<p>I graduated in 2011. I went into my first semester of college, like every other traditional student, that fall, however, that was the time my life went crazy. I became estranged from my parents due to a hefty court case. I had a few other family crises and I also had a medical condition arise. It was a horrific three months. I ended up medically withdrawing. This left my scarred transcript back at a clean slate. I then took the proceeding semester off. Now, I'm about to return to school. I've switched to a smaller campus closer to the family I'm close to. I actually have an aunt who is like a mother to me who is a professor on campus. The court case is almost over and the medical condition is for the most part taken care of. Regardless, I'm nervous as hell. My last school had a culture of girls going just to get married. I couldn't seem to find a friend group even though I went to clubs, was in two bands, amongst other things. I just couldn't relate. Now, I'm switching to a school marked for its athletics, nursing and teaching programs. All of these things are hard for me to relate to. I am extremely scared to go back--both socially and academically. I want to belong somewhere and I want to make good grades. While I recognize both of those were impacted by scenarios beyond my control last time around, I'm afraid they will resurface again. Any advice for a "drop out" who is going back to college?</p>
<p>I had a medical condition that kept me out for two semesters (although i did some online courses). I return this fall.</p>
<p>Take it as a new chance to start over. Smaller schools, like the one i go to, often have smaller courses, so its easier to talk to people there.</p>
<p>Yes, you would be amazed at the number of students who drop out temporarily for various reasons. My son also had take a medical leave for one semester, then started attending the small school near where we live. I wouldn’t say it’s been EASY for him, but he’s making it. If you’re determined and don’t expect too much of yourself, you’ll be fine. Give yourself a break - you’ve been through a lot!!</p>
<p>I’m also really worried because I’m going to a commuter school. The clubs aren’t vary active. There’s not much being offered, and I got assigned off campus housing in a suite set up. Any advice on getting to know people when there aren’t a lot of club/organization options and you’re not in the traditional dorm set up?</p>
<p>My school is also mainly a commuter and it had suits (on campus but still). At mine, they normally had a fair or something to showcase what type of clubs were offered and such. </p>
<p>Traditional dorm is kinda overrated. I’m assuming since you are offcampus, there will most likely be people in the same building as you.</p>
<p>Ha ha. Yes. </p>
<p>I actually lived off campus in a suite at my previous school. I wasn’t a fan, but that’s because of the kitchen area. I’m a bit protective over my pots, and my roommates weren’t fans of cleaning up after themselves. It got pretty gross in there. </p>
<p>That, however, isn’t quite my reason to be nervous this time. Being in the suite last time was pretty limiting, but my last school was also fairly noted for the amount of girls who go there to get married, and I, on the other hand, don’t go to college to get my MRS degree. Socially there it was incredibly frustrating. Even going to clubs didn’t help much. </p>
<p>So while this new college is different demographically, its lacking of active clubs and being off campus in suites again has me really nervous. Plus, to compound that, I am afraid of failing classes. My major stresses from last time are gone, but still. One time is enough to shake me up it seems.</p>
<p>many people take time off and come back. youll be in good company and will be able to find a place to fit in</p>
<p>My girlfriend has anxiety issues on top of all the other medical problems she has. I don’t know which college you went to, but I don’t know any colleges like that…</p>
<p>Anyway, I think you should be fine. I got to a commuter campus as well and I would just get myself involved in anything I possibly could. Some girls got involved in the Rocket Club that didn’t have any experience building rockets, but they were still able to help and participate in launches. </p>
<p>I don’t think you’d fail any classes unless you’re like taking Real Analysis coming back.</p>