After finishing high school in Neligh, Nebraska, with just 26 classmates, Leonardo Luna-Duran felt nervous about starting at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln (UNL). He wondered how different this big school would be from his small-town life. To his surprise, it wasn’t as daunting as he thought.
“It was a huge shock, but not in the way I expected,” Luna-Duran shared. “At first, UNL looked enormous. Once I settled in and got involved, it felt like a close-knit community.”
Seeing familiar faces and knowing his way around campus helped Luna-Duran adjust smoothly to life as a Husker. His experience during New Student Enrollment (NSE) played a big role in this transition; it inspired him to become an orientation leader himself.
“Watching energetic leaders on my orientation day made me feel at ease,” he recalled. “They shared how campus resources and activities improved their experiences. I wanted to do the same for others, especially those from small towns like mine.”
Getting involved in student organizations is a great way to make a large campus feel smaller. “My first few months were tough, but joining groups helped me meet incredible friends,” he admitted. “Trying new activities made me feel like this is a place I could call home.”
Luna-Duran emphasizes that asking questions during orientation is essential. “Leaders are here to assist you. If we miss something, just speak up,” he said. “This university is for everyone, and finding what you need to feel at home is closer than you think.”
### Expert Insight
New students often face challenges when transitioning from high school to college. A recent survey from the National Student Clearinghouse showed that nearly 30% of first-year students reported feeling overwhelmed. Engaging in campus activities is a proven way to combat these feelings and build connections.
### Why It Matters
Getting involved in campus life leads to better retention rates and improved student satisfaction. As noted by education experts, making friends and networking helps with both academic performance and personal well-being.
For students, embracing the unknown and stepping outside your comfort zone can lead to a fulfilling college experience. Whether you’re from a small town or a big city, take those first steps to make your new environment feel like home.
Source link
