If you’re like me, you haven’t been on campus for classes in over a year. Since I only had one normal semester in college to date, being back feels like I am a freshman all over again. I forget where certain classrooms are in different buildings. I feel pressured to make friends, and with everyone wearing masks, it is not as easy as it seems. However, no matter how different things may be, I’m going to give you a few tips to help make sure this first semester back is a good one!
One of the biggest things in college is the social aspect. However, being social can be pretty difficult when you haven’t made any friends yet. Something to keep in mind regarding making friends is that there is a good chance that everyone is thinking the same thing as you. They want to meet new people just as bad. Sometimes, all it takes to form a great friendship is that step to talk to someone. Getting coffee or something to eat on campus is a good icebreaker and activity for you to ask someone to accompany you. That way, there is time for conversation but there is also something else to focus on, as well. Another great excuse for someone in one of your classes is to ask them to study together. Everyone knows that you will not actually be studying the whole time which allows you to get to know them more and become friends. If you are too shy to make the first move, one of the best things I have learned about being approached is to become a regular somewhere, whether it is at a campus coffee shop or a communal area where people hang out.
Being away from campus for so long has really made me forget where everything is and how to get around campus efficiently. It could never hurt to do a practice run before your classes so you know what building you are going to and the exact room inside the building. This practice run will also allow you to figure out the time it takes you to get to your classes, whether that’s from an apartment or dorm on campus or your house if you commute. Once you know the time it takes, you can be sure to always leave on time to make it to your class without being late.
Additionally, if you are having issues in any of your classes or with any of your professors, just talk to them about it. Regardless of what the stigma may be, most professors are very understanding, and as long as you do not wait until the last minute, they can be pretty flexible with giving you extra help on the material or whatever else you may need. I know that being back can be stressful, especially since we all got used to being in the comfort of our own homes sitting behind our computers. However, these are a few steps you can take to be sure that your time back is enjoyable. Good luck to everyone this semester, and I hope you have a blast being back!