New Student Stress

Michael Collins

Stall Street Journal

ENACTUS

17 April 2017

        College students carry a lot of stress. I know what you’re thinking, “What an understatement. DUH!!” Yes, that is true, but arguably, none feel it more heavily than the newcomers. Whether you are an incoming Freshman just out of high school or a transfer student from another college, the stress level can be off the charts. From the new school environment including taking more demanding classes, meeting new instructors, and trying to make new friends, being away from home and living in possibly a new city or even state, to the financial responsibility that propels most college students to obtain at least part-time employment, college students face a seemingly insurmountable uphill journey navigating the adjustments necessary to reach their ultimate career goals.

        This stage is a crucial interval in a student’s life. Some will either succeed or fail based on the choices made right here, and some become so overwhelmed by the stress and anxiety that they may choose suicide. I myself am new to Union, having transferred from a two-year school. I understand the heaviness of the burden, and for me, the adjustment is not that much easier after attending a previous institution. I, like many others, struggle with anxiety and being introverted. For students like me, although having the same desires of success in academics and future career choices, the changes and stressors that other students seem to overcome so easily take us longer to surpass.

        Luckily, there are many options right here at Union to help students with the transition period. Students living in on-campus dorms have the Resident Life Program and RA’s to guide them there, a wide variety of social functions, activities, teams, clubs, and Greek organizations provide students with the means to get to know their fellow students – you just have to give it a try and take the first steps, the first class Hundley Center offers an exceptional tutoring program for anyone needing that gentle nudge academically, the Vocatio Center attempts to link eligible students with part or full time job placements, internships, and volunteer work, and there are a number of opportunities for relaxation, depending on your preference, including a gym, a swimming pool, the BOWLD Commons, the LOGOS Library, Barefoots Joe’s, running/walking around campus, setting up a hammock in the trees, and many more. For any student who feels the weight becoming too much, there are counseling services available in the academic affairs offices in the Student Union Building which include Woofin’ Wednesdays which allows students to spend time with dogs specially trained to help relieve stress and tension, or you can contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, Call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or Tweet @800273TALK, available 24/7.