If you’re new to college, chances are you’re missing home.
Chances are you’re wondering when this place will begin to feel like a second home, and when you’ll finally find your way around town.
Chances are you’re afraid of the what’s to come, the unknown of the next chapter of your life that is about to unfold.
Don’t fret. This is normal. You’re not alone.
If you turned into a puddle of tears when your parents left, that’s normal, too.
Change is hard, especially when you’re thrown out to the unfamiliar on your own.
But the notion that time heals (mostly) everything is incredibly accurate in this situation. Every day that passes by, your new home will begin to feel warmer, your route to class will become second nature, and your social group will grow larger.
But if this doesn’t happen right away, if you’re still wondering when you’ll make a solid group of friends or when you’ll finally learn which bus route gets you home the fastest, that’s also normal. Hang in there. It gets better.
Keep an open heart. Even if looking for a new group of friends feels weird when you’re missing the heck out of the ones back home, remain open. Be kind and be the friend and classmate you would want to have for yourself. If a fellow freshman seems sad or lost, offer them comfort. You’ll be surprised how many strong friendships can sprout out of difficult times.
Be brave. Try new things. Honestly, what’s the worst that could happen? Maybe you’ll fail, but that’s OK. Humans aren’t wired to be good at everything. That’s why everyone’s passions are unique. Take a big sip of courage, try new things and see what sticks.
You might find yourself wanting to give up and move back home. These are thoughts that run through the minds of most freshmen. Just hang in there. Finish out the semester and then make a decision. Chances are things will get easier, you’ll get less homesick and lonely, and you’ll want to stick with it.
You’ll also surprise yourself. You’ll be surprised with how much inner strength you have. You’ll be surprised with the things you can accomplish on your own.
College is supposed to be the time of your life, the time to explore and the time to find yourself.
That’s scary, but don’t let fear get the best of you.
Classes are right around the corner, and for you, that means it’s time for a new era, a fresh start, a clean slate.
Make the most of it.
Because if you do, chances are you’ll have memories that will last a lifetime when it’s over.
