After the Dust Settles on Campus
4 min read•june 18, 2024
Student Life 😎
15 resourcesSee Units
Beginning College Tips
What Happens Next?
Once your college search and selection process is complete, it can feel like a weight of immense pressure has been dramatically reduced. It’s a fantastic feeling worth congratulating.
So, congratulations ! Finally, the time has come to submit your decision and enrollment deposit to your college of choice by the deadline. Depending on the college you commit to, you may also need to select preferred housing (single, double, etc.) or a roommate at this time.
What an exciting time!
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I remember the day I visited my university for freshman orientation and move-in day like it was yesterday. I still remember the butterflies I felt in my stomach on those days. Personally, the reason for selecting my university was non-traditional. Location, standardized requirements, or family tradition did not determine my final choice; instead, I chose my university because of the community and opportunities it offered. Even after moving in and becoming acclimated to “college life,” I never doubted my decision. I met a ton of new people that became great friends and joined a few organizations on campus, which pushed my academic success. I often say to my peers and those interested in higher education that my college experience was the best, and if I could do it all over, I would. While I had an extremely positive college experience, those sentiments don’t align for everyone.
After The Dust Settles……
If you feel a sense of doubt or regret after submitting your enrollment decision, attending orientation, or after move-in day, understand that feeling is entirely normal. College is a significant adjustment and investment for all, whether that means adjusting to being away from home for the first time, time management, or balancing a social life with academics. During this time of life, you will learn and grow inside and outside of the classroom. However, if time passes and those feelings of doubt remain, take time to ask yourself:
- Are you still confident in your decision? If not, why?
- Did you have all the necessary information to make the best choice when searching for a college or university?
If your answer is no or maybe, below are a few ideas to help navigate the feelings of ambiguity after the dust settles on campus.
- Give it time and expect change: The first semester can be a bit challenging for many new students. Learning the campus, making new friends, and managing the workload while maintaining or creating a social life can be challenging and overwhelming. Give it a semester to settle in and adjust to the pace and requirements of “college life.”
- Try online courses: Online courses allow flexibility when it relates to social interaction, course assignments, and material. If you are introverted or semi-introverted, going inside a classroom and interacting can be overwhelming at times. An online course allows students to be vocal and contribute through written words or off-screen. Having an online option is beneficial because some students are comfortable and participatory in a typical classroom setting while others shy away. This option provides an equal participation opportunity for all. Also, online coursework is usually accessible for some period, so students can complete and submit their assignments within some flexible time window. While online courses offer a ton of flexibility, they require personal accountability for those who struggle with time management.
- Take a gap year: A gap year allows recent high school graduates or those interested in higher education the opportunity to explore other interests before starting college or step back from studies to gain more perspective about their next step in life. There are pros and cons to taking a gap year. Do the research and make the choice that is best for you!
- Join a club or student organization that represents you: Whether you attend a small, mid-size or large college or university, you want to feel represented, make connections, and establish long-lasting relationships. If it is becoming challenging to make connections and network, find a group on campus that exemplifies you or your interests. For example, there are clubs and organizations at many colleges involving gaming, the arts, representing the Latinx community, the LGBTQIA+ community, and much more.
- Mental health checks:🧠 Mental health matters and self-care is essential for all. If you feel drained or overwhelmed with the change, know there is a person on campus willing to help you along the journey.
- Utilize Social Media: 💬 Tiktok, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Facebook allow you to search for those who currently go to or attended your college, as well as learn about events happening on campus. Use these features to your advantage.
- Lastly, Transfer: If the uneasy feeling refuses to go away, look into transferring. However, before transferring, be sure to research the process. Some colleges may have restrictions on which outside credits they can accept and how many credits can transfer between institutions.
Having the opportunity to experience college life is amazing and shouldn’t be taken for granted. Be sure to attend an institution that is best for you and make the most of your time by following these tips!
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