December 3, 2024

Starting college is like stepping into a new world. Everything familiar is suddenly far away, and you’re surrounded by new people, new ideas, and unexpected freedoms. The transition often brings unique challenges, like facing peer pressure, finding a sense of belonging, and managing personal values amid all the newness. It’s easy to feel pulled in different directions, especially if your sense of identity was rooted in high school sports, academics, or friendships that don’t carry over to college life.

One way to stay grounded is by establishing non-negotiables for yourself before you even get to campus. These might include prioritizing