How to minimize college struggles

The transition from high school to college can be a stressful experience for an incoming freshman. This newly found independence has its perks, but settling into this different lifestyle can be challenging when you haven’t quite found your way.

Madison Holley, nursing freshman from French Settlement, said, “The hardest part about adjusting is trying to balance my school work, being in a sorority and working part time here on campus.”

She tries to minimize stress by staying organized and trying to manage time wisely.

“The perfect balance of school, a social life and work can seem impossible, but if your priorities are straight, you will find your way,” Holley said.

For Jonathan Sierra, computer science freshmen from New Orleans, the hardest part of transitioning to college life is adjusting to a whole new environment.

“The classes are run differently, and now we have to be more independent in our lives,” Sierra said.

Sierra said he tries not to overthink things and plays sports or listens to music to ease his mind.

Everyone is going through the same struggles, so finding people to share this adventure with is one of the greatest things to have.

By getting involved on campus, students never know who they will meet or how they can help. Attending football games, forming study groups and going to campus hosted events are some opportunities to meet new people.

Emily Shewmake, mass communication freshman from Watson, said the hardest part of these first few weeks of college has been getting used to not being at home with family and friends.

Shewmake said she copes with stress by finding friends to help when struggling and talking to people.

“Joining Delta Zeta has been the absolute best, and I know that I always have my sisters, which makes it feel like home here,” Shewmake said.

Joining organizations such as Greek life, religious groups or clubs for students within their major opens up doors to get involved on campus and meet new people. Forming relationships with faculty can reassure there is always someone who cares.

Along with the support of your peers, the Nicholls Counseling Center in Elkins Hall can provide information about physical, social and mental health. Academic help outside of class is given in the Tutoring and Writing Centers, located in Peltier hall, to improve academics and ensure students maintain their grades.