Navigating the Transition to University: Managing Expectations, Burnout, and Excitement
Embarking on a new academic journey can be both exhilarating and overwhelming. For many students, especially those moving far from home and entering unfamiliar environments, the experience comes with a mix of anticipation and anxiety.
Recently, I attended university orientation, and I find myself confronting a multitude of emotions and challenges. I’m a 21-year-old female majoring in psychology, planning to pursue graduate studies. I’ve always been someone who likes to stay busy—actively participating in numerous clubs, organizations, and leadership roles. During my time in community college, I juggled student media, occasional student government meetings, PTK, campus event organization, and SkillsUSA, all while managing coursework and working on campus for up to 20 hours weekly. Reflecting on that hectic schedule, I recognize that much of my productivity stems from my ADHD, which often pushes me to take on multiple projects simultaneously, even if I procrastinate or get overwhelmed along the way.
Now, as I prepare to leave for college in a new city—one I’ve only visited once—I carry both a sense of excitement and fatigue. While I feel eager to meet new people, explore research opportunities, and dive into academic pursuits, I also feel the weight of burnout lingering from previous stresses. Yet, I remain optimistic about the future, despite the daunting organizational and social challenges ahead.
The transition has already caused me to stress about details like applying for internships, finding part-time work, or volunteering—trying to determine what’s the right level of engagement and proactivity. I also find myself questioning whether attending optional orientation sessions or joining various activities will truly benefit me in the long run.
On a practical note, I’ve scheduled a therapy session to help process these feelings, but I would appreciate insights from experienced students—especially those who have managed similar circumstances. How do you balance academic responsibilities with extracurricular involvement? Is all of this effort worthwhile, or should I streamline my efforts to focus on core priorities?
If you’re navigating a comparable path, I’d love to hear your advice and strategies for managing a busy schedule, handling burnout, and making the most of your university experience.