It’s everyone’s favorite time of the year! Oberlin decision letters have been released, applicants are beginning to commit, and All Roads is upon us. With this, there is not a better time to write about something many new Obies will undoubtedly struggle with: adapting to college life. Making the transition from high school to college is no easy feat. One minute you’re at your house doing homework in bed while your mom makes you dinner, and next thing you know, you’re all alone in a new environment and sharing bathrooms with total strangers. This shift can be scary, overwhelming, and even a little isolating, but having survived it myself, I am in the position to not only tell you that it gets better, but also give you some tips on how to make the transition as easy as possible.
Get Involved
My biggest piece of advice, which is easier said than done, is to branch out and be open to new experiences. Orientation week is the best time of the year to make new friends as an incoming freshman. There are dozens of events ranging from field days to football games, Cleveland trips to barbecues, and each one is an opportunity to meet new people. Personally, upon arriving at Oberlin, my first instinct was to keep to myself and let people come to me because I was shy. In college- and especially at a social school like Oberlin- you need to push your anxiety aside and just force yourself to talk to as many people as possible. Luckily for us, we live in an age with social media, so connecting with other Obies (even before school starts) has never been easier. Trust yourself, be brave, and it will all pay off in the end when you have a solid group of friends that will last you a lifetime.
Make Your Space Your Own
Many people underestimate the power of good dorm decor. When you first arrive at college, your dorm will be barren and empty, which definitely adds to the overwhelming feeling of uncertainty in your new college life. Therefore, I see it as imperative to decorate your dorm room in a way that makes you feel like you’re at home. Personally, I brought a lot of posters, plushies, and knick-knacks from home to ground myself in this new environment. I also recommend bringing some pictures of family, friends, pets, or anything that reminds you of your life before college. While you should not dwell on the past 24/7 during your first semester at college, it is good to remember your support system back home.
Familiarize Yourself With Campus
I remember during my first week at Oberlin, nothing made me feel less “at home” than navigating my new home with google maps. Although Oberlin’s campus might feel confusing at first (and honestly bigger than you might expect for such a small school), it is easy to familiarize yourself with. My favorite thing about campus is generally how safe it feels. The small town vibe creates a sense of comfort and community, making it easy (and safe) to simply wander around without knowing where exactly you’re going. Additionally, I recommend attending an “All Roads Lead to Oberlin” tour before you arrive on campus for the fall semester. These tours will help you acquaint yourself with Oberlin’s academic buildings, dining halls, dorms, and downtown area. Ultimately, it is a lot harder to adjust to college life when you have no idea where you are, so I encourage all new students to take advantage of the welcoming campus, and explore!
As a first year student at Oberlin college, I can say with absolute certainty that the transition from high school to college is not easy. You’re quite literally beginning a whole new chapter of your life in a new environment with thousands of people you have never met. It’s overwhelming and scary, sure, but keep in mind that you’re not alone. Every other incoming first year student will be in your position, so don’t hesitate to connect with them through shared uncertainty and excitement. Additionally, make sure to take advantage of all that Oberlin has to offer during your first semester adjusting to campus life. Especially during the first month, there are countless events where new students have the opportunities to connect with their peers, professors, and their new life in college. Most importantly, for any incoming freshmen reading this: trust yourself. You belong here, you will make it through any hard times that come your way here, and you will thrive here.
Congratulations Oberlin class of 2030. You did it!
