The unexpected in college is to be, well, expected. Life for most students involves juggling academics, finances, family, health, and many other things. So how should a college student handle the unexpected when it inevitably arises?
Time Required: Varies
Here's How:
- Tap into university resources as soon as possible. This may be the campus health center, the counseling center, academic support services, the financial aid office, your residence hall staff, the dean of students office, your professor(s), or anywhere else on campus that offers student support services. Regardless of your situation, however, there is undoubtedly somewhere on campus who can help connect you to the support you need. Figure out where that office is and head there -- stat.
- Figure out your options. When something unexpected pops up, most people want to know the solution right away. Take a moment, however, to explore all of your options. What are your options if the situation doesn't change? What are your options if the situation changes a little but doesn't go back to how things were? What are your options if the situation resolves itself? Knowing your options in all three scenarios can help you figure out what to do next in addition to removing the stress of the unknown.
- Prioritize and ask for help as much as possible. Reorganizing your priorities when the unexpected arises can be a great way to feel more in control of your situation and to get a better handle on things. Having an unexpected illness, financial situation, or family issue often means that things will need to be rearranged in your life, even if only temporarily. Spend a few quiet minutes with yourself and prioritize the things in your life in a way that still provides you with what you need without adding additional -- and unnecessary -- stress.
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