First Week blues? From Doubt to Belonging. Here's how.

Starting university is often painted as an exciting new chapter, filled with opportunities to grow, learn, and make lifelong friends. But if you feel unsure, out of place, or overwhelmed, you’re not alone. For many, those initial days bring a mix of imposter syndrome and the struggle to form connections—and that’s completely okay.

The Quiet Voice of Doubt

Imposter syndrome is the constant thought that screams, “You don’t belong here,” or “Everyone else has it all figured out.” You might glance around and think others look more confident, smarter, or better prepared. What’s important to remember is that these feelings are not a reflection of your abilities but a natural reaction to being in an unfamiliar environment. Almost everyone experiences this at some point; they don’t discuss it openly. Everyone may be going through the same thing.

Instead of trying to silence that voice immediately, acknowledge it. Would you tell a friend that they don’t belong if they were in your position? Hopefully not. Take the time and be kind to yourself.

Navigating New Friendships

Making friends in the early days of university can feel awkward and intimidating. Small talk feels repetitive, and you might worry about “bothering” people. But connection takes time, and every solid friendship starts with small steps.

1. Be Open to New Experiences: Attend events, join clubs, and explore activities that interest you. You may end up finding people just like you.

2. Celebrate Small Wins: Whether it’s exchanging numbers, grabbing coffee, or sharing a laugh, every little moment adds up.

3. Leave the room: Walk around the campus, and smile at people, what's the worst that can happen? Because when everyone is somewhere new, it's easier to connect.

It’s Okay to Feel Alone—For Now

Loneliness in the first weeks doesn’t mean you’re destined to be alone. Friendships—the deep, meaningful kind—take time. It’s perfectly fine to enjoy your own company while you’re figuring things out. A normal university experience is switching friends before you find your people, so don't rush it.

What to do?

Th only way to forge friendships is to step outside your comfort zone, as hard as it may be. Even if things don’t go perfectly, you’re still learning and adapting, give yourself that space.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to ask for help—it’s completely okay. Universities offer resources to support you, from academic advisors to student organizations. At Krea, we’ve even partnered with an online counselling firm to ensure you have access to the help you need. Reach out to your seniors; they’ve been in your shoes and can share what they did in similar situations. Plus, those conversations can lead to meaningful connections that might last a lifetime.

At the end of the day, remember this: you’re not alone. Everyone is figuring things out, even if it doesn’t look like it. The journey is unique to each person, and there’s no “right” way to navigate it. Take things at your own pace.