Experiencing College Burnout in My Second Semester
Lately, I’ve been feeling completely drained, and I can’t help but question why taking 4 college classes feels exponentially more taxing than the 6 or 7 I managed in high school. I’m already feeling burnt out, and it’s only my second semester. It’s easy to see why so many students struggle to complete their degrees—this is tougher than I anticipated.
Back in high school, the structure was much different. Teachers were always checking in, providing support when things got tough. Now, in college, it feels like I’m expected to navigate everything on my own, and the coursework is significantly more complex. It’s not just about showing up to class; it involves hours of independent study, multiple assignments due each week, and high-stakes exams that can make or break my grade. This takes a considerable amount of mental and emotional energy, and I feel like I’m constantly racing against deadlines, even with just four classes.
I’m seriously contemplating dropping down to 3 classes next year, even though it will extend the time it takes to earn my degree. Right now, I’d rather focus on doing my best rather than rushing through and risking complete burnout. Typically, I’m an A-B student, with the occasional C when things get overwhelming, but right now I’m facing 2 A’s, a D+, and an F in my science classes. It’s a lot to deal with, and it’s disheartening to put in so much effort and not see the results I hoped for.
I’d love to hear what strategies helped you get through similar burnout. I know it’s a holiday, so no rush in responding, but your thoughts would mean a lot to me.
I completely understand where you’re coming from. College can be a huge adjustment, and it’s not uncommon to feel overwhelmed, especially in the second semester when everything seems to hit harder. The shift from high school to college is definitely challenging, with less structure and more responsibility on you to manage your time and workload.
Your feelings of burnout are valid, and it’s great that you’re being proactive about your well-being by considering a lighter course load. Prioritizing your mental health and focusing on quality over quantity is so important. Taking 3 classes instead of 4 could give you the space to really absorb the material and improve your grades without the added pressure.
Here are a few strategies that might help you cope with burnout:
Time Management: Create a realistic schedule outlining your classes, study time, and deadlines. Breaking tasks into smaller, manageable parts can help you avoid feeling overwhelmed.
Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to reach out to professors or teaching assistants if you’re struggling, especially in your science courses. They can offer guidance and may even have resources for tutoring.
Join Study Groups: Sometimes collaborating with classmates can help clarify difficult concepts and reduce the solitary nature of studying.
Self-Care: Make sure you’re taking time for yourself outside of academics. Whether it’s exercise, hobbies, or just relaxation, self-care is essential to combat burnout.
Resources: Many colleges have counseling services or academic support centers that can provide tools and strategies to help you manage stress and improve your academic performance.
Remember, it’s okay to adjust your path if that’s what you need to maintain your well-being. You’re not alone in feeling this way, and it’s a phase many students go through. Keep pushing through—better days are ahead!