6 answers
1
Question
Asked
186 views
What is you're biggest advice for getting through college despite countless distractions and the pressure to succeed?
#Spring2025
I'm an incoming first gen college freshman. I'm the first in my family to go to college, so I've had to figure out a lot by myself. I can't afford to fail because of the amount of money college costs. Senioritis has also been hitting hard and I'm scared all these bad procrastination habits will stick. I'm trying to become a CRNA long term and I know it will take so much preservation and hard work. Any motives or advice to overcome my struggles and make it?
Login to comment
6 answers
Charlotte Geiger
Public Health Science Student at the University of Maryland
151
Answers
Updated
Charlotte’s Answer
Hey there!
First off, congratulations on being the first in your family to go to college! That’s a huge accomplishment, and it shows that you’re driven and determined to succeed. Feeling the pressure to make it is completely normal, especially when you know how much is at stake. Let’s break down some practical advice to help you stay focused, manage distractions, and build the resilience needed for your long-term goal of becoming a CRNA.
1. Shift Your Mindset: Embrace the Challenge
It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when you think about how much hard work lies ahead. Instead, try to see challenges as opportunities to grow. Remember why you started this journey:
You want to become a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA), a highly respected and rewarding career.
You’re not just doing this for yourself but also to pave the way for others in your family and community.
Whenever you feel unmotivated, remind yourself: “I’m doing this to build a future I deserve.”
2. Tackle Procrastination Head-On
Senioritis and procrastination can be tough to shake, but building new habits now will set you up for success.
The Two-Minute Rule:
If a task takes less than two minutes (like sending an email or reviewing notes), do it right away.
Break Tasks Down:
Large assignments can feel overwhelming, so split them into smaller, manageable parts.
Set micro-goals, like completing just the introduction of a paper, and reward yourself after.
Use a Study Routine:
Set specific times for studying and treat them like appointments you can’t skip.
Create a distraction-free space (put your phone on “Do Not Disturb” mode).
Use the Pomodoro Technique:
Study for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break. Repeat this 4 times, then take a longer break.
Accountability Buddy:
Find someone in your class who also struggles with procrastination and hold each other accountable.
3. Manage Distractions Effectively
College life is full of social opportunities and distractions. Here’s how to manage them without missing out:
Prioritize Your Schedule:
Use a planner or digital calendar to map out study sessions, classes, and social activities.
Set Boundaries:
It’s okay to say no to parties or outings if you need to focus. Balance is key, but prioritize your long-term goals.
Social Study Groups:
Combine studying with socializing by joining study groups where you stay on task while being around friends.
Limit Social Media:
Use apps like Forest or Stay Focused to block social media during study time.
Reward Yourself:
Plan something fun after completing a big assignment—motivation through rewards works!
4. Balance Stress and Self-Care:
Balancing academics and well-being is crucial, especially when aiming for a demanding career like CRNA.
Exercise Regularly:
Physical activity reduces stress and keeps your energy levels up.
Stay Connected to Your Why:
Create a vision board with images and words that remind you of your goal to become a CRNA.
Talk to Someone:
Being a first-gen student can feel isolating. Connect with mentors, join support groups, or talk to a counselor if you’re feeling overwhelmed.
Journal Your Journey:
Write down your wins, struggles, and how you’re feeling. This can help you process stress and track your progress.
5. Build Your CRNA Resume Early:
Get Involved on Campus:
Join pre-health clubs or nursing student associations.
Volunteer or Work in Healthcare:
Even as a freshman, look for opportunities to shadow nurses or work as a CNA or medical assistant.
Build Study Skills Now:
CRNA programs are rigorous, so develop strong study habits during your undergrad.
Network with Professors and Peers:
Your professors can be great mentors and might connect you with clinical opportunities.
6. Stay Inspired:
Follow CRNAs on Social Media:
Seeing their day-to-day life can keep you motivated.
Visualize Your Future:
Picture yourself wearing that CRNA badge. Imagine the pride your family will feel when you achieve your goal.
Remember Your Support System:
Even if your family doesn’t fully understand the journey, they’re proud of you for pursuing your dreams.
7. Embrace Being First-Gen:
You’re breaking barriers and setting an example for others. Use campus resources designed for first-gen students—they can offer academic support, mentoring, and community. Celebrate the uniqueness of your journey and know that you’re building a legacy.
First off, congratulations on being the first in your family to go to college! That’s a huge accomplishment, and it shows that you’re driven and determined to succeed. Feeling the pressure to make it is completely normal, especially when you know how much is at stake. Let’s break down some practical advice to help you stay focused, manage distractions, and build the resilience needed for your long-term goal of becoming a CRNA.
1. Shift Your Mindset: Embrace the Challenge
It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when you think about how much hard work lies ahead. Instead, try to see challenges as opportunities to grow. Remember why you started this journey:
You want to become a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA), a highly respected and rewarding career.
You’re not just doing this for yourself but also to pave the way for others in your family and community.
Whenever you feel unmotivated, remind yourself: “I’m doing this to build a future I deserve.”
2. Tackle Procrastination Head-On
Senioritis and procrastination can be tough to shake, but building new habits now will set you up for success.
The Two-Minute Rule:
If a task takes less than two minutes (like sending an email or reviewing notes), do it right away.
Break Tasks Down:
Large assignments can feel overwhelming, so split them into smaller, manageable parts.
Set micro-goals, like completing just the introduction of a paper, and reward yourself after.
Use a Study Routine:
Set specific times for studying and treat them like appointments you can’t skip.
Create a distraction-free space (put your phone on “Do Not Disturb” mode).
Use the Pomodoro Technique:
Study for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break. Repeat this 4 times, then take a longer break.
Accountability Buddy:
Find someone in your class who also struggles with procrastination and hold each other accountable.
3. Manage Distractions Effectively
College life is full of social opportunities and distractions. Here’s how to manage them without missing out:
Prioritize Your Schedule:
Use a planner or digital calendar to map out study sessions, classes, and social activities.
Set Boundaries:
It’s okay to say no to parties or outings if you need to focus. Balance is key, but prioritize your long-term goals.
Social Study Groups:
Combine studying with socializing by joining study groups where you stay on task while being around friends.
Limit Social Media:
Use apps like Forest or Stay Focused to block social media during study time.
Reward Yourself:
Plan something fun after completing a big assignment—motivation through rewards works!
4. Balance Stress and Self-Care:
Balancing academics and well-being is crucial, especially when aiming for a demanding career like CRNA.
Exercise Regularly:
Physical activity reduces stress and keeps your energy levels up.
Stay Connected to Your Why:
Create a vision board with images and words that remind you of your goal to become a CRNA.
Talk to Someone:
Being a first-gen student can feel isolating. Connect with mentors, join support groups, or talk to a counselor if you’re feeling overwhelmed.
Journal Your Journey:
Write down your wins, struggles, and how you’re feeling. This can help you process stress and track your progress.
5. Build Your CRNA Resume Early:
Get Involved on Campus:
Join pre-health clubs or nursing student associations.
Volunteer or Work in Healthcare:
Even as a freshman, look for opportunities to shadow nurses or work as a CNA or medical assistant.
Build Study Skills Now:
CRNA programs are rigorous, so develop strong study habits during your undergrad.
Network with Professors and Peers:
Your professors can be great mentors and might connect you with clinical opportunities.
6. Stay Inspired:
Follow CRNAs on Social Media:
Seeing their day-to-day life can keep you motivated.
Visualize Your Future:
Picture yourself wearing that CRNA badge. Imagine the pride your family will feel when you achieve your goal.
Remember Your Support System:
Even if your family doesn’t fully understand the journey, they’re proud of you for pursuing your dreams.
7. Embrace Being First-Gen:
You’re breaking barriers and setting an example for others. Use campus resources designed for first-gen students—they can offer academic support, mentoring, and community. Celebrate the uniqueness of your journey and know that you’re building a legacy.
Updated
Jason’s Answer
Hey Jennifer,
It's awesome to hear you are a trailblazer for your family and have a goal in mind to what you want to be. I would say map backwards what all you will have to do in order to get to become a CRNA if you haven't already. Start to look at CRNA programs and what they require from you to have so you can make plans as an incoming freshman to begin to chip away at gaining those experiences and getting yourself on track to where you want to be. I would say if your school actually offers a program be sure to meet the faculty and ask as many questions about it as possible so you are well informed. As far as college in general I would say embrace the experience and try to learn as much both academic and social as you can. Feel free to explore your interests outside of just healthcare if you have them. I would say set limits on the extracurriculars as I know school can be tough so you want to have a healthy balance between school and social. It's an exciting time in your life. Be sure to try to make as many connection with your classmates as you can to find a group that you will help support and motivate you along the way. CRNA is a great career field so you will be glad you chose it when you get there. Best of luck.
It's awesome to hear you are a trailblazer for your family and have a goal in mind to what you want to be. I would say map backwards what all you will have to do in order to get to become a CRNA if you haven't already. Start to look at CRNA programs and what they require from you to have so you can make plans as an incoming freshman to begin to chip away at gaining those experiences and getting yourself on track to where you want to be. I would say if your school actually offers a program be sure to meet the faculty and ask as many questions about it as possible so you are well informed. As far as college in general I would say embrace the experience and try to learn as much both academic and social as you can. Feel free to explore your interests outside of just healthcare if you have them. I would say set limits on the extracurriculars as I know school can be tough so you want to have a healthy balance between school and social. It's an exciting time in your life. Be sure to try to make as many connection with your classmates as you can to find a group that you will help support and motivate you along the way. CRNA is a great career field so you will be glad you chose it when you get there. Best of luck.
Updated
Jestin’s Answer
Hey Jennifer!
Congrats on being first generation! Thats a huge accomplishment.
I'm going to tell you what my mom told me. You only got 4 years and make sure you complete everything in 4 years. There will always be distractions, but you have to find the right balance for yourself.
At the end of the day, school should come first. If you know, you have something due you have to LOCK IN and get it done. There will always be time to party and hang out with friends.
Create goals for yourself, set a schedule, make sure you get your rest, don't put too much on your plate. College is going to be the best time of your life, so HAVE FUN!!
Congrats on being first generation! Thats a huge accomplishment.
I'm going to tell you what my mom told me. You only got 4 years and make sure you complete everything in 4 years. There will always be distractions, but you have to find the right balance for yourself.
At the end of the day, school should come first. If you know, you have something due you have to LOCK IN and get it done. There will always be time to party and hang out with friends.
Create goals for yourself, set a schedule, make sure you get your rest, don't put too much on your plate. College is going to be the best time of your life, so HAVE FUN!!
Nija Jackson, LCSW
Compassionate and Dedicated Social Worker currently seeking Social Work opportunities to establish growth and longevity.
129
Answers
Updated
Nija’s Answer
College can be a lot to handle, with the pressure to do well and many distractions. My best tip is to take it step by step and not compare yourself to others. Break your goals into smaller parts, celebrate little victories, and be kind to yourself if things don’t go as planned. Remember why you started this journey, and don’t hesitate to ask for help, from a teacher, a tutor, or a friend. Success isn’t about being perfect. It’s about being steady, staying focused, and pushing through when things get tough.
Updated
Mohammed’s Answer
Hi Jennifer!
As the first in my family to finish college, I understand what you're going through! My tip is to go at a pace that feels right for you and don't cram too much into each semester. It's helpful to chat with a counselor to ensure you're on track with your course requirements. Also, remember not to compare yourself to others in your program. Everyone moves at their own speed, so focusing on fewer classes can be a smart way to succeed. Lastly, make the most of your college breaks. Enjoy your hobbies, spend time with friends and family, and work on building your professional network!
Good luck!
As the first in my family to finish college, I understand what you're going through! My tip is to go at a pace that feels right for you and don't cram too much into each semester. It's helpful to chat with a counselor to ensure you're on track with your course requirements. Also, remember not to compare yourself to others in your program. Everyone moves at their own speed, so focusing on fewer classes can be a smart way to succeed. Lastly, make the most of your college breaks. Enjoy your hobbies, spend time with friends and family, and work on building your professional network!
Good luck!
Updated
Maria’s Answer
Congratulations, Jennifer!
I was first-generation college student in my family as well. While it is a privilege, I understand the level of pressure you may feel. Try to practice compassion with yourself, you've reached this milestone already and have the capacity to succeed.
If you find yourself easily distracted or having a hard time focusing, try spacing out your time spent studying. Everyone has different styles of learning and retaining information. Do not look to compare yourself to others, look for advice to see what they do and try finding what works best for you. Find a group of friends that can get together to study, you can keep each other accountable and quiz each other.
Find healthy habits you can do when you're not studying and spend time with friends and family!
I was first-generation college student in my family as well. While it is a privilege, I understand the level of pressure you may feel. Try to practice compassion with yourself, you've reached this milestone already and have the capacity to succeed.
If you find yourself easily distracted or having a hard time focusing, try spacing out your time spent studying. Everyone has different styles of learning and retaining information. Do not look to compare yourself to others, look for advice to see what they do and try finding what works best for you. Find a group of friends that can get together to study, you can keep each other accountable and quiz each other.
Find healthy habits you can do when you're not studying and spend time with friends and family!