Navigating the Challenges of Starting College as a Neurodiverse Student
Embarking on a new academic journey can be both exciting and overwhelming, especially when stepping into unfamiliar territory. As a 21-year-old psychology major preparing for her first semester at a university far from home, I find myself grappling with a mix of anticipation and apprehension.
My university experience marks a significant turning point; I’m relocating to a city I’ve visited only once before. With aspirations of graduate school and a passion for learning, I’ve always been the student involved in numerous activities. During my time at community college, I juggled responsibilities across student media, occasional student government meetings, PTK honors society, campus event organization, and SkillsUSA — all while managing coursework, transferring applications, and working up to 20 hours weekly.
I attribute much of my busy lifestyle to my ADHD, which energizes me to pursue various projects with enthusiasm. My mind tends to shout, “I want to do this!” leading me to take on more than I can often handle. Despite frequent procrastination and moments of burnout, I manage to complete my commitments, which I consider a small victory.
As I prepare to start university, I carry both my neurodivergence and a degree of exhaustion. Burnout has been a persistent challenge, and I recognize the need for better strategies. Nevertheless, I foster a genuine excitement for the new opportunities ahead — meeting new people, learning fresh concepts, engaging in research, and immersing myself in academic life.
Yet, the transition has already been stressful. Orientation presented an overload of information: Should I apply for internships now? Look for a part-time job? Volunteer or join organizations? How proactive should I be? And why do I feel like I’m one of the few attending the optional sessions?
I have a therapy session scheduled for midweek, but I’d also appreciate insights from those who’ve navigated university life longer — especially if they share traits similar to mine. How do you balance coursework and extracurricular commitments? Are these activities worth the effort in the long run?
College is a profound journey, and managing everything can seem daunting. However, with support and experience, it becomes more manageable. If you’ve faced similar challenges or have advice for neurodiverse students starting university, I’d love to hear your thoughts.