This part focuses on struggles pertaining to academics and your future career.
Q: I knew classes at Dartmouth would be challenging, but I didn’t realize how hard they would be until I got here! I’m struggling to keep up. What should I do?
A: You should make an appointment with an Academic Coach at the Academic Skills Center! Visit the ASC website for more information. They’ll help you figure out the study strategies that will best help you adjust to the rigor of college academics. You should also go to your professors’ and TAs’ office hours with prepared questions. Plan ahead for the winter, and consider joining a Tutoring Group at the beginning of the term!
Q: I feel that I’m constantly behind while everyone else has their stuff together. Is this normal?
A: Yes, this is normal! Many students at Dartmouth experience Imposter Syndrome, which is the idea that you aren’t good enough or don’t belong here because it seems like everyone else is on a level that you feel you can’t reach. Many students also experience Floating Duck Syndrome: when you wear a cool, collected exterior, but under the surface, you’re frantically paddling to keep yourself from sinking. If you’re here, it’s because you belong here (everyone else is not as put-together as you think). If you want help sorting through the reasons you’re struggling and finding healthy coping strategies, you should book an appointment with the Wellness Center professionals.
Q: I feel like I’ll be behind my peers if I don’t do an internship during winterim or my freshman summer. What should I do?
A: You’re still a first year student! You have plenty of time to pad your resume. I recommend enjoying your youth while you can, but if you’re really worried about it, please make an appointment with the Center for Professional Development by clicking “Dartboard Student Login” and clicking “Coaching Appointments” on the left side of the screen.
Q: My professor seems to think that the 24 hours in my day are only for their class. What should I do?
A: If your professor is assigning 2000 pages of reading, and 27 lectures in a week, you should make an appointment with an Academic Coach. They’ll help you with reading strategies, time management, and figuring out what material is necessary.
Q: What can I do when I’m so lost that I don’t know what questions to ask?
A: Check that you did the correct reading for the class period, review the professor’s notes to figure out where you are, ask a friend, or talk to your professor to clarify. If you’re lost because you’ve fallen behind on your work, and I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: make an appointment with an Academic Coach at the Academic Skills Center!