Counseling Center

Adjustment to College

Coming to college for the first time can be an exciting journey. This time is usually a symbol of independence and finding one’s self apart from the surroundings of home, family, friends and familiar places. While this can be an exciting adventure, it can also be somewhat overwhelming. Coming to a new environment, meeting new people, trying to gauge the expectations of professors are a few of the adjustments placed upon new college students. Though you are likely to be surrounded by people most of the time in classes, the residence and dining halls, etc., you may feel a sense of isolation and loneliness. You may perceive that others appear more comfortable mingling with peers, while inside yourself you feel apprehension and uncertainty. These feelings are common when one is adapting to a new environment, but they are not always easily overcome and can take a toll on your self-esteem. It’s important to remember that adjustment to college or any new environment takes time. It also may be helpful to know that you are not alone in your loneliness. Recent studies have shown a significant increase in the number of students who report homesickness, transition issues and feelings of issues. It’s also important to have support through times of adjustment, and the Counseling Center can help. Here are some other sites that might provide helpful information about adjusting to college:

Tips for Adjusting to University Life

Transitions

Loneliness

Homesi ckness

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