After high school graduation, I had to answer this dreaded question a thousand times: “Where are you going to college?” Each time, with pure excitement, I answered, “Ohio University,” and almost nine times out of 10, I was met with the classic “party school” response, followed by a lecture I never asked for. As an introvert, my anxieties about such a reputation gradually increased.
However, as an incoming junior and with half my college career under my belt, I can confidently say I have found my footing here. The intense party-heavy weekends are still nerve-wracking for me every now and then, but I’ve found what works best for me to prepare, participate and still enjoy myself.
Entering a new environment like a college campus is anxiety-inducing enough. The idea of college parties, while exhilarating for some, can often feel intimidating for someone like me. According to the University of Houston Clear Lake, 40% of the college population are self-proclaimed introverts. I remember feeling nervous during Welcome Week of my freshman year, as I tried desperately to fit in. I’m here to tell you that your anxieties are valid, and you are not alone.
I want to provide any incoming freshmen with some advice I would’ve loved to hear during my first time on campus. To those who are ready to hit the ground running during Welcome Week with a four-day bender, all power to you. Here is some advice from what I’m calling “The Introvert’s Guide to a Party School.”
When Welcome Week eventually arrives, everyone raves about the newfound independence that comes with college life. Everyone discovers they have free will and inevitably runs to the nearest frat or hotspot on Court Street. The best part about independence is you don’t have to do any of these things at all if you don’t want to, and I can promise there will be other events near you run by the university that you can attend, and most of the time there is also free stuff. A win-win situation if you ask me.
Fear of missing out, or FOMO, is a common theme for us introverts, and according to Baylor University, 75% of young adults struggle with FOMO. Despite our preferences, sometimes we still feel like we’re missing out. The biggest thing that has helped me is turning off social media notifications. We are in an age where social media is a way of life, but turning off notifications entirely has done wonders for me and makes me forget there are even social media to check.
When you want to join the fun, always go with a group of people you’re most comfortable around. Being around my closest friends has calmed a lot of anxiety whenever I’m in an environment that would normally provoke some unwanted emotions. You can always leave, and you never have to participate in anything you don’t want to. People won’t think differently of you if you need to take a few minutes.
There were times I felt that Athens was not where I belonged, solely because I felt like I didn’t fit the social criteria here. After some time, however, I have found what works best for me and the people who help me feel comfortable here. Now, I sit here at home for the summer wishing I were back on the bricks with my friends.
My last piece of advice is to remember you are surrounded by so many others going through the same transition. Everything will fall into place as you go through this experience, but it’s always nice to have a few pointers before you dive into the deep end.
Abby Jenkins is a junior studying journalism at Ohio University. Please note that the views and opinions of the columnist do not reflect those of The Post. What are your thoughts? Let Abby know by tweeting her @abbyjenks18 or emailing her at aj205621@ohio.edu.
