10 Simple Tips for Thriving in College as an Introvert

College is a time for students to explore new interests, grow as individuals, and develop friendships. However, the transition period from high school to college can be uncomfortable for introverts. They might struggle with the extra responsibilities of being on their own in a new environment. Truthfully, college can be stressful for any student, whether you’re an introvert or extrovert.

Introverts tend to internalize their feelings more than extroverts do and, therefore, may find themselves feeling drained by certain situations more quickly than their extroverted counterparts.

As a new college student, there are many things that can cause stress: new people and classes, social interactions with peers, new responsibilities, and so much more. Fortunately, there are some helpful tips that can help introverts thrive in college.

Give Yourself Time To Adjust

College is an exciting time in your life, but it can also be a challenging one. You might find yourself overwhelmed by the newness of it all, especially if you’re used to being more solitary or reserved.

The good news is that this feeling will fade as you get used to life on campus and make friends with other students. It may take some time for your brain and body to adapt to the hustle and bustle of college life.

Give yourself some space until you are able to acclimate and don't feel guilty about taking a break if it's necessary.

Don’t Compare Yourself To Others

Many introverts feel that they are missing out because they do not typically have as much going on as their extroverted peers do.

Try not to compare yourself too much with other people and remember that everyone has their own pace when adjusting to college life.

Don’t Overcrowd Your Schedule

Make sure to give yourself time for relaxation and friends on a regular basis so that you aren't always busy with classes, work, and extracurricular activities.

You should also consider whether or not all of your classes are necessary. It's okay to take some lighter ones if they're more suited to your interests.

One of the most exciting aspects of college is the ability to pick and choose your classes based on your major and tailor your education to your liking.

Find Out About On-Campus Resources

College campuses offer many resources designed specifically for students dealing with struggles related to life changes or moving.

These types of issues may seem minor at first glance but can take over one's life quickly without proper intervention from mental health professionals trained specifically in treating these kinds of problems.

On campus resources can act as a listening ear when you need to vent or rely on someone unbiased.

Take Time For Yourself

It is important to set aside time out of your day, even if it’s just a few minutes, and recharge. This may mean taking breaks from studying or choosing to study in a different place than normal. It may also mean going on walks around campus or eating lunch outside instead of staying indoors all day long.

Find ways that help you relax and recharge during your day as an introvert– these will help you stay productive while maintaining your energy levels throughout the semester.

If you feel like you’re getting overwhelmed or are struggling with keeping up with everything you need to do in a week, don’t be afraid to say no when someone asks you to do something outside of your schedule.

It can be incredibly helpful to make a list of things that need to get done and prioritize them based on what is most important at the moment. This will help keep your schedule under control and allow for more peace in your life during stressful times.

Find a Quiet Study Spot

Once you've found a quiet study spot, it's time to set up shop. Make sure you have everything you need within reach: books, notes, writing utensils, and snacks. If the space is too small or distracting, it's best to find a new spot.

When choosing a place to study, remember that loud places are overwhelming for sensitive ears and minds and can distract you.

Having the right tools to help you with your studying can be beneficial as well. Using an organizer that travels to new study spots easily is a great way to remain on top of your new class work.

Find a Mentor or Tutor with Whom You Can Connect

If you're an introvert and have a hard time making friends, it can be helpful to find a mentor or tutor with whom you can connect.

A good mentor will provide advice and guidance as well as emotional support. Mentors can also be helpful in helping you navigate college life and even help get involved in extracurricular activities or clubs that interest them. The benefits of having a mentor are truly endless.

Set Your Own Boundaries and Stick to Them

You might find yourself being tempted to say yes to everything: study groups, extracurriculars, and social events. This is great if you truly want to take part in them, but you also need to become comfortable with saying no. Don't feel guilty about it—your health and well-being should always come first.

If you're given a choice between two things that are equally appealing, opt for whichever one will help you do better in your classes. While extracurricular activities can be fun and beneficial for your future career prospects, they should never get in the way of your academics.

Make Time For Friends But Don't Overbook Yourself

When you’re an introvert, you may feel the pressure to be sociable and outgoing, but it doesn’t mean that you have to attend every party or social event that comes your way.

It's okay if you want some quiet time alone. Just make sure not all of your time is spent alone. It's healthy and beneficial for your mental health to make time for friends as well.

Make sure there's always room in your schedule for alone time and focus on friends who understand what it is actually like to be an introvert.

Remember That This Is A Growth Opportunity

College is an exciting time in your life. It's a chance to learn and grow as a person, and there are many rewarding experiences waiting for you. You may be nervous about going to college, especially if it's your very first time away from home. But remember that there are countless things to look forward to.

College is a time of learning, growth, and self-discovery. It can be stressful, but you have to remember that the experience is going to challenge you in a way that helps you evolve.

Take time for yourself, find a quiet place to study or read your favorite book, and find people who share similar interests with you. With these tips in mind, you can be better equipped to thrive as an introverted student.