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Is going to college stressful?
I am a Senior in high school.
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Michel’s Answer
Great question this is dependent. Depending on your goals it can be stressful or it can be a chill experience. I ended up going down the slight stress pathway because I really wanted to get into medical school and that required me scoring high in classes. It required me to put in extra activities, leadership, volunteering, networking, shadowing and everything else. This led to stress and there were days where I studied from sun up to sun down, but I am extremely happy being in medical school right now so in my opinion that stress led to a lot more happiness. Depending on your long term goals will depend on what you feel in college. If you are looking at getting an advanced degree it is a good idea to do as well as you can in classes, but if these are classes you enjoy it wont be extremely stressful. It will be you putting in hard work to better your future. Stress is a fun term there is a thing known as distress and eustress and it is small amounts of stress in the case of eustress is actually healthy. Pulling all nighters and freaking out is bad stress, but pushing yourself can be healthy as long as you are also taking time for yourself and performing activities that you enjoy. So with all of that said it will depend on what kind of goals you are going for and how competitive you want to be, but either way the stress shouldn’t be overwhelming. If the stress becomes too much make sure to reach out to friends family and peers to get the help you need to find a balance between life and school. You are important and you will perform the best when you are not exhausted.
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Alison’s Answer
It depends. For most individuals, it's the first time you're living out of the house and are in charge of your own time. There are no parents or guardians enforcing curfew, and teachers are not going to hand-hold you or make very many assignment or test exceptions. You have to decide that you're going to step up to the plate and embrace the challenge.
It's a real time for growth and you will get the hang of it. You will learn how much time you should study, when to do laundry, how to keep your room clean, how often you should socialize. If any of these get out of balance, you will see show up in your grades, room and friend group.
College is a good microcosm for what to expect in adulthood after you graduate too. And learning a life-work balance is something you will continue to tweak throughout your life.
It's a real time for growth and you will get the hang of it. You will learn how much time you should study, when to do laundry, how to keep your room clean, how often you should socialize. If any of these get out of balance, you will see show up in your grades, room and friend group.
College is a good microcosm for what to expect in adulthood after you graduate too. And learning a life-work balance is something you will continue to tweak throughout your life.
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Elisha’s Answer
Yes, college can be stressful, but In all honesty It is what you make of it and how you make it work best for you. For example, you might sign up for 5 classes your first semester and realize it is too much to handle, so you decide to drop one and save it for the following semester to not over stress yourself. You might also learn you need to start a studying schedule or buy a planner to write all your assignments on their corresponding due dates to make sure you do not miss anything (that was my best friend in college). On the bright side, college offers a lot of assistance such as tutoring, success classes, and more to make sure you will get through and pass successfully. If I can not stress it enough use your resources. You will do great :)
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Daniel’s Answer
Great question Patrick!
It may or may not be stressful. It depends on how you are as a person. I know when I was in college I put a lot of unnecessary stress on myself to make A's in all my classes. This caused me to stress out constancy and not enjoy the whole college experience. Not saying that all you should do is party but if you don't have time to hang with your friends, play racquetball, work out, etc. then you are missing out. Please know that B's are fine in college and also one or two bad grades will not define you.
When you graduate and go into the business world your first job will look at your GPA. They will also look at what you majored in along with what school you attended. However, after about 5-10 years and after your first job your GPA/school don't really matter anymore. Companies will look at your resume and track record of what you have accomplished at your current job. I wish I would have thought about the big picture while attending college and not focused so much time, energy, etc., on my grades.
One more piece of advise. A mentor once told me that if its not going to impact you in 5 years then its probably not worth worrying about. I try and remember that daily. Hope this helps and good luck on the journey!
It may or may not be stressful. It depends on how you are as a person. I know when I was in college I put a lot of unnecessary stress on myself to make A's in all my classes. This caused me to stress out constancy and not enjoy the whole college experience. Not saying that all you should do is party but if you don't have time to hang with your friends, play racquetball, work out, etc. then you are missing out. Please know that B's are fine in college and also one or two bad grades will not define you.
When you graduate and go into the business world your first job will look at your GPA. They will also look at what you majored in along with what school you attended. However, after about 5-10 years and after your first job your GPA/school don't really matter anymore. Companies will look at your resume and track record of what you have accomplished at your current job. I wish I would have thought about the big picture while attending college and not focused so much time, energy, etc., on my grades.
One more piece of advise. A mentor once told me that if its not going to impact you in 5 years then its probably not worth worrying about. I try and remember that daily. Hope this helps and good luck on the journey!
Updated
Mike’s Answer
Hi Patrick,
I'll try to simplify this answer. For me, preparation was the key. Stay ahead of your classes, study and get work done on time and ahead of time if you can. If you do this you will be prepared and more than likely perform better. Then, you don't have to worry about that aspect of college and can enjoy everything else it has to offer. My son recently graduated and took this advice and it worked well for him too.
Good luck!
Mike
I'll try to simplify this answer. For me, preparation was the key. Stay ahead of your classes, study and get work done on time and ahead of time if you can. If you do this you will be prepared and more than likely perform better. Then, you don't have to worry about that aspect of college and can enjoy everything else it has to offer. My son recently graduated and took this advice and it worked well for him too.
Good luck!
Mike
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Megan’s Answer
I am not going to lie. Yes, it is for most students. There are alot of deadlines and tests. You also have to mix in trying to make new friends, worry about old ones, family, etc. I say it was for me, but it was also one of the best times of my life. You have to find your balance, and you will. :)
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Trudi’s Answer
The first semester is always stressful as it is a big transition to go from high school where you are in class for a set time every day and have teachers monitoring your behavior to being super independent. In college, you choose what you want to do. You choose whether to go to class and what you do in your off time. Some days, you might have 1 class and a lot of free time and other days you might have a full load and no free time. You have to decide how to balance everything. You also are making new friends, probably managing a new living situation and possibly fitting in a part time job. Once you have completed the first semester, it does get easier. You feel more acclimated to your school and have made friends.
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John J’s Answer
Going to college can be stressful if you don't manage your time properly.
You will be on you own for time management, so have a daily plan before you get there.
Homework assignments will have a due date. You can avoid a lot of the homework stress by starting all your homework assignments early.
Get a blender. Have a healthy smoothie every morning. They are fast and easy to make.
Try to do a 10 minute workout in your room, push ups and sit ups and other body weight exercises.
Don't skip eating and working out, because that will make your day more stressful being hungry and uptight.
Find the study halls or good places to study that are relaxing and enjoyable while you do your school work. Try to have fun doing your work, this will make you feel good.
You will be on you own for time management, so have a daily plan before you get there.
Homework assignments will have a due date. You can avoid a lot of the homework stress by starting all your homework assignments early.
Get a blender. Have a healthy smoothie every morning. They are fast and easy to make.
Try to do a 10 minute workout in your room, push ups and sit ups and other body weight exercises.
Don't skip eating and working out, because that will make your day more stressful being hungry and uptight.
Find the study halls or good places to study that are relaxing and enjoyable while you do your school work. Try to have fun doing your work, this will make you feel good.
Updated
Cindy’s Answer
It can be stressful if you're not prepared so give yourself enough time to plan out your days. Time management is very important to make sure you stay on top of things. Also just make sure you give yourself grace. You will make mistakes but you have your family, friends, and professors to provide you with additional support and guide you along the way.
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Eric’s Answer
I want to echo what others have said about the importance of time management. The stress of college often be around the volume, rather than the difficulty, of the work. Staying on top of your work - getting an early start on assignments, keeping and sticking to a schedule, studying over multiple days instead of cramming - will go a long way toward reducing your stress.
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Chase’s Answer
Hi Patrick,
It can be depending on your mindset going in. If you're going for a degree you're passionate about it definitely won't be a breeze, but it should alleviate some of the stress involved.
It can be depending on your mindset going in. If you're going for a degree you're passionate about it definitely won't be a breeze, but it should alleviate some of the stress involved.
Updated
Dave’s Answer
Yes! If you're not prepared, it can be very stressful. It's never going to be stress free, but there are things you can do to minimize it. Time management is key. Make sure you have a routine to go by and stick to it. Make sure you get to class on time and have you work done. There's going to be a learning curve, but once you establish a routine, it'll lessen the stress. Most importantly, get enough sleep.
Laurie Pritchard, Ed. S., M.A.T.
Executive Trainer, Rocket Mortgage
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Laurie’s Answer
Patrick,
Going to college will be stressful, no doubt. You have a class schedule to follow, reading to complete, papers and projects to complete, and perhaps a job and a bit of a social life. Stress isn't necessarily a bad thing, but you will have a lot coming at you. If you can figure out an organizational system that works for you, that will help you prioritize your day and make sure you meet your deadlines.
Make sure to take care of yourself. Get plenty of sleep, make time for exercise and some leisure activities, as taking care of your body and mind will alleviate the inevitable stress you will face.
It is hard work, it will be challenging, but it will be worth it!
Going to college will be stressful, no doubt. You have a class schedule to follow, reading to complete, papers and projects to complete, and perhaps a job and a bit of a social life. Stress isn't necessarily a bad thing, but you will have a lot coming at you. If you can figure out an organizational system that works for you, that will help you prioritize your day and make sure you meet your deadlines.
Make sure to take care of yourself. Get plenty of sleep, make time for exercise and some leisure activities, as taking care of your body and mind will alleviate the inevitable stress you will face.
It is hard work, it will be challenging, but it will be worth it!
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
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James Constantine’s Answer
Dear Patrick,
Is College Life Stressful?
Embarking on the college journey can be a thrilling yet nerve-wracking experience for many students. The stress associated with this new phase of life can be attributed to various factors, including academic demands, financial worries, social adjustments, and time management hurdles. In this piece, we'll delve into these factors in depth and offer practical tips on how to effectively manage stress during your college years.
Academic Demands
A significant stressor for college students is the academic demand to excel in their studies. This pressure can arise from the aspiration to maintain an impressive GPA, secure internships or job placements, or meet the expectations of parents, peers, and oneself. The escalated workload and heightened expectations in college as opposed to high school can be daunting for some students, leading to feelings of stress and anxiety.
Financial Worries
The financial responsibility of covering tuition, fees, accommodation, and other expenses is another considerable source of stress for college students. Many students and their families grapple with the financial implications of higher education, leading to worries about student loan debt, the need for part-time jobs, and the challenge of juggling work and study. Financial stress can adversely affect a student's academic performance and overall wellness.
Social Adjustments
Adapting to the social dynamics of college life can also induce stress. The shift from high school to college often entails meeting new people, building new friendships, and navigating unfamiliar social settings. Some students may struggle with feelings of isolation, homesickness, or the pressure to conform to their peers. These social hurdles can contribute to stress and anxiety during the college years.
Time Management Hurdles
Balancing academic duties with extracurricular activities, part-time jobs, and personal interests is a task that college students must undertake. Effective time management is crucial for college success, but it can be a challenge for some students to establish and maintain a healthy equilibrium among their various commitments. Poor time management can lead to heightened stress and a diminished capacity to handle the demands of college life.
Tackling Stress in College
To combat stress during college, students should prioritize self-care and cultivate healthy coping mechanisms. This could involve seeking support from friends, family, or mental health professionals, engaging in regular physical activity, practicing mindfulness and relaxation techniques, and setting up a routine that allows for sufficient sleep and leisure time. Moreover, students should take the initiative in seeking resources on their campuses, such as academic support services, financial aid counseling, and counseling centers that provide mental health services.
Reliable Reference Titles
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): As a prominent mental health organization, NAMI offers resources and support for individuals facing mental health challenges. The organization provides information on handling stress and anxiety in college, as well as resources for locating mental health services on campus.
American College Health Association (ACHA): ACHA is a non-profit organization committed to advancing the health and well-being of college students. The ACHA website offers information on stress management, mental health, and other health-related topics pertinent to college students.
Association for University and College Counseling Center Directors (AUCCCD): AUCCCD is a professional organization that represents college counseling center directors and provides resources for promoting student mental health and well-being. The AUCCCD website provides information on stress management, mental health services, and resources for students and their families.
Stay blessed!
James Constantine.
Is College Life Stressful?
Embarking on the college journey can be a thrilling yet nerve-wracking experience for many students. The stress associated with this new phase of life can be attributed to various factors, including academic demands, financial worries, social adjustments, and time management hurdles. In this piece, we'll delve into these factors in depth and offer practical tips on how to effectively manage stress during your college years.
Academic Demands
A significant stressor for college students is the academic demand to excel in their studies. This pressure can arise from the aspiration to maintain an impressive GPA, secure internships or job placements, or meet the expectations of parents, peers, and oneself. The escalated workload and heightened expectations in college as opposed to high school can be daunting for some students, leading to feelings of stress and anxiety.
Financial Worries
The financial responsibility of covering tuition, fees, accommodation, and other expenses is another considerable source of stress for college students. Many students and their families grapple with the financial implications of higher education, leading to worries about student loan debt, the need for part-time jobs, and the challenge of juggling work and study. Financial stress can adversely affect a student's academic performance and overall wellness.
Social Adjustments
Adapting to the social dynamics of college life can also induce stress. The shift from high school to college often entails meeting new people, building new friendships, and navigating unfamiliar social settings. Some students may struggle with feelings of isolation, homesickness, or the pressure to conform to their peers. These social hurdles can contribute to stress and anxiety during the college years.
Time Management Hurdles
Balancing academic duties with extracurricular activities, part-time jobs, and personal interests is a task that college students must undertake. Effective time management is crucial for college success, but it can be a challenge for some students to establish and maintain a healthy equilibrium among their various commitments. Poor time management can lead to heightened stress and a diminished capacity to handle the demands of college life.
Tackling Stress in College
To combat stress during college, students should prioritize self-care and cultivate healthy coping mechanisms. This could involve seeking support from friends, family, or mental health professionals, engaging in regular physical activity, practicing mindfulness and relaxation techniques, and setting up a routine that allows for sufficient sleep and leisure time. Moreover, students should take the initiative in seeking resources on their campuses, such as academic support services, financial aid counseling, and counseling centers that provide mental health services.
Reliable Reference Titles
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): As a prominent mental health organization, NAMI offers resources and support for individuals facing mental health challenges. The organization provides information on handling stress and anxiety in college, as well as resources for locating mental health services on campus.
American College Health Association (ACHA): ACHA is a non-profit organization committed to advancing the health and well-being of college students. The ACHA website offers information on stress management, mental health, and other health-related topics pertinent to college students.
Association for University and College Counseling Center Directors (AUCCCD): AUCCCD is a professional organization that represents college counseling center directors and provides resources for promoting student mental health and well-being. The AUCCCD website provides information on stress management, mental health services, and resources for students and their families.
Stay blessed!
James Constantine.