<p>Last semester was hard for me from all aspects, and now as I'm on winter break and away from DC and gaining some perspective, I'm wondering if my problem is the entire <em>college</em> thing or if it's specific to GU as an institution.</p>
<p>I don't know. But I don't think that making friends should be so hard. I know comparing college to high school might be pointless, because it's not high school anymore and we all know it, but I miss having a core group of 5 or 6 friends. Here, my friends, the people I genuinely enjoy being with, are scattered and don't know each other.</p>
<p>I'm starting to think that transferring is a real possibility, but at the same time I wonder if it'll actually solve anything; if this is really about social skills or attitude towards life, going to another place won't necessarily improve things.</p>
<p>So how do you know it's really the place that's making you miserable or your own thoughts/views/perspective? Should you pluck yourself from that place immediately or redefine your expectations? Where do you draw the line?</p>
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So how do you know it's really the place that's making you miserable or your own thoughts/views/perspective? Should you pluck yourself from that place immediately or redefine your expectations? Where do you draw the line?
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<p>I was undergoing the same problem last semester, but I decided to stay.</p>
<p>I think the best way to determine the issue is by visiting other college campuses. You have enough time to do that, as Harvard's deadline is February 15th, and nearly every other deadline is March 1st.</p>
<p>I heard that the kids at Georgetown are really uptight and to some extend really snobby.
- I did encounter snobs during my visits but also really nice and outgoing students...</p>
<p>242488, actually being on campus and living in a place is a lot different than "hearing" about it...</p>
<p>cluvrk, obviously none of us can say what's best for you, but I have spoken with so many of my older friends who are now sophomores and juniors who said they wanted to transfer so badly, that they hated freshmen year, etc. but then they settled in and were truly happy. The way I approach it is, it has only been four months...we are all still settling, and defining ourselves, and deciding what kind of students/people we're going to be. I think you'll find a lot of people (including me) share your feelings. </p>
<p>But obviously, if you get accepted for transfer, you don't HAVE to go. You can always just apply and see how you feel after second semester.</p>
<p>i can't say i had similar experiences my freshman year. I became good friends with the people on my floor fairly quickly and easily and I enjoyed most of my classes (I'm in the college and was a bio major last year).</p>
<p>I think one big difference coming from high school is that people think they only need 7-8 close friends to be satisfied. That's what I was shooting for coming into college and that's what I got out of freshman year after actively socializing.</p>
<p>The thing is, after a year, you realize there are 1500+ other kids in MY YEAR, and 6000+ kids in the school in general. It puts thing in perspective and you realize it only benefits you if you meet more people and have multiple groups of friends. It also shows you that if you're having problems meeting people, it's most likely a problem with you and not 6000+ other people. I think this is true of all colleges with a decent population, not just Georgetown. It's not necessarily a major problem, but something you need to change that will help you meet more people and become friends with more people. For example you say that your friends are scattered and don't know each other. What's the problem with asking them to meet together in someone's (maybe yours) room/apt. one weekend? You could play poker, video games, <em>cough</em>drink<em>cough</em>, etc. It depends on what you and your friends enjoy. Or call them together to play a game of football or basketball if you're into that. The Superbowl is coming up, very easy to throw a fun, mini-party if you've got snacks and a TV and people that are genuinely interested in watching football. I can assure you that your "scattered friends" want to meet more people too, and may or may not be feeling the same thing you are right now.</p>
<p>yes, it takes time to meet people. and even longer to become friends with them. but trust me, you usually do reap what you sow.</p>
<p>I'd say go in with an open mind again for one more semester. If it still doesn't work out, then perhaps Gtown just isn't for you. That is a definite possibility.</p>
<p>But IMO, you need to make a conscious effort to work at something before deciding that it just isn't for you. And that's only possible after a full year of experiences.</p>
<p>Amen to that, rs288. I get what you mean though. Sometimes the relationships formed first semester are kind of touch-and-go and you miss that close knit group of friends that you had from high school (esp. after you visit them after thanksgiving break and then are faced with finals) Just apply to transfer, but give it some time and give Georgetown a second chance. Most of the students are Georgetown are pretty amazing once you spend some time with them. Sometimes it seems like Georgetown is filled with confident extroverts who have established social circles but trust me, there are those token introverts scattered about. Good luck with everything. Hope you stay though :)</p>
<p>To the OP - have you tried joining a club where you might find like-minded people? There are special interest dorms I hear...
If you really feel you're that unhappy, and not enjoying your classes, perhaps you should consider transferring - but you should think seriously about whether or not you are giving it your best shot. </p>
<p>As a parent, I found the students to be very friendly and helpful - but my son hates it there too. He used to be a high-achiever, but has become depressed and has lost his motivation. He is an introvert too; never leaves his room, except for class and meals....breaks my heart!! He transferred into G'town, so transferring again isn't really an option for him. </p>
<p>If you feel you too might be depressed, or even would like someone impartial to talk to...I suggest contacting CAPS, there are some really good people there, and it is very affordable. </p>