Beginning the journey toward new, great adventures never seems to come without fear. The risk of trying to be successful at something new mingles with the pressure to do well, fit in, and feel comfortable—it’s no wonder that many college freshman feel nervous about starting their first year! Here is a collection of the fears freshman face, and the solutions to overcoming these battles!
1. Bad Roommate
The fear of a bad roommate is an irrational fear that freshman face. Let’s be clear: it is not irrational because it is impossible to get paired with a bad roommate—it’s irrational because, often, students will not know what their roommate is like until they spend a few weeks together!
Although it is highly possible to end up with a bad, messy, loud, or rude roommate, worrying over it will not change it! Students who are struck with this fear should rent an apartment with someone they already know and trust!
2. Difficult Classes
At the university level, classes are naturally going to be more challenging than those during high school. However, high school is meant to prepare students for this point of education. Students who were mindful of learning in high school are already most likely ready to take on college classes.
Those who suffered from “senioritis” and failed to pay attention during their senior year (and the other three, for that matter), or those who have been out of high school for a while and have forgotten the tricks of the trade still have a fighting chance—just be sure to take the initiative to succeed!
Stay organized, study, turn assignments in on time, focus, and open your mind to a new way of learning. Also, build a professional relationship with your professor; let them know when you are struggling, ask them questions, find out how you can improve, and be open with them.
3. Fearing Professors
With that being said, there is no reason for students to fear professors. At this level, professors are very different from the teachers in high school. Professors are not necessarily students’ friends, but by level of the education process, everyone is an adult. Students and professors should have a mutual respect for one another.
Those who show motivation to learn, take class seriously, and attempt to succeed are already showing respect to the professor through their actions. Plus, these habits help lead the student to do well in class.
4. Feeling Lonely/Making Friends
Getting to know one’s professors is never a substitute for making good friends! Students out on their own for the first time are liable to feel lonely during the first few weeks in a new place—but don’t give up! Once you get settled in and begin to recognize a few friendly faces, you will start to feel more comfortable.
Luckily, the status quo of college differs vastly from high school—if you weren’t “popular” before, this is a chance to restart and recharge. Also, students in college are paying to attend classes and learn; therefore, college tends to be less clique-oriented than high school. In other words, you will feel more comfortable and make friends in no time!
5. Feeling Homesick
Feeling homesick is inevitable. Most students will miss their hometown, their family and friends, and their old life. When facing this difficulty, remember this: In order for a plant to grow, one must trim it. Cutting off older stems and forging new roots allows for growth. Plus, that sweet little hometown will always be there during summer break!
6. Dealing with Finances
Students who are out on their own for the first time will likely face financial challenges. Now is the time to learn budgeting! If you need additional help, consider a budgeting app!
7. Organizing and Balancing Responsibilities
Many students fear that starting college will be overwhelming. From sports and clubs to classes and labs, there are definitely new responsibilities to balance. It is impossible to stress the necessity for proper planning. Invest in a student planner, a calendar, or a planning app to ensure that everything fits in the schedule!
8. Learning New Responsibilities
Cooking, cleaning, and shopping—oh my! Cooking is way easier than it sounds; students who can boil water are able to make a number of meals. However, when it comes to food safety, there are several factors to consider. When in doubt, review the USDA’s food safety tips written specifically for college students!
Cleaning is relatively easy, as well. Here is a short checklist of cleaning tips that students can refer to!
9. Getting Lost On Campus or Around Town
College campus maps are an asset new students should utilize. If that fails, don’t be afraid to ask students, professors, or security how to get to a particular class or building on campus. As for driving around town—students today have it easy! GPS devices and smartphones offer a foolproof commute!
10. The Freshman 15—Is it Real?
Sorry to say, the Freshman 15 is a real occurrence in the lives of several students. This is the result of many factors, including but not limited to the mixture of stress eating, cafeteria buffets, cheap and easy meals that lack nutrients, and a lack of home cooked meals. This combination often leads new students to pack on a few extra pounds. To stay high school skinny, stock up on fruits, vegetables, and lean meats—and put those new cooking skills to use while you are at it!
FNU—Here for You
At Florida National University (FNU), we understand that starting college can be a stressful experience. That is why we provide tips; to help even the most fearful freshman succeed at their new venture! If you are interested in attending FNU, apply now!
