What are common frustrating experiences in college?

Starting to feel the college application stress and I keep hearing about how college can be tough too. Just wondering, outside of academics, what are some frustrating experiences or difficulties that most students tend to face in college? Dorm life? Making friends? Anything specific I should be aware of or prepare for?

Residing in a new environment and managing your own time and tasks could be two of the common challenging experiences outside of academics in college.

One typical concern is managing life in a dormitory or shared housing. This can include dealing with roommates, adjusting to potentially tight living quarters, and handling noise disturbances, especially when you wish to sleep or study. It also requires getting used to shared bathrooms and perhaps less-than-ideal cleanliness levels at times. Thus, being patient, considerate, and good at conflict resolution is necessary.

Another predicament is managing time, tasks, and self-care without the structured regimen of high school and parent supervision. College students often have to balance their time between classes, studying, part-time jobs or internships, extracurricular activities, socializing, and self-care, including eating healthily and getting regular exercise. This can feel overwhelming at times, especially during busy periods like midterm and final exam weeks.

Further, making new friends and finding your social niche can sometimes be harder than anticipated. It can be challenging to break out of your comfort zone and initiate connections, especially in a large university where it's easy to feel lost in the crowd. But remember, most people are in the same boat, and colleges typically host numerous events and activities to facilitate bonding.

Lastly, handling finance could be an intricate task for some students. This may be the first time you are responsible for handling your own expenses - from managing meal plans to buying textbooks, budgeting for social activities to potential unexpected costs. If you're not careful, you can quickly find yourself strapped for cash.

The important thing to keep in mind is - you're not alone. Colleges have a variety of support services available, from academic advice to wellness centers and counseling services. Reach out when you need help and make the best use of these resources. Every challenge you encounter is an opportunity for growth and self-discovery, and many of these challenges are common experiences that passionately bond college students together.