It’s scary thinking that you’re going to be living away from your parents and living with someone you don’t even know. You’re probably expecting yourself to be more organized with your way of living…and you’re right. But, you’re not in this alone and there are a few things to expect when going away.
1. You’re not in this alone!
There are plenty of other people who are in the same boat. The good news is that they are the perfect candidates for being your new friend! Who knows? They can even be the person you’re living with for the entire year! Sometimes, there’s comfort in numbers, and in this case, the number of people who are in your shoes is more than you may think!
2. Your new roommate can be your best friend…or not
Your roommate has the potential to be anything, both good and bad. There’s the chance that your roommate will be your next best friend for more than twenty years…or maybe they’re the ones you want to say “good riddance” to. Either way, there needs to be respect for both you and all of your roommates. That’s why it’s important that you guys try to get to know each other and work out a compromise regarding house rules. If it doesn’t work out the first time, speak to them. If it still isn’t working out, there’s no shame in transferring rooms (Psst, it’s another way to find new and/or better friends too)
4. You decide your schedule
You read that right. You don’t need to have your parents telling you to go to class. Actually, you don’t have anybody telling you to go to class. So if you’re the kind of person who constantly sleeps through their alarm clock, you better learn to get up. You also may be wondering what classes to take and when to take them. It would be a great idea to see your college adviser and discuss your options. They are the key to helping you graduate and to help you get your life on track. In the end though, you decide what you want to do.
5. Your professors are here to help
Seriously, I don’t think any professor that I know has wanted a student to stay in their class more than once. If you’re struggling on something or you have a quick question, they have office hours specifically set aside so they are open to help you! Don’t think you’re being a bother by constantly coming into their office for help. In fact, it shows you are dedicated towards your education and it gives you the chance to get to know them. In their eyes, a dedicated worker is worth having in their class. The best part? Getting a recommendation letter will be so easy!
6. Go to some events!
Going away to school doesn’t mean you have to be cooped up in your dorm and studying all day. You can always meet people and get some cool stuff when you go to different event. You like sports? Try going to your school’s sports games. If your residence area hold special events, it’s a great way to get to know your neighbors as well as your RA. They can hold events such as movie night, pool parties, game night, and a lot of fun things.
7. Look into the clubs your school offers
School have so many club options to choose from, it probably makes your head want to spin! The first thing to start with is figuring out your interest. Then, see if they have any clubs that go along with what you like. By the way, even if you have no experience in playing a guitar, you’re more than welcome to try going to guitar club. In other words, it’s okay to try out clubs that aren’t in your field of expertise. It’s all about learning and having fun!
