Starting a New Chapter

Written by Cassie Licari & Dominique Houle on 26/08/10

Moving away or changing schools can be difficult. You may be leaving behind a town that you love and friends that you have known all your life, and it can be scary. Sometimes it helps not to think of it as something that is ending, but as a fresh beginning. You’re starting a brand new chapter in your life and this can sometimes be quite exciting! I still remember when I moved and had to change schools when I was 12 years old. I was really upset to be leaving my friends that I had grown up with and the home that I had lived in almost my whole life until that point. But when I got used to my new school and community, I realized that it wasn’t as bad as I thought, and I eventually developed a lot of great friendships; some of which I still have today. Regardless of your situation and how you feel about it, here is some helpful information that might make the transition a little easier.

Changing Schools & Moving Away

Changing schools or moving away for university or college can be pretty overwhelming, and can be filled with mixed emotions. You may feel scared, nervous and anxious because you don’t know what to expect, and this is okay. You can check out this website for ways to overcome your nervousness and stress of this new situation.

If you decide to move away to attend university or college in another city, it can be a big adjustment too (as it may be your first time moving away from home on your own). However, it can be something to look forward to, because you will be able to meet new people and become more independent. It can also be intimidating at times, and you may feel homesick – this is quite normal. To conquer this, it may help to stay in touch with family and friends from back home; calling once in awhile, emailing and/or using Skype or instant messaging can be a great way to stay in the loop and keep a connection with your home life (TeensHealth).

A great way to make the switch into a new school environment a little smoother is to get involved in your community by doing things such as joining a youth group, volunteering, or even attending local events. Not only will it be an enjoyable distraction, but it can be a great way to make new friends! Extracurricular activities like joining a sports team or club at school is also another awesome idea.

Take a look at this website for more information on how to deal with starting at a new school, as well as how to deal with cliques and other cool tips that will help you adjust!

Staying Safe and Healthy While Away at University/College…

Here are some safety tips provided by the University of Toronto that you can keep in mind while on campus:

Be aware of what is going on around you. If you think you’re being followed, show it! Look behind you, cross the street, change direction and keep changing how fast you’re walking.
Follow your instincts. If your gut tells you you’re in danger, leave quickly. Call campus security, the police or use emergency phones to get help.
Stay in well-lit areas at night. Try to take routes that are used by other people and carry emergency cab fare.
Don’t get into an elevator with someone who makes you uncomfortable. But if you do, get off before the door closes or at the next floor.
Don’t provide personal information to others, especially on online communities such as Facebook. Use the privacy settings to limit who sees your profile.
Refuse entry to your building or residence to unknown people. If they persist, direct them to someone in charge.
Use the buddy system. Let someone know where you are and when you expect to be home if you’re out late at night or stay with someone you know.

For more safety information or if you ever have an emergency (for example, a stranger in your dorm or if you become a victim of sexual harassment), contact your school’s safety office or campus police. If necessary, they will contact your local police service. If you are in a situation where you feel your safety or the safety of others is in danger, call 9-1-1 immediately. Your university/college will also having counseling and psychological services available. If you ever need to talk to someone while away from home, they can help.

Links

TeensHealth
TeensHealth: What does it mean to be a friend?
Canadian Mental Health Association
Association of Universities and Colleges of Canada: List of Universities
Association of Canadian Community Colleges: List of Colleges