Adaptation Guide for University Freshmen (Part 1)

Entering university as a freshman can spin your life in a completely new direction. The whirlwind of orientation camps, the challenges of dorm life, and the unfamiliar learning environment all hit you at once. Add to that the shifting social circles and lifestyle adjustments, and it feels like everything around you is changing at lightning speed. Adapting to all these changes simultaneously is no small feat!

Have you ever felt lost and overwhelmed, that your life and goals are slipping from your grasp, or even started doubting your ability to navigate the twists and turns of university life? If so, you're not alone - these feelings are more common than you might think!

Research reveals that up to 40% of university freshmen grapple with the adjustment to university life^1,2, with many of them citing this transition as the most daunting and stressful challenge they’ve faced so far. Freshmen often contend with pressures from socializing, academics, finances and daily living. In the first half of this adaptation guide, we will explore the sources of stress related to social and academic aspects, and share practical strategies to help you navigate this journey with greater confidence and ease.

1. Social Aspect

As the familiar comfort of high school friends fades into the distance, do you worry about how to maintain those friendships? Your friends may already be establishing their own new social circles, making it only natural to feel a bit lonely and lost.

And then there is the challenge of stepping into a brand-new social scene. Freshmen find themselves surrounded by a sea of new faces, each with their own stories and experiences. University is a social and cultural jungle, filled with a dizzying array of clubs, classes, societies and dorm life —— all of which can be overwhelming. “ What if I can’t fit in?” This is a thought many freshmen share as they navigate this transition.

So, what strategies can help us navigate the changes in our social circles?

a. Maintaining old friendships requires thoughtful and active effort: In high school, the long and regular meet-ups made it feel effortless to keep friendships alive. However, once we enter university, maintaining these bonds requires intentional effort. Make it a point to set aside time to meet up or send messages to stay connected with friends you value. At the same time, be prepared and understand that both you and your friends will change over time. Some relationships might naturally drift apart, and this shift is just part of the journey. Embrace the changes as a necessary stage in your personal growth.

b. Explore new friendships: University classmates come from all walks of life, creating a rich and diverse social environment. Immerse yourself in this vibrant community by stepping out of your comfort zone and engaging in various activities. Be open and friendly with new people, and actively seek out those who share your interests. Here are some ideas to help you connect:

☐ Participate in activities you’ve never tried before

☐ Invite roommates/classmates to have meals together

☐ Form study groups with classmates

☐ Join events and gatherings organized by your dorms/societies

☐ Meet up with classmates for breakfast before classes

☐ Others：__________

c. Don’t lose sight of yourself: Amidst all the changes in relationships and new experiences, embrace new opportunities with an open mind, but it is also crucial to stay true to who you are. Respect your boundaries and do not compromise your principles just to fit in or conform to certain aspects of university life; losing yourself in the process can be a real risk.

Stay grounded in the values and interests that matter to you. Make time for solitude to reflect on your needs and goals, ensuring that your choices and actions align with your core values. Doing so not only helps you navigate university life with authenticity but also paves the way to forming deep friendships with genuine, like-minded individuals.

2. Academic Aspect

University life often brings a stark contrast to high school: courses become more demanding and schedules more flexible, leading to increased academic stress for many students. Independent time management becomes a critical skill. For some freshmen, this newfound autonomy can be daunting as they adjust to their new routines.

On top of this, many students face the disappointment of not entering their preferred major, or they might start questioning if their chosen field truly matches their passions and skills. This uncertainty can breed feelings of defeat and anxiety about their future, adding another layer of stress to their transition.

Now, let us delve into some practical strategies to cope with academic stress:

a. Be a Time Management Master: Craft a schedule that works for you, making sure to allocate time for studying, attending classes, socializing, resting, and personal activities. Utilizing this Boon Weekly Planner or other time management apps can be a great way to keep track and stay organized.

b. Explore your learning styles and environment: Everyone has a unique learning style, so experimenting with various learning techniques can help you discover what works best for you. Some might find reading materials most effective, while others benefit from taking notes or using charts; some prefer listening to lectures or recordings, while others favor discussion groups. Try out various methods to see which ones help enhance your understanding and retention.

Your ideal study environment can also make a difference—some thrive in quiet settings, while others focus better with background music or light noise. Find what works for you to maximize your study efficiency and engagement.

Which learning styles suit you best?

☐ Reading ☐ Listening ☐ Discussing ☐ Speaking aloud

☐ Taking notes ☐ Making charts/drawings

☐ Apply to real-life examples ☐ Using stories/metaphors

☐ Studying alone ☐ Discussing with others

☐ Complete silence ☐ Some music

☐ Morning ☐ Afternoon ☐ Evening

☐ Others ____________

Please remember that these learning styles are not set in stone; you can adjust them based on your circumstances.

c. Adjust your expectations: Embrace the ongoing journey of exploration with an open mind, recognizing that your interests and goals might evolve as you navigate university life. Seek out opportunities for growth amidst challenges, and do not hesitate to lean on mentors or student advisors you trust. Their guidance can offer valuable insights and help you expand your vision for the future.

Whether it is maintaining and building friendships or adapting to a new learning environment, these challenges are part of the freshman experience. However, in addition to social and academic stress, financial independence and life management also bring their own tests. Keep reading the second half to learn how to navigate these sources of stress with greater ease, allowing you to fully thrive in your university journey!

Co-authors:
Janet SY Fong, Psychological Well-being Officer of Jockey Club TourHeart+ Project
Ruby MY Liu, Well-being Promotion Officer of Jockey Club TourHeart+ Project

References:

1. Belay Ababu, G., Belete Yigzaw, A., Dinku Besene, Y., & Getinet Alemu, W. (2018). Prevalence of Adjustment Problem and Its Predictors among First-Year Undergraduate Students in Ethiopian University: A Cross-Sectional Institution Based Study. Psychiatry Journal, 2018, 1–7. https://doi.org/10.1155/2018/5919743

2. Bolandifar, S., & Noordin, N. (2013). Investigating the Relationship between Creativity and Academic Achievement of Malaysian Undergraduates. Jurnal Teknologi, 65(2). https://doi.org/10.11113/jt.v65.2355