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College/university can be an amazing experience filled with opportunities to learn new things, meet new people, and make lifelong friends.

Group of students working together on a school project.Photo by Jud Mackrill on Unsplash

But you may also face some stressful challenges along the way that make you want to quit.

Girl who is stressed with her hands on her head staring at her computer.Photo by Elisa Ventur on Unsplash

If you're thinking about dropping out, remember that you're not alone!

Consider why you feel this way, and explore all your alternatives before you make a decision that you may regret later.

Did you know?

About 45% of students drop out of college/university without graduating. ~https://www.collegeraptor.com/find-colleges/articles/tips-tools-advice/4-tips-minimize-odds-dropping-college/

Financial

The most common reason for dropping out of college/university is that it is expensive and you don't have the money to pay for it.

Woman saying 'What money?'

It's tempting to pursue a job where you can make money rather than spend it on a costly education , but investing in a college/university education can lead to higher income in the longer term.

Suggestions

If you're struggling to keep up with your education expenses:

  • Explore your eligibility for grants, scholarships, and other financial aid

  • Look at co-op or work-study programs where you can alternate your studies with work experience in the same field

  • Examine your budget to see if you can reduce your expenses

Did you know?

94% of America's wealthiest and most influential leaders are college/university grads (JobReaders.org, "12 Reasons Why Students Drop Out Of College").

Academic

The transition from high school to college/university can be a big one.

Man saying 'I can do whatever I want. It's my own life.'

You have more independence to make decisions about how and when you study, but it's important to manage your time wisely to stay on top of your course load.

Suggestions

If you're falling behind in your courses, feel overwhelmed, or don't like your program:

  • Ask for help from your professors and teaching assistants

  • Contact the academic resource center to request tutoring assistance

  • Start or join a study group

  • Consider changing programs or switching to part-time studies

Personal

Are you lonely or homesick? Did you and your partner break up recently? Is a member of your family ill? What will you do if you get sick?

Young man by himself.Photo by Andrew Neel on Unsplash

Over the course of your college/university experience, you'll likely face personal situations that create stress and impact your studies.

Suggestions

It's important to create a strong support system to help you cope with challenging personal events.

Four people looking at the sunrise with their arms around each other.

  • Look for opportunities to make new friends and socialize with your classmates — but don't party too much!

  • Contact your school's student support resources for guidance

  • Check your school's policies and consider taking a break for a semester

Quiz

Dan attends a college away from his home town and really misses his friends. What should he do?

Take Action

A guy walking in the woods saying 'I hate school, I love school'.

It's normal to feel stressed and overwhelmed in your first year! Before you consider dropping out:

License:

This Byte has been authored by

LF

Lisa Fatum

Technology Implementation Consultant

English

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