I was recently accepted as a transfer student to the LSA for Fall 2017. I am currently a student at a small school in my hometown, and have been wanting to move out for a while. However, as soon as I starting thinking seriously about whether I want to go or not, I felt really anxious and panicky. I know there will be some disadvantages if I decide to go, such as larger class sizes than I am used to. On the other hand, I’m extremely lonely at my current college, and have no friends, so there really isn’t much for me back home. I’m afraid I will miss my cats too much. Can anyone give me some advice on what I should do? I’m excited, but really, really anxious. I just can’t make up my mind.
It’s normal to be afraid because it’ll be a big change, especially since you started college in your hometown and probably haven’t lived elsewhere, far from your family. It’s like the little bird taking its first flight
However, as natural as it is to feel some reluctance and fear, you’ll learn independence and you’ll grow. That’s what being an adult is about. And this way, when you receive a job offer anywhere in the country, you Won’t worry about moving and living on your own. You’ll be free to accept, knowing you can handle it.
Also, academically: they wouldn’t have admitted you at Michigan, one if the top universities in the country, if they didn’t think you could handle it. Of course you can. Thousands and thousands tried to get selected, and YOU were because you have what it takes. Will it be easy? Of course not. It’s tough for everybody. They didn’t create office hours and tutoring centers to fill empty space. But you’re smart and you’ll find help when you need it, and you’ll succeed.
BTW : I too missed my dog when I was in college. But I was so busy that I both missed her and didn’t. Plus, animals don’t have a sense of time. They tell time by smell, so if you leave a pillow they’ll think you’re we’re there not long ago, and when you return they’ll feel you never left
It’s totally normal. You are heading into the unknown. Are you in state? Can you go to Ann Arbor this weekend to walk around and get familiar with the place? I also recommend looking online at the list of clubs and activities. Pick a few that will get you excited.
I think you’d regret it if you didn’t go. Life is constantly changing. Even if this is the first time you’ve made a major life change, I guarantee it won’t be the last.
One more thing: Keep in mind that you can miss your cats AND enjoy your time at Michigan at the same time.
"It’s a dangerous business, Frodo, going out your door. You step onto the road, and if you don’t keep your feet, there’s no knowing where you might be swept off to.”
Seriously, some anxiety is normal, but only you know if you are willing to face that challenge with the spirit intended.
Here’s a thought…take your cats with you. Lots of kids do. My daughter’s roommate next year will have a cat. She’s had her cat with her since Freshman year. Lot of places you can rent on the bus route that accept cats, and UMich does not require you to stay in dorms. Your aid is the same regardless of where you choose to live.
Invest in a good computer and cell phone so you can stay in touch all you want with important people back home.
Going to Ann Arbor and exploring for a couple days would be an ideal way to sooth your nerves.
UMich has a ton of student activities, community centers, opportunities to attend events, a million clubs to join. You will be bombarded with opportunites to make friends…and once you do, it gets easier. Everyone can find their people there…it’s so incredibly diverse.
Consider this…you went through a lot of trouble to apply and get accepted. Part of you REALLY wants to go. If you hate it, you can quit. But if you never try, you’ll always wonder.
