It can be quite common to experience feeling “lost” when transitioning to college. However, when in doubt, one must remember what experiences and people await them. The ultimate pressure to conform to a group can make this experience all the more stressful, but it doesn't have to be. When adjusting to this new world, there are a few things to keep in mind.
Some may call their core group of friends "their people," and the transition from high school to college is a fresh start for students to find their people. It is a new opportunity with new faces, knowledge and lifestyles.
These people may be the ones you know will answer the phone no matter the hour, the ones that will keep your secrets for eternity, the ones you can depend on to understand your flaws and quirks — not point them out.
To have a group of loving, and supporting friends, is enough to generate a sense of home when one is far away. Sometimes, a stable community is all students needs to feel at peace.
Home can be an hour-drive down the highway or a 10-hour flight away, but there's also one to be built here at USC, your new home away from home.
To first achieve this, you must accept that you need to get comfortable with the uncomfortable. At first, leaving home for college can be exhilarating. However, over time, this feeling can begin to melt away.
Picture this: after all the commotion that comes with settling in, it's suddenly November, and it may seem as though everyone has established their friend groups for good. Whether you are a freshman or a senior, these situations may still arise.
Overall, humans are dependent on community in order to thrive. Having a sense of connection and belonging, especially at a place such as a university, is significant to the wellbeing of each and everyone. However, in today's day in age, loneliness seems to thwart students from taking full advantage of this new chapter in life. Last year, surveys show that about 65% of college students reported feeling lonely.
But, do not get discouraged. According to a 2023 statement from the university, about 47%, or almost half of the student population, are out-of-state students. That 47% took a risk for the better. A risk that involves leaving all they have ever known and starting with a clean slate. Know that many are in the same boat.
Getting out of a small town is often the reason provided for traveling far for college. When choosing to attend college states away from home, some students may need to take the jump for their own personal growth. It's a new beginning — a fresh start to create a community.
The hundreds of clubs, Greek life and events at USC are the perfect place to start if a student is struggling. No matter what area seems more appealing, there is truly a place for anyone.
Having roommate troubles? Maybe try walking a few doors down and introducing yourself. Meeting new people can be worth the thrill. Those could be your new best friends; your community.
This is why college is all about taking risks like no other. Sometimes, you might feel as if you only have yourself. So, when constructing your home, ensure that it will be filled with supportive, loving and understanding friends. In doing so, you can increase your self esteem and sense of belonging.
Overall, leaving home for college doesn't have to be scary, and neither does living amongst other new adults 24/7. Whether you have been lucky enough to realize this yet or not, college friends can turn into family. There is no doubt that each and every student has a family to be found at USC.