The Struggles of a College Student
Being in college feels like a full-time job in itself. You feel pressurized to do what society wants you to do, or you want to get that 9-5 job. This is what in my experience college had felt like:
Choosing a Major
There is a lot of pressure in itself to choose one thing that you thoroughly enjoy. It’s what determines your “career” or how much money you will make, so you have to make “the right decision”
Majors are important, but they don’t necessarily control what you do for the rest of your life.
Solution
Choose something that you love doing and follow your passions in life. If you’re unsure, community college is a great option.
I went to community college for two years undecided. There were great professors, a lenient schedule, and it was inexpensive! If you get to the end of those two years and you still haven’t decided, choose something broad!
This will allow you to receive many positions while not feeling like you’re stuck to one job from getting a degree in that one major. Focus on gaining life skills and knowledge from this experience!
Time Management
College in itself takes up a lot of time. The classes require lots of time and effort if you want to get a good grade. It can seem absolutely impossible to get through the semester, especially when you first start.
Solution
KNOW YOUR LIMITS. If you are first starting out, start with 12 credits and see how you can handle it.
If you need to take fewer classes, NO BIG DEAL. Not everyone graduates on time. The MAJORITY does not.
Take your time, it’s not worth YOUR sanity! Have a planner, schedule when you’re going to do homework, go to the gym, go to class, etc. It will make your college career a lot easier.
Finances
College is very expensive and the rates are continuing to rise with housing, books, meals, transportation, etc. It all adds up fairly quickly.
Solution
Student loans are a blessing! Apply for FAFSA, financial aid, or scholarships through your school.
The important part is educating yourself about the layout of the loans, so it won’t screw up your financials later! A financial advisor is necessary to guide you through this.
Also, consider getting a very small part-time job, anything will help. If you can handle working while in college, do it!
Creating a monthly budget for yourself for shopping and eating out can also help you save money if you decide that you cannot handle working while attending college. If you make the budget, stick to it!
Depression
I have had a major issue with this the past year and I’m sure many other college students do too.
Being under a high-stress level 24/7 can make you feel alone and feeling frustrated. It can contribute to having very low lows and very high highs.
In my experience, college students love to party to have temporary relief but can be terrible in the long run.
Solution
If you can, seek professional support! Many campuses have counseling services and want to help you.
Establish a good support group from your loved ones. Make sure that they are aware of how you are feeling so they know how to help.
Take some time for yourself. Even if it’s an hour a day to just relax, watch tv, or do something that makes you feel good. Sometimes a break is all we need.
Social Problems
Establishing time connecting with others is important for building a sense of community. BUT, learning how to control it, is a different story.
Spending excessive amounts of time being social can be a distraction and lead to major procrastination.
Solution
- Let them know when you are available and PRIORITIZE.
- Plan out times to get your work done and when you have free time
- If you have an exam the next day, STAY IN AND STUDY!
- Make sure you put yourself first.
