You have not become a true college student until you have endured orientation; in other words, endure your first emotional breakdown. This occurs because of excessive procrastination that digs you into a hole so deep that you can barely see the sun.
Transitioning to college can be terrifying and overwhelming, but also exciting. All of your emotions excited simultaneously. The key to college and life is balance. Since many young adults lack this skill, colleges are equipped with a lifeline called counseling centers. I encourage all students and young adults to take advantage of this free resource.
Such as, Drexel University installed a Kiosk for mental health awareness. The Kiosk is a free service for getting a “Check-Up from the Neck Up.” Drexel installed the kiosk for students who may be feeling a little depressed or they may have other mental health concerns. Students can take an anonymous, two-minute screening test to see whether they are suffering from any mental health related issues.
Benefits of Using a Private College Counselor
Private college counselors are for supporting students in an effort to aid them with burdens of stress, anxiety, depression, academics, etc. Ultimately, a private college counselor will provide a healthy alternative for coping with adversity. If you are stressed, they offer advice or may even encourage you to enroll in a 1-credit yoga class, amongst other strategies. You may enter their office consumed with worry/doubt and leave with an unfamiliar peace in knowing that everything will be okay.
A private college counselor is patient and attentive to your questions and concerns. They can also shine light on other valuable information. For example, FASFA, scholarships, trips abroad, and classes required for graduation. All of which are necessities in pursuing your dreams and aspirations.
First-year students overwhelmed with information that does not make sense can seek out their experience, advice, and knowledge. A private college counselor may offer groups, workshops, and seminars on how to manage poor relationships, roommate discord, and drinking responsibly.
It is always good to have someone to talk to, especially when it feels like you reached a dead end. Another benefit is that your conversation with your mental health counselor is confidential. Do not worry about feeling judged, more than likely they heard it all.
RISKY PROCRASTINATION
I realized that I needed to consult with a private college counselor after a daunting all-nighter my sophomore year. My professor informed us of a 12-page paper at the beginning of the semester that counted as our final. Unfortunately, I did not begin this assignment promptly and waited until the last minute.
Well, the next thing I knew it was the last week of the semester, and I only completed four pages of the essay. Three pages were works cited, and one was a cover page, I had my work cut out for me.
After two Red Bulls and many tears, my final was complete by 6 a.m. That week I wrote as much as I could; fortunately, it was enough to recover from so much lost time. Lesson learned no more risky procrastination.
Take advantage of all that your college has to offer, tuition is way-too-expensive not to. Make your college counselor your new best friend for the next four years. Your private college counselor will make your life and college experience easier. Never take your counselor’s advice for granted, but aim to apply it in your daily life.
College is the prime of your life, make an effort not to experience any meltdowns or panic attacks. Be proactive about your wellness and mental health. Also, have fun balancing work and play.
College is exciting and for many of us, the best years of our lives. This is a time the youth is in their prime. Learning more about self and deciding which role is vital for the future. Yet, it is also a vital period for developing the skill of balance. Coping skills, resiliency, and stress management something that many young adults lack.
If you are interested in using a private college counselor, please look at your school’s website and schedule an appointment, you will be so glad you did.
Identity in Progress... 