GeneralHealth Info

College Relationships - Staying Connected while at College

As women, we rely on healthy connections (relationships) to grow. Especially when starting a new school, you are often geographically separated from your supports, which are your (extended) family and friends. This is especially difficult during "the gap" when it's too early for new relationships to be developed. This along with academic pressures, and the competitive nature of college environments, can leave young women feeling alone.

Myth: I should be able to handle things on my own. I'm in college now.

Contemporary researchers at the Wellesley Center for Research of Women explain that traditional literature describes the primary task of moving from adolescence to adulthood, is to become autonomous, to break off family ties, and to individuate and separate. Their research validates many others' to explain that this does not fit young women's mode of growth. They say that for young women to enhance her sense of self as competent, able and empowered toward the fullest utilization of her abilities…that she must be connected to (not separated from) healthy relationships.

How do I find good friends at college?

Finding good friends takes time. Rushing off to quick invitations to parties isn't always the best way to meet good friends. Try to be patient, and keep your eye open to meet others that you share things in common. (There are many young women out there looking for what you're looking for.) Here are some tips: