First Year Slump

I can't give you any help on eventual health problems, but I can tell you about my experience.

I definitely experienced it during my first year on technology college. I remember a specific subject in math that I just couldn't grasp when I first started - and it really hit me hard, because I had gotten used to be great without any effort. I never really had to study when I was younger, and I think that was the actual problem - reality struck me and I had to do an actual effort to succeed. At this point it wasn't possible to understand everything in an instant.

The first year wasn't interesting at all, but I soon got used to it, became way more focused on the 2nd year and finally excelled on the 3rd year. Even if I did have it in me, I couldn't take advantage of it, because I experienced challenges I hadn't faced before.

You asked how we get back up and how we manage to stay focused. Hmm, I don't actually know how I got back up from the discouragement - it must've come naturally as I got more focused. One thing that probably helped me was to remember what subjects I was going to finish soon and which ones I was going to continue with for another year or two. The subjects finishing soon would require more attention, but I wouldn't get so stressed if I didn't grasp something in a long-term subject - because I'd have plenty of time to catch up.

With college, you need to learn how to learn first. This is very important; I can't stress enough on this single point!!!!!!

You need to learn how to effectively read your books and take good notes. See your professors during office hours to get help and ask them the big question, "how should I study for your class?" Most professors will help you out if you show them that you are trying hard by seeing them during their office hours.

Most importantly, take a lighter load to give you a chance to figure out your learning style. This will give you a smoother transition.

Best wishes.