Transitioning to College Life

Coping With the Changes of College

© Amber Watson

Sep 24, 2009
The college acceptance letter has come in the mail. Now it's time to leave home to journey off to an unknown place with an open mind and an open career choice.

This is the next step into adulthood. Paving the way for new experiences and the career path that's choosen, now takes center stage as college begins.

Social Involvement

Like every new experience, leaving old friends behind and getting to know the new dorm members can be a little tough at first. There are some people who have a shy nature about them, but there are also those who are outgoing and have no problems getting to know others. Taking a stroll around the dorm is a good way to just pop in and say hi to the neighbors to see what they are about.Try to find out more information about the numerous activities on campus, some including: sororities/ fraternities, student organizations, on campus jobs, sports and much more. It never hurts to ask an upperclassman about what there is to do on campus.

Meal Plan Choices

When choosing a meal plan, always consider the cost of a particular plan. The first step is to determine how many meals the student eats in one day. If the student likes to eat more than three meals per day and has stacks in between, then he/she should consider a meal plan that costs a little more. If the student prefers to eat less meals and more stacks, a plan can be chosen that cost less. Every student is different and some thought can be required, so discuss it with parents to see what the right choice is.

Balancing Job With School

A full/part time job can be a big decision to make while being a college student. One should consider if he/she will have time apart from classes to work. If a student is involved in extracurricular activities, then he/she needs to fully understand the time consumption that will take place if he/she decides to take on a job while in school. If one decides to take on a full/part time job while in school, then limit the amount of hours of work so there is time set aside to study for exams, tests, or quizzes. The goal is not to be overloaded with work, but to take one's time and enjoy college while it lasts.

Although college can be a big change, but taking ones time to decide what he/she wants to do in life is now rushing matter and should be taken seriously. While some students attend college a little longer than others, it never hurts to brainstorm early about what career choice is the right one.

Joining an organization, sorority/fraternity, or having an on campus job are the various ways a student can not only enjoy college, but find out what career path fits them perfectly.

References:

"Stress and college students-making transition to college." College Board inspiring minds.

Shatkin, P. Jess and Staff of the NYU Child Study Center. "Transition to College: Separation and Change for Parents and Students." NYU Child Study Center.


The copyright of the article Transitioning to College Life in Campus Life is owned by Amber Watson. Permission to republish Transitioning to College Life in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.


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