4 tips for adjusting to your first year at 91ý
Starting at CU means new classes, new routines and a lot of firsts. Some parts may feel exciting, while others feel uncomfortable or harder than expected.
That’s all part of the transition. These tips can help you navigate the change and give yourself some grace along the way.
1. Growing into your independence
Living on your own and making more of your own decisions can be exciting, and it can take some getting used to. Some people settle in quickly while others need more time. Both experiences are completely normal.
College is often where students first:
Manage their own schedules
Make medical appointments
Do laundry and grocery shopping
Keep track of money and deadlines
No one is born knowing how to do all of this. These are skills that take practice, which can begin even before you get to college.
The next few months might be the best time for that practice to begin. If there is something you aren’t sure of, try starting it now, perhaps with support from friends or family. It might help your transition this fall.
Once you’re here at CU, if things feel messy or you’re second‑guessing yourself, pause and ask: “What support would actually help right now?” Reaching out—to a friend, family member, residential student leader or campus resource—is a strength, not a failure.
Support options on campus, like Peer Wellness Coaching, can help when things feel overwhelming or unfamiliar.
2. Navigating social life (and parties)
College social life can look different from what you expected. Students connect and make friends through many paths on campus. Some ideas include:
You may also be around alcohol or other substances, and it’s easy to assume “everyone does this.” In reality, students make a wide range of choices at CU.
Whether you drink, use substances or don’t at all:
Your choices should match your values and comfort level
You don’t owe anyone an explanation
You can still go out, or opt out, and have a good time
If you choose to use substances, be sure to check out these tips for navigating parties safely. Whatever your plans look like, having a ride home is part of taking care of yourself. CU NightRide is available at night and is a free, safe way for students to get around, especially if it’s late or you don’t want to walk.
If you’re looking for substance‑free connection, check out student events on campus. If you are in recovery or seeking support of others who are committed to a substance-free life, CU’s Collegiate Recovery Community offers supportive, social spaces.
3. Making the most of your time
One perk of college is more flexibility in your day. Some students find that classes, studying, work, social plans and student org meetings can pile up quickly—making time seem to disappear. Others aren’t quite sure how to structure so much of their time.
A few things that can help:
Be realistic about how much you can take on
Build in buffer time for assignments
Schedule downtime on purpose
Let go of guilt around rest
Taking care of yourself isn’t something you earn—it’s something you need. Try blocking time for enjoyment, movement or simply doing nothing.
If you want help building a schedule or finding balance, peer wellness coaches can help you think through time management, routines and campus opportunities.
4. Resetting expectations
College classes may feel easier, more difficult or just different than high school—and it’s rarely the same for everyone. Comparing yourself to others (or to an imagined “perfect” version of yourself) can make transition stress hit harder.
When things feel challenging:
Practice talking to yourself like you would a good friend
Notice progress, not just outcomes
Celebrate small wins, like submitting a tough assignment or speaking up in class
Ask for help or a listening ear from someone you trust, including family, friends or a mentor in your life.
And remember that academic support is available if you need extra help, like ASAP Tutoring.
College is also a time to explore. It’s okay if your goals shift, your interests change or your path looks different than you expected. Staying flexible can open doors you didn’t even know to look for.
Adjusting to college takes time. There’s no “right” timeline and no single college experience everyone shares. What matters most is knowing that support is here, and that asking for help is part of success, not a sign you’re falling behind.