Welcome to the Hill!

Photo by Fifty Grande

Take a deep breath. It’s going to be okay.

Hi friend! Welcome to this new adventure we call adulthood! I am so proud of you for getting out of your comfort zone and stepping into a new place for this next exciting phase of life. My name is Hannah, and I am now a junior at the University of Arkansas. My friends and roommates call me the “Big Sister” of college because I absolutely love to help and encourage others to feel like they can do ANYTHING they might feel is impossible or scary at the moment. College is a huge transition, and I know firsthand how overwhelming it can feel. That’s exactly why I’m SO passionate about helping new students (like YOU) feel confident as they step into this new season of life.

When I started college, I had a mix of excitement and uncertainty. I had a plan, but I still had to figure out how to make this place feel like home. Over time, I learned that the key to thriving in college has nothing to do with having the perfect dorm room and a full friend group day one—it’s about showing up, making small choices to push yourself, and giving yourself grace along the way.

So, if you’re feeling lost or like the life you want is forever away, take a deep breath. You’re not alone, and it will be okay. Here are three things I wish I had known when I first started:

1. Talk to the People in Your Classes

You’re going to spend a lot of time sitting next to the same people every week—why not start a conversation? Whether it's asking about the homework, forming a study group, or just making small talk before class starts, these little interactions can lead to friendships, networking connections, or just a familiar face on campus that makes everything feel less overwhelming.

2. Get Out of Your Dorm Room at Least Three Nights a Week

For the first two months, make it a goal to leave your room three nights a week—even if you don’t know exactly what you’re going to do or who you’re going with. I know it sounds like a lot, but the only way to make a new place feel like home is to get out and get comfortable with it! Go to an on campus event, a study session at the library, a club meeting, or just walk around with a coffee. The key is to get out, because that’s how you meet people and start to feel more connected. It will feel awkward at times, but pushing past that awkwardness is what helps you grow!

3. Give Yourself Grace—Everyone is in the Same Boat

It’s easy to feel like you’re the only one struggling to find your place, but trust me—everyone is figuring it out as they go. No one has it all together, even if it looks that way on social media. Some days will be amazing, and others will be tough. That’s normal. That’s life. Give yourself grace, take things one step at a time, and remember that you are not behind.

No matter how you’re feeling right now, know that you are exactly where you’re supposed to be! The friendships, the confidence, and the memories you’re hoping for will come. It just takes time. In the meantime, keep showing up for yourself—you’ve got this!

Sending love from the Hill,

Hannah:)