Term resumes on the 10th of January at asphaleia training and our Student Ambassador has written a helpful post about how to be prepared for when you start your program at asphaleia. So, if you're a new student (we look forward to seeing you soon) this post is for you!
1. Make sure you have what you need
Making sure that you have all of the essentials ready for college before you start is necessary. It will help you feel more organised and less anxious when the morning of your first day comes.
Here are most of the essentials you'll need for college:
Notepads - If you're studying all three subjects, English, Employability and Maths, you may want a notepad for each subject.
Pens - Biros, colouring pencils/pen, pencil, eraser, highlighter, ruler. Don’t worry if you forget anything, asphaleia will provide pen and paper if need be.
Folder (optional) - Students are given a folder to keep all of their work in. You could buy your own if you wanted to, but your folder will stay at
asphaleia.
Bag/Backpack - To keep all of your belongings in.
2. Ask your project worker for more information about your group
Knowing more about your group, such as how many people will be in your group, what their first names might be, and if they’re just as anxious as you are, might help you to feel more relaxed when it comes to meeting them.
The first day of school, college or even a job is always daunting, but the more information you have, the better you may feel.
3. Plan your morning routine
Waking up and keeping organised is a great way to start your day on a positive note. Having a well thought out routine will help your first day go smoother. For me personally, a morning routine is paramount.
Here is an example of my morning routine:
Get up (out of bed) at the same time every day.
Make my bed and tidy my room.
Brush my teeth.
Have a shower/bath.
Get dressed and ready for the day.
Remember - It does not matter if your routine doesn't go to plan everyday, if it's not always in the ‘right’ order or if you simply do not want to do it one day.
It is worth planning your own to see if it helps. Make sure it's suited to your needs and wants, there is no need to over complicate it. Keep it easy and simple.
4. Plan your day
Once you have planned your morning you could then plan your day. Knowing how you will get to and from college is important, as is knowing what time you leave and what time you get picked up. If you need to make yourself lunch or take lunch money, make sure you plan ahead rather than last minute.
Having a plan for the day can help ease your anxiety, but remember even if your day doesn't go to plan, don't panic! It happens, but rather than panicking just try to relax and come up with a new plan.
5. Try not to worry, distract yourself and keep busy!
The phrase ‘Try not to worry’ is very much easier said than done, but a great way to worry less is to distract yourself. Have you got any hobbies? Is there something new you would like to try?
Here are some ideas to help you distract yourself and keep busy:
Colouring (my personal favourite)
Listen to music
Drawing
Cooking
Tidying (sounds boring BUT it can be very therapeutic)
Playing video games
Long walks
Sports activity
Reading
asphaleia is a calm, friendly and welcoming environment. We all support each other and we are always here to listen.
Written by,
The 2020-2021 Student ambassador