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Summer always signifies a change of pace for students. For most students it
means no more homework, no more tests and no more waking up in the morning’s early hours to catch that gaudy yellow school bus.
All these tasks that were routine are now irrelevant — at least until next fall. For the 2012 graduating class however, this change of pace is slightly more permanent. They now enter a crossroads in their lives where they decide on matters that impact them in a major way. It is very sobering for many whose day-to-day decisions were what to wear that day or what to do over the weekend.
Now, society challenges them to choose a new location to live, most likely far away from their friends and family. I know because I am currently in that very situation. I feel very anxious about beginning this new chapter in my life, especially because most everyone else around me faces their own situation with more bravery and excitement than I do. If you are like me and feel apprehensive about taking this plunge into adulthood, know that there are some ways to face this milestone with more confidence:
• Go to your college’s orientation so that you familiarize yourself with your new “home” and hopefully meet a few people, too.
• Unlock your inner “Extreme Makeover” fanatic and get yourself some new decorations for your new dorm. It is a way to get excited about something and makes your new digs feel like home.
• Get a new laptop so working on your assignments is easier when you start your classes. Having an efficient way to complete your assignments is one less thing for you to stress about.
• Figure out how far away you are from your parents, relatives and friends so making plans to visit on weekends and holidays is easier.
• Organize your life. Having your “ducks in a row” is very important, especially if you are naturally messy like me because not being able to find things stresses anyone out.
• Find a little time for fun activities this summer. Spending time going on vacation with your family, camping with your friends, or even just reading a book poolside by yourself are all fun things that beat the summer blues.
Nobody ever said this major milestone in life is easy but with any luck, these tips should help you to plunge into college life easier and face the future like a pro.
