Is it normal to hate college at first?
Yes, it’s normal to hate college at first. A new routine, unfamiliar people, academic pressure, or being away from home can make the beginning feel much worse than you expected.
The first stretch of college can be a lot of change all at once, and the fun, movie-version campus life doesn’t always show up on day one. Plenty of people feel lonely, overwhelmed, or like they made the wrong choice before they’ve found their people and settled into a routine.
Give yourself a little time, and try one or two small things that make the place feel more familiar—like eating with someone from class or checking out a club. If you still feel miserable after a while, it’s okay to talk it through with someone you trust or consider whether a different setup would suit you better. Hating the start doesn’t mean you’re failing at college.