Tips for Surviving College for New Students
Psychologist Dr. Lauren Saler shares tips for surviving college for new students, which will make the transition from high school to college successful and enjoyable!
Before the tips, a quip:
“A professor is one who talks in someone else’s sleep.” ~ W.H. Auden
Here’s a key tip for surviving college for new students: don’t fall asleep during your lectures! For more info on achieving your goals at school, click on Survival Secrets of College Students by Julia Johnston and Mary Kay Shanley. And, read on for Dr Saler’s tips for surviving college for new students…
Tips for Surviving College for New Students
“Entering college is a major transition and the process of emotional and physical separation is a time of growth and adjustment for the entire family,” says Dr Saler. “Students are separating from their family, establishing their identity, developing academic goals and new relationships, and taking on financial and other responsibilities. Added adult pressures coexist with higher academic and family expectations, and the student’s own goals.”
Pitfalls to be aware of: “Students can face homesickness, dropped grades, alcohol and drug use, anxiety, depression, and lowered self-esteem,” says Dr Saler. “Some are eager to experience the adventure and freedom of college. Others are enthusiastic but then encounter disappointments. And still others anticipate that leaving home will be difficult. ”
If you’re worried about paying for college, read 3 Tips for Cutting College Costs.
Summer Tips for College Students:
- Show your parents and yourself that you are ready.
- Wake yourself up in the morning and learn to do your own laundry.
- Start budgeting and learn about debit and credit cards.
- Ask your parents about their own separation from their parents, including their struggles and what was helpful. You will each better understand the other’s point of view.
- Enjoy the months before college. Appreciate old friends and your history together.
- Make a list of your strengths. Keep the list handy to review, especially in uncertain times.
Tips for After College Starts:
- Give yourself time. It takes trial-and-error to feel fully settled in.
- Don’t rush to choose a major. Choose a major you are passionate about, not one that others push.
- Get to know your professors. If you struggle in a class, approach them first. You are your best advocate.
- Make choices about alcohol and drugs that support your goals and keep you safe.
- Use the internet for school and socializing but don’t spend too much time on it.
- Come to an agreement with your roommate about staying up late, paying bills, overnight visitors, etc.
- Make time for yourself, get enough sleep and exercise.
- Get involved in activities to make friends and feel connected to your school.
- Ask for help when you need it. There are school supports dedicated to enhancing your experience (i.e. academic advisors, counseling center, residential life, etc.)
- Read Tips for Student Success in College
Tips for Managing Parents:
- Use your parents as resources. Being an adult includes depending on them for advice.
- When parents drive you nuts, let them know in a clear and kind way.
- Parents can live vicariously through their kids. When needed, remind them gently that this is about you.
- If you are on top of deadlines, let parents know! It will help them with their anxiety.
- Do not see your parents’ anxiety as a no-confidence vote in you. Your college status is a change for them. Like you, they will learn and grow.
Signs College Students Need Help Surviving:
- Feeling sad, anxious, or lonely more often than not
- Using too much alcohol and drugs
- Unexplained physical problems
- Inability to set or attain goals
- Academic difficulties
- Overeating/under-eating
- Frequent arguments with family or friends
- Parents, read Tips for Surviving College for Parents of New Students
“Bumps in the road are inevitable,” says Dr Saler. “Reaching this milestone is a testament to parental accomplishments, and an incredible achievement for a child. Offer your child room to grow their personal, academic, and social selves under your supportive, gently challenging, and accepting eye.”
If you have any questions or tips for surviving college for of new students, please comment below!
Dr. Lauren Saler is in private practice in Ardsley, NY, and has been a psychologist at Pace University in Westchester County for over 15 years.
