I am a student at the University of Alabama, and I just finished my first year of college. During my high school career, I attended a college preparatory school. It required me to balance regular high school work as well as college-ready assignments. My school is a private institution that focuses on preparing students for college and life after graduation. Thankfully, I entered college with people willing to help me, but I know others do not have that same support. I had a hard time transitioning into the new setting, which is why I wanted to write this for the people out there who would maybe suffer with the same thing.
I grew up in a large household with people of all age groups. Constant activity and noise surrounded me every day, so adjusting to a quieter environment took time. Below are some tips that helped me stay balanced throughout my first year of college.
- Take time to adjust instead of expecting everything to feel normal right away
- Keep a routine (sleep, meals, and study time) to create stability
- Personalize your dorm room so it feels like your own room at home
- Stay in contact with family or friends when you feel overwhelmed or sad. I called my mom a lot during the year, and it really helped me.
- Get involved in at least one campus activity to avoid isolation
- Don’t be afraid to ask questions or get help from professors, advisors, and peers.
- Spend time outside your dorm to avoid feeling stuck or lonely
- Learn to be okay with being alone, but not isolated from everyone
- Keep small comfort items from home, like blankets, photos, or an item passed down.
- Give yourself grace—everyone struggles during their first year in some way.
As you enter a new chapter in your life, you will notice friends come and go. Stay true to yourself and remain humble throughout the process. Your first year will challenge you academically, and you will meet people from many different backgrounds. Keep your head up and enjoy every moment while it lasts. I still feel like I just walked into my first college classroom, and now I am already almost finished with my first year. The University of Alabama also provides more information about admissions, housing, and essentials you may need during your first year on campus.
If you like tips regarding college-related experiences, check out more work by Chloe.
