Back to college and struggling

LegacyUser

Just started back in college this year after almost 3 years of unemployment. Should be happy I'm finally off the dole and doing something but I'm slightly overwhelmed by the workload. I'm finding it difficult doing the work at home. Don't know why i'm writing here but from reading other threads it seems someone always has some sort of advice???

effluent

Is this your first year in college, or did you take a gap year?

I think everyone finds the workload in first year a bit over whelming. It's a stepping stone that prepares you for your final year and possibly you successive career.

My advice would be to talk to classmates about it, you could also form work groups to help each other out. Just take it one step at a time.

Lisha

HI

First Congrats and best of luck with College:)

Of course you re over whelmed with work load, its a lot to take on after being out of education for a while. I suppose first don't panic, second draw up a schedule as regards assignments, exams, etc. This might help you to see that it is doable in small chunks. also do a daily study time table that ties in with your college timetable.
At the risk at sounding patronising it prob is essential to start hard just so you dont fall behind. I bet it will fall into place after a while. But the wost thing would be to panic now and then have a huge backlog before exams.

You said it difficult to work from home would it be possible to use library for a while just til you ve built up some good study habits? Or maybe just chat to who ever you live with and explain that you need some peace n quiet etc for study.

If any subject is new to you maybe ask lecturer would it be useful for you to refer to any basic textbook that would be relevant to the subject. what I mean is if the subject is being taught at an intermediate/advanced level then maybe you would benifit from brushing up on the basics....Just a thought.

Best of luck and don t forget to enjoy social side too:D

LegacyUser

Hi,

I went back last year after a five year break and the first semester was really tough and a total shock to the system but I'm so glad I stuck it out. I found I was very hard on myself and was trying to get everything perfect (which certainly wasn't the case the first time in college!!) . Definitely talk with class mates, they will be a great support and also socialise with them as you will burn out if you try to go at the study the whole time. Make sure to try and keep up hobbies or even join some of the clubs in the college.

Well done for going back and what you're feeling now is entirely normal as other people in my year who returned after time off also felt really overwhelmed and intimidated over what was expected of us. The college year absolutely flies & it will be done in no time. Studying from home can be hard as it is likely you have a set routine with programmes you religiously watch and the coffee breaks are also tempting as well as noise issues so try out the library or else ear plugs or whatever it is that you think will work best for you!

Good Luck!