Dear Boilermaker,
College is an exciting experience. You’re finally on your own and can make your own decisions.
But college can also be lonely. People often go into the experience thinking that it’ll be nothing but fun, but it’s typically harder than that.
Going to college is a big adjustment and comes with many unexpected changes. This can leave you feeling a little homesick, which can manifest as feelings of sadness, isolation, and disconnection from others.
Dealing with feelings of loneliness in college
If you’re experiencing loneliness in college, try to remember that you’re not alone and there are others who may feel the same way. Recognizing what you’re feeling is a good first step. When you acknowledge your feelings, it can help validate them and give you guidance for moving forward. Here are some other strategies you can try to help ease these feelings:
Meet new people
Meeting new people and making friends can help you feel less lonely. Learning to juggle a busy schedule of classes, studying, and work can make it hard to meet new people.
Try to switch things up and strike up a conversation with people near you — such as your roommate or your lab partner.
If you don’t know what to say, ask about an upcoming assignment or how they like the course. Simple conversations like this can help you get to know people and find friends that have things in common with you.
Even chatting only a few minutes a day can ease feelings of loneliness and help you develop friendships. Push past the awkwardness. Consider asking them out for coffee after class or to start a study group.
This can be a low-key way to get to know someone better and gain new relationships.
Get involved
At Purdue, there are so many clubs and organizations where you can find connections with others who share your interests. Take some time to reflect on activities you enjoy or extracurriculars you may like to pursue, and explore opportunities to get involved on BoilerLink.
Call someone you feel comfortable with
In-person communication is ideal, but you can alleviate loneliness by staying connected with your loved ones. If your feelings become overwhelming, consider calling someone you love who will help cheer you up. Hearing their voice can help you feel less alone and allow you to share a more intimate connection.
Seek help
If the loneliness doesn’t seem to get better after trying these ideas or it’s beginning to interfere with your daily life, consider reaching out to a healthcare or mental health professional. Advocacy and support programs on campus help students cope with mental health and other types of hardships. Explore the resources available, and never hesitate to reach out if you need support.
Mark your calendar:
Early October – Now is a good time to start considering housing options for next year. Most leases are signed a year in advance! If you plan to live on campus next year, visit the University Residences website for guidance on how to renew your contract.
Oct. 19: Second 8-week courses begin Oct. 25: This is the final day to withdraw from a course with a W or W/F. Visit our website to review past emails featuring weekly success tips for new Purdue students. Purdue Orientation Programs |