The transition from high school to college can be overwhelming, as it brings a unique mix of emotions, including excitement, nervousness, happiness, and sadness. I remember how I felt when I started my freshman year at Berkeleyā€”thrilled to start a new chapter in my life, yet anxious about leaving my loved ones behind. The day before moving in, I spent the whole day saying goodbye, sobbing, and barely sleeping at all. I felt like I was dying inside. The next day was a blur of introductions and exchanging social media handles with people I knew I would never see again. We all searched for someone to anchor us in this unfamiliar environment. All I wanted to do was crawl into my dorm room and grieve the life I had left behind. But I forced myself to put on a brave face and not let my fake excitement waver.
I still remember waking up the morning after my parents dropped me off, feeling lost and disoriented. The reality of my new life hit me like a ton of bricks, and I couldn’t shake the overwhelming feeling of loneliness and isolation. It was heartbreaking to think that all the people I had spent years cultivating positive friendships and memories with were now gone.
The beginning of college is hard, and it’s okay to struggle. People don’t talk enough about how heartbreaking it can be to leave behind everything you’ve known and loved. But it does get better. As classes started, the routine of it all made things easier. Homework and classes became welcome distractions, and I even made a few friends in my classes who I still talk to today. My roommate became one of my best friends; despite the challenges of sharing a space with someone, we’ve created countless memories and many laughs.
Going to Berkeley has also given me access to people and places I never dreamed of. I’ve explored San Francisco countless times, learned the ins and outs of the public transportation system, and made a home out of my school. Now, when I return to campus, Doe Library and Sather Gate fill me with a sense of familiarity instead of stress and sadness. I love the fog over the Berkeley hills, the view from my laundry room, and even the crisp and chilly microclimate I’ve grown accustomed to.
Although I still don’t feel like I’ve entirely found my place at Berkeley, I’ve learned to appreciate the loneliness and the self-reflection that comes with it. I’ve started to cherish the laughs I share with my classmates, coworkers, and friends. I’ve learned to be more selective about how I spend my time and what experiences I prioritize rather than doing things just for the “college experience.”
Looking back, I can honestly say that I’ve enjoyed my first year at Berkeley, and I’m excited for all the years to come. College is a unique transition that forces you to become comfortable with yourself and create a new lifestyle. Still, it’s ultimately a period of growth that should be approached with an open mind. Regardless of your expectations, the transition will likely be difficult, but it’s important to remember that you will be okay.