The transition from high school to the first year of college can be a fun, but overwhelming experience. For many students, this is the first time they’ve set their own schedule, prepared their own meals, and had full autonomy over their social lives. And while this can be an incredibly exciting time, it can also be challenging without proper boundaries. Boundaries help us stabilize our lives. They identify what is safe and what is not safe for us to be successful in whatever we are trying to achieve. “A boundary is like a fence around a yard, it keeps things we do not want out, and keeps us safe inside,” says Rachel Bailey, Team Leader at Centerstone. Not everyone is raised in a family system that supports boundaries, so the process of identifying and setting them can be new to some college students.

An important first step for students is to identify what their goals are. Is it to reach a certain grade point average (GPA)? Get involved with an on-campus recreational sports team? Make new friends? Once goals have been determined, it’s easier to work backwards. For example, if the goal is to obtain a certain GPA, students may need to set a boundary for how often they go out and socialize versus how much time is spent studying.

When it comes to recognizing their limits (i.e. healthy diet, study habits, sleep habits, socializing, class load, etc.), many students will have to learn through experience. They may enter their first year of college determined to only study on weekdays or to get eat their favorite dining hall cheeseburger every day just because they can. However, they may find that this system isn’t actually sustainable for them to reach their goals.

Bailey suggests that students write out their schedule and determine where their breaks are during the day and develop a routine that makes the most sense for their schedule. “It is easy to overcommit when you are starting out,” Bailey adds. “Try your best to schedule time for all of your activities including exercise, rest, time with friends, studying, and self-care.” Additionally, it is crucial for first year students to remember that their boundaries can, and likely will, change. Knowing when to set and change them may require some trial and error.

As they arrive to campus, it’s recommended that students learn where the counseling center and health centers are located should they need them. One of the most common mental health issues first-time college students experience is adjustment disorder which occurs when a person has difficulty adjusting to a stressful life event or change. They may also find it helpful to lean on their academic advisor to help them as they navigate their class load and schedule. This may mean dropping or adding certain classes, or taking advantage of any tutoring services the school may offer.

Overall, it is important for first time college students to know that any anxiety, overwhelm, or nerves they are experiencing are completely normal! Starting college is a major adjustment and finding the right balance can take time.

If you or someone you know needs help setting healthy boundaries or could benefit from additional support during the transition to college, Centerstone’s compassionate providers can help you set limits and establish skills for a strong start in this new life chapter.