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Latwell Nyangu
Youth Interactive Writer
Universities have vocabulary and rituals that are new and unique.
College, often perceived as the most exciting phase in one’s life, full of fresh experiences, learning, and personal growth, carries a multitude of obstacles for students to overcome.
While the benefits of college are numerous, beneath the surface of this exciting journey are various challenges, ranging from financial constraints to mental health struggles, which can sometimes overshadow the transformative potential of higher education. The desire to fit in, maintain friendships, and navigate complex relationships can be daunting.
One of the most significant sources of pain for students is the immense academic pressure they face. The relentless pursuit of high grades, constant deadlines, and the fear of failure can lead to stress, anxiety, and burnout.
Social media further exacerbates these challenges by creating unrealistic standards and fostering feelings of inadequacy and isolation among students.
There is the stress of making a good adjustment because students believe their future depends upon their doing well. Did they make the right choice? How can, they be sure? Should they change courses, direction, or major?
Putting choices into a longer-term perspective is useful.
There are many people on campus that can assist them in making decisions, professors, lecturers, and college staff. This week, I am getting in the shoes of every student.
Facing college is one of the most challenging things that one has to deal with. Whether they decide to go, the different choices for college vary. Many ask themselves if they want to consider student life.
One of the harder choices that one has to make about college is deciding if one wants to stay in the dorm or commute to campus.
I believe that doming in college is essential to growing in oneself. Dorming provides a sense of familiarity to everyone, the convenience of getting to class, and also being independent. College is a learning experience that everyone takes in differently.
One of the aspects that help one grow as a person is the friends you make. Being at college has many challenges in which some students will be homesick, missing their family, friends, and pets.
They will miss old routines and structures. Some students may be ambivalent about dependence and independence.
Some will openly ask for parent support and others won’t tell parents important details. It is also wise for parents to ask their college going children how they are doing without paying too much — while also being accessible and open.
College is portrayed by most as the hardest time of a student’s life.
Being a student can be a challenging and stressful experience, filled with various sources of pain and anxiety.
From academic pressures to social challenges, students often face a multitude of difficulties that can impact their well-being and academic performance.
Students may feel overwhelmed by the expectations placed upon them to excel in their studies, which can take a toll on their mental health and overall well-being.
Moreover, students also grapple with social pressures, including the need for acceptance and fear of social exclusion. The mental health of students, particularly young women and girls, is a growing concern.
Research indicates that mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety are on the rise among college students, with higher rates among girls compared to boys.
Also balancing academic responsibilities, personal relationships, and societal expectations can contribute to mental health issues that hinder students’ ability to thrive academically. The uncertainty surrounding the future, coupled with complex societal problems, adds another layer of stress for students who question whether their education will be enough to effect meaningful change in the world.
The rising costs of higher education contribute to financial struggles for many students, leading to concerns about student debt and future financial stability. The burden of managing educational expenses while pursuing academic success can create additional stress for students already facing other challenges.
Addressing these sources of college pain requires a holistic approach that prioritises student well-being and provides support systems to help them navigate these challenges effectively. The work is hard and some students may experience their first low grades. Most students have done well in high school.
Some high school courses are not as demanding as college.
Students will be expected to maintain their own schedules and develop good study habits. There is no one around to force the student to study, to go to class, or to get a good night’s sleep. Students have to create a structure that works for them.
Time management is a skill that can be learned or improved through work. There is a maze of things to figure out — such as which courses to take, who to get to know, and where to go for this or that.
A lot of energy goes into trying to make sense of the new environment. Students may feel confused and bewildered from time to time.
There are so many choices that the student can be overwhelmed and may not complete projects and tasks. There are so many clubs, organisations, activities, courses, lectures, sports practices, and concerns that it is sometimes hard to decide what to go to. Some students don’t get enough sleep and get sick because they are committed to too many groups and projects.
Students will be confronted with different people from a variety of backgrounds.
There are cultural differences; racial differences; and differences in sexual orientation, religion, values, and lifestyle. It can feel overwhelming to start over with new people.
It can be hard to make new friends. It also gives students a chance to develop a new identity.
There will be feelings of acceptance as well as rejection. Coping with new ideas, new people, and the possibility of rejection takes energy.
Of all these challenges, balance is the key.
Until we meet for a toast!
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