Navigating the Transition: Preparing for My First Semester at University
Embarking on a new academic journey can be both thrilling and overwhelming, especially when it involves moving far from home to a city you’ve only visited once. As I prepare to begin my university experience, I find myself reflecting on the challenges and excitement that lie ahead.
At 21 years old, I am a psychology major with aspirations for graduate school. My passion for involvement leads me to participate in multiple campus organizations—currently, I am active in around ten clubs and student groups. During my time in community college, I balanced various commitments such as Student Media, student government, Phi Theta Kappa, organizing campus events, and participating in SkillsUSA—all while managing a full course load, applying to transfer universities, and working up to 20 hours a week.
I credit my multitasking tendencies largely to my ADHD, which prompts my brain to constantly seek out new projects. This often results in procrastination, last-minute cramming, and periods of stress, but I manage to push through and complete my tasks. Nonetheless, I carry some residual burnout, having been feeling increasingly exhausted over time.
Despite these challenges, I am genuinely excited about the upcoming semester—meeting new people, exploring research opportunities, and diving into new knowledge. I have a complex love-hate relationship with academia, appreciating the growth it offers but also feeling the pressure of intense responsibilities.
The transition has already begun to cause anxiety. Orientation immersed me in a flood of information, raising questions such as: Should I start applying for internships now? Is part-time work advisable? Should I seek volunteer opportunities or join organizations? How proactive should I be, and am I missing out by not attending all optional sessions?
I plan to start therapy this week to better manage my stress and strategies. Meanwhile, I’d love to hear advice from those who have navigated similar paths—especially if your experiences resonate with me. How do you balance academics with extracurricular activities? And ultimately, do all these efforts pay off in the long run?
Your insights and tips would be greatly appreciated as I embark on this new chapter, seeking to find a sustainable and fulfilling way to thrive in university life.