So many things to think about

LegacyUser

Hey guys, I'm a guy just turned 20 and I've had a lot of things on my mind recently, basically I'd love some advice if people can help.

My issue is, I'm currently on first year study month from college, with my exams starting the end of April. Thus far I've had a hard time concentrating on the material, and I'm getting worried.
There are many reasons, I think. First and foremost, I'm not mad about my course (Commerce and French) and don't have much interest in a lot of the subjects. I'm ploughing on ahead for the moment though as I feel it'd be a good degree to have (although I don't know what exactly I want to do after it - probably travel).

Also, I have so many other things on my mind right now that I'm feeling it near impossible to concentrate. I recently got a part-time job in a new store which opens this week, so my hours will be a little hectic just for opening week. It's quite daunting as it's my first job and there's a lot to take in.
Finally, I've personal stuff. My aunt passed away recently and things aren't good in my family with my sister suffering from anxiety and my parent's marriage not very happy. There's a girl in my course I've liked for a while and haven't made a move which is increasingly playing on my mind and I cannot play football for the foreseeable as I hurt my ankle. The only things making me happy recently are seeing my friends (which I can't seem to find the time to do lately) and art, which is the same story.

Basically, I have a lot of things on my mind which, rightly or wrongly, I feel are more important to me than studying for exams in subjects I am not wholly interested in. Does anyone have any help they can give me, even little everyday tips to get through my exams and put all the rest to the back of my mind?
Apologies for the overly long post.

blatantrereg

Make a timetable allocating time to study, then stick to it.

thebigbang2014

Have you thought about doing an art course? Always go with what makes you happy..... There's some great local tec schools around the country that you can prepare a portfolio with, and then you are in a position to apply to the likes of Crawford which would be very rewarding

thegreatgonzo

Get exam papers from previous years from the library and do each question. A lot of the same things come up again and again and I find it's the best way to prepare for an exam.

Xterminator

the way i see it you have 2 choices.

change your course to one you are more interested in
or
make a conscious decision to commit to completing your existing course.

If you change to another course - there is the possibility you will find the grass is not greener. Its not a magic bullet. however if in your head you think there is another course you could get into, and you would get more personal satisfaction from, then go to your college and investigate without delay.

Otherwise create a study schedule that's realistic and stick to it. Put the serious effort in, and see where that takes you. If you get over this personal mountain, you may find the going easier afterwards.

But my advise to you is don't fall between the 2 stools.