Hey there, I’m a first yr student in Scarborough. Basically i took an year off before starting at UofT that left me fearful of meeting people, going outside and well, depressed. i’ve been using the counselling services and doing everything else to get better since September, and I guess I’m still in the process of recovering..but I’m better than i was in the summer.
I seriously feel like dropping out of school, and going some place else, to forget about my situation. I’m not depressed anymore, atleast not as i used to be, and I have friends that I bump into on campus or meet up with once in a blue moon, since they’re working or turn their phones off. Anyway, Im seriously letting this whole thing affect my academics; UTSC is a small campus, and there’s a 110% chance that you can bump into someone from high school–and THAT IS THE WORST
OF ALL COMPLEX SOCIAL SITUATIONS KNOWN TO A FIRST YEAR!! Its like this awkward moment when you see them, but you don’t know if you should ignore them or keep walking, and if you ignore them, I have this guilty conscience that makes me feel terrible for the rest of the day. Worst of all, next time i see them, i end up saying hi to them which would then later get me thinking about what they feel about me.
Ive considered switching to St. George, but it is almost a 2hr trip to the campus since I live beside the Toronto Zoo. I seriously don’t know what to do…or maybe I’m just writing this cuz I didn’t get enough sleep last nite…hoping to get something back.
Thanks,
MYO
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Hey hey MYO,
I completely understand where you’re coming from. The transition from highschool to university might be one of the most challenging experiences for some. You come from a school were you know where you fit in and have your specific group of friends, to a place that is completely foreign to you.
I know this is hard to do, but try not to over think things too much. The person who you are unsure of whether or not to say hi to is in the same position as you.
If you decide not to stop and say hi, don’t worry about it! It’s not going to worry them all day, so don’t let it ruin your day.
You seem like a genuine person, so the odds are if you do stop and say hi, they will only think good things when you walk away.
University is both a terrifying time but a great one for self growth. As an upper year student, I have seen that transition in myself and in others. You might meet knew friends, and keep some old. It’s different for each person. I know right now you aren’t feeling the best about the school you’re at, but you will find your place. I promise.
Don’t be afraid to meet new people and try new things. I’m not going to lie, you are going to try something and never want to do it again or meet someone who’s not the best for you to be friends with.
I know this is very general advice. But I have felt alot of the same things as you and have finally found out where I fit in and what my strenghths are as and individual. So I have no doubt taht you will either
Here’s the deal, write back if you are feeling unsure and I’ll try to help you the best I can or at least send you to a resource that can help.
Yours Truly,
Aska