It is that time of year when parents begin packing up their children and moving them to college.
College can be a big adjustment for students. Many children are actively involved in high school. They are well known throughout their school and have much of a popular reputation. They then enter college. In college they are a mere freshmen without contacts or involvement in school. College is much bigger. The competition is tougher. It can be very scary and frustrating for students. The larger the college is, the harder the adjustment may be.
Many high school seniors cannot visualize life without their high school classmate friends. However, college life and time usually diminish many of those close contacts. There will be a few friends that keep in touch, but busy lives usually take over quickly. Due to lose of contact with high school, it is important to find close relationships and individual friendships while at college. It can take time for these friendships to develop. Look for roommates, classmates, and club members that share the same interest.
Visit coffee shops and bookstores. These can be hangouts for study groups. Look for classmates at libraries to study or research with. In college, you can find others with similar life goals and build bonds. You can share triumphs and defeats with one another. College friendships are often much stronger than any of the high school bonds that were made.
Many campuses also offer a Christian network or ministry. Students involved in Christian groups can offer great comfort when the going gets tough. Look to get involved with others who can offer support and direction.
College can be a hard adjustment. However, it can also be very rewarding. Although it may be tempting to pack up and move back home during those first few weeks, give it an honest try. Be proactive in creating your college life. Sitting in your dorm and pouting will not create a happier environment.
Homeschooling Prepare for College