While most people remember their college years fondly, student life is not without its challenges. Everyone’s situation is different, but there are a few issues that practically every college student faces at some point throughout their years there.
If you’re about to start college, get a head start on how to deal with the problems that may arise.
Time Management
College is a difficult academic environment. For many students, college courses necessitate far more effort than high school ones. Colleges, unlike most high schools, frequently cram two years’ worth of material into a single year. Many students enrol in a full 15-credit semester, but others attempt to pack in as many as 18 or 21 courses. It can feel impossible to stay on top of everything at times.
Be aware of your limitations. If you can’t handle 18 credits in a semester, it’s better to take only 15 credits in the long term. While the goal of a college education is to learn as much as possible, this does not imply that you must study all of the time. It’s critical to schedule enjoyable time and take breaks to keep your mind fresh and clear. See this list of good study habits for more methods to deal with academic stress.
Try to Do Too Many Things at The Same Time
In order to afford the high cost of college tuition, many students must work. It is extremely difficult to balance a job, 15 to 18 credits, relationships, and extracurricular activities. Many students attempt to cram all of these activities into one day and do not get enough sleep as a result. Students are vulnerable to physical and mental health problems if they do not get enough rest.
Determine what is most important. Prioritize and plan events, games, meetings, social gatherings, and studies accordingly. Also, when looking for work, be aware of your options. Jobs that fit into a student’s schedule are frequently available at universities.
Being Homesick
Most students, whether they acknowledge it or not, will experience homesick at some point, particularly those who attend a school that is more than three hours away from home. Freshmen are especially affected because it is likely their first year away from home.
Plan to visit home once or twice a month or two if you reside within three or four hours of home (a pleasant day’s journey). Request that friends and relatives send you emails, phone calls, and care packages. These techniques should go a long way toward alleviating homesickness.
Many campuses have student support groups. It can be beneficial to speak with people who are going through similar situations. Some of the people you meet there may even become friends with you. Remember that the other students you interact with on a daily basis may be experiencing similar feelings to you, and you can help one other.
Depression
Every issue on this list has the potential to increase a student’s stress level and lead to emotional lows. Some people find momentary relief from partying, which, when done in excess and over time, can lead to depression.
Seek expert help if stress and depression are a problem. Students can take advantage of free counselling services on many campuses. Counselors are taught to listen to pupils and assist them in getting back on track.
Poor Health Condition
Stress, poor self-care, and a lack of sleep can all lead to health issues. Living in close quarters can also be hazardous to a student’s health and increase their chances of catching infections.
Consume nutritious, well-balanced meals. Also, get a decent night’s sleep. Hands should be washed frequently. If you become ill, go to the clinic on campus.
Bad Social Life
If you’re lucky, you’ll meet a lot of new people. Building community requires making connections and spending time with classmates and roommates. Spending too much time together, on the other hand, can be difficult, and conflicts can arise. Social interactions can be a source of distraction.
Take some time to pamper yourself. If possible, take a break from campus and go to a coffee shop or a mall, go for a walk in the neighborhood, or visit a local park. Make time for studying and self-care a priority. If a conflict arises and you require assistance, get another friend involved.
Habit of Partying
Partying is not a problem in and of itself. Parties can be a great way for students to unwind. However, partying can sometimes lead to problems. Alcohol and drugs can lead to poor decisions, risky behavior, health risks, and even potentially fatal situations.
While parties are important, make sure you enjoy them responsibly and legally so you don’t cause problems for yourself or others. Understand your limitations. If you’ve been drinking, request a ride home. Keep an eye on your friends and make sure they’re safe as well. When drinking alcohol, make sure to eat and drink plenty of water.
Relationships
Relationships are wonderful, but they can also be exhausting. They may take a long time and begin to interfere with your study. There may be occasions in any relationship when a couple will disagree, which can cause them to lose focus on their studies and increase their stress levels. Breakups might push some students into deeper melancholy.
Relationship counsel is difficult to give because the solution varies from person to person. From the beginning, communicate your wants and expectations clearly. If you do break up, talk to a school counsellor about how to deal with the situation.
Choosing A Major
There is a lot of pressure on students to pick a major. It’s easy to believe that your major will define your future profession and earnings, so choosing the appropriate choice now feels crucial (and stressful).
College majors are important, but they do not set the tone for your future profession or pay. Choose something you enjoy. If you’re undecided about your major, go with something wide and versatile like communications. Many students who earn a bachelor’s degree in one discipline go on to earn a master’s degree in a different field. It’s simply not worth it to spend too much time worrying over your major. Instead, concentrate on acquiring information and life skills.
Is Higher Learning Worth it?
The time you spend at university is one of the most exciting times of your life. New and interesting adventures, personal growth, and independence are all on the horizon. However, it is not without its own set of difficulties and growing pains. So, how can you successfully cross such stumbling hurdles in order to have the finest university experience possible? First and foremost, you must be aware that every difficulty is an opportunity for oneself to grow! It is okay to make mistakes and it is the best time to make some during your college/university life.
But keep in mind to always keep a balance and manage the negativity. In fact, these hurdles will prepare you for greater things and should you require help, remember, there are always people to assist you!
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