How to deal with moving schools or universities
Moving to a new school or university usually brings up a number of concerns. Will I fit in? How do I make friends? I’ve had my fair share of this, attending three different high schools and getting ready to start university! Whether it’s high school or college, it’s definitely worth making sure you’re ready for the change. These are my few tips on adjusting and settling in:
Be approachable. Looking friendly and personable is always a key element for making friends. It is more likely someone will talk to you if they think you’re wiling to communicate back. This is also great for making a good first impression. Remember to be polite. Smile at people you see. Avoid pulling a resting bitch face (hehe)!
Accept help! Being new to a school or college means you aren’t going to know everything or everyone. Most people will understand you’re nervous and be willing to help. On my first day of high school in Australia, I was very shy and anxious. I’d been put with a group I didn’t have much in common with and felt really out of place. Luckily for me, a few girls in my class asked if I wanted to sit with them. Since then I’ve become great friends with these girls and without them coming up to me I’d have really struggled to settle.
Be talkative. An easy way to make conversation is by asking questions or sharing a story. Take an active interest in the person you’re with, and actually listen to their answers. Generally you’ll be able to find some common ground and *hopefully* avoid those awkward silences. This also goes for asking for help, don’t be afraid - it can be a good conversation starter!
Be yourself. As cliche as it sounds, it’s a vital part of settling in comfortably. Trying to be something you’re not will just make life harder. Don’t be afraid to share your taste in music, your favourite film or your tastes in fashion. Remember to wear clothes that you’re comfortable in, it will help boost your confidence!
Join in where you can! If your school or college offers a extra-cirrcular activity or runs a society that you find interesting, apply for it! It’s a great way to meet friends with similar interests and gives you an extra hobby. This could also include school or university events!
Be social! I was definitely one to avoid any parties when I first started my new schools because I felt I wasn’t really wanted. However looking back I think going to some of these events would have been a great way to get to know people. It’s extremely likely whoever invites you will be willing to stay with you! It’s a lot more relaxed and a great way to make new friends.
Stay in touch. It sucks to be leaving people behind but it doesn’t mean you have to forget them. Make sure you have a way to contact them. Remind yourself to message them every now and then. For the last 5 years of living in Australia, I’ve kept in contact with one of my best friends from England. Although life can get busy, taking 10 minutes each week to stay in touch has been great. Similarly, just moving locally you can stay in contact. After moving to another high school for HSC, I’ve stayed in touch with most of the people in my group. We organise a get-together every now and then!
Don’t pressure yourself! It doesn’t matter if you haven’t made a group of really good friends in the first week. It takes time to build relationships with people and you can’t expect yourself to have a best friend in a day. Allow yourself the time to get to know people, feel comfortable with them and make those lasting friendships.
I hope this is useful to anyone worried about changing schools or university. Remember to be brave and enjoy yourself. Best of luck if you’re moving! Feel free to drop me a message telling me how it goes! x
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