Staying Connected to Your Campus Community

When you move off campus, the center of your daily life shifts. You may find yourself drifting away from activities and social events you used to enjoy just because it’s more work to get there. If (when) you oversleep, it can be tempting to skip class.

Before you know it, you feel a little cut off — maybe even lonely.

Since you’re 100% committed to getting your degree, it’s worth making the effort to stay invested in the full college experience. Here’s how to make that happen:

Get yourself to campus every day — and stick around.

Carpool, walk or bike with a buddy to help each other stay motivated. Make an inclement weather plan so rain and snow don’t catch you off guard. Study on campus. Work out at the campus rec center. Keep a partial meal plan. (Unless your place is super close, going home for lunch may make it too easy to blow off an afternoon class.)

Maintain social connections.

Continue your involvement with student clubs and teams. Take on a leadership role so you really feel committed. Attend campus sports events, theatre and musical productions, improv nights and guest lectures. When you bump into an old freshman year hallmate, invite them to grab a meal or coffee. Keep those friendships going!

Keep your eyes on the academic prize.

Keep using a planner. Factor in time spent commuting and on chores related to off-campus life (yardwork, cleaning, food shopping). Go to every class. No excuses! Meet regularly with your advisor to stay on track for an on-time graduation. Attend office hours and look into working with one of your professors as a teaching or research assistant.