourself to other people. It’s tempting to assume that you’re the only one struggling with adjusting to college life, but beware of comparing your internal experiences to others’ external appearances. Lots of people find college challenging, but not everyone talks about it.
9. Consider talking to a therapist. If your adjustment period is lasting more than a few weeks and you’re having trouble getting to class, taking care of yourself, and/or feeling like yourself, it may help to talk to a professional. Call 314-516-5711 to schedule an appointment with UMSL Counseling Services.