To The Class Of 2020,
In a little over a month, you will be cramming all of your dorm room essentials into the back of your parents’ car, driving for an insanely long period of time packed among your belongings only to arrive at your new room and gasp in horror at the small space you must share with some random person whom you probably do not know. I promise it will all be OK. Your new life is about to start, and in the grand scheme of things, that is what really matters. You are an adult now — no more household chores or curfews and certainly no judgement if you choose to order a pizza at two in the morning or spend a whole day binge watching your favorite Netflix series.
Before I left for college, I was told that for many students, freshman year is a difficult transition period. I politely ignored their comments thinking to myself, “I have spent seven summers at sleep-away camp, and I just returned from working in Minneapolis. Why would I have any problems in my first year of college?”
Well, I don’t know anyone who had a perfect freshman year. The adults who told me that the transition to college life was difficult were correct; finding your place on campus can be very difficult. However, your school truly has your best interests in mind, and you have plenty of opportunities to meet people.
If you are having trouble finding your place on campus, then join a student club or organization and go to the first meeting. You might like it. Also, find out if your school participates in an alternative break program or community service events. These activities will allow you not only to gain meaningful experiences and gain new friendships, but also give you the chance to interact with faculty and donors to the college that you otherwise would not meet. Fun fact, while participating on a Summer Break Immersion trip, I spent a week with the chairman of the Board of Trustees of Rollins College, something I will fondly remember. Another great way to meet people is going to events sponsored by campus organizations. Not only are they a great way to get your hands on free stuff, but they are also great for finding out about clubs and organizations that you can join.
If you continue to feel as though your transition to college is not all it was cracked up to be, then your school has you covered. Your professors, peer mentors, RAs and administrators have your best interests in mind. They are there to help you, always willing to talk about anything and can often recommend ways to make your transition better. If you would like to discuss your feelings in a truly confidential setting or feel that you may be developing anxiety or depression, then take advantage of the free counseling that your school offers. Except under rare circumstances, a counselor is not permitted to reveal that you received their services and a counselor cannot discuss your problems with anyone, including your parents, regardless of your age.
One of the most important pieces of advice I could give you is to take advantage of every free opportunity your school has. Schools often provide free tutoring, and if your professors find that you are taking the time to use your resources, then your C+ final grade could be bumped to a B for the extra effort.
Your freshman year will go by fast. Even if there are bumps in the road, I promise you will come out on the other side. Enjoy your freshman year of college because before you know it, sophomore year will arrive and you will wonder where the last one went.
