Real Talk: How to Fit In At College

By Andreas Fanos on May 14, 2018

College is a totally different experience from high school, middle school, etc. The whole experience can be scary, but in the end, it’s very rewarding. There is no secret that school can be stressful and be intimidating at the same time, and one can feel lost or out of place. College is really the time where one finds out who they really are and branches out as an individual. Maybe an individual didn’t do high school right or was not involved much, but college gives another opportunity to shine. Here are some things that you can do to fit in at college.

While attending college, especially a small one like a private university you will typically find a group of friends. In college, you will form bonds with people you never thought you would and build lasting relationships. That is one of the things that surprised me on my journey, making best friends that I still talk to today and hang out with. It will depend on if you are going to a state school or private as if it is a private school you can see people every day on campus but for a much larger school not as much. That doesn’t mean that you won’t make friends at a big school.

You will be equally surprised by how much freedom you have while at a university as well. No more parents telling you what to do and what to wear. Use this to your advantage as you can join clubs and organizations. There is a lot of hate when it comes to sororities and fraternities as you are buying friends, but that is not exactly true. It is more about being part of a great program and doing charity work. Joining clubs around campus or joining a fraternity or sorority can make your college experience worthwhile and help you fit in. And a lot of times you can meet people at the campus by events run by the university itself. This can also be a great way to meet new people. And going out late at night to local bars can be a blast as there can be spots that people at your school go too on a weekly basis.

Photo found on Pexels.com

Another thing an individual can do to fit in at a university is by joining a sports team. Only do it if you have the passion to do so, don’t do it just to meet new people because being an athlete in school takes a lot of work and you must stay on top of all the other things you need to do like doing your homework, studying, and working. Either way if being an athlete is not for you, you can join intramurals. It is not official, but it has some of the same elements and you can form bonds with others on the team. It is also obviously a good way to get some exercise and lose the freshman 15 or just to shed some weight in general.

And all said and done if the university does not work out for you, you can always transfer to another school. But if you do, make sure to transfer after the first year so your credits transfer over. After the second or third year, it can be tough to have all your credits transfer over once you are in your major. It is okay to transfer to another college if you do not like it or see yourself being more happy at another.

Going to college can be a frightful experience and adjusting can be tough, but if you follow these guidelines it will smooth out your transition. And don’t forget to have some fun! I can easily remember being lost in school, but I spoke to people and got involved on campus to fit in. Always introduce yourself to new people and don’t be scared, everyone else their first year is trying to do the same. College is an enjoyable experience where you can get involved more than ever and meet people that can change your life.

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