Dear Overwhelmed College Students,

Hang in there. Since you opened this letter I am guessing you can relate to feeling overly stressed and fed up, most likely due to the two million obligations college has bestowed upon you. College can be challenging because it is the first time we are expected to juggle everything on our own. Classes definitely provide an overdose of stress accompanied with late nights in the library fueled by Starbucks. Although getting good grades is important, it is always good to remind yourself that one bad grade does not define you. Your success in life is not determined off of a difficult exam you did not do so well on. Life is what you make of it, so do your best not to dwell on the negative aspects and instead focus on the positive. Instead of beating yourself up about it, learn from your mistakes and let them motivate you to do better. If you are feeling like you're in way over your head, relax, that is quite common amongst college students. I promise, it will all turn out alright in the end.

Aside from school work and endless homework and studying, obligations associated with extra curricular activities and organizations one is involved in can tend to be overwhelming. Since I am in greek life, I often feel as though I have little to no time for everything that I need to attend or accomplish within my social obligations. It isn't difficult to feel as though your life is in shambles when you have many responsibilities and not nearly enough time to do them in. Just keep in mind that time management is something most everyone struggles with, especially in college. Although you may feel behind or overwhelmed, remember that you are not alone and that things will get better.

I would definitely suggest setting aside some time during each week to unwind and relax. Maybe take a walk or go swimming, anything you consider calming and soothing to help you deal with stress. Also, never be afraid to reach out to others, because chances are that they are experiencing the same feeling of being overwhelmed that you are. The best advice I can give is to remain positive, optimistic, and determined, knowing that you will succeed despite feeling stressed and distraught. This feeling is temporary, don't let it get to you. Like I said previously, hang in there.

Sincerely,

Fellow Overwhelmed College Student.