I am not the biggest fan of change. This aversion coupled with my anxious personality caused me to dread move in day. I was excited to find my place at Penn State because that’s when things would be easy. I longed for the day when all the details were already established – the close friends, the routine, the paths I’d take to my classes, the eateries where I’d have meals. But I cringed every time I thought about the inevitable and necessary transition period. I wanted to skip directly to the solace I’d find when the change subsided.
In hindsight, though, I learned that change is pervasive. Life will always be unpredictable to a certain extent. Things don’t automatically get simpler once the transition ebbs. Therefore, it’s futile believing that my situation will improve for good once I reach the other side of a transition period, treating each change I pass through as it will be my last.
Yes, sometimes passing through change is not ideal, but it is necessary. How would we ever get anywhere without it? But once you reach the other side, you’ll see that it’s worth it. Out of awkward and uncomfortable moments arise great stories. And that’s the worst case scenario. I’ve encountered plenty of transitional times that made me wonder why I was so worried in the first place.
One of best tips I’ve received since starting college is to adhere to the buddy system. Due to the luck I’ve experienced using this strategy, I’ve become a huge advocate. Situations are exponentially less uncomfortable when someone else is by your side. Not that being a loner is anything to be ashamed of (because people are really much less concerned about your social status than you’d think), but having a mutual mission with another person will dispel many fears. And this buddy doesn’t even have to be a good friend. The first week of classes will include many dorm-mate “get to know each other” activities. You’ll surely be able to find someone else who wants to check out the same club that you do. You could enlist your roommate to join you. You could reach out to a peer from high school who is also at Penn State. Most freshmen have in common the fact that they just want to make connections and meet people.
Volleyball with dorm-mates during the first week of freshman year.
Looking at my last three years here, I have found that what stands out are all the positives, thus rendering any times of unwanted change completely worth it.
I hope that as high school comes to a close, you look to college without apprehension. These things have a way of falling into place. In time, you will absolutely find a niche that’s secure. You’ll learn the geography of campus like the back of your hand. You’ll discover obscure shops, sample pizza from the dozens of pizzerias until you find your favorite, and become an expert on the best study spots. You’ll take a class that actually makes you interested in school again. You’ll form great friendships and fond memories. College is sure to offer you a host of new experiences and opportunities and I recommend not sitting them out. Embrace change.
