The Nerves of Starting a New Class: You’re Not Alone

Starting a new class or course can be one of the most nerve-wracking experiences we face, regardless of our age or background. Whether you’re a college student walking into a packed lecture hall, a professional diving into a job/career, or a hobbyist taking up a creative workshop, the first day brings a mix of excitement and anxiety that can be overwhelming.

But here’s the thing: you’re not alone. Our founder and Principal Anna Fiorentini says:

“People think I am very confident, and thanks to my drama training I am certainly more confident than I used to be. However, even I get very nervous about going to a course or networking event if I don’t know anyone else there. I worry that my self-consciousness is going to be really obvious and I am going to be stood somewhere like a lemon. My heart rate goes through the roof and my tummy does several somersaults. This is why I think it is so important that at our events and taster days we have teachers that know how to make participants feel very welcome and won’t push anyone out of their comfort zones until they are ready. I would say at our taster days at least 90% of the participants are nervous and self-conscious when they first arrive. It is only natural. Of course I need to keep reminding myself of this every time I force myself to be brave enough to try something new. But the sense of achievement, having stepped out of my comfort zone is amazing.”

Almost everyone feels nervous when entering a new learning environment. It’s a universal experience, and understanding why it happens and how to cope with it can make all the difference.

Why Do We Get Nervous?

1. Fear of the Unknown: As humans, we’re wired to be cautious about new situations. Walking into a room full of strangers, not knowing what to expect, triggers our innate fear of the unknown. What if the material is too hard? What if everyone else knows more than I do? What if I don’t fit in? These thoughts are common and can make your heart race before you even step into the classroom.

2. Pressure to Perform: Many of us feel pressure to make a good first impression, especially in an academic or professional setting. We worry about being judged by our peers or instructors, and this can lead to performance anxiety. We want to prove that we belong, but the fear of making mistakes can cloud our confidence.

3. Social Anxiety: The prospect of meeting new people can be intimidating. Even if you’re usually outgoing, the first day in a new class can bring out shyness or nervousness. The uncertainty of how others will perceive you and the desire to be accepted can heighten anxiety.

4. Past Experiences: If you’ve had a bad experience in a previous class—perhaps you struggled with the material or felt out of place—that memory can linger and affect your feelings about starting something new.

The Universal Nature of First-Day Nerves

It’s important to remember that nervousness on the first day is not just your experience—almost everyone feels it to some extent. Even the person who seems confident and composed likely has their own inner doubts. In fact, studies have shown that anxiety is a common experience in educational settings, especially when entering a new environment.

Instructors and course leaders are usually aware of this, too. Many make a point to break the ice and create a welcoming atmosphere on the first day because they understand how widespread these feelings are which is exactly what we do at Stage & the City. We create a safe environment for everyone to express themselves, grow and importantly have fun!

How to Cope with First-Day Anxiety

1. Acknowledge Your Feelings: The first step to overcoming nervousness is to accept that it’s okay to feel this way. You’re stepping out of your comfort zone, which is something to be proud of. Remind yourself that these feelings are temporary and will likely fade as you become more familiar with the environment.

2. Prepare in Advance: Familiarize yourself with the course material, syllabus, or any available resources before the first day. Knowing what to expect can alleviate some of the fear of the unknown. Additionally, planning your route to the classroom or logging in early if it’s an online course can help reduce stress.

3. Set Realistic Expectations: Remember that the first day is just that—the first day. You’re not expected to know everything or be perfect right away. Allow yourself the time to learn, make mistakes, and grow. Setting realistic goals for yourself can reduce the pressure to perform.

4. Focus on Others: Shifting your focus from how you’re feeling to how others might be feeling can help ease your anxiety. Try initiating small conversations with your classmates—they’re likely as nervous as you are. This can help break the ice and make the environment more comfortable for everyone.

5. Practice Relaxation Techniques: Deep breathing, mindfulness, or even a quick walk before class can help calm your nerves. Finding a routine that works for you can be a great way to manage anxiety, not just on the first day but throughout the course.

Moving Forward

Remember, the nerves you feel on the first day of a new class are a sign that you care about what you’re doing. It’s a natural response to a new and challenging situation. But with time, those nerves will subside as you settle in and start to engage with the material and your classmates.

So, the next time you find yourself walking into a new classroom with butterflies in your stomach, take a deep breath and remember that everyone else is likely feeling the same way. You’re not alone, and you’ve got this.