For me nothing says fall semester like seeing groups of three or four college freshmen walking around their new town all wearing their new KSU lanyard. I love it. I love seeing new people in my beloved hometown. Despite the traffic jams and sudden longer lines at the Starbucks, I welcome the fall and the doubling of the town’s population.
But if your new around here you are likely a little anxious. Being nervous in new surroundings is completely natural. You are embarking on a new chapter in your life. Here are some ways to battle the Freshman Anxiety.
- Go to all the orientations you can. If there’s a general orientation, go to that. If there’s an orientation for your dorm or your major, go to those too. Here is where you will learn all the ins and outs of your new surroundings.
- Get to know your roommate/s. Don’t be shy. They’re new here and wondering all about you too. Spend some time in the beginning getting to know how to get along with them. Learn what each of you expects from the other. Maybe even go so far as to create a contract or some rules. It really could save a lot of trouble down the road.
- Join groups/ clubs/ causes. Who cares that you didn’t join things in high school? College is different. There are clubs and organizations to fit every facet of your life from your interests and hobbies to your political beliefs. Remember, everyone is new
- Buy your books early. Don’t wait until the last-minute, or worse, after the first day of class to buy your books. If you wait you may have a hard time finding the books you need and you don’t want to start your college career lagging behind the rest of the class
- Remember everyone is nervous (even the professors). It’s true. As a past high school teacher, I can tell you I got nervous and excited every fall just like my students. It was a new year full of possibilities–how exciting! So just know you’re not alone.
- Get a good campus map. Spend some time finding out where everything is. This will alleviate some first day jitters.
- Ramp up your self-care plan. We are all better at handling new and stressful situations when we are eating a balanced diet, drinking enough water and getting enough sleep. Don’t neglect these basic needs.
- Schedule in down time Don’t forget to set aside some time to recharge your batteries. You’ve got plenty of time for all the new college experiences, don’t try to cram them all in the first week!
- Sign up for counseling You’re on your own for the first time. This means you are going to have to handle a lot of new things on your own. This includes your mental health. If you’re overwhelmed, stressed out or depressed, don’t wait. Go talk to someone.
- Go to class! As tempting as it may be to assert your new-found independence by ditching class, don’t do it. You will likely get behind in your classes which can cause unnecessary stress.
Where to Get Help
If you are in crisis or feeling suicidal, you should call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. You’re important and we want you around! College life can be tough, but you’re tougher!
If you want to start counseling you have a couple of options
On campus
Kent State Psychological Services (in Kent Hall) provides counseling free to students
Counseling Services (in White Hall) also provide counseling services free to students
Off Campus
Middle Path Counseling Services is located right down town and provides private counseling for students, staff and community members.
Contact us today to make an appointment.