Challenges Faced by Students in University – University presents an opportunity for students to embark on a journey of self-discovery whilst exploring new places, meeting like minded people, and learning about their subject of interest. But despite all the perks of undertaking study, university students may encounter some hurdles too. By familiarizing yourself with the hurdles you might face ahead of time, you can better prepare for your time in higher education. In this guide, we look at four of the potential challenges students may face during their studies.

Potential Challenges Faced by Students in University

Financial Concerns

University is the first opportunity that many students have to provide for themselves, particularly when it comes to taking care of rent payments, study fees, and everyday essentials.

Bachelor’s degrees are expensive, and while ultimately the cost is worth it in the end, student debt can be troublesome and cause anxiety if you haven’t got much experience in handling your finances. To avoid becoming overwhelmed by this responsibility, it’s always best to organise your money and start financial planning prior to starting your course.

You’ll want to consider how much money you’re going to be spending on course fees, rent, bills and daily necessities – and how much disposable income you’ll be left with after having made these important payments. It may be worth keeping your money in separate bank accounts, so you always know how much you have saved for the important things, and how much you’re free to spend.

There’s always help available for students who are struggling with money concerns. Usually, universities will have helpful resources that students can access for advice. You may also want to research government support schemes, or consider a part-time job to top-up your funds if you have the time.

Academic Pressure

While you’ll have plenty of fun experiences during your time at university, it’s important to remember your ultimate reason for being there. Perhaps you’ve got a big vision for your future career, or you’re hoping to take on further study following your undergraduate degree. Whatever your goal, it’s crucial to put plenty of effort into your course to set yourself up for the best chances of success after graduating.

Whilst you should devote plenty of your time to studying, you may risk feeling burnt out if you feel particularly under pressure to achieve, or don’t set aside some time to unwind outside of university. It’s important to always try your best, but resist putting so much pressure on yourself that you become overwhelmed.

If you’re under too much pressure, you may find that your grades begin to suffer as a result – whereas plenty of rest time between studies will allow you to feel at your best and most productive when it’s time to get back to work.

Isolation or Homesickness

While many students enjoy the opportunity to go out and explore the world on their own, some may find that time spent away from family and friends back at home leads to feelings of loneliness or isolation.

It may be that you struggle to integrate into a new social circle, or that the friends you have made aren’t taking the same course as you. It’s important to have some sort of support network around you, so that you feel better equipped to handle the challenges that go hand in hand with studying at university.

Most universities will have some sort of mental health support or scheme in place for students who are feeling lonely or homesick. It’s important to reach out if you do find yourself struggling, as simply having someone there to listen can work wonders when it comes to improving your university experience.

Social Distractions

From social clubs and societies to charity balls and galas, as well as a range of clubs and bars, university towns are full of attractions for students. Getting involved in the activities around you is a great way to meet new, like minded people, develop your hobbies, and immerse yourself in the culture of your new hometown. By simply allowing yourself to have a little fun outside of your studies, you can fully immerse yourself in the university experience and let off a little steam at the end of each day.

Despite the importance of keeping an active social life at university, you’ll need to maintain a healthy balance between work and play. If you find yourself becoming too distracted by the goings on around you, you may begin to see your studies suffer as a result – so, it’s important to maintain strict boundaries when juggling the different aspects of university life.

How to Cope with University Challenges

The challenges of university may sound daunting, but they’re not guaranteed, and not every student will experience each and every hurdle. It’s common to struggle during the initial transitional period when you move away from family, begin your studies, and start to navigate your finances for the first time – however, the vast majority of students find that these changes get progressively easier as time passes.

There will always be support available for students who are struggling to cope with any kind of challenge, as well as for those who are worried about what university might entail, prior to starting their studies. Don’t be reluctant to reach out if you need support, as your time at university is meant to be enjoyed, and there will always be either an academic or social support network who are willing to help.

Disclaimer – The views expressed in this blog are those of a third party and do not reflect the views and opinions of the SecureMyScholarship team.