Is freshman year of college scarier than expected?

I'll be starting college next year, and I've heard a lot of stories about how scary freshman year can be. What's the reality of it, and what should I do to prepare for the major changes from high school to college?

Starting college can indeed be a significant transition, but it can also be an exciting time full of new opportunities. It's completely normal to feel apprehensive about the changes. To prepare, it's advisable to get organized before arriving on campus. This means understanding your class schedule, syllabi, and having a system in place for managing your time effectively.

Support services are an excellent resource, so familiarize yourself with what your campus offers in terms of tutoring, health services, and counseling. Also, try to engage with your new community as much as possible; join clubs, attend social events, and don’t hesitate to reach out to fellow students or resident advisors if you have concerns or need help.

Always remember, every freshman is in the same boat, and most upperclassmen remember what it was like and are generally quite understanding. By staying proactive about your needs and open to new experiences, you'll likely find that the fear of the unknown becomes much less daunting. For example, consider reaching out to your future roommates or classmates via social media before the semester starts; making a few acquaintances early on can make the world of difference.