Bradshaw: Clubs, activities can help ease transition to college

As a college admissions consultant, I often encounter a puzzling phenomenon: exceptionally intelligent and accomplished students who are fearful about starting their college journey. These students are often ranked at the top of their high school classes, ace standardized tests, and speak articulately about a range of topics. Yet, the idea of being on their own for the first time leaves many of them anxious and uncertain.
This anxiety is perfectly normal. Moving from a familiar environment to a new one filled with brilliant peers and higher academic expectations can feel overwhelming. However, there are proven ways to overcome these freshman jitters and embrace the college experience. A key strategy is to immerse yourself in activities that ignite your passion and build connections, as demonstrated by the experiences of Carol, a Harvard freshman.
Carol's Experience: A Guiding Light
Carol arrived at Harvard full of excitement but quickly found herself overwhelmed. Placement tests, proctor meetings, dorm socials, and selecting classes left her feeling lost and homesick. Amid this chaos, she decided to audition for several campus singing groups. While the auditions themselves were stressful, they led to an unforgettable moment: a 'sing-in.'
One Sunday evening, two students she had met during auditions invited her to join them. They led her outside, where more than 60 students stood holding candles and singing Claude Goudimel's 'O Combien est Plaisant' (a 16th-century choral work). That evening, Carol decided to join the Harvard-Radcliffe Collegium Musicum.
This decision transformed her college experience. She not only found a group of close friends but also joined the Collegium Executive Committee and later the Chamber Singers, a prestigious subset of Collegium. These activities provided her with emotional support, career insights into music administration, and a sense of belonging.
Practical Advice for Freshmen
Carol's story highlights an important truth: finding an activity you love can ease the transition to college life. Below are actionable steps to help freshmen adjust and thrive on campus:
Engage in Orientation Events
Orientation programs are designed to help students transition smoothly into college. Indiana University hosts the 'Welcome Week,' featuring events such as the CultureFest, which celebrates diversity and inclusion through food, music, and performances. At UC Berkeley, 'Golden Bear Orientation' offers workshops, campus tours, and activities like the 'Calapalooza' fair, where students can explore over 1,200 student organizations. The University of Tennessee organizes 'Welcome Week,' which includes events like the Torch Night Ceremony, a symbolic event for new students to celebrate their entry into the Volunteer community.
Explore Campus Clubs and Organizations
Every college campus offers a range of extracurricular activities. Indiana University has over 750 student organizations, including the Indiana University Student Association and various cultural, professional, and recreational clubs. At UC Berkeley, students can explore clubs such as the Cal Hiking and Outdoor Society or participate in groundbreaking research through the Undergraduate Research Apprentice Program (URAP). The University of Tennessee features more than 400 student organizations, including the Pride of the Southland Marching Band and the Rocky Top Climbing Club.
Find Your Passion
Whether it's joining a music group like Carol, participating in intramural sports, or engaging in community service, find an activity that resonates with you. Indiana University's Jacobs School of Music offers ample opportunities for musically inclined students. At UC Berkeley, students passionate about sustainability can join groups like the Berkeley Student Food Collective. The University of Tennessee provides unique opportunities, such as volunteering at the UT Gardens or joining their nationally recognized debate team.
Connect Academically
Building relationships with peers in your field of study can ease academic pressure. Indiana University offers living-learning centers such as the Kelley Living Learning Center for business students. UC Berkeley's Residential Academic Program (RAP) provides specialized housing communities centered around academic themes. At the University of Tennessee, programs like First-Year Studies Seminars and Learning Communities help students connect with peers and faculty in their areas of interest.
Seek Support Systems
Most universities provide resources to help students adapt. Indiana University's Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) offers workshops, group therapy, and one-on-one counseling. At UC Berkeley, the Tang Center provides comprehensive mental health support, including peer counseling and wellness coaching. The University of Tennessee offers the Student Counseling Center and the Center for Career Development and Academic Exploration to ensure students are supported both emotionally and professionally.
Take Time to Adjust
Know that feeling homesick or overwhelmed is normal. Use on-campus wellness resources, such as meditation sessions or stress-management workshops. Indiana
University provides mindfulness programming through its Wellness at IU initiative. At UC Berkeley, the Mindfulness Program offers guided meditation and yoga. The University of Tennessee's Student Success Center also provides workshops on time management and stress reduction.
Why Getting Involved Matters
Immersing yourself in campus activities not only alleviates anxiety but also enriches your overall college experience. For Carol, joining Collegium Musicum opened doors to lifelong friendships and professional growth. Similarly, students who actively participate in campus life often develop a sense of community and purpose that sustains them through academic challenges.
Moreover, engaging in extracurriculars can have long-term benefits. Research from the National Survey of Student Engagement (NSSE) shows that students who participate in campus activities report higher satisfaction with their college experience and are more likely to graduate on time.
Final Thoughts
The transition to college is a significant milestone, and it's natural to feel apprehensive. However, by actively engaging in campus life, attending orientation events, and finding activities that align with your interests, you can turn those jitters into excitement. Remember, every freshman faces challenges, but how you respond can make all the difference.
As Carol wisely advises, 'Find an activity you love doing and to which you can wholeheartedly devote your time.' By following her example and seeking out opportunities to connect, you'll not only survive your freshman year — you'll thrive.

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