Overcoming Common Challenges in the Student Journey

Common student problems and ways to overcome them

College life can be as challenging as it looks. Many things in life define what college is: adjusting to a new surrounding, completing assignments timely, worrying over money, and confusing career paths and all are overwhelmed with the task of taking care of one’s mental state. Well, the good news is that there are ways to face those challenges. Smart steps can not only overcome these problems but also build a strong and confident professional.

In this article, we will talk about the problems that almost every student faces – and how a student can find solutions to them on his own.

1. Lack of time and hassle of management

Problem:

“Too little time, too much work.”

It often seems that 24 hours are not enough – classes, assignments, exam preparation, projects, and then there is a need for some fun.

Solution:

• Create a timetable that works for you. 2 hours of study in the morning, classes in the afternoon, revision at night. A fixed time for each task.
• Make a to-do list. At the beginning of the day, decide 3-4 main tasks that you have to complete.
• Divide large tasks into smaller parts. For example, complete a 10-page report by doing 2 pages every day.

Tip: Start with planning apps like Google Calendar, Notion or Sticky Notes. It’s easy and effective.

2. Study pressure and stress

Problem:

Pressure to top, subjects you don’t understand, repeated exams – and balancing them.

Solution:

• If you’re having a tough time with anything, reach out. Speak to your course instructor or a senior, or scour the internet for the information-the likes of YouTube or Coursera.
• Good things come in pairs: a regular sleep pattern, food, and a little exercise, and they go a long way in transforming a study.
• Take breaks to deal with stress. Take a 10-15 minute break between studies – take a walk, drink water, close your eyes.

Example: Take a 10 minute break after every 50 minutes of study – this will help you study for longer and your mind will also remain fresh.

3. Shortage of money

Problem:

College fees, books, hostel, food and travel – everything is expensive. And on top of that there is no source of income.

Solution:

• Find scholarships. State government, central government and private institutions offer many scholarships. Like – NSP (National Scholarship Portal), INSPIRE, Sitaram Jindal Foundation etc.
• Do part-time jobs online. Tutoring, content writing, translation or social media freelancing.
• Make a monthly budget. A simple Excel sheet or an expense recording app (like Money Manager) is very useful.

Tip: Review your expenses every week. See where you are spending more than necessary and try to cut it.

4. Difficulty in socializing with new people

Problem:

Many students feel lonely in college – find it difficult to make new friends or feel no sense of belonging.

Solution:

• Join college clubs. Be it debate, theatre, music or a language club – these not only enhance your skills but also help you make friends.
• Be sure to attend orientation and welcome programs. These programs are for new students to get acquainted with the campus.
• Initiate conversation. Sometimes a smile or a “Hi, I am from so and so branch” can start a friendship.

Example: Discuss assignments with your classmates in the lab you study in – this is where the conversation starts.

5. Ignoring mental health

Problem:

Sometimes things get so complicated that we get tired – neither do we feel like studying nor do we feel like talking to anyone.

Solution:

• Don’t hesitate to seek counseling. If you feel stressed, lonely, or anxious, speak to a college counsellor; they’re trained for just this reason and have a confidential and useful service for students.
• Talk to friends and family. It’s important to get things out in the open. Things get bigger if you keep them hidden.
• Have some ‘me time’ in the day. Spend 15-20 minutes just for yourself – be it reading something good, listening to music or staring at the sky for no reason.

Remember: mental health is as important as physical health. Don’t ignore it.

6. Career confusion

Problem:

“I don’t know what I want to do.”

Many students worry about this – what career should they choose, where to start, and what will be right?

Solution:

• Seek career guidance. The college’s Career Cell gives you information about internships, jobs and courses. Do visit it.
• Find a mentor. Seek advice from a senior, professor or friend – who has been through this journey.
• Be active on career webinars, fairs and LinkedIn. Talk to people from the industry, learn from them.

Tip: At the end of every semester, ask yourself this question – “Did I do anything this semester that took me closer to my career?”

Conclusion: There is a solution to every problem, just need a vision

Problems seem to come in a natural sequence, especially in student life. Nonetheless, if handled correctly, they may lead you to success.

So the next time you face a problem, remember:

• Plan your time, not chase it
• Take care of your mind and heart along with your studies
• Plan your money, and manage your expenses smartly
• Forge new relationships – friendship, support and network are all very important
• If you are feeling heavy, don’t stay alone – talk to them
• Be serious about your career, but don’t panic – every path opens up gradually