Hugging your parents goodbye for the first time as you start this new chapter in your life is probably one of the most overwhelming experiences you’ll have.
The transition into college can definitely be difficult, but over time you’ll learn how to be on your own and and succeed with flying colors. If you’re not well-adjusted to college life yet, don’t fret - it’s a normal thing. So many freshmen are going through the same thing you are.
The most important thing to do to make yourself feel at home is to make friends. I cannot stress how important this is! There are roughly 4,500 undergraduates on campus so that gives you endless opportunities to find people who love the same things as you, who share your sense of humor and who’ll want to make memories with you.
Making new friends will help the transition because you will be able to spend time with people who truly make you realize why you came to college in the first place. That’s a beautiful thing to have in the next four(ish) years, a friendship.
Another great idea to ease your college transition is to join an organization! If you’re not comfortable joining Greek life, there’s plenty of organizations to join. Longwood has the Student Government Association, Lancer Productions, The Rotunda and so much more! It’s all about getting involved in the community, which ties back to making friends and meeting new people.
The best thing about college is that you get to reinvent yourself. If there are certain obstacles in your life that you’re not too fond of, college is the perfect time to refocus your energy!
Sometimes focusing on yourself and how you want to progress can help distract you from homesickness. It’s about finding things that make you work harder and become a better you.
Start going to the gym more, learn more about the things that interest you or really just do anything you’ve always wanted to do but haven’t. College opens up doors to endless opportunities.
All in all, the first few months aren’t always the easiest. Remember why you chose Longwood to begin with and keep in mind that you have a family right here on campus. These next four or so years are definitely going to stick with you for the rest of your life, so make sure you make the best of them! Don’t worry - you’ve got this.
Female college student in graduation cap and gown, rear view