I just had my first few days at college, and it’s absolutely crazy to think about. I had been looking forward to this since I committed to my school, and to think that this weekend has come and gone already is totally mind-boggling. I’m not going to lie, I was pretty nervous to be starting at a totally new school in an entirely new environment, but I’m excited beyond words for all of the new adventures and experiences I’m about to face. I know I’m not the only one who has felt this, so I thought to share what my experience was like to share with those who will be in my shoes in the coming months and years, and as a record for myself as I go through my college experience to see how I’ve grown and changed.
The thing I was most nervous about was finding and making friends. I tried to connect with people at orientation and social media, but it was pretty hard. Everyone was nervous at orientation, and we couldn’t really meet everyone from the way the groups and schedules were set up. On social media, it’s hard to get a good feel for people. I was so nervous that I wouldn’t make any friends and I would be alone.
When I got to the main dining hall for commuter check in, a lot of residents were already there, eating breakfast, and a bunch of them said hi and recognized me. At all the different events throughout the week, a bunch of people I had never met before were so kind and we were able to introduce ourselves to each other, and people who recognized me from social media or orientation would say hi. I even feel like I made at least two really good friends already, which was a great feeling.
One of my other concerns was that I would get lost on campus and wouldn’t know where anything was. It turns out I knew a lot more than I thought, and I was able to find my classes pretty easily on my own during our free time. I will admit that while I was visiting friends in the freshman dorms, though, I could easily get lost (it’s such a confusing building). It really made me feel more comfortable with starting on campus.
My final concern was that as a commuter, I might feel left out or subpar to the residential students. It turns out that my school is almost 50% commuters, which made me feel less alone. Even though the commuter lounge wasn’t really open during the weekend, my friends opened me with open arms into their dorms, and to meals with them, during breaks between sessions. At times, it didn’t feel like I was any different from the people I was hanging out with.
Overall, my college welcome weekend was a lot of fun. I really enjoyed being able to get better acquainted with my school and getting more comfortable with the environment. My first day of classes was actually yesterday, but I can’t really comment on much because it’s syllabus week. I’m so excited for this next chapter in my life, and I hope you guys will continue to follow along!
P.S. a vlog of my weekend is coming soon?
See ya real soon,
