Campus Life

Dorm Life

Ah, campus life! Your friends at home, you’ve had for years. You grew up together. How you initially met is probably a mystery. It seemed like they’ve always been there. In college, that changes. 

A dorm is a melting pot of people from all walks of life and ages. One of them will be living in your room. Since you don’t know anything about this person other than their name, bunking with them can bring anxiety. What if I don’t like them? What if they don’t like me? What if they steal my food while I’m away?

Look on your new living arrangements as an adventure. Not only are you feeling twinges of anxiety but the other 200 people in your dorm are also experiencing that too. From day one, get to know them. Even if you are a self-proclaimed shy person, this is the best way to keep all of that at bay. Once you become familiar with each other, friendships will likely follow.

Student Activities

Another way to come out of your shell and develop a security about college life is by getting involved. Colleges offer a variety of activities that appeal to their diverse student body. As a freshman, everyone will want to show off their group to you.

So what are your interests? Even if you don’t know anyone, networking through similar interests is a great way to get to meet other students and also to get to know the campus. As a freshman, many organizations hold parties to introduce you to their organization. Visit them all and ask questions. You’ll see your social life begin to fill out in no time.

Don’t go overboard though. It is easy to become entangled with too many activities and your academics can suffer. Find your balance between the two so both will flourish.

The Food

College food has become more sophisticated these days. Three square meals was once the norm but college cafeterias are like giant food courts. There are enough choices that you don’t have to eat the same thing twice. This can be good and bad.

Colleges and universities offer a variety of meal plans to their student body. Choose one that will give you variety without contributing to an expanding waistline. Fast food doesn’t seem like fast food when it’s served in the school dining hall. As a freshman, you’ll want to eat everything, especially if foods are available that you weren’t able to eat 

Potential Violence

A college campus is a new environment but not always a contained one. Many larger university grounds are open, allowing public access. Use campus maps to learn where emergency phone boxes are located. If you move about campus in the evening, go with a friend. Being proactive can prevent many dangerous situations.

But, some violence is not due to outside forces. There can be violence between students. While it is nice to have the frat guy interested in you, don’t go off with him if you don’t really know him. You may find yourself a feature actor in a situation where you are in over your head.

College life can be both exciting and fun. As teenager/young adult living away from home, you are given access to the best of two worlds. While you are getting used to new experiences, keep your wits about you and strive to make smart choices.

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