Each year, millions of American students prepare to embark upon a new adventure on a college campus. As their departure draws close however, it is very common for feelings of excitement and anticipation to quickly turn to stress and anxiety. Here are some ways students can better manage the transition from high school to college.
Get and stay organized. Unlike a typical high school day with fixed periods and classes held in a single building, college class schedules will likely vary from day to day and be spread over various locations across a campus. Take the time to learn when and where your classes are held and map out the routes to allow enough time to get there. On larger campuses, students find it helpful to follow Google Maps or learn the campus bus system to ensure they make it to class on time. Use your phone calendar or a daily planner to keep track of class times, office hours, assignments, exams and deadlines. Getting and staying organized at the start will help you settle into a routine, which can reduce stress.
Embrace time management. Lay out your class schedule, assignments, tests and other responsibilities and create a workable schedule. To be safe, for every 1 hour of class time, plan 2-3 hours of outside study time. Kick procrastination to the curb by carving out specific times to work on long term projects. Schedule study blocks to prepare for upcoming exams. Sometimes there are only 2 exams in the whole semester with lots of material to cover. Don’t expect to study the night before a test and do well.
Practice Self Care. Balancing your class load and social life is tough, and your health can suffer. Diet, rest and exercise are all key factors in keeping you in balance and at your best. Adopt healthy eating and rest habits immediately. An unhealthy diet and lack of sleep can lead to poor academic performance as well as serious health issues. Try to establish a regular exercise routine that you enjoy. Not only will it keep you in shape, it is an excellent stress buster.
Work on conflict resolution skills. Almost all college freshmen end up living with a roommate, oftentimes a complete stranger. This situation inevitably results in the need for frequent negotiations about space and social boundaries. If there are rules that you absolutely need to live by, they should be communicated to your roommate immediately. Don’t wait for tensions to build, and if a conflict arises use the word “I” instead of “You” to avoid a combative exchange. Practice active listening and try to see the situation from his or her point of view.
You will also have the opportunity to meet and work with many new people. This can be very exciting and challenging. Connect with your professors early in person or via email. A brief introduction will make it easier for you to come back to them if an issue arises such as a grade discrepancy or if you need something clarified. When working in a group setting, establish clear roles and responsibilities so everyone knows what is expected of them. Walk away from heated exchanges until everyone can discuss them calmly. Learn how to diffuse uncomfortable situations by talking though issues instead of arguing over them. This is a lifelong skill you will use time and time again.
Learn to Budget – For many students this is the first time they will manage their own finances. Have a frank discussion with your parents before starting school and have a clear understanding of your financial picture. Money matters are one of the biggest sources or stress for college students. A simple spreadsheet outlining your expenses may be all you need to stay on track.
Remember, you are not alone. Adjusting to a new environment is difficult for most of us. In a 2017 survey of 48,000 college students, 64% said they had felt “very lonely” in the previous 12 months, according to the American College Health Association. Students also reported feeling “overwhelming anxiety”, “very sad”, and even “hopeless”. It is important to realize that you are surrounded by people in the same boat. Luckily, professionals who can help you academically, with mental health issues and personal counseling also surround you. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.