Adjusting to Campus Life
Thrilled to be at Carolina.
Annoyed by the lines of students everywhere you turn.
Worried about academics.
Excited about what's ahead.
Transitions almost always mean complicated emotions, daily challenges, and usually some sense of excitement for the potential ahead. No matter what you’re feeling about being here, we want you to make the most of your fall semester. Some ideas to help you get started:
Accept your feelings. You feel what you feel! Adapting to any change takes energy. Be compassionate with yourself.
Look ahead. Focus on the future. Visualize who you want to be, what you want to learn, and where you want to end up by the end of this semester. The bigger picture can help when the daily slog is tough.
Remember the “yet.” All change takes time and practice to get used to it all. Add “yet” to the end of critical self-talk. “I don’t know anything about this material….yet.” And then take it one step at a time to work towards the end result that you seek.
Build relationships. People are – heels down – the best part of being at UNC-Chapel Hill. And the best marker for happiness is having warm relationships. Everyone you encounter on campus can become a relationship that offers support, humor, or joy. Be intentional this semester about building connection. Be curious, listen to understand, and make time for the people you adore. Connection can help you navigate challenges with people who are facing similar circumstances.
Start organized, stay organized. Time is finite; activities are seemingly infinite. Prioritize as best you can! Schedule time for the things that are important to you and needed to meet your goals. The Learning Center has great planning suggestions on “Calendars and College”.
Ask for help. It’s easy to feel a bit lost at the beginning of the semester. You haven’t quite found your routine yet and everything feels new. Ask your friends, your advisor, anyone you trust - when you have questions or need help. And remember, if you can’t find the support you need around you, use the filters on the Heels Care Network website to find supportive resources that best fit your needs including a Peer Chat staffed by LSN.