Things to expect on your first day of college


College can be a daunting experience, and the first day feels very much like the first day of school, perhaps even more terrifying! For many people, this is going to be a completely alien experience, with absolute autonomy and self-reliance, and that is a pretty scary prospect. So, the best thing you can do is to try to make yourself more prepared for the first day of college life, and start as you mean to go forward.
There’s a lot to learn before you kick off college life on the right sort of footing, and that’s why you must make sure you know what you’re getting into. When you first show up to college, you’re going to have some prep to do to make sure your first day sets the benchmark for the rest of the time you’re in college. These are some of the things you should expect on your first day – don’t be afraid of them.
Screen Shot 2017-11-05 at 2.54.21 PM

Lack of identity

Bear in mind that this is an entirely new experience for most of the people involved. You are going to be leaving home (perhaps for the first time), and you’ll most probably feel like you have no identity. But that’s okay because college is where you develop and discover your own identity, and figure out who you are as a person. Lack of identity might hit you hard, but it’s nothing to worry about unduly. Set your room up to express your identity, and make sure you take a positive attitude into every new thing you do.

Lots of new faces

There are going to be a lot of new faces around when you first start college. In fact, there’s a good bet you actually won’t know anyone there at all, but that’s okay. Almost everyone will be in the same boat as you, and it’s the perfect opportunity to make some friends. Strap on your social hat and get out there and start interacting; it might be hard for you, but it’s essential for college life. You need to surround yourself with as many friends as you can, and the first day or so is hugely important for making friends.

Overwhelming campus

The university campus is definitely going to be overwhelming, and this is hugely important to understand. Most colleges and universities are enormous, and the campuses where students congregate can be pretty overwhelming. The reason for this is generally the size, scope, and complexity of the buildings and the campus. So, the best way around this is to try to familiarize yourself with the campus as best you can. Get a map, and have a wander on your first day so you can find out where everything is as soon as possible.
Screen Shot 2017-11-05 at 2.54.46 PM

It’s very different from school

You will notice pretty early on that college is very different from high school. For one thing, you will encounter all manner of different people when you come to college, from different backgrounds and upbringings. You’ll also find the system of going to class, and producing work, differs greatly as well. It’s important to note that you are going to find people who are smarter and dumber than you, that is the case in all colleges. So don’t go comparing yourself to others – simply focus on yourself and doing the best you can.
There is so much to think about when it comes to attending college, and you need to make sure you prepare yourself mentally and physically for it. There is so much to consider, and the culture shock for a lot of people is going to be enormous. These are just a few of the things that you might encounter on your first day at college – try to use the experiences to help you grow and thrive as a student.

Recommended For You