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Coming to college is undoubtedly one of the biggest changes that a person can go through. Uprooting the life of which you have grown accustomed is changing, and what’s to come is still unknown. Becoming a first year can be daunting, and many questions and fears will arise. Keep reading to learn about anxieties that may impact students and how to overcome them!

How will I make friends?

Making friends was the most common response when I asked people what they were afraid of before coming to college. Because campus is so vast, finding your people can feel like an overwhelming task. Use this to your advantage! The University of Michigan is giant, so you will surely be able to find like-minded people. Utilize clubs, professional and social organizations, classes, activities, and your schedule to find friends! 

Joining clubs of interest is a great way to find friends on campus. The University of Michigan has more than 1,700 registered clubs on campus, and they can all be found on the Campus Involvement website! If you cannot find a club that piques your interest, feel free to start one! 

Professional or social organizations are great at connecting individuals, and the University of Michigan has endless options for involvement. There are professional organizations that could tie in with your major, and each one has its perks. Social organizations can also provide a concrete community, and many of these organizations offer recruiting at the beginning of both fall and winter semesters!

Find friends within your current routine. Speak to people in your classes, in the dining halls, while grabbing coffee, at the gym, and on the bus. Especially to familiar faces that you see often, just say hi! Introduce yourself, strike up a conversation, and put your best foot forward. People on campus are generally kind and open to befriending others. Making friends in this way makes it so that you and your new friend likely have something in common. Perhaps you both enjoy working out, taking English classes, or trying new matcha spots. Speaking to those around you not only helps you make friends, but also has the potential to make someone’s day!

How can I do well in classes?

If you are coming to the University of Michigan, you’re likely familiar with the rigors of academics. Advancing from high school to college is sure to bring further change in the rigor of class expectations. A common anxiety surrounds class performance and feeling “ready” for the advanced level of material. Imposter syndrome can impact students here, as many wonder if they are smart enough to attend and remain competitive in this atmosphere. Some tips to combat this are to continue to apply yourself as much as possible, work with others, give yourself grace, and ask for help!

Once you are in college, remember that the work is not yet complete. Getting in is just part of the battle, and remaining committed to the work is key. Another tip is to give yourself grace. It may be harder than what you are used to, so be kind to yourself during this transition. It will not be this hard forever. Find what interests you and focus your studies there.

If you get stuck or need help (which is OK!) discuss with your peers, advisors, and trusted faculty, as appropriate. Don’t be afraid to ask for help! Attend office hours and chat with your professors and mentors.

When working through challenges with your peers, compare lines of thought and work through problems together. This is very helpful, as it shows that you are not alone, can help you make friends, and will keep you motivated.

Will I fit in?

Leaving the safe bubble of high school and home feels very scary. The people at home are those who understand you and have grown to know you. Many often wonder if they will find this community within their new Michigan space. The good news is that you will! The adjustment may feel different, as the campus is quite large. A great way to make campus feel smaller is by finding those similar to you. What are your interests or your hobbies? How can you best find others who share the same interests? Trying new things is the best way to figure out where you belong. Clubs, teams, and study groups are all great ways to find your place on campus. Find what interests you and give it a try! Everyone has struggled with at least one of these worries, and it is important to remember that. You are not alone! Discuss how you are feeling with those around you, and you will be surprised to see that others feel exactly the same way!