A guide for worried college students
After two years of remote learning, it may take a while to finally let it sink in—we get to go back to school. No more virtual tours and disconnecting on Zoom. But, let’s face it: with on-site classes comes a new set of challenges. With online learning, you could hide behind a screen and press the big, red “leave meeting” button when you’ve had enough. Now, it’s a new story.
If it’s your first time in university (or maybe even your last), here's a guide to the things you need to know—compiled by a student for all other worried students.
Have a support group
To quote the Greek philosopher, Aristotle: “Man is by nature a social animal.” Even if you’re an introvert like me, it’s a different feeling when you know you have people that support and care for you. Whether it’s a few of your closest friends, your parents or siblings, or maybe even your favorite pet—you’ll be grateful to know they always have your back.
And hey, if you don’t have that support group yet, don’t worry! There’s still time to introduce yourself to new people—org mates, classmates, groupmates. Seriously, people never say no to new friends. So just introduce yourself!
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Know yourself
Knowing who you are is understated, but so important. Know what you like and dislike, because you get to make more time for it in college. What are your values, beliefs, views? What are your non-negotiables when it comes to platonic and romantic relationships? This also allows you to have something to talk about with other people! By knowing your current self, you get to spark conversations with other people—and maybe even make a new friend in the process.
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Note that I say “current self” because we are all bound to change. And there’s no problem with that!
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Don’t be afraid to get out there.
Seriously, just go for it. The pandemic has taken away two years of a normal college life, so do everything you’ve been wanting to do—and more. Get out there and sign up for that org, start a conversation with someone new and participate in class when you feel strongly about a topic.
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If fear is stopping you, just remember that everyone is just as scared as you. So feel the fear and do it anyway! Your college plot twist might just come from giving things a shot.
Enjoy it while you can
Don’t take things too seriously; life is meant to be enjoyed. It’s good to keep busy and focus on your academics, but don't forget to find time to rest, too. Get out and make memories when you can. You’re young, and you have all your life to be busy! So just enjoy college while it lasts.
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College may be scary, but it could also be the best time of your life. These years will just be memories one day, so live your best life! We’re rooting for you worried college students—every step of the way.
RELATED: I Took a Break From Virtual College and I Don’t Regret It
Words Julia Makalintal
Art Matthew Ian Fetalver
