Students blog

Explore the latest trends, tips, and experiences in college life in this blog written by fellow students.

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  • A male college student standing behind a weight set in the gym.

    Overcoming Gym Fear: Practical Tips to Build Confidence and Consistency

    Deron Crockwell

    When it comes to our well-being and health, we were encouraged with vague statements such as “Get a good night's rest!”, “Eat healthy”, or “Make sure to exercise”. Often these conversations can be too generic, as they fail to encapsulate problems such as why someone may not exercise or why someone cannot sleep.

    Studies show that nearly 50% of people abandon their gym membership within the first six months. Why? Because getting started can be intimidating. Here are some tips for overcoming common obstacles found in individuals who want to exercise. Before I begin, I want to clarify that every individual is subject to their own impediment. As much as you think the gym influencer on Instagram is perfect, they are not. There is a high chance they have had their own exercise block before.

    A frequent problem I notice with people who want to start going to the gym is anxiety or “gymtimidation.”People fear what other gym-goers might think and are scared to be seen doing what others might perceive as “low-weight” or “low-intensity” workouts. I assure you that most gym enthusiasts are happy to see you taking time to better your life; others are just tunnel visioned on their workout. Nobody is going to degrade you for trying. Not to mention, that the whole concept of a gym routine is not an overnight process. It may be easier to take it slow by starting with things you are familiar with such as walking on a treadmill or a stair master. After a week or two you may progress onto running or weightlifting. All in all, the gym is individualized/tailored to your needs, take your time getting accustomed to it.

    Another issue is conflicting schedules and a sense of laziness. Sometimes we just want to “take today off and rest”, which becomes multiple days. One way to combat this is finding a gym partner. Having a gym partner is one of the best drivers for the gym because you both can hold each other accountable, comfort, and compete with one another safely. This can also help with the previous issue of being anxious. Another way to combat laziness is the 3-2-1 method. This method just consists of counting down to the number one. Once you reach it, it is time to jump to action and prepare yourself for the task at hand! The more consistent you are with going to the gym the sooner it becomes a regular routine. Regarding schedule conflict, it is important to remember the gym does not have to be a 2-hour session. All it takes is 30 minutes of aerobic exercise, five days a week to meet the cardiovascular exercise recommendation. During that time, you can listen to music, watch shows, or talk to friends, and before you know it 30 minutes have flown by.

    One of the biggest concerns of those beginning to exercise is the “how to”. The answer to this question starts with the question “What is your goal?” If you are like me and want to build muscle mass, then you should try out progressive overload. In short terms, progressive overload involves high-intensity weightlifting, with fewer reps and more weight to emphasize reaching hypertrophy. On the other hand, individuals who seek to lose weight must make sure that they are on a calorie deficit, a process in which you consume fewer calories than the amount required to fuel your body's essential functions and daily activities. If you maintain this deficit, you will lose weight. To attain extremely healthy weight loss, make sure you are getting adequate amounts of carbs, proteins, and fats (determined based on your demographics). Finally, if you are seeking to just stay healthy you should follow ACSM’s guidelines on frequency, intensity, time, and the type of exercise you should do weekly.

    Overall, the best way to get into the gym is to get comfortable with being uncomfortable. Everything about the gym is going to be different from what you are used to. Your body will hurt from soreness, your heart will race to provide oxygen and blood throughout your body, you will sweat to cool off, and you will be in an environment that is new to you. All it takes is for you to dedicate yourself to the process of adaptation. Do not forget to do your research and practice proper form. Good luck with your exercise endeavors!

    Do you have a compelling story or student success tips you’d like to see published on the ɫèAV Students blog?  If you are a college student and interested in writing for us –to pitch your idea and get started! 

  • A group of four college women standing arm-in-arm looking up at a campus building at night.

    Savoring Senior Year: Creating a Meaningful Bucket List

    Jessica Liversedge

    Entering my final semester of senior year fills me with a lot of different emotions. I'm excited about all the possibilities the future holds after graduation, nervous about whether I’m truly ready to take that next step, and deeply nostalgic for my journey so far. The most important promise I’ve made to myself this year is to savor every moment and create an unforgettable senior year. Back in August, my friends and I came up with the idea of making a senior year bucket list. This became our way of making sure we embraced every experience we wanted to have before this chapter of our lives ends.

    The most daunting part of doing this is getting started making a bucket list. My friends and I found ourselves asking, how are we going to fit a whole year worth of experiences into a single list? We wanted to include every tradition, every event, and all the little moments that make senior year special. So, we decided to first make a brainstorm document that our whole friend group had access to. Everyone put in ideas that they thought we needed to include on our list. Once we had a solid idea of what could go on the list, we got a big poster board with some markers. This was the fun part, we made it a night-long activity and it quickly became more than just making a list—it was a fun, memorable night that was a great way to kick off our senior year.

    Some of the things we included were classic campus traditions, like attending our school's tailgates and football games. We had spots we wanted to revisit on campus one last time, places that had shaped our college experience. For example, we decided to go back and try every dining hall one last time. Beyond campus, we added adventures in the surrounding towns—new restaurants we had always talked about trying, hikes we wanted to explore, and local events we didn’t want to miss. Finally, we added experiences that our group wanted to do before we graduated. For example, we all planned one last movie night, a Friendsgiving dinner, and a letter writing night to our future selves. We also tried to make it a goal to take pictures at these different events so we could have something to look back on at the end of our year.

    Our big list was then put on the side of our fridge, and we checked it off every time we did something on the list. Some moments were big and exciting, while others were simple but just as meaningful. Looking back, creating this bucket list was one of the best decisions we made for our senior year. It has been such a fun way to ensure that we are making the most of our senior year with the friends who have made our college experience what it was. If you're heading into your final year, I can’t recommend it enough—make your own list, embrace the time you have left, and make it a year you’ll never forget.

    Do you have a compelling story or student success tips you’d like to see published on the ɫèAV Students blog?  If you are a college student and interested in writing for us –to pitch your idea and get started! 

  • A graphic depicting four people walking in a crosswalk while looking at their phones.

    Mastering the Art of Focus in a Digital World

    Jen Fiengo

    In today’s hyper-connected age, staying focused has become more challenging than ever. With constant notifications, emails, and social media updates vying for our attention, it is easy to lose sight of our priorities. It also does not help that we always carry the internet in our pocket. However, with the right strategies, you can reclaim your focus and navigate the digital world with intention.

    The Impact of Digital Distractions

    Our brains are wired to seek entertainment and past time, making digital distractions incredibly appealing. Each notification triggers a dopamine release, reinforcing our habit of checking our devices. A constant state of distraction takes a toll on productivity, creativity, and mental well-being. Studies show that it can take up to 23 minutes to refocus after an interruption, underscoring the importance of managing distractions effectively.

    Understanding the Cost of Multitasking

    Multitasking often feels productive, but research proves otherwise. When we switch between tasks, our brains expend extra energy refocusing, leading to decreased efficiency and more mistakes. Single tasking, which is fully focusing on one task at a time, not only improves productivity but also enhances the quality of your work.

    Decluttering Your Digital Environment

    One of the first steps to regaining focus is minimizing digital clutter. Start by turning off non-essential notifications to reduce interruptions. Productivity tools can help block distracting apps and websites. Additionally, organizing your desktop and app layout can create a more serene and functional workspace.

    Building Focus-Enhancing Habits

    Developing habits that enhance focus is crucial. Techniques like the Pomodoro Method, which is working in short, timed intervals with breaks in between, can significantly boost productivity. Mindfulness practices, such as meditation or deep-breathing exercises, train the brain to resist distractions. Scheduled breaks are equally important, as they prevent burnout and help maintain long-term focus.

    Setting Boundaries with Technology

    Setting boundaries is essential for maintaining focus. Consider implementing digital detox practices, such as creating no-tech zones in your home or setting specific times to unplug. Many smartphones offer app limits or focus modes that restrict usage during work hours. These boundaries help you regain control over your time and attention.

    The Role of Your Physical Environment

    Your physical environment plays a critical role in your ability to focus. Design a workspace that minimizes distractions by keeping it clean and organized. Noise-canceling headphones or white noise apps can help block out external distractions, allowing you to concentrate fully on your tasks.

    Developing Long-Term Focus Skills

    Strengthening your attention span takes time and consistency. Start by engaging in activities that require sustained focus, such as reading or solving puzzles. Practicing digital mindfulness, which is being aware of your tech usage and making intentional changes, can also help. Celebrate small victories as you notice improvements in your ability to concentrate.

    The Benefits of a Focused Mind

    The rewards of improved focus are immense. Greater productivity, deeper creativity, and enhanced emotional well-being are just a few of the benefits. By mastering the art of focus, you can achieve your goals more effectively and experience a more fulfilling personal and professional life. In a world designed to distract, focus is your superpower.

    By implementing these strategies, you can take control of your attention and thrive in an increasingly digital landscape. Remember, focus is not just a skill, it is a practice that requires consistency and dedication.

    Do you have a compelling story or student success tips you’d like to see published on the ɫèAV Students blog?  If you are a college student and interested in writing for us –to pitch your idea and get started! 

  • An aerial view of a college campus.

    Tips for getting along with your college roommates

    Kohle M. Nash

    College is a whirlwind of new experiences, and having a roommate can make that adventure even more exciting, or a bit challenging. From navigating unfamiliar buildings and academic expectations to developing friendships and exploring personal identities, college life is a transformative journey that can be both exhilarating and overwhelming. At the heart of that experience is the relationship with your roommate. Having a positive roommate relationship can make all the difference in your college experience, providing a safe space to be yourself, share experiences, and grow alongside your peers.

    Let’s be honest, living with a stranger can be tough. Late-night study sessions can quickly turn into noisy distractions, messy spaces can be a source of tension, and differing personalities can clash. It's easy to fall into a routine of avoidance, where you and your roommate coexist rather than connect. But the reality is, your roommate is someone who can help shape your college experience. They can provide a sounding board for your ideas, support you through tough times, and even become a lifelong friend. So, how do you make the most of this experience?

    It's essential to establish open communication from the jump. This means having an honest conversation about your expectations, boundaries, and needs. You can discuss things like quiet hours, cleanliness, and guest policies to create a mutually respectful environment. It also helps to engage in activities and hobbies that you both enjoy, whether that's cooking, movie nights, or outdoor adventures. By fostering a sense of connection and community, you can turn your dorm room into a home where you both feel seen, heard, and valued.

    Of course, it's not always smooth sailing, but with a little creativity, patience, and empathy, you can turn your roommate experience into a highlight of your college years and beyond. By choosing to prioritize this relationship, you can not only survive the college years but also create lasting memories and friendships that extend far beyond the classroom.

    Do you have a compelling story or student success tips you’d like to see published on the ɫèAV Students blog?  If you are a college student and interested in writing for us –to pitch your idea and get started! 

  • A collection of college notebooks, class handouts, and pens.

    Learn to use the Pomodoro Technique

    Cortlyn Perkins

    Any mid-term or finals week can feel overwhelming, but with the right strategies, you can tackle it effortlessly! Success usually begins with a solid plan, so begin by mapping out your week in advance. Create a schedule that breaks your days into blocks dedicated to specific subjects, study sessions, breaks, meals, and most importantly sleep. You can use a planner, a whiteboard, or apps like Google Calendar or Notion to help yourself stay organized during this busy week. The key to achieving a structured plan is to set realistic goals for each session. This can help ensure you know exactly what needs to be accomplished. A well-thought-out plan not only keeps you on track but also reduces the urge to procrastinate, as it eliminates the uncertainty of where to start.

    Once you’ve got a plan, make your study sessions are as efficient as possible by using the Pomodoro Technique. This simple, yet effective method involves setting a timer for 25 minutes and focusing on one task without distraction. When the timer rings, take a 5-minute break to stretch, hydrate, or relax before starting the next cycle. After completing four cycles, reward yourself with a longer 15-30 minute break. This technique helps break the monotony of studying and boosts focus by working in manageable chunks of time. It’s a great way to keep your energy and motivation high throughout your study session.

    In addition to managing your time, focus on improving how you absorb and retain information. Instead of passively reviewing notes or highlighting textbooks, try active recall—a proven method to enhance memory. Actively test yourself on key concepts by creating flashcards, writing down practice questions, or explaining the material to a friend (or even your pet). This effort to retrieve information strengthens neural pathways, making it easier to recall the material during the exam.

    Finally, set yourself up for success by creating a study environment that promotes focus. Choose a quiet, organized space with minimal distractions. Clear away clutter, ensure the lighting is good, and keep essentials like water or snacks nearby so you don’t interrupt your flow. Leave your phone in another room or use productivity apps like Forest to prevent distractions. A dedicated study space trains your brain to associate that area with focus, making it easier to get into the groove of studying.

    By combining the Pomodoro Technique, active recall, and a distraction-free study space, you can study more efficiently and reduce procrastination. Remember to take care of yourself with regular breaks, healthy meals, and plenty of sleep. With preparation and consistency, you’ll not only survive mid-terms, you’ll conquer them!

    Do you have a compelling story or student success tips you’d like to see published on the ɫèAV Students blog?  If you are a college student and interested in writing for us –to pitch your idea and get started! 

  • A large paper desk calendar from December 2024 with events noted on various days.

    How I Learned to Manage My Time & Stress

    Jen Fiengo

    Recently, I have found my time management skills slipping out of my grasp, which was a new issue for me. I have always taken pride in how I manage my time, allowing work, school, and personal life to all have their separate sections of my life. However, the past few months have been overly scheduled, and it was all from my doing. It feels like everything has been piling up at once—work demands, school deadlines, and social obligations. It is like juggling too many balls at once and slowly starting to drop a few. Here are a few ways I have learned to manage my time better, allowing myself to not only be productive but also manage my stress more effectively.

    I currently attend school full-time, and that is at the top of my priority list. I have always been on top of assignments, completing those days if not weeks ahead of time. It was a sense of pride for me to be ahead of the game. Recently, it has been more like hours if not minutes ahead. Procrastination has sneaked in more often, leaving me stressed at the last minute. To tackle this, I created myself a “school schedule.” Many of my classes are online, so I decided to set aside 12 hours per week on my calendar to either sit in the library, coffee shop, or my office to focus on schoolwork. By having set hours aside for my studies, I was able to plan less important events around my schoolwork, cutting the stress of completing assignments on time. Now that I know exactly when I will be tackling my homework, I feel more in control and less anxious about deadlines creeping up on me.

    Work comes second to school for me, yet it seemed like it was taking up all my time. Aside from being a ɫèAV Campus Ambassador, I also have an in-person job in my local area. My work schedule fluctuates heavily, which leads to a lot of stress when it comes to planning around it. I would find myself scrambling to balance everything, unsure of where to fit in personal time or activities I enjoy. However, by changing my mindset around work, I was able to manage my time better. I decided to put my work schedule into my calendar and open areas around it for time to do things that helped me, like walking, running, cooking, and journaling. Please, I even put in “getting coffee with so-and-so" in my calendar if I made coffee plans with a friend. The key was realizing that my personal time matters just as much as my professional one. By having everything laid out in front of me, I could easily plan things around work and school, leading to less chaos and more balance.

    Lastly, I learned the value of saying no. I am very much a people pleaser, but I need to value myself and my time, as well. I found myself constantly agreeing with events or tasks, even when I was already stretched thin. If I had a good bit of prior commitments for the week and a friend asked if I could tag along for something, I would say no but suggest something else on another day. I love hanging out with my friends as it is a great stress reliever in my life, but once it begins to cause my stress, it needs to be changed. By simply saying “no, but” I took control over my personal time, allowing myself to keep company with myself more often, which has helped me. It is a practice in self-care, and the more I do it, the easier it becomes to balance my obligations without feeling overwhelmed.

    In summary, managing time is an ongoing challenge, but by creating schedules, prioritizing tasks, and setting boundaries, I have learned to manage both my workload and my stress more effectively. Whether it is carving out dedicated study time, organizing work commitments, or giving myself permission to say "no," each step has contributed to a better balance in my life. It is all about being mindful of where I spend my time and ensuring I am taking care of myself along the way. Time management is not checking off tasks—it is about creating space for what really matters.

    Do you have a compelling story or student success tips you’d like to see published on the ɫèAV Students blog?  If you are a college student and interested in writing for us –to pitch your idea and get started! 

  • A group of college women wearing traditional Hispanic dancing costumes with white tops and colorful, ruffled skirts.

    Embracing My Identity: How college helped me reconnect with my culture

    Andrea Chavez

    I grew up in a low-income community primarily made up of Hispanic residents. When I first moved into college, I felt like a stranger in a new world. I attend the University of California, Irvine, which has a diverse student body, with 27% of students identifying as Latinx. Despite this, I often felt out of place, as though I didn’t fully belong here, as I wasn't surrounded by that Latinx community I was so used to.

    The unfamiliarity of my surroundings and the limited representation of my culture initially left me questioning if this was the right place for me. But as I navigated the challenges of being a freshman, I slowly discovered that these feelings of exclusion were actually opportunities for growth. The experience of standing out in a predominantly non-Latinx environment made me more aware of my cultural roots and pushed me to embrace my identity even more fiercely.

    To make my freshman self feel more “at home” I joined school clubs that had backgrounds with Hispanic students. A club I joined my freshmen year that changed my perspective was “Hermanas Unidas de UCI” which was a club that was a club for Hispanic women to connect with each other and help each other academically. This club helped me find a more Hispanic community at school and made me feel more at home all the while being academic.

    Being part of this club helped me recognize I'm not alone in this academic journey and it made me all the prouder knowing I made it out of my community and became part of the 27%. Recognizing myself as part of this percentage of Latinos made me realize I should be proud of my background and where I come from because not everyone is Hispanic and has the same history as me; something I used to be ashamed of I became proud of.

    Now in my junior year, I can confidently say that I not only love my school, but I feel like I truly belong here. The journey has allowed me to build a deeper connection to my heritage and taught me to celebrate the uniqueness that I bring to the community. I’m writing this blog to help those who might be feeling the same way I did two years ago—overwhelmed, out of place, and unsure if they belong. I hope to show that it’s possible to embrace who you are, reconnect with your roots, and find a sense of belonging, even in spaces where you feel different.

    If you're struggling to find your place, know that you’re not alone. Your culture is a strength, not a barrier, and college can be an incredible opportunity to grow closer to your heritage and share it with others.

    Do you have a compelling story or student success tips you’d like to see published on the ɫèAV Students blog?  If you are a college student and interested in writing for us –to pitch your idea and get started! 

  • An example of a healthy salad featuring falafel, hummus, salad, chickpeas, and avocado.

    Six Tips to Maintaining a Balanced Diet in College

    Alissa Ansari

    College life is a whirlwind of academic challenges, social events, and newfound independence. It’s an exciting time, but it also comes with its fair share of stress, especially when it comes to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. For many students, the pressures of tight budgets, busy schedules, and late-night study sessions can make it difficult to eat well and stay energized. The good news? You don’t have to compromise your health just because you're juggling classes, clubs, and work. With a little planning and a few smart strategies, you can maintain a balanced diet that supports both your academic success and personal well-being. Here are six tips to help:

    1. Meal Planning on a Budget

    Eating healthy in college doesn’t have to mean spending a fortune. With a little planning, you can create nutritious meals that won’t break the bank. The key is buying versatile, affordable ingredients that you can use in multiple dishes.

    Budget-Friendly Meal Ideas:

    • Rice and Beans: A classic combination that’s both cheap and nutritious. Rice provides carbs for energy, while beans are packed with protein and fiber. You can season them with spices to keep things interesting.
    • Stir-Fries: Buy a frozen bag of mixed vegetables, some chicken or tofu, and a bottle of soy sauce. This is a quick, customizable meal that’s full of vitamins and protein.
    • Oats: Don’t underestimate the power of a good bowl of oatmeal. It’s inexpensive, filling, and can be flavored with fruit, nuts, or yogurt for extra nutrition.
    • Eggs: Eggs are a college student’s best friend. They’re a great source of protein and can be cooked in so many ways—scrambled, boiled, or made into omelets or frittatas with leftover veggies.

    Shopping Tips:

    • Buy in bulk when possible — things like rice, pasta, and canned goods can last a long time.
    • Stick to a grocery list and avoid impulse buys.
    • Shop for seasonal produce. Fresh fruits and veggies can be more affordable when they’re in season.

    2. Healthy Snacking Tips

    When you're running between classes or studying late into the night, it’s easy to reach for unhealthy snacks like chips or candy. However, with a little prep, you can have nutritious options on hand that keep you fueled without the sugar crash.

    Nutritious snack ideas:

    • Trail Mix: A mix of nuts, seeds, and dried fruit is portable and packed with healthy fats, protein, and fiber. Just be mindful of portions, as it’s calorie-dense.
    • Greek Yogurt with Fruit: Greek yogurt is high in protein, and when paired with fresh or frozen fruit, it’s a delicious, nutrient-packed snack.
    • Apple with Peanut Butter: A classic combo of fiber and protein that’s satisfying and easy to prepare.
    • Hummus and Veggies: Pre-slice carrots, cucumbers, or bell peppers, and pair them with store-bought or homemade hummus for a crunchy, satisfying snack.

    Snacking Tips:

    • Keep snacks in your backpack or dorm room for when hunger strikes between classes.
    • Opt for whole foods (fruits, vegetables, nuts) rather than processed snacks.
    • Stay mindful of portion sizes, especially with calorie-dense snacks like nuts or cheese.

    3. Time-Saving Hacks: Meal Prep for Busy Schedules

    We all know that college students are busy, and finding time to cook can feel impossible. But with a little effort upfront, you can save time during the week and ensure you’re eating healthy meals even when you’re short on time.

    Meal Prep Ideas:

    • Batch Cook Grains: Cook a big pot of quinoa, rice, or pasta at the start of the week. These can be used in a variety of dishes, like salads, stir-fries, or bowls.
    • Prep Veggies: Wash, peel, and chop vegetables ahead of time so they’re ready to be tossed into stir-fries, salads, or roasts.
    • Make Overnight Oats: Prepare individual servings of overnight oats in mason jars. These can be customized with fruits, nuts, and yogurt, and are ready to grab and go in the morning.
    • Cook Protein in Bulk: Grill or bake a batch of chicken, tofu, or beans to use in wraps, salads, or bowls throughout the week.

    Meal Prep Tips:

    • Set aside a few hours on the weekend to prep meals and snacks.
    • Invest in good-quality containers to store your prepped meals and snacks.
    • Make meals that can be easily reheated or eaten cold, like salads or grain bowls.

    4. Dining Hall Survival Guide

    Many colleges offer dining halls that can make eating on campus more convenient—but with so many options, it can also be hard to make healthy choices. Here’s how to navigate the dining hall and make nutritious decisions.

    Dining Hall Tips:

    • Fill up on veggies: Look for salad bars or dishes with plenty of vegetables. Fill half your plate with veggies to ensure you’re getting the nutrients you need.
    • Go for lean proteins: Choose grilled chicken, fish, or plant-based proteins like beans or tofu over fried options.
    • Mind the sauces: Sauces and dressings can be loaded with hidden calories and sugars. Ask for them on the side so you can control how much you use.
    • Opt for whole grains: Choose brown rice, quinoa, or whole-wheat bread when possible. These options have more fiber and nutrients than their refined counterparts.

    5. The Importance of Hydration

    Staying hydrated is crucial to maintaining energy levels, focus, and overall health, especially during long study sessions or after a workout. But it's easy to forget about hydration when you're caught up in the demands of college life.

    Hydration Tips:

    • Carry a reusable water bottle: Having water on hand at all times can remind you to drink throughout the day. Aim for at least 8 cups of water daily, more if you’re physically active.
    • Flavored Water: If plain water feels too boring, try adding slices of fruit like lemon, lime, or cucumber for natural flavor.
    • Avoid sugary drinks: While soda, energy drinks, and sweetened coffee drinks are tempting, they can lead to energy crashes and don’t offer much nutritional value.

    Other Hydrating Beverages:

    • Herbal teas can be a good option for hydration, and they come in a variety of flavors.
    • Coconut water is another hydrating option with electrolytes to keep you balanced.

    Small Changes, Big Impact

    Maintaining a balanced diet in college doesn’t have to be overwhelming or expensive. By planning your meals, making healthy snack choices, and utilizing time-saving hacks, you can stay nourished and energized through even the busiest of semesters. Whether you’re cooking in your dorm kitchen or navigating the dining hall, a little preparation and mindful eating can go a long way in supporting your academic success and overall well-being. By prioritizing your health, you’ll have the energy to not only tackle your assignments but also fully enjoy everything that college life has to offer.

    Do you have a compelling story or student success tips you’d like to see published on the ɫèAV Students blog?  If you are a college student and interested in writing for us –to pitch your idea and get started! 

  • Blog author Jocel, 3rd from the left, is pictured with his family outside a restaurant.

    Change: The Perspective of a Transfer Student

    Jocel Reyes

    After beginning at one school, sometimes students may feel the need for a change of scenery. However, picking up the life you built in one place and starting fresh somewhere else is daunting, but I am here to say that you’re not alone! I recently transferred from a community college to the University of Texas at Arlington, and I wanted to share some things I learned to help make that transition a bit smoother. While the first couple of weeks after my transfer were a struggle, I was finally able to get comfortable due to these 3 lessons:

    Stick to What You Love

    When I first moved to Arlington, I had to get used to a lot of new things like my new schedule, different weather, and unfamiliar scenery. Early on, I enjoyed this as it felt like I was discovering something new each day, but quickly, I started to feel overwhelmed and homesick. Thoughts like, “Did I make the wrong decision moving?” or “Will I ever get used to being here?” bombarded my mind. But rather than let my anxiousness get the better of me, I fell back on my favorite hobby: volleyball. After going to a local open gym, I found my worries washed away as I was having fun and doing something I loved. Simply put, change can be overwhelming, but when you find a way to insert the things you love into new situations, you can create some comfort for yourself.

    It's Ok to Ask for Help

    As a transfer student, I was very nervous about life as a new student on campus and moving in a day before the first day of classes did not help. At first, I walked around aimlessly across campus on my own trying to figure out where my classes were located and what food options were available to me. While I eventually figured things out, this process could have been accelerated if I just asked for help. Reaching out to classmates or even your university’s student center is a great way to get questions answered by people who already know what they are doing. Additionally, by reaching out to others, you might be introduced to resources you never knew existed on campus.

    Relationship Building is Key

    As a heavily introverted person, one of the things I dreaded most was meeting new people. Often during lectures, I found myself sitting at the very back of the classroom or closest to the door so I could avoid any interactions; however, I quickly felt lonely. This changed when another student named Diego sat next to me one day during a chemistry lecture. Getting to talk with him helped me build confidence in chatting with others, and eventually, I met a great new group of friends. Building new relationships is an amazing way to make your transition more enjoyable as you start to look forward to the next day and the events and activities you may participate in through new people.

    Ultimately, the transfer process is pivotal in dictating how life at your new school will be. As a result, being smart about how you spend your time and approaching the first few weeks is critical to ensure that you get as comfortable as quickly as possible. While the lessons I shared above are not an exact science or step-by-step process, I hope they offer some insight that can make your transition smoother. From one transfer student to another, I wish you luck and want you to know that you’ll do great!

    Do you have a compelling story or student success tips you’d like to see published on the ɫèAV Students blog?  If you are a college student and interested in writing for us –to pitch your idea and get started!