Starting college is an exhilarating and transformational experience, but it can also be intimidating for a lot of students. As students leave the comfort of their hometowns and venture into a new world of higher education in a new country, they encounter a bunch of challenges that can sometimes trigger various fears. However, giving in to those fears can hamper personal growth and the college experience. Here are some of the most common fears students face at college and strategies on how they can overcome them:
Fear of Change
Change is inevitable when it comes to moving to a different country to pursue college or university. From moving to a new place to meeting new people, making new friends, taking new courses and getting accustomed to new teaching styles, and experiencing new things and events, college brings with it a lot of changes. For some students, it is difficult to welcome these many changes all at once. However, just remember everyone else is having the same experience as you. No one is best prepared for what four years at college will bring. Here are some strategies to overcome the fear of change:
Embrace a growth mindset: Before you get scared of change, remember that change often brings opportunities for growth, personal development, and learning. Sometimes embracing the unknown can lead to exciting experiences and leave you with valuable life lessons that you take forward.
Set realistic expectations: It’s important for you to realize that college is all about changes, no matter how big or small, and it is only natural to feel a little overwhelmed because of it. Don’t expect it all to be very smooth and easygoing. Getting used to the new environment often comes with having to make adjustments. You should aim at being patient as you adjust to the environment.
Seek Support: There are always people who can help you out of the situation. We recommend that you connect with your classmates, peers, advisors, or counselors who can offer guidance and encouragement during this transitional period.
Fear of Social Rejection
Many students fear social rejection at college and universities. We understand that leaving behind familiar social circles can be intimidating, and the fear of not fitting in and being rejected in social setups by friends and social groups can be overwhelming. A lot of students worry about making friends, joining clubs, or attending social events, fearing they won't be accepted by others. Here are some strategies to help you overcome the fear of social rejection:
Be open-minded and approachable: The key to avoiding the fear of social rejection is being approachable. Be genuine and friendly in your interactions with others. Just know that others are just as eager to make new friends and connections are most of them are probably going through similar challenges as you.
Get involved on campus: Another way to overcome the fear of social rejection is by putting yourself out there through participation in clubs, organizations, or campus activities that align with your interests
Attend orientation events: Orientation events are designed to help you familiarize yourself and better adjust to university life. We highly recommend attending these events as they provide you with the opportunity to meet fellow students, explore campus facilities and get involved in campus activities.
Fear of Being Away From Home
Homesickness is as real as it gets when it comes to moving away for higher education. For a lot of students, college could be the first time they are away from their families and home for a prolonged period. This homesickness can sometimes lead to feelings of sadness, withdrawal, and isolation for some students. Strategies to overcome the fear of being away from home:
Stay connected with loved ones: One of the easiest ways to stray away from this fear is by regularly communicating with family and friends through calls, texts, or video chats to maintain a sense of connection and support.
Create a supportive environment: Sometimes, it’s not just home that students miss, it’s also the familiarity of the environment. Personalizing their living space with familiar items or mementos from home can make their space comforting and inviting for students.
Engage in campus activities: Sometimes, forming new connections can help students foster a sense of belonging on campus. One way to do this is by participating in campus events and clubs which help you meet people who have similar interests.
Fear of Saying No
With the amount of opportunities and responsibilities demanding your attention, it’s very natural for you to feel overwhelmed. This can sometimes lead to the fear of saying no to things and missing out on experiences. Here are some strategies to help you overcome the fear of saying no:
Prioritize your goals: One of the most important things you should set straight is your priorities, both academic and personal. Once you have these priorities straight, be mindful and selective in choosing extracurriculars or events that align with your interests and goals.
Practice assertiveness: At college, there would always be things you need to prioritize, and on the flip side, say no to. It’s important for you to learn to communicate your boundaries respectfully. Understand that it's okay to decline an invitation or commitment if it conflicts with your existing priorities.
Find balance: While it might sound difficult to attain, students should strive for a healthy balance between academic, social, and personal commitments. Remember that self-care and rest are equally important for overall well-being.
Fear of Failure
Another frequently faced fear among students is the fear of failure. For some of you, the pressure of performing well academically can lead to anxiety and self-doubt, causing you to avoid expanding your horizons and limiting your exposure to opportunities. It is important for you to realize that failure is a part of your learning curve and can sometimes also serve as a stepping stone to success. Here are some strategies to help you overcome the fear of failure:
Adopt a growth mindset: Once you start viewing failure as an opportunity to learn and improve, you would start fearing failure less. Remember that every setback and failure could prove as a chance for identifying areas of growth and work towards improvement.
Seek academic support: If you feel like you’re struggling with academics, or encountering challenges in your studies, you shouldn’t hesitate to ask for help from their professors, teaching assistant, or academic support centers.
Set realistic goals: From early on, set realistic expectations and goals so that you don’t overcommit yourself. Break down larger tasks into smaller, more accomplishable tasks. Setting realistic goals will save you from the disappointment of not being able to accomplish a specific task or goal. Make sure you’re celebrating progress, no matter how small or big, as it contributes to the bigger picture.
Fear of Acceptance
Moving out of your comfort zone can sometimes brew the fear of acceptance. While you navigate through new social and academic environments, you can sometimes develop a fear of being accepted. You can sometimes feel intimidated by the desire to fit in, make friends, and find your place among friends and classmates, and even at university altogether. This can sometimes also lead to you suppressing your true self and conforming to norms. It is important for you to recognize that university is a diverse and inclusive space where authenticity is valued higher than conformity. Here are some strategies to help you overcome the fear of acceptance:
Self-acceptance: If you feel the fear of acceptance creep in, you should start by acknowledging and accepting your strengths, weaknesses, and individuality. Embracing the unique qualities that make you stand out can make you overcome this fear. You should realize that you are worthy of acceptance just as you are and conforming to norms can often lead to your potential not being used.
Seek Supportive Communities: Sometimes, surrounding yourself with people who think alike or have similar mindsets can help you avoid the fear of acceptance because you feel more at ease. You can look for clubs, organizations, or social groups on campus that align with your interests and values to find people with similar interests.
Challenge negative thoughts: You should constantly remind yourself that it’s natural to seek acceptance but your worth is not dependent on any sort of external validation. Whenever you feel self-doubt creep in, you should challenge negative thoughts with positive affirmations, and focus on your growth and progress.
We know college is a transformative and rewarding phase of life, but it can also evoke various fears and uncertainties. You should know that you are not alone in this experience and almost every other college student faces similar fears and challenges during their college years. Don’t hesitate to seek support from peers, professors, and campus resources to help you navigate through these fears successfully. Keep a learning mindset and embrace the opportunities for growth and learning that college offers.
Sources
“Common Fears about College and How to Overcome Them.” College Raptor Blog. 22 Dec. 2022. Web. 02 Aug. 2023.
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