By Lauren Foisy
Whether you’re heading from middle school to high school or from high school to college, transitions can feel exciting, overwhelming, and a little uncertain.
The good news? Almost everyone feels that way.
When I first arrived at college, it felt like a brand-new chapter. There was more freedom, less structure, and lots of choices. I quickly learned that getting involved helped make a big campus feel much smaller.
My advice is simple: be open to trying new things. Attend club fairs, explore activities, and don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone.
If you’re heading to college, consider joining two groups: one connected to your future career goals and one that is purely for fun. This balance can help you build friendships, manage stress and create a sense of belonging.
As a Resident Assistant (RA), I helped students connect with resources, make friends, and navigate campus life. One thing I noticed was that students who found their place—whether through a club, sport, volunteer opportunity, or organization—often adjusted more successfully to the transition.
Another lesson I wish I had known earlier is the power of kindness. Simple acts of kindness can improve well-being during major life transitions. Something as small as sharing notes, holding a door, inviting someone to join your lunch table, or simply listening to a friend can make a difference for both of you.
The best part of being an RA was seeing students from different backgrounds come together to support one another and build an on-campus community. The strongest communities weren’t built on popularity but on making sure everyone felt welcome.
No matter where you’re headed next, remember this: transitions are temporary, but the habits you build and the connections you make can last a lifetime.
Be curious. Be involved. Be kind.
Click the link to listen to our related podcast episode:
Moving Up: Completing the School Transition
Lauren Foisy
Lauren’s prevention work began when she joined her local CTC coalition as a youth member in 2007. She continued to serve as a strong youth voice in community prevention efforts and advocacy on local, state and national platforms.
In 2015, she was honored with the Outstanding Youth Leader Award and was selected as a keynote speaker at the annual Drug-Free Kids Campaign Awards Dinner. She has also partnered with NIDA’s Teen Resource Group and served as a Collegiate Board Member for the statewide prevention coalition during her time at Penn State University.
While attending Penn State, Lauren served as a Resident Assistant (RA) for two years and as a Teaching Assistant (TA), further developing her leadership, mentoring and educational experience. She continued providing prevention education programs in community and school settings before joining the Bucks County Drug & Alcohol Commission, Inc. as a Prevention Coordinator.
In her current position, Lauren works to provide resources, prevention education, and community awareness regarding alcohol and other drug use disorders. Her career reflects a longstanding commitment to empowering young people, strengthening communities and ensuring that youth voices are an integral part of prevention efforts.