Adjusting To College: Tips for Teens

Right now, all across the country new students are turning the page and starting a new chapter in their lives.  They’re now College Freshmen.

Being far away from home, living on your own and sharing space with many new strangers can be an exciting experience.  It can also be overwhelming, causing uncertainty and anxiety.

Here are some suggestions for all of you new Freshmen, that’ll help you ease into this new time in your life and get the most out of what can be a very fulfilling experience...

BEFORE YOU GO…

Visualize and draw upon past experiences that simulate the independence of college. 

(Sleepovers, camp, CYO or BBYO retreats, RYLA, summer sports camps, vacations, etc.)

•  Focus on these experiences, specifically paying particular attention to and remembering how they initially “freaked you out,” but at first but turned out fine.

Practice the behaviors that you’ll need in college. 

• doing your own laundry
• handling a check-book/credit card
• fixing your own meals

WHEN YOU GET THERE…

• Visualize the person you want to be — both academically and socially.  What do they look like, how do they talk, dress, act?  Focus on their confidence and accomplishments.

• Get involved!  Research the clubs and activities available on campus that will reinforce this view and make you most comfortable.  This is also a great way to find people like you and build solid relationships.

• Explore new interests and discover new ideas.  This is the time to explore the subjects and topics that have always interested you.

• Meet New People.  Engage in conversation, find common interests and encourage group activities.

• Prioritize.  nobody can do everything, and it’s easy to lose sight of classroom responsibilities

• Develop and stay connected with a support system (including guidance/counseling and peer counseling programs—especially at first)

• Expect Ups and Downs.  Don’t be driven by your emotions and get hung up in the moment-to-moment.  College is 4+ years and there will be many peaks and valleys.  If you have a bad day, focus on how you can make the next day better.

Most people look back on college as a great time in their life, where they meet new people and make lifelong friendships.  They learn a great deal about themselves, their interests, and discover the person they’ll become for the rest of their lives.  Enjoy yourself, but also be responsible for your actions and really think about the future you want for yourself.  Make this next chapter in your life one that you’ll always look back on proudly.

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