New College, new people, new routines… it’s a lot of new all at once.
Whether you're feeling excited, nervous or a bit of both, starting College can come with plenty of questions. What if I don't know anyone? What if I get lost? What if I don't understand the work? What if I don't know what I'm supposed to be doing?
If any of these thoughts have crossed your mind, you're definitely not alone.
We've put together some of the most common worries new students have when starting at MidKent College, along with a little reassurance to help you feel more prepared for those first few days.
1. “What if I don’t know anyone?”
This is one of the biggest worries for new students. You might know other students from school, or you might not know anyone at all. Either way, it’s completely normal to feel a little nervous about meeting new people. You really don't need to arrive with a ready-made friendship group as you’ll be meeting new people on your course, and most other students will be in exactly the same position as you.
You don't have to make your new best friend on the first day. Give it time and let friendships happen naturally.
2. “What if I get lost?”
Our campuses can feel big and unfamiliar when you're seeing them for the first time. You might know exactly where you're going at school, but suddenly you're trying to find a room you've never heard of before!
Don't panic if you take a wrong turn. Check your timetable, look out for signs and, if you're still unsure, ask a member of staff. That's what they're there for.
You’ll be surprised by how quickly you learn your way around.
3. “What if I don’t understand the work?”
Moving on to a new level of study can feel like a big step, and you might worry that everyone else will understand things quicker than you.
Remember that you're at College to learn. You're not expected to know everything already.
If you don't understand something, ask your tutor or lecturer. Asking questions isn't a sign that you're struggling, it shows that you’re engaged and it's part of learning.
You'll also have access to support throughout your time at College, so if you really are struggling, please talk to us!
4. “What if I do something wrong?”
What if you're late? What if you go to the wrong classroom? What if you forget something? What if you don't know what you're supposed to be doing?
Take a breath.
Nobody expects you to know exactly how everything works during your first weeks at College. You'll be learning a new routine, getting used to your timetable and finding your feet.
5. “What if College is really different from school?”
Well it probably will be! But that's part of what makes College exciting.
You'll have more responsibility for managing your time, you'll spend more of your day studying subjects you've chosen and you'll meet people from different schools and backgrounds.
It might take a little while to adjust, but you'll gradually find your own routine. Different doesn't have to mean difficult.
6. “What if I’m nervous?”
You don't have to pretend you're not nervous. Starting something new is a big change, and it's completely normal to feel a little anxious about it. You might be excited one minute and wondering what you've signed up for the next!
Give yourself time to settle in. Your first day might feel strange, and your first week might feel strange too.
That's okay. You don't have to love every part of College immediately. Getting comfortable takes time.
7. What if I change my mind about my course?”
Starting a new course is a big decision, so it's understandable to wonder whether you've made the right choice. Sometimes, once you start learning more about a subject, you might realise you have questions about whether it's the right fit for you.
If you're unsure, don't keep it to yourself. Speak to your tutor or another member of the College team. They can talk things through with you and help you understand your options.
Starting College is a big step, so be patient with yourself.
Plan your journey, give yourself plenty of time, keep your timetable handy and don't be afraid to ask questions. Say hello to someone new and give yourself time to settle into your new routine.
Most importantly, remember that everyone has a first day. Welcome to MidKent College – you've got this!
