The scariest thing about starting a new school, especially college, isn’t how hard the classes are going to be or if you’re going to get lost the first week. Let’s face it; the most terrifying thought going through your head is how you’re going to meet a new group of friends.
Living on campus is a difficult adjustment because you’re completely thrown into a new environment. It’s not easy but it’s an exciting experience and you learn a lot about yourself in the process.
Roommates are awesome and you’ll spend a lot of time with them, but don’t be afraid to branch away from them. Having a variety of friends is always better because you know you’ll always have someone to hang out with.
Take advantage of the fact that you chose to go to a small school. Maybe the parties are lame but there’s so much you can get involved with. There are many opportunities that Cabrini will offer you and you just can’t be scared to take them.
I basically just sat on my butt in my freshman year and hoped that I would make friends. Unfortunately, things don’t come that easily. I was miserable and I regretted it, but sophomore year I was determined to get involved and meet new people.
Last year I joined the newspaper, co-led the Poverty Awareness Campaign, became a CRS ambassador, worked on campus and went to Appalachia on a service trip. I know that seems like a lot, but keeping myself busy was the best thing I ever did. I branched out into different groups and met tons of great people as a result.
Those are only a few of the activities you can get can involved with at Cabrini. Try not to join a group only because your best friend is in it. Go to the involvement fairs and think about what really interests you. There’s CAP board, sports teams, intramurals, Cavaliers for Life, Student Government Association and a bunch more.
Although there are many activities to choose from, don’t join a crazy amount because you’ll only stress yourself out and you won’t have any time for yourself. Pick a couple that you want to dedicate your time to but remember that you also will have homework at some point.
Also get to know the people in your major. You’ll find out that you have a lot in common with them and you’re going to see a lot of them over the next four years.
Freshman year is the best time to get involved because your workload is low so don’t wait; just jump right in because the sooner you do the faster you’ll start making friends and making memories.
