Charliene Mcweeny
Staff Writer

In today’s perfect world school would be easy, homework would be optional, and everyone would get 100% on every quiz and exam. Although people dream of the day those possibilities could come to life, they probably won’t be surfacing anytime soon.

College is one of the most challenging times for many students. Freshmen walk in with googly eyes in awe of the campus. They soon find out that college isn’t anything that was relayed to them. It’s not about the parties and drinking.

It becomes another problem on a list of more problems. Between studying at every spare second, they are trying to hold a steady job, maybe even more than one, pay bills, pay tuition and books. Don’t forget about spending time with family either, that might cause a whole new set of issues.

When it comes to college your biggest job is the school work and many seem to forget that. Once you get to college the goal is to stay in it, so make the time to schedule around the work and keep important dates at easy reach. Once a balanced equilibrium is met then broaden the horizon.

Try and get involved with Student Government, clubs, maybe even the college newspaper. Just don’t overdo it. Make sure to also make a note that your employer knows what you’re taking on, it’s likely they’ll understand because they’ve been there before. Work out a plan that keeps your employer happy and your income somewhat healthy.

Many things that students tend to forget is how resourceful a college campus really is. If homework is the problem; check out the tutoring center. Jobs on campus open up frequently and can help keep the college fees and bills paid. This can make work and school 10 times easier.

For those students that are returning or are of older generations these ideas to help with the stress levels can still apply. After years of no school is easy, but coming back is the challenge. Having to relearn and be retaught is all a big load to stress over.

Keeping at it is the biggest thing to remember and don’t forget to ask LOTS of questions.