Some freshmen are searching for ways to get involved, and college is a good time to find yourself by getting involved in clubs and events.
NSU offers so many different ways for freshmen to find their niche, but with so many options, freshman may become overwhelmed. With classes, clubs and jobs, when do these activities become too much?
Elora Thomas, a freshman whose major is undecided, is involved in intramural volleyball, nature club and Theta Phi Alpha and shared her experiences of being overwhelmed.
“I feel overwhelmed because of schoolwork more than I do by my clubs,” she said. “At that point, I just go home, buy a large sweet tea with no ice and vent to my parents.”
Thomas also said students should take on one activity at a time until they feel comfortable putting more on their plates, and should not overdo it.
Daesha Roberts, a senior business administration major who works for SEA Board, is on the rowing team and is involved in the Student Government Association gave some personal advice for anyone feeling overwhelmed.
“I do what I need to do and keep my schedule organized,” she said. “Sometimes things get a little messy, but you just have to roll with the punches. “I put everything in my phone too. If I didn’t have my phone, my life would be over.”
Roberts said for students to ignore the fear of overwhelming situations because stress is bound to happen at some time in college. She said to not miss out on an opportunity because of fear because there are many resources on campus that can help make students’ schedules more manageable.
NSU also provides resources for those who feel they just cannot fit academics, clubs and jobs into a matter of 24 hours, such as Henderson Student Counseling Services and the Office of Undergraduate Student Success. Samantha Yorke is the assistant director in the Office of Undergraduate Student Success as well as a success coach and she offered some information and advice on how to keep up with a busy college life.
“Something that we do in this office is the success coaches will sit down and plug in all of your classes, then plug in all of your other commitments into your schedule, and from there, we’ll see what time is left to plug in things like study hours, involvement and if you are looking to join a club,” she said.
Although making time for studies, clubs, jobs and other activities is stressful and overwhelming, Yorke encourages a bit of a strain.
“It’s important to embrace the discomfort and to know that college is a time to grow and develop. I think it’s exciting to have a lot going on at this time in your life because college is only four years. Enjoy it while it’s here,” said Yorke
Henderson Student Counseling Services allows students to make appointments with counselors for issues such as stress management, homesickness and social struggles. Henderson is located at 3538 S. University Dr.,and appointments can be made by either walking in or by calling 954-424-6911. The Office of Undergraduate Student Success is located in the Rosenthal Building next to the University Center. Appointments with a success coach can be made by phone at 954-262-8386, online at nova.edu/yoursuccess or by walk-in.
