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In many ways, joining the university is similar to starting a new chapter in life. College students begin a new journey every time they leave home. As the journey unfolds, several twists and turns focused on self-discovery and self-reliance shape their general view of the world. University life can be challenging for many students, causing them to get overwhelmed. This situation often results in them spending additional time adjusting to this new lifestyle.
While all these facts are a reality that students face, they can gain an edge if they create ample preparation beforehand. As you prepare for university, you must understand the most common student problems, such as the ones listed below, that you may encounter to overcome them.
Time Management
The academic demands of college are high. College courses require a more significant amount of effort than those in high school. One year at a college is often the equivalent of two years at a high school due to the vast amount of quality reading materials at their disposal that enhance learning. The average student takes 15 credits per semester, while others take up to 18 or 21 credits. It can be challenging to stay on top of everything at times.
It is essential to know your limits. Taking 15 credits, in the long run, is better if you can’t handle 18 in one semester. Despite the importance of college education, it does not mean students should study constantly. Keeping your mind fresh and clear requires scheduling time for fun and taking breaks. Make time to learn and take breaks. Be aware of your limits as well. Take fewer credits next term if you are taking too many.
Homesickness
Most students, especially those more than three hours away from home, will at one point feel homesick. As a freshman, this is probably their first year away from home, and they suffer more. Once a month or two, plan to visit home if you live within three or four hours. Get your friends and family to send you to care packages, emails, and phone calls. These steps will probably reduce feelings of homesickness to a great extent.
Students can also find support groups on many campuses. It can be helpful to talk to others who have experienced similar things. Your interactions there may even lead to friendships. Daily contact with others may make you feel the same way, and helping each other can be beneficial.
Social Problems
The chances of making new friends are high if you’re lucky. Building community requires spending time with classmates and roommates and establishing connections. The downside of spending so much time together is that conflicts can arise. Distractions can arise from social relationships.
Spend some time with yourself. You could take some time away from campus by visiting a coffee shop or mall, walking in your neighborhood, or visiting a local park. Prioritize studying and self-care. If conflicts arise, you can get support from a close friend or residence assistant.
Picking a Major
Choosing a major can be stressful. Your future career and income will largely depend on it, so making the right choice now seems crucial. A major in college is essential, but it does not guarantee a career or salary in the future. Pick something you like.
If unsure, choose a broad and flexible major, such as communications. Undergraduates in one field often pursue master’s degrees in a different area after graduation. Majors aren’t something you should worry about too much. Consider gaining knowledge and skills instead.
How Can Parents Help?
If your child is attending college for the first time, you should offer support instead of resolving the problem by asking as many questions as possible to find the root of the problem. How a student sleeps and eats, her social relationships, academic relationships, and performance can all indicate how stressed they are.
It is possible, however, that parents will offer solutions as soon as they detect problems, depriving the younger generation of the necessary tools to handle them on their own later in life.
How Can Students Help?
Give advice only after asking questions. It is usual for students to feel more comfortable or less comfortable in certain areas of college life, depending on their strengths. Even though you may seem to have similar problems, you never know how others approach their solutions.
Take the time to understand what your friend or classmate is going through. Friendly advice could go a long way if they feel the problem is more significant than it seems.
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