Thriving in College: How Support Programs and Therapy Dogs Made the Transition Easier

When I first thought about college, it seemed impossible. The idea of keeping up with academics, navigating a new environment, and building a social life felt overwhelming. But a month into my first semester, I’ve realized I can do it. In fact, one of my therapists recently told me that I look like I’m thriving.

The truth is, the first few days were hard. Adjusting to a new routine and being away from what felt familiar wasn’t easy. What made the transition smoother, though, was the summer program I attended at Landmark College in 2024. At first, the program was challenging, but once I pushed myself to step out of my comfort zone and make friends, college began to feel more manageable. That experience gave me the confidence to start this fall on stronger footing.

Now, I’m exploring opportunities to get even more involved on campus. One exciting possibility is an internship where I would help socialize a service dog in training. Landmark also has a therapy dog program, which means there’s a dog on campus nearly every day. These programs aren’t just about companionship—they provide meaningful support for students. For me, the presence of dogs has been especially helpful with emotional regulation, sensory input, and stress management.

Looking back, what once seemed impossible is turning into an experience of growth, learning, and new opportunities. College is still challenging, but with the right support systems in place, I’ve found ways to thrive.