What To Do When Your Friends Are Going To College And You’re Not
Whether you’re taking a year off to work, deciding what you want to do next, or simply choosing not to go to college, it’s important to remember that everyone’s journey is different.
Watching your friends head off to college can be tough and might make you feel left out or left behind. Here are some tips and advice to help you cope with these feelings and stay connected with your friends.
Remember That Everyone’s Path Is Different
While your friends may be heading off to college, your journey is uniquely your own, and it is just as valuable as everyone else’s. It might involve work, travel, or just taking time to figure out your next steps. There’s no one right way to succeed in life, so trust that you’re exactly where you need to be.
Keep In Touch
Stay in contact with your friends by texting, calling, or meeting up when they come home for weekends. Remember that even though your friends are meeting new people in college, it doesn’t mean they value your friendship any less. College is a time for meeting new people, but the bond you have with them is special and irreplaceable. They might be busy with new experiences, but that doesn’t change how much you mean to them.
Be Open About Your Feelings
Your friends may not even realise how you’re feeling because they’re caught up in the whirlwind of moving out, adjusting to a new place, and starting college life. It’s easy for them to get overwhelmed with everything going on, so they might not notice that you’re struggling. Being honest with them can strengthen the friendship, and allow them to understand how you’re feeling about the situation.
Make New Connections
Making new friends can help you feel more connected while your old friends are away at college. Try joining local clubs or groups or think about reaching out to other girls you know who are staying home, even if you weren’t close in school. You might find you have more in common now that you’re in a similar situation, and it could be the start of a great new friendship!
Remember That Social Media Is A Highlights Reel
Social media often highlights only the best parts of college life, making it look perfect and exciting. But remember, even though your friends might only share fun photos and stories, college can be tough and lonely sometimes. Your friends might be dealing with stress, homesickness, or loneliness, even if it isn’t always visible online. Recognizing this can help you feel better about your own situation and understand that every experience has its ups and downs.
Try Your Best To Support Your Friends
Celebrate their new adventure, stay in touch with texts and calls, and show genuine interest in their stories. It might be a bit tough, but your support will keep you close. Remember that this is a big change for them too, and they might be finding the transition difficult too.
It’s okay to feel a mix of emotions, like jealousy or sadness, when your friends are off to college. It might be tough to see them move on while you aren’t, but remember that your time will come, and you’ll have your own exciting moments and achievements to share with your friends soon.
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