Introduction

Hello, my name is Alex Johnson, and I am from a small town in Missouri, USA. I currently work as a marketing specialist and am about to celebrate my 18th birthday next month. My dreams are quite diverse; I would love to pursue a career in creative writing one day and travel the world extensively. In my free time, I enjoy playing soccer and reading dystopian novels. My favorite meal would be a hearty homemade lasagna. While I am married, I find my adventurous and curious spirit keeps me yearning for new experiences. I have had the privilege to travel to a few places, including Spain and Italy, but my bucket list includes visits to Scotland, Ireland, and Japan. I was motivated to start this conversation as I noticed many others feeling similar anxieties and wanted to share my experiences and advice.

The Anxiety of Turning 18

It's completely normal to feel anxious about turning 18 and heading into college, especially if you're feeling a bit isolated or uncertain about your social life. Many people experience similar feelings at this stage in their lives. For instance, I recently turned 18 and found myself in a similar position. I had no close friends and was unsure of how I would handle the transition to college life.

Transition Period

Turning 18 and starting college are significant life transitions. It's common to feel overwhelmed as you move into this new phase. During my first semester, I had to adjust to a new academic environment and social circle, which proved challenging at times. However, I quickly realized that transitioning takes time, and with a bit of patience, everything falls into place.

Making Friends

College is often a fresh start where you can meet new people. Many students enter college without a close group of friends, so you're not alone in this experience. During my college days, I discovered that joining clubs, organizations, or attending events that interest me were excellent ways to meet others. For example, I joined the chapter of the National Association of Marketing Students and participated in various workshops and seminars. These activities provided me with opportunities to meet like-minded individuals who shared my passions.

Support Resources

Most colleges offer resources like orientation programs, counseling services, and social events designed to help new students connect. Don't hesitate to take advantage of these opportunities. During my orientation week, I participated in a peer-led seminar on mental health and wellness, which was incredibly enlightening. These sessions helped me understand and deal with my anxiety, and I encouraged my friends to join similar programs too.

Self-Discovery

College is also a time for personal growth. You might discover new interests, talents, and aspects of yourself that you didn't know before. During my time in college, I discovered a love for photography and even started volunteering at a local photoshoot studio. These experiences not only helped me build my portfolio but also introduced me to new people and potential career paths.

Small Steps

If socializing feels daunting, start small. Reach out to classmates, join study groups, or participate in activities that interest you. For instance, when we had group project meetings, I made sure to contribute actively and introduce myself to my teammates. Over time, these small interactions helped me build a network of friends and acquaintances.

Introduction to Friends

Since I understand that it can be hard to go out and make friends when you're feeling anxious, I would like to share a few tips on how to approach situations that might feel uncomfortable. For example, when you have to go to the supermarket, pay attention to eye contact and a friendly smile. This can open up opportunities to start a conversation. Similarly, when you're on the bus, a friendly nod and a smile can make a difference. Don't be afraid to introduce yourself and share your name and where you're from. Listen to their responses, and if they seem open to further interaction, you can ask a few follow-up questions.

Conclusion

Remember, it's okay to feel the way you do, and seeking help or talking to someone about your feelings can be very beneficial. You're not alone in this journey, and many others are likely feeling similar anxieties. By taking small steps and actively engaging in your college community, you can navigate these transitions with confidence and success.