Freshman Year Freakout

By: Sarah Wiik

As a sophomore, going to school is more exciting than stressful this year. Rather than the overwhelmed feelings I was experiencing last year, I feel more prepared for this semester. I have always been an easily stressed and anxious person, so trust me - having some tips to success could make your beginning of the school year smoother! These three reminders helped me navigate my freshman year

Homesickness is real.

If you have a cute and cuddly pet like I do at home, the lack of dogs can be saddening. Luckily for you, every Wednesday the Health Center has Pals for Life come spend some time in the afternoon for cuddles, bringing dogs and even a bunny. The Health Center is situated across the street from the Davis Center Gym, where the fluffy animals will be in the  basement patiently waiting for hugs. Make sure you’re on the lookout for signs they put up around campus for when the animals are coming!

If your homesickness is not animal related, a helpful tip is to make weekly phone calls or Facetimes home to talk to your loved ones. This routine will help you get grounded before taking off running for another week of the grind. Another helpful routine is carrying over behaviors that de-stressed you at home, such as reading or working out. Surrounding yourself with new friends can help you create Villanova to be your new home away from home. Just keep in mind that you’re not alone in your homesickness, it is something everyone goes through.  

Plan, Plan, Plan

If you’re stressed and feel a loss of control, do two things immediately: one, buy a planner (preferably an aesthetic one, because that makes things better) and two, download the app Nova Now. The planner will help you to stay organized and keep your life in order. It will help you stay on top of your school work, which will help you to feel on top of your whole world. The Nova Now app is a guardian angel for those who lack the ability to ask people for help (me). There is an easy-to-read map that can be lowkey pulled out whenever you feel lost. You can also find information about shuttles, the library, the career center, and even your grades. Your schedule can also be found on the app if you completely forget which room you’re supposed to go to.

The first weeks of classes can be extremely stressful, but there are some strategies that you can do to help with your feelings of insecurity. Map out where your classes are and how long it takes to get there ahead of time. Knowing where you’re going eases the stress of feeling lost, small, and overwhelmed. It is also helpful to look at your classes’ syllabi online to map out important dates in your planner, knowing how the semester looks for you.

Find your spot!

My angel of an orientation counselor told us that finding our own spot on campus that we can make into a home base can help make you feel more at home. Finding a spot to just sit down and breath is essential. Whip out your computer or a book, and get cracking on homework or just relax and scroll through Instagram. The courtyard in the  middle of the St. Augustine Center is a beautiful and usually deserted spot to sit and chill. There are nice tables and chairs that are available to make your own space. On the first floor of the Connelly Center, if you walk around the staircase, there is a big cluster of very comfy couches that you can lounge, eat, or nap in. There are many other lovely spots on campus as well, so explore to create your very own spot.

The beginning of the school year can feel like a whirlwind that you are just riding along with, but do not fret! There are tons of healthy and helpful tips that you can work into your style to help you adjust to your new schedules. These tips can help you manage your freshman year freakout, but be mindful to develop habits that work best for you and your schedule!