As the transition into college continues, for some, this may be there first ever semester in a new academic setting. It can be both an exciting time and overwhelming. For many it is the first time away from home and the security of parents and friends. Below are some suggestions to consider in making the transition more smoothly.
1. Familiarize yourself with campus resources: Most campuses have counseling services, health centers and academic support, and campus security. Make sure you have these resources handy.
2. Get involved in something that interests you: This is a time when you can try out a club that sounds interesting and fun and meet new friends. Maybe student government sounds interesting or pickle ball or finding a job. There are so many things to do and ways to get involved in your new community,
3. Seek help early if you find yourself struggling either academically or with mental health. Professors usually offer office hours during the week for additional support or campuses have tutoring services. It is completely normal to feel homesick for the familiar and taking to a mental health profession can be helpful.
4. It is important to establish a routine early in the school year which includes some regular bedtimes and wake times. Explore the local on campus gym for exercise. Both improve mental wellbeing and decrease being overwhelmed.
5. Many are sharing space with a roommate, and it is important to communicate to each other about things openly and setting boundaries. Discuss things like sleep schedules, study habits, and self care responsibilities.
6. Parents discuss with your kids to have a time each week where you can facetime together. It is a balance giving them independence and continuing to support them in a different way.
About The Author: Ann holds a Master’s Degree from Loyola University of Chicago School of Social Work. Ann has over 20 years of experience working in the mental health and medical field working with adolescents, teens, and adults. Her passion is working with clients who are struggling with Grief and Loss, Life transitions, Anxiety, Depression, school/college struggles, self esteem and codependency. Her approach to therapy is being a guide to helping clients reach their goals through exploring values, strengths.