Hi Larry,
Whenever I try to make new friends and talk to people, I always end up stumbling over my words. Our conversations also never go deeper than small talk, and they soon become awkward. How do you make friends?
Awkwardly,
Word Stumbler
—
Dear Word Stumbler,
Making friends is stressful, especially when you are in a new environment. A tip is to identify shared interests, as this will naturally drive the conversation forward. Another thing is not to be afraid and be open to new experiences! Remind yourself that the person you’re talking to is probably feeling the same kind of anxiety.
Best of Luck,
Larry
—
Hey Larry,
Last year, I was extremely stressed at the beginning of the year because I wasn’t accustomed to Concord Academy’s academic workload after summer break. I’m so afraid I’m going to be burnt out again this year. What do I do??
Best,
Chronic Stresser
—
Hello Chronic Stresser,
It’s difficult to get back in the rhythm after being gone from school for so long, but you’ve already done this multiple times before; it’s not impossible. I would recommend creating an organized schedule and trying to follow it for the first two weeks. After those initial weeks, it will be easier to establish the pace for the rest of the school year. Don't worry, you've got this!
Lots of Love,
Larry
—-
Dear Larry,
I feel like I’m going to miss my family so much. It’s my first time being away from home for longer than two weeks… how am I supposed to survive a whole year without them?? Do you have any tips on curing homesickness?
Sincerely,
Scared New Boarding Student
—-
Hi Scared New Boarding Student,
I understand your fear, as anyone would be a little intimidated to be in a foreign place, moreover, a high school, alone… but that’s the thing: you’re not alone. CA will welcome you with open arms, and you will soon be surrounded by new friends, house faculty, and everyone in the community. Hopefully, all this support will help the transition be smoother! Though that feeling of missing home never really goes away, CA will try its best to become a second home to you. You got this!
Warmly,
Larry