Confused potential uni drop-out. Any advice going in?

1 Answer

Answer :

answer:When I went to college, the university had a higher population than any town I had ever lived in. Classes composed of hundreds of students, distant and uncaring instructors, and paralyzing shyness meant a miserable experience. I would go for literally days without speaking to anyone. I didn’t drink or smoke, so there was no “social lubrication”, either. I had roommates that I had nothing in common with that I didn’t like. In high school, even advanced classes were easy. A breeze. And so I never developed any study skills. Which means I no longer got straight A’s – that was an unpleasant shock! I came from a lower middle class family and had gotten a small scholarship, but money was tight, so I worked 2–3 part time jobs the entire time I was in school, and stayed and took classes over summer break – and it still took me 6 years to get a degree (but came out with no debt). I socialized…never. And the things I learned in college? I’m not sure that I have ever used any of the information that was taught in my classes. But that doesn’t matter – getting a college degree tells an employer that you have the minimum intelligence needed not to flunk out and that you can finish something, not that you’ve arrived with any marketable skills. But you know what? College is just a warm-up for life. I don’t mean to sound too negative, but this is the time to suck it up and make a commitment to finish, whatever it takes. If you’re not convinced, take a per-determined amount of time off and find out what it’s like to survive on your own, as an adult. Without help from your folks, try getting an apartment and a job, and live independently. I’d wager a bet that it won’t take too long before the grind and monotony of trying to pay the bills each month will suddenly make that college experience a lot less distasteful. If you do decide to stick it out, seek out what you need to succeed. Most universities have mental health support (you know why? ‘Cause you’re not the only person to feel this way!) Get regular counseling. Find something that you feel good about and commit yourself to it (photography club, a volunteer organization, cycling club – whatever, but find something that makes you feel good about yourself. And as much as it makes me sound like an old fogy, what you decide now will influence the rest of your life.

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