<p>College starts in a few weeks (I've already received my schedule, roommate, and dorm), and I am beyond anxious. Throughout the day, I think about going away to college, and I get so nervous that I literally feel sick to my stomach. I don't know exactly why I feel so nervous about going away, but I think it's because I'm afraid that I won't make friends, get along with my roommate, or that I will feel isolated from others. I'm a shy person, and I think it's going to be hard for me to make friends or adjust. Also, I don't like going to parties, drinking, or getting wasted so it's probably going to be even more difficult for me to connect (I don't mind others doing it, but I'm personally not interested in it.) The school I'm going to is in a smaller town, so it's not like there is a big city for me to go explore by myself which I like to do. This constant worrying makes me not want to go to college anymore. I've contemplated staying in town, and going to community college to get my ASN then transfer to a Uni where I can get my BSN. If I do go, I'd hopefully switch out after two years since the school I'm going to was a backup school.</p>
<p>Besides the negative, I'm a bit nervous about college work, but I'm more excited to finish my GEN ED to start taking courses pertaining to my major. However, I'm not very keen on speaking out loud during class discussions. I'm also ready to be independent, and start doing things myself on my own agenda. I'm going to miss my mom and sisters a lot though since I'm very close to them which also adds more nervousness. I'll only get to visit my family during the summer.</p>
<p>Maybe I'm over thinking this whole thing, but it's been driving me insane. Anyone have any advice, or words of wisdom?</p>
<p>The way you are feeling is 100% normal. Starting college is a big step in life, so it is natural to feel anxious about it. As an introverted person myself, I completely understand how you feel. As a freshman, I found that the best way to meet people was to sit next to someone on the first day of class and introduce myself. That way, you meet someone who you can talk with throughout the semester both in and out of class. Being introverted myself, it was hard but I just forced myself to do it. And I am glad that I did. I ended up making up friends my first semester of college that I still talk to now as a senior.</p>
<p>Also, you would be surprised how many classes in college still have in class ice-breakers to help everyone get to know each other. Again, as an introverted person I am not a fan of ice-breakers, but I am glad that they exist because it really does help connect people to one another.</p>
<p>The thing to remember is that you and every other freshman on your campus are in the same boat, so don’t feel like you are at a disadvantage, because you are not. Everyone is going to be experiencing some level of discomfort as incoming freshman, so what better way to reduce the tension than taking the initiative and introducing yourself to people. People in your dorm, in your classes, in the student union, etc.</p>
<p>I have one year to go until I graduate, and I have to say that college has been one of the most enjoyable experiences of my life. It will get better. Good luck! :)</p>
<p>I’m just like you. I’m pretty shy. And I’m also a bit concerned about making friends since the getting drunk/party scene isn’t really my thing. I’ve done a lot of research online about being nervous about going away to college. Every response I’ve read is the same. “Everyone is on the same boat and will be just as nervous as you. Not everyone in college drinks/gets drunk every weekend. You’ll find a group of friends with the same interests as you.” After I realized all these threads have the same responses I came to the conclusion that they must be true. I’m not too good at putting myself out there since I’m shy. But I am going to try my best. And I’m going to try to find friends with similar interests as me. But also remember to be open minded. Like dont look down at someone because they like to party. Even though its not your thing I’m sure that person could still end up being a good friend to you. If you’re really nervous still try to think about the pros so you have something to look forward to. Like dorm shopping/decorating your room. Even if the town your school is in is small I’m sure there is something there worth exploring. My school is in a small area as well. But the big city(ies) are right next to it. Remember to spend time with your family before you leave. It will help take your mind off being nervous. You could also look at your textbooks if you already purchased them. Maybe even do some reading to try to get ahead. If you’re like me and enjoy packing start packing a few things you’re planning on taking. (You’re dorm bedding, school supplies, toiletries, shoes/clothes you know you won’t be using until you get there.) I hope you have an amazing experience in college! PM me if you want. Good luck!</p>