Being in college for the first time can be exciting. New people, new opportunities and new beginnings. However, it's that second year of college where individuals begin to question everything. It's a time of uncertainty but also a time of growth. We've all been there and we've all come back from it. Schoolwork is piling up, student loans are becoming worrisome and motivation is lacking. The future may seem daunting and finding your purpose is becoming a constant thought.
Why am I even majoring in this? Who are my real friends? Why does everyone else have life figured out? Why isn't this year as fun as last year? Even though it may seem like the world is spinning and you don't know where to turn, the slump is just a phase. You can overcome it but you have to be patient and have an open mind.
Here are a few ways to help you cope:
Become involved.
Go to your school's club fair and meet as many people as you can. Join an intramural team or club, join a sorority or volunteer. Becoming involved in an organization allows you to dedicate your time to meaningful, fun activities.
Visit the Career Center.
Why wait to start your career search? Create your resume, build an online portfolio and begin your internship hunt. Speaking with career specialists can increase your confidence about transitioning from the classroom to the real world.
Call home.
Your parents know you better than anyone else. Confiding in them about your worries will help relieve stress and their advice can be the most effective. They were kids before and the sophomore slump has been a part of their lives once or twice too. Sometimes family is what you really need most right now.
Take care of your physical and emotional well-being.
Eat healthy, exercise well and get enough sleep. Being your best self will allow you to do your best in everything else in your life.
Change is a small world with big meaning behind it. The best way to deal with change is to not fight it but embrace it. Although difficult, remember that overcoming the sophomore slump can make you a better and stronger person.
