Overcoming a College Slump
“Embrace progress over perfection, and you’ll achieve more than you ever thought possible.” – Unknown
You often hear talk of the sophomore slump- a time when students can experience heightened uncertainty and lower motivation, in addition to second-guessing their choices in their first year of college.
However, we recognize that this same type of slump will likely impact students at all levels at some point during your time at UMBC – a college slump.
Below, we outline strategies and resources for overcoming a challenging college season.
Think about how you might be feeling right now: How is your motivation? How are your social connections? How is your physical and mental health? How is your overall organization?
Reflecting on your feelings can help you take the first step toward addressing what kind of support you need. Here are some ideas to get you thinking and to mix it up a bit:
- Get a group of friends together for a game night.
- Organize a small study group. Even if each person is focused on individual work, having the presence of others with you can be a big mood booster!
- Is the weather nice? Meet up with a friend to take a walk/hike or lunch in a park.
- Spend time with Officer Chip!
- Take a break and check out some fitness classes in the RAC!
Additionally, don’t forget that Campus Life offers many opportunities for student engagement. Check out their myUMBC page or follow the Student Events Board (SEB) for a list of events. Student organizations meet and hold events throughout the semester so we encourage you to find groups and events that interest you!
Academically, you may be feeling a lack of motivation to attend class or study. You also may be questioning your choice of major and wondering if you should change your academic path. Here are some resources and ideas for you to check out to keep your academics on track:
- The Academic Success Center has great online learning resources, including a series of interactive videos. Additionally, the ASC offers tutoring services if you need extra support
- Check in with your professors during their office hours or chat with a TA to get assistance with specific questions you have about your course content
- Advisors in the Office for Academic & Pre-Professional Advising welcome the opportunity to discuss your academic plans, including any potential major changes you are considering.
If making social or academic changes seems too much right now, a step in the direction of your mental health and well-being may be a better fit. If so, we encourage you to explore resources and events available through Retriever Integrated Health.
Slumps are a normal part of any college experience. It may seem like everyone around you has things 100% figured out, but that is certainly not the case! What you do during a slump will set the course for your remaining time at UMBC. The solution is almost always to take some action, no matter how small the step. As we say at Extra Credit – you gotta do more to gain more! You got this, Retrievers!
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