Starting college can be both exhilarating and daunting, posing academic and social challenges that many students may feel unprepared to face. As we embark on this exciting chapter, we must acknowledge the potential struggles and seek appropriate support for a successful transition.
Academic challenges often catch students off guard, with workload and expectations higher than in high school. Students who skated by in high school, making As and Bs without opening a textbook, tend to be unpleasantly surprised by the demands of college. Adjusting to new academic challenges can be overwhelming, leaving students with feelings of failure and insecurity. The weight of responsibility and unfamiliar expectations can make the academic transition a significant hurdle.

Equally, the social landscape of college can be perplexing as students navigate new friendships and strive to find their place in this unfamiliar environment. Connecting with peers and fitting into social circles can be intimidating, contributing to feelings of uncertainty and isolation.
Emotionally, the college journey can be taxing, triggering anxiety and stress as students grapple with the demands of their new surroundings. Feelings of loneliness and insecurity are widespread as students confront the unknowns of college life.

 
Most traditional students are on their own for the first time and must make independent decisions without mom and dad waiting in the wings with immediate feedback. They are, in essence, an emerging adult, but they have one foot in adolescence and one foot in adulthood. They seem to be able to move back and forth between the two with ease as it suits them. It looks that way, but in many ways, it's scary, and the freedom to make their own choices is often a hefty burden that they feel insecure about carrying successfully.

College, in and of itself, is challenging. Some of these same difficulties affect adults returning to college after a hiatus. The psychological hurdles may be even more pronounced. Adult students often experience elevated anxiety over re-entering the academic, social, and emotional realms of college life after an extended absence.

Social integration is a crucial aspect of the adult student experience. Adult students, feeling like strangers in a strange land, often have difficulty connecting with peers, dealing with an academic environment (vs. work environment), and using available resources. They may harbor unhelpful "shoulds" about being in college as an adult. These unrealistic beliefs and expectations may prevent them from accessing the resources they need for success. They may struggle to find peers. They may be technologically challenged. They may resist asking for help.

Attending college presents unique challenges and opportunities as a fresh-faced student or a returning adult. With the proper support and resources, students can manage the transition and use this opportunity to thrive and evolve into the person they envision themselves becoming.