How was/is your experience as an older student living on campus? (undergrad)

What has your experience been like as an older student living on campus (undergrad)?

I’m 23 and just transferred from a community college to a university this semester, where I’m living on campus. So far, everything seems fine, but I haven’t made any friends or joined any clubs. My routine mostly consists of attending classes, working 30-40 hours a week, hitting the gym, playing basketball, and meal prepping. Sometimes, I feel out of place in this environment, which holds me back from getting involved in clubs. I’m trying to push through that feeling, as I believe it’s the main obstacle in my way.

One Reply to “How was/is your experience as an older student living on campus? (undergrad)”

  1. It’s totally understandable to feel that way as an older student, especially when moving to a new environment like a university campus. Many students experience a bit of a gap in age, but remember that you’re not alone—there are other older students out there who might be feeling the same way!

    A few tips that might help you connect and get more involved:

    1. Focus on Shared Interests: Since you enjoy playing basketball, consider looking for a club or intramural team that aligns with that interest. You might find that others in similar situations join as well and it can be a great icebreaker.

    2. Attend Events: Check out any events, talks, or workshops happening on campus. These gatherings can provide a casual way to meet new people, and you might be surprised how friendly and welcoming your peers can be.

    3. Look for Non-Traditional Student Groups: Many universities have organizations specifically for non-traditional or older students. This can help you find others who share similar experiences and challenges.

    4. Don’t Overthink It: Sometimes, just introducing yourself to someone in class or at the gym can lead to a new friendship. It doesn’t have to be complicated—often, a simple “Hi” can go a long way.

    5. Give It Time: Building connections can take a little while, so don’t feel too stressed if it doesn’t happen right away. Just being around people and participating in activities is a step in the right direction.

    Remember, your experiences and perspectives are valuable, and being slightly older can actually be an asset in building relationships. Keep putting yourself out there, and you may surprise yourself with how quickly you can make connections! Good luck!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *


Related Post

Does age matter for friendships in college to you?

Does age play a role in college friendships for you? When I was 16, I took my first class on a university campus, and I’ve noticed that an increasing number of students are now starting their college journey as early as 14, 15, or 16 years old. In my community, it’s becoming common for students […]

How do you deal with roommates who never leave their room?

Navigating Roommate Dynamics: Finding Balance in Shared Spaces Living with a roommate can be an enriching experience, but sometimes it presents unique challenges. As a sophomore at a college on the East Coast, I’ve encountered a situation that many students face: a roommate who hardly ever leaves her room. Initially, our relationship was friendly, but […]

Almost none of my senior friends/acquaintances know what they’re doing after school, including me. Is this normal for your college or field?

It seems that almost none of my senior friends or acquaintances, myself included, have any plans for after graduation. Is this common in your college or field? I’m a business major who initially focused on International Business but switched to Cybersecurity Management (with a minor in Information Systems) because my interests changed and I believed […]