Navigating Academic Changes

While we can try to meticulously plan out every academic aspect of the time spent at NC State as a 17 or 18-year-old entering freshman year, it can be hard to truly know what will occur during our time on campus. As students enter new phases of life and open new doors to exciting opportunities, paths can change both socially and academically. While these changes can sometimes seem overwhelming or stressful, there are many ways to navigate them in a positive way to be able to implement them and use the information learned to support future academic successes. 

As a student who has gone through numerous academic challenges and changes over my two years at NC State, I have first-hand experience in navigating these moments when I was overwhelmed by change and unsure how to handle it. In going through these transitional periods, I have picked up many strategies and have been connected to vast amounts of resources through the university to support both my academic and social needs. 

The largest change I made was switching my major. Often, making drastic changes such as a major change can seem overwhelming and impossible, but with proper planning, help from University Advising, willingness to communicate and a strong work ethic, these changes are very doable. The best tip I can give when it comes to making these transitions is to be open to new opportunities and changes. While making this switch, I attended new club meetings I found through the University Activities Board and began to talk to all of my professors within my new major to gain information about the field and begin making connections. These small conversations can lead to great opportunities in the future!

Planning and organizing for the future is great and encouraged, but when changes occur, it is always good to know how to face them head-on. Through my own experiences, I have found that NC State is the perfect place to be able to navigate such changes and explore new academic areas in a controlled environment. Through the vast array of resources on campus, I have been able to thrive throughout numerous academic challenges and changes.  For example, with help from the Academic Success Center in D.H. Hill Jr. Library, I have been able to gain much knowledge about academic resources and upcoming events relating to my major and have received tutoring, both group and individual, for numerous classes. 

I hope these resources are helpful to you or your student during any transitional periods! 

Parent Ally

Abby