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Tips for coping with change

A girl sitting by some moving boxes

Whether it’s moving away from home, living with a new roommate or attending their first college class, many students will be going through changes over the next few months. While change may not greatly affect some students, others may find it more difficult.

It’s common to struggle with managing multiple changes at once. And everyone is different when it comes to adjusting to change, especially in a new environment. Here are some tips to support your student as they transition to life at CU Boulder.

Listen and ask questions

Whether your student is excited or nervous about going to college, it can be helpful to have a space where they can share how they are feeling. Ask open-ended questions to give your student an opportunity to talk things out. Validate their feelings if they are feeling apprehensive. Let them know that everyone manages change differently and it’s common to worry about what the future brings. However, stretching the boundaries of our comfort zone is how we grow.

Establish routines

Finding consistency in our day can help manage change. Routines can create a sense of familiarity in new situations and environments. Encourage your student to consider what their daily routine will look like when they get to campus. Once they have a sense of their class schedule, they can think about how early to get up for the day, when to eat lunch and when to study. If they’re more mentally sharp at a certain point in the day (early mornings or evenings), they could plan their study sessions around that time.

Your student could start establishing some small routines now, like going to bed at the same time each night. Once they arrive, they can explore campus to find a favorite spot to relax between classes or set up a weekly coffee date with a friend.  

Prioritize physical, emotional health

Maintaining our well-being can help the mind and body feel more regulated through times of change. Talk with your student about the importance of finding balance and taking care of their health when they get to campus. This can include:

  • Getting a consistent amount of sleep (7–9 hours per night for college-aged students)
  • Eating regular, balanced meals
  • Staying active
  • Finding time to relax
  • Connecting with friends and family

Finding community

Having people we can talk to helps during times of transition. Getting involved can lead to new connections with other Buffs who have similar interests, giving your student a sense of community on campus. Encourage your student to find ways to get involved during the first weeks of the semester. Here are just a few ways they can get started:

Getting used to changes in our lives can take time, and everyone’s timeline looks different. Finding ways to cope with change can help build resilience and prepare your student for other life transitions.