Starting your university journey is very exciting, but the transition from high school to college can also be intimidating. When you move onto campus in the fall, you might find it difficult to live away from family and friends and manage new relationships. Additionally, you’ll be responsible for making independent decisions about your education, future goals and more.
This can be a lot to take in, but don’t stress! By starting to prepare for your college transition now, you can build confidence and resilience that will guide you through your first year and beyond.
Pam Wrona, licensed clinical psychologist and associate director for Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) at Pacific, recommends familiarizing yourself with resources at Pacific that can help you when you face challenges in college, like CAPS, as well as reaching out to your support system.
“One of the best things you can do in this transition is reach out for support from friends and family who will be there for you, listen and provide encouragement,” said Wrona.
Below, Wrona outlines some of the primary emotions you might experience during your transition to college—and how you can ask for support to help you through it.
Dealing with fear or anxiety
How it can manifest: You may experience these emotions in physical, mental, and/or behavioral ways. You might feel restless or tense; get an upset stomach; have difficulty sleeping; have trouble concentrating; or have the urge to avoid things that trigger your anxiety.
“The transition to college is likely the biggest adjustment you will have had to make,” said Wrona. “But it’s normal to experience fear or anxiety whenever change happens, even if it is good change!”
How to find support: Ask someone close to you, like a parent or guardian, if you can speak to them when you’re feeling stressed or overwhelmed about starting college. Let them know that you’re not looking for them to solve the problem for you but ask if they can lend an ear and be there for you as you process your emotional experiences.
How Pacific can help
Pacific has dedicated student support systems, which include counseling and psychological services. You can learn more about services offered through CAPS on their webpage.
To contact CAPS, call 209.946.2315 ext. 2, or complete an online appointment request. You can also follow them on Instagram @PacificCAPS to receive daily mental health tips.