STEM: Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics.
STEM is a collection of some really cool subjects, but these really cool subjects can be REALLY painful sometimes.
Although all college majors are challenging, STEM can seem particularly overwhelming because there are so many things you have to remember or be good at. You don't have to be miserable, though.
Here are some ways to make getting your STEM degree more bearable...and maybe even enjoyable.
1. Find some pick-up lines related to your field of study.
https://gph.is/1LgiSDu
Yes, you read that right. STEM pick-up lines can make you feel absolutely ridiculous...but they can make you laugh at the same time.
I'm a neuroscience major. Here's my favorite neuroscience pick-up line: "Are you a neuron? Because you have action potential."
2. Struggle with friends.
When we fall, we fall together, right?
https://gph.is/1AsIxSm
Form a study group. Be productive, but it's okay to spend some time struggling together. That might mean late-night Red Bull runs.
Everything, even suffering, is better with friends.
3. Go to the seminars.
https://gph.is/1KBiiwZ
I know. Those seminars that you see advertised on campus about chemistry seem boring.
Still, hearing about current research could ignite your passion for science again. This happened to me when I attended a neuroscience seminar. STEM is a field with real-world applications, and it can be difficult to see that when you're just getting by in classes.
4. Get involved on campus.
http://gph.is/2fbzeCn
Go to football games. Join a student org. Make it a goal to go out every once in a while. You may always feel overwhelmed by work, but it's okay to rest sometimes. Getting involved will make you feel less isolated.
5. Don't be ashamed of being a nerd.
https://gph.is/2zSW0ZS
This is cheesy, I know, but never feel ashamed of your passions. Embrace your nerdiness.
If you're really into a topic you're learning about in class, don't repress it. Go to your professor's office hours. Ask questions. Be engaged.
I love science. If you're a STEM major, you probably do too. Find a reason to keep going.