6 Tips for the College Freshman Who Stayed Home
#1. Use this year to develop and grow.
Going into the year with the realization that it could be a trying time will allow you to have an optimistic outlook on the tests ahead of you. Being committed to using the time to better yourself and grow as a person will give your mundane schedule purpose and keep you motivated. Create specific goals that you want to accomplish by year-end, pour energy and time into stimulating and meaningful hobbies, and try to look for a job as well.
#2. Negotiate new responsibilities and freedoms with your parents.
It’s important to have an open discussion with your parents about the fact that you are now an adult. You will want to talk with them about what their expectations are in terms of contributions to your expenses, and likewise, you may want to suggest additional freedoms for yourself, such as a later curfew. Keep in mind you will still need to answer to your parents since you live with them and it is responsible for them to have a general idea of your comings and goings. You also will want to talk with them about your schedule. College life has a different routine and there may be days when you have no class at all or have to stay up very late to finish a paper. Try not to disrupt your families' schedule with your own schedule which may be very different. This will help eliminate any unnecessary friction.
#3. Make an effort to find friends in the same situation.
In my case, I made an effort to find out who was also staying home to go to DVC and renewed those friendships. One of my friends from grade school and junior high became my frequent companion. We commuted to school together, hung out together and ate lunch together. It made all the difference in the world to have a friend going through the exact same thing. It is important to find a few good friends who are doing college while living at home.
#4. Get a part-time job and work as much as feasible.
I have a great part-time job and it has become both my social life and my home away from home. I was hesitant about finding a job at first because I was not sure how much time I would have to work, but my job has been a big part of why I think I have thrived this past year. I am saving for things I will need in college and that is helping to motivate me. Having your own income also helps you feel like you are moving toward independence from your parents and gives you the freedom to eat out when you want…in case you need a break from home or don’t like what is being offered for dinner. Lastly, having a job gives you the freedom to explore hobbies or activities that you find healthy and enjoyable.
#5. Take as many classes as you can handle.
Understand that this is a year that will be devoted to studying. Without the high school distractions, you will be able to focus very diligently on your classes. Use this time to get ahead and get your GPA up. It also is a good opportunity to try taking classes outside of your intended major and to explore your interests, especially if you want to have a minor. As in my case, if you are planning on transferring to a UC you will need to load up on classes so that you can transfer out of community college as soon as you are able and ready.
#6. Take up hobbies as an outlet.
Without the busy social life of the "away" college student, you will want to find healthy activities you can do to relax. You will want to avoid online temptations and pitfalls such as spending too much time on gaming, social media, and online shopping. These can become ways for you to cope with any boredom or frustrations you may be feeling. Perhaps you have a new sport you can try like bike riding, running, or hiking and use some of your income to purchase equipment. My mom likes to say that life is a marathon and not a sprint. I used to think that was a silly saying, but I realize now that it applies very well to this year. Remember that this year will be over much sooner than you expect and it is just one or two years out of an average 80-year life span. You can do this and thrive in the process!
