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Hello all- I'm here from the PR discussion board because I felt this would be a more appropriate place to ask this question. I was offered January admission to one of my top choice schools, Scripps College in Claremont, CA. Since I didn't like the school I'd be going to otherwise, I took the offer, and I'm generally very excited to be attending. I will be taking courses locally this fall so I can graduate in four years.

However, the thought of entering such a small school mid-year is scaring me a bit (there will be 5-10 freshmen entering mid-year and a few transfers- it's definitely a small number of us, total!). I've always had a difficult time making friends (mostly due to shyness), and I'm concerned this will make things hard for me because all the fall freshmen will have their own friends. I'm also worried that missing out on part of my freshman year will somehow hurt my college experience as a whole.

Then there is the issue of being at home for a bit longer than I expected. Everyone I know will be away at college, and I'm afraid I'll be terribly lonely. Additionally, relations with my parents have gotton a bit tense recently, and I'm not sure if we're all going to last together until January.

Well, thanks to any of you who can give me tips for some of my concerns! (Whether you've been there, done that or not) Also, if you can give me any other information or "special needs" I will have as a student entering in January, I'd appreciate it.

By Dadster on Monday, July 29, 2002 - 08:16 pm: Edit

I think in January people are still making friends. They will all have been away from school for a while, and I really wouldn't anticipate a problem when you show up along with the returnees.

As far as surviving until January, most of your friends will be around for much of the vacation time. I take it your new school has a later start than most. Just make the best of it, and busy yourself with preparations. If you have a roommate at the new school, get in contact over the holiday by e-mail or phone.

One advantage you'll have is that many of your friends will know the ropes, and can be good sources of advice on where stuff is, how to handle a schedule change, etc. Good luck!

By BBB on Saturday, August 03, 2002 - 09:55 am: Edit

Before you get there, Scripps, check out the clubs/ECs that might interest you. If you find something interesting, either get info from them before you get there, or show up as soon as you arrive on campus. In the fall, clubs often have display tables at a campus event to expose new students to what they have to offer; in January, you are probably on your own. This would be a great way to meet people with a common interest and to make new friends quickly.