Classes are right around the corner and I want to reach out to all incoming and returning students with a little piece of advice. Don’t be afraid of awkward moments. This may sounds silly, but I think this is a key element of success in college-even in life! We can stifle ourselves if we worry too much about making the perfect first impression or attempting to be flawless all the time (sorry but I think only Queen Bey has that one figured out). I encourage all to embrace the awkward moments because college will be full of them.
Don’t let “trying to be cool” stop you from introducing yourself to a classmate you sit next to, striking up a conversation in the Starbucks line, or sitting by someone you don’t know in the dining center. There is no way to start a new friendship with someone that doesn’t feel awkward. I will tell you now so remember this: no you do not sound dumb, no they do not think you’re a weirdo and yes they were probably thinking about reaching out to you as well. Even students who are returning will continue to meet new faces and make new connections, it’s a never-ending cycle and it’s a beautiful thing. These people that you meet could be a new friend or study buddy or both!
Your social and academic lives with constantly be entwined in college, so why not take advantage of it? One of the best things about college is the opportunity to meet such a variety of different people and be immersed with thoughts, ideas, customs and beliefs you may have not experienced before. The first step is just starting with “Hi I’m (enter name here)”.
Embrace the Awkward friends, I know I do.
Best,
Zoë Pixler