It is perfectly normal to have doubts, worries and fears after
you have received that acceptance letter. You thought the stress
would subside after decision time; but now you are feeling
anxious all over again with a new set of worries. Remember that
the hardest part is over. You got in and know that your new
stress will start to dissipate in time. Know you are among
others with the same questions and same concerns and it is
totally normal to feel this way.
The first thing people worry
about is getting lost and experiencing that uncomfortable
feeling of being a clueless freshman. The best way to reduce
first-day jitters is to study the campus map to see where the
different buildings are located. Try to figure out which
buildings your classes will be held and wander around the campus
to locate them before your actual classes begin. This way you
will be prepared and know exactly how long it takes to walk to
class so you won't be late.
Everyone has doubts at first and wonders if he or she will
not like the college once there. The number one piece of advice
you'll hear from most college grads is that college is what you
make it. It is possible to have a good college experience
anywhere. A lot depends on how you approach it. Learn to take
advantage of the resources around you. It is common for students
to consider transferring during their freshman year, but it is
advisable to wait, give it a fair chance and keep an open mind.
When reviewing their total experience, many college grads say
that they didn't really start getting the hang of it until the
end of sophomore year. It helps to become involved with campus
affairs.
It is a given that you will experience bouts of loneliness;
everyone does. Just remember that there will be many other
students in your same situation. Being away from home is hard,
and so is making new friends. Avoid isolating yourself. It's a
lot easier to deal with the confusion and excitement of college
with others.
The first step is to make new friends. Be sure not to miss
Orientation. You will never have an easier time meeting new
people in your life. Be bold and be the first to introduce
yourself. A flow will begin, and often, the camaraderie you form
during this orientation period is very beneficial and important.
There is no denying it; college is expensive. Try not to worry
about the finances of college because there is help
available--from scholarships, work study programs, off-campus
jobs to
private student loans. It is possible to get money for
school.
Fear that college will be hard? You already got in; you're
smart. Now it is up to you to keep things going. Brush up on
your study skills, learn how to balance and make the best of
your time. Take full advantage of the many resources available
on campus, including the many professors who are there to help
you succeed. Another resource is right at your computer. Visit
www.student-loans.net where you can find helpful articles
answering some of the questions you will have about your new
life on campus.
By Evelyn Saunders, a retired teacher, is the editor for student-loans.net,a
provider of
student loans and
information on how to get
private student loans as
well as consolidation. For more information, please visit
http://www.student-loans.net.
