Congratulations! You were accepted into your dream university, but it’s out of state or far away from your hometown. You might be worried about how to adjust or tackle this challenge, and I’m here to help.
For me personally, coming from Florida, I knew I wanted a new experience, and once I was accepted into the University of Southern California, or USC, I knew I wanted to take advantage of the opportunities offered, like being able to attend an institution that emphasizes balance between academics and social opportunities.
Attending college across the country from my home state hasn’t always been easy. But, now as a sophomore in college, I’ve become more independent, confident, and open minded, which are all important skills that I’ll use for the rest of my life.
I’m here to share the five strategies I’ve used to make the transition easier to hopefully help you too!
1. Take care of yourself
This is the most significant factor of residing out of state or away from your hometown, in my opinion. It may be both thrilling and overwhelming to be away from what is familiar, particularly when you’re getting used to a new habit, setting, and way of life.
It’s simple to become engrossed in the commotion of classes, social gatherings, and the need to “fit in,” but ignoring your mental and emotional well-being might have more negative effects down the road.
It’s crucial to step back and regroup. Stress and homesickness are normal emotions, so it’s acceptable to experience them occasionally. Even when everything seems to be moving at once, it’s crucial to make time for yourself.
Self-care is about developing habits that help you feel balanced and supported, not only about unwinding. Make sure you’re eating healthily, drinking plenty of water, getting adequate sleep, and engaging in stress-relieving activities. I found that journaling and yoga were crucial components of my regimen that kept me focused when things seemed too much to handle.
Finding what works for you and prioritizing self-care, especially while you’re busy acclimating to a new life out of state, are what really count.
Here is a preview of a day in my life as a journalism major at USC.
2. Stay connected with home
One of the difficult aspects of being so far from home is feeling that your connections aren’t the same because you’re so far away. For me, the best way to go about this is to stay in contact with my family and friends.
I make sure to call my parents at least once a day, and I’m always in communication with my friends from home. I find it helpful to update your friends on what’s going on in your life and having them do the same. Several of my friends attend college on the east coast, so I mostly text my friends, and we’ll usually arrange a time to call to work with the time change.
The best part about keeping in touch is that once you are back together in between semesters, you still feel connected to each other!
Keeping in touch with friends and family makes the distance feel closer and also allows me to feel supported and encouraged by those who are important to me!
3. Get involved on your college campus
While staying connected to home is important, it’s essential to find friends in your college community too. Finding friends and a community on campus can be difficult, but finding student clubs or involvements can make that easier and can make a big school or community feel smaller. For example, USC has several clubs and organizations that range from social to professional interests.
College is an excellent place to explore any interests you may have, and clubs and organizations can lead to connections with other students or even referrals to internships or jobs.
For me, I applied to be a Student Ambassador my first semester on campus. A student ambassador is responsible for delivering 60–90-minute tours of USC’s campus to visitors. Through this role, I met my best friend and made connections that have truly shaped my experience at USC.
Outside of personal connections, I’ve also strengthened my public speaking and communication skills, which are skills that are transferable to jobs and internships.
4. Establish a routine
Being away from home changes your dynamic, and I feel that the best way to combat this is by making a routine that excites you. Including habits that you enjoyed at home (e.g., working out, journaling, reading) and incorporating your new lifestyle (e.g., classes, study sessions, eating at the dining hall) can help ease the transition.
Having a dedicated time each day to study, eat your meals, and your class times will get you into a proper routine. This helped me feel comfortable in my new environment and also gave me something to look forward to.
5. Explore your new city and college town
Moving from Orlando to Los Angeles was a big change. Some of my favorite coffee shops or boutiques aren’t in LA, which is unfortunate. But, instead of focusing on what you don’t have at college, you can focus on what you DO have! Finding your favorite spots on or off campus is key to easing the transition between high school and college.
Check out study spots, coffee shops, or even areas for you to hang out with friends! For example, at USC my favorite coffee shop, Ministry of Coffee, is only half a mile from campus. I love to study here or get coffee with my friends, and I would’ve never known about this place if I didn’t go to USC!
Despite the difficulties that come with being a college student out-of-state or away from your hometown, in retrospect, I can honestly say that it was one of the best choices I have ever made. There are numerous chances to develop both intellectually and personally while relocating to a new place and school.
Enjoy the journey of discovering a new location while maintaining ties to your home support network to keep you rooted. With these pointers at your fingertips, you’re not only ready to meet the obstacles, but also ready to succeed. Thus, inhale deeply, immerse yourself in the experience, and never forget that you are capable!
