by Marijane Suttor

Created on: August 04, 2009   Last Updated: May 02, 2010

So many thoughts and uncertainties can run through the mind of freshmen college students as they take of in a new academic endeavor. It isn't just the academic areas that worry these students, there are also all the other social aspects that are just as important in success in the college experience. These are a few tips for conquering those college freshman fears.

Will I get lost on campus?

The answer to this is possibly, but it won't take long before campus familiarity will be just like finding your way around home. Think about it as an adventure rather than a worrisome thing. If you do get lost on the way to class and become late, just explain what happened to the professor. No doubt you aren't the first and won't be the last person to be late for this reason. If this is a real worry for you, consider trying to do a trial run around campus to find the location of the classes the day before.

Will I hate the food?

A common worry is whether or not the food will be any good at all. Odds are that it may be a mixed bag. Most food services are trying to accommodate to the tastes of students with sub sandwich, pizza and burger places right in the student centers and commons. It is best to keep an open mind and try eating at different locations on campus. Some tend to have better food than others. Watch out for skipping meals and eating too much junk. Try to eat a healthy variety.

Will I make friends?

Making friends can be one of the most worrisome aspects of first going to college. The key to conquering this fear is to just be yourself and try to be outgoing. Be willing to talk to people in the dorm or in class and before long you have many friends. Also know that there might be someone that doesn't like you too. Dorms have all kinds of personalities in them.

Will I get along with my roommate?

Getting along with roommate can be a very tricky situation. Sometimes the chemistry is completely right and other times one can get stuck with someone that is not fun to live with. It is important to give the roommate a change and try to talk out any problems that come up. It is perfectly acceptable to request a move if the first roommate is not a good match.

Will I like dorm life?

You will probably not always like dorm life. Standing out in the cold at 2:00 a.m. because some joker pulled the fire alarm will not be very fun, nor will the noisy neighbors or the sometimes crusty bathrooms. However, dorm life is a memorable and important experience for college freshmen. It is

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>