College Life
Feeling at Home in College
Use this page when you wonder whether you belong in college, or everything still feels new.
What many students notice
In the first weeks of college, many students wonder if they belong. Everyone else seems to know where to go, what to say, and how things work. You may be the first in your family to go to college, the oldest person in the room, the youngest, or new to the area. You may be studying in a language that is not your first.
That feeling is very common, and it usually changes with time. It is not a sign that you made a mistake by coming to college.
- Other students feel it too. Most of them do not say so, which is why it can feel like you are the only one.
- Not knowing is normal. Every college has its own words, places, and habits. Everyone learns them the same way: by asking and by doing.
- You bring experience. Work, family, other languages, and other schools are strengths in a college classroom.
What helps
- Find a home base. Choose one place on campus or online where you can study and feel comfortable, such as the library or the Teaching and Learning Center.
- Learn the place. Walk the campus once. Find your classrooms, the library, and where to get help, before you need them.
- Learn a few names. One classmate and one instructor who know your name make a large campus feel smaller. See Making connections.
- Ask one question. Every question you ask makes the next one easier. Instructors and staff answer the same questions every term.
- Notice your progress. At the end of each week, name one thing that is easier than it was. Small changes add up.
Example: a student looks back
A student wrote this short reflection in her fourth week. Each number matches a note below.
On the first day, I sat in my car for ten minutes before I went inside.1 I thought everyone would know more than me.2 In the second week, I asked the student next to me about the homework, and she was confused too.3 Now I am getting used to the schedule, and I study in the library before my evening class.4 I still feel nervous sometimes, but less than before.5
- A common first day. Many students feel this way, even if nobody can see it.
- The worry. It feels true at the time. It is often not true.
- One small step. A question to a classmate showed her that she was not the only one.
- A routine and a home base. The library became her place before class.
- Honest progress. The feeling did not disappear. It got smaller. That is normal.
Language focus: used to and getting used to
Three phrases that look alike
English has three phrases with used to. They mean different things, and all three are useful for talking about change.
| Phrase | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| used to + base verb | something true in the past, not now | I used to work nights. |
| be used to + noun or -ing | familiar and comfortable now | I am used to the campus now. |
| get used to + noun or -ing | becoming familiar over time | I am getting used to studying in English. |
After be used to and get used to, use a noun or an -ing verb, not the base verb. Write I am getting used to speaking in class. Do not write “I am getting used to speak in class.”
Sentence starters
Use these to notice your own progress. Fill in each blank with your own words.
- To compare then and nowAt first, I , but now I .I used to .
- To name what is changingI am getting used to .Something that is easier now is .
- To ask for helpI am new here. Could you tell me where is?
Where to start at OCTC
- The library. A quiet place to study, with help finding sources. OCTC Library (opens in a new tab)
- The Teaching and Learning Center (TLC). Free tutoring and writing help. See This semester for hours.
- Campus events. The OCTC events calendar (opens in a new tab) lists what is happening on campus.
- Student support. Advising, counseling, and help with everyday needs. See OCTC Student Support (opens in a new tab).
If you feel alone or overwhelmed for a long time, talk to someone: an advisor, an instructor you trust, or a counselor. Asking for support is a normal part of college. OCTC Student Support lists where to start.
Next step
Try one thing this week
- Choose your home base on campus or online.
- Ask one question you have been waiting to ask.
- At the end of the week, finish this sentence: “Something that is easier now is …”