As the spring semester comes to an end, a new semester of classes awaits.
Have you ever had that one class that you dreaded going to? As college students, the idea of going to any class is enough to make you roll your eyes.
However, this particular course is one you’re reluctant to go to; dragging your feet and taking the long way so you don’t get there a minute too early. The sight of your professors walking into the room makes you anticipate the moment you can get out of there. This is the class where your heart may start to race as you sit at your desk, hoping they don’t call on you. Your fingers constantly fidgeting with whatever you can get your hands on as you wait for the lecture to end.
I had a class like this last semester, as a freshman entering college for the first time. Needless to say, it was not a good way to start off my year. For obvious reasons, I won’t name the course or give hints on what it was.
Whether it be the professors, the style of the class, or just the material, this class has not only become a toxic, terrifying way of learning, but also a trigger for you now and in the future. How can you combat those feelings and pressures? Is it possible to escape it?
– If you’re still in the add/drop period, drop that course ASAP! Get it removed from your transcript, schedule, and life so you’ll never have to think about it again.
If you missed the window to drop the course OR it’s a required class, here are a few tips to help you bear it out.
1. Come prepared so you’re not caught off guard. Complete every reading so you walk into class with enough knowledge to answer any question on-the-spot.
2. Do not procrastinate! If you get your work done on time, at least you won’t have to stress about the course outside of class hours. As soon as something is assigned, work on it as quickly and efficiently as possible so you can confidently hand in your work without fearing a low grade.
3. This one may seem simple but get enough sleep and eat well before the class. Being well-rested and having a full stomach can surprisingly help to pass the time. You won’t be constantly checking the clock to find out when you can bolt out of the room to go eat or take a nap.
4. Make connections!! Chances are you aren’t the only person who feels this way about that particular class. Like in every class, friends make everything easier. Even if you just acquaint yourself with the people next to you, you’ll have people to talk to during the class. If you make one, two, or even more friends in the course, then you have someone to rely on to ease the stress of the workload. Sometimes, even in the most stressful classes, having a friend can be meaningful- and who knows, maybe you’ll find someone with a similar outlook on the course.
I will admit that the class I took in the fall was exhausting, and definitely my biggest stressor for that semester. Unfortunately, that class was mandatory so I had no choice but to accept my fate. Now, I will admit that every time I pass that room or every time I see those professors, my heart starts to race a little as those memories flood back. If I openly revealed the name of this course, I could’ve included actual student testimonies- but we won’t go that far. I’m extremely grateful that I did find people who shared the same thoughts on this course. It made me feel less isolated because I knew I wasn’t alone. I tried to embrace every weekend, holiday, and time away from inside that dreaded room which improved my mental health substantially.
I know there are countless students out there facing similar problems and I promise you are not alone. If this list can help at least one person, then it was worth sharing.Best of luck for the new semester and congratulations on making it to a well-deserved summer!