Hey Sally, I’m a freshman and I am feeling very overwhelmed by the college life. When are things going to get easier? 

I do not know if you are going to take this as good news or bad news, but life never gets easier. As we get older, there are more challenges that we have to face and more often than not, as soon as we become acclimated to one situation, things change. College is hard. Growing up is hard. Life is hard. But that does not mean that you cannot find enjoyable things along the way. Freshman year of college sucks for everyone. We are all trying to figure ourselves out, attempting to be faux adults while juggling classes and a social life. You will get through this and you will be better for it. Do not give up!

xoxo,

Sally Seahawk

I think one of my friends has a drinking problem. How do I approach them without being offensive and scaring them off? 

This is definitely a sticky situation. Alcoholism comes in a variety of shapes, forms and sizes. The paradox of the “Functional College Alcoholic,” is not talked about enough, however, it is a very real problem with students our age. If you truly believe that your friend has a drinking problem, reach out to Crossroads as soon as possible. They will be able to point you in the right direction following next steps to potentially getting your friend some help. Linked here is the Crossroads website with their contact information. Wishing you the best of luck.

xoxo,

Sally Seahawk

All throughout high school, I never had to study or ask any questions. Now that I’m a sophomore in college I am struggling to understand the material but I am scared to speak up in class. How do I get it together?         

Whew child, the pride is strong with this one. The first step in getting your grades together is getting over yourself. Asking questions does not make you look weak, lesser or inadequate in any way. The professors, TAs and classmates are all there as resources to help you succeed. If you are feeling uncomfortable with asking questions in the classroom, reach out to your instructor or meet them one on one during their office hours. College is 100% what you make of it, and if you spend your entire four years here expecting to get through this the same way you got through high school, then this is going to be a rude awakening. There is no shame in asking for help. No one has ever succeeded alone!

xoxo,

Sally Seahawk