Jordan Hobbs, a Chi Omega, longs to help others. Majoring in child and family services, her dream is to be a family and marriage counselor.

“Things happen in people’s lives that can really affect them,” Hobbs said. “Sometimes you need someone else to help you find a solution.”

Hobbs wants to use counseling to encourage and strengthen others. She is an Oklahoma State University undergraduate research assistant completing research with the Developmental Disabilities Services Quality Assurance. Because of time spent both in class and in research, Hobbs was able to pinpoint five major issues most college students struggle with.

1.  Anxiety and worry. Every individual deals with anxiety differently. Hobbes suggests looking at the bigger picture. “You have to know that whatever you are anxious about will pass. You just have to do your best.”

2. Pressure to be successful. Most people come to college to get a degree and find success in a career and life. Throughout this process, students often struggle with failure and fear of being unsuccessful. However, Hobbs said, “You’re successful if you’re doing what makes you content and happy.”

3. Sleep loss. Most college students stay up too late studying or wasting time. While it is difficult to go to bed early and sleep in late, Hobbs said students must make sleep a bigger priority. “Get more sleep! It is so good for your body. All nighters don’t work. You have to sleep to remember.” She also suggests time management. Students need to plan ahead and study in advance, rather than staying up late to cram.

4. Money. Aside from buying a house or a car, college is the only time in life when one spends a large sum of money in a little amount of time. It can be stressful to keep up with money for tuition, rent, food, clothes and more. “Just be aware and budget,” she said.

Technology presents a variety of ways to keep up with your money. Most banks offer mobile banking to track your spending at your fingertips. Smartphones also provide access to budgeting apps, such as Mint, to not only track your money, but also plan how to spend it.

5.  Knowledge of self. Being away from home and on your own can be difficult. Students tend to act as if they have it all together. However, it can be scary to face things you have never encountered before. “Be patient,” Hobbs said. “You will figure out what you want to do with your life and it will be okay. Figure out your own values and beliefs and do not rely on others.”

Any OSU student needing assistance with an issue can contact University Counseling Services, located in the Student Union. To learn more, visit ucs.okstate.edu or call 405-744-5472.