Common Issues for College Students and how to Resolve Them

The thought of starting college life brings joy to every student. As compared to high school, not only does college life offer freedom but also hands over you the power of decision making for your career. Students may look forward to relaxed class schedules, bunks, dormitories, late-night parties, and other stuff, but with all the freedom comes qualms too. You may encounter certain situations that every college student faces, at least once in this phase. Below are some common issues that college students can face and how they can be resolved.

Time Management

Despite the freedom, college studies can be challenging. College classes and scheduling ask for more effort as compared to high school. It is because the vast study course is in the form of a packed one-year syllabus. Students can take up to 15 full credit semesters, but they can also top to 21 credits. However, managing time between the study and personal life becomes hard as a result. You may be studying full time and not manage to take out a few hours for a video game or a hangout. Resultantly, the routine gets tough and exhausts you.

What you can do is set a limit to the course credits. If you are unable to manage time for 21 credits, then it’s better to let go of some and suffice on 15. Yes, college studying demands more time investment but studying all the time will drive you insane. Your mind and body require relaxation and some fun time. So schedule your studies in such a way that allows you to take breaks in between the study sessions.

Tuition Debt

Unfortunately, college studies require a hefty monetary investment. With the raging inflation, tuition fees are rising at an alarmingly fast rate. With these, you would also have to manage the cost of textbooks, transportation, housing, supplies, and meals. According to some financial advisors, it’s better to borrow enough money only to pass one year of college. This will make it easy to earn your 1st year of college. This rule may be challenging to follow due to the ascending tuition fees, and as per the news, many students are reconsidering their decision to complete the first year of college. A massive dropout of students has been reported in recent years because of the rising costs. Those who survive are left to deal with a full-time job with a burdening study schedule to make ends meet.

So what could be the solution? Students can always get student loans. But you must first gain complete knowledge about how repayment works, and for how many years you will be paying off the loan. To avoid any future stress, you ought to seek complete information about this process. Call a meeting with the financial advisor and make him go through every step of the loan structure.

You can also search for an on-campus job. This kind of job will cut your transportation costs. You will be focusing only on the studies since you’ll be working in the surroundings. If you previously had a job in the school and your college is in the locality, you can also check in with the employers to continue with it. Moreover, you will need to create a list of expenses every month, so you don’t spend extra. Create a budget list for shopping, trips, and eating stuff and follow it religiously.

Homesickness

Irrespective of a circle of amazing friends around you, you are bound to get homesick at one point in the first year. First-year students that have to stay away from home for college studies fall prey to it more often. Homesickness can affect your studies as much as it affects your mood. You may not be able to focus on your classes and even avoid hanging out.

So if you live within a 3–5 hour driving radius of your home, then plan home visits at least twice a month. You can also ask your family and friends to send you packages of food and other stuff, friendly reminders, emails, and calls. You can also join a support group if your campus provides one. A support group is a bunch of people having similar experiences. You can talk your heart out and feel relaxed. So these steps can contribute to diminishing the homesickness to some extent.

Health Issues

Many students who are not used to outside meals or staying away from the family can encounter specific health issues. You may experience lack of sleep, low-level self-care, and stress. Living in dorms with other students can increase the chances of sickness by manifolds. You can easily contract flu, cold, and some other diseases from your fellow students.

The only way out is to stay hygienic and eat healthily. Void sharing your hairbrush, makeup, and other stuff with the students; you can always share hygiene concerns to refuse. Take a good night’s sleep, as well. As soon as you feel ill, visit your campus doctor.

Selecting a Major

Selecting a major is crucial for your career. Your future planning and career depend on the major you opt for. So you have to make the right decision. College fees are high, and making a U-turn in the middle may not be feasible for many students. So take advice from a student’s counselor. They can guide you in the right direction and clear any confusion you may have regarding your subjects.

Do not stress over it; go for something of your interest. You can always go for versatile and broad subjects in case you are unclear. Worrying a lot will only create problems for you. Instead, focus on your aims and future and it will steer you in the right direction.

Conclusion

So, is all the stress and worry worth it? The majority of students will answer ‘yes.’ College life shapes not only your career but also personality. Overcoming these hurdles in this phase will prepare you for the coming practical life.