College Life - Keeping Motivation Alive In College
By When a student begins college, there is so much excitement. He experiences new freedom, friends and surroundings.
He feels the pride of pursuing a higher education. He anticipates the challenges of new classes and instructors who treat him as an adult.
As he starts college, the entire experience is motivating.
Then, as he moves into his new routine, and time passes, some of that motivation can begin to dwindle.
Some classes may not cover material he finds mentally stimulating.
Friends and college surroundings cause distractions, making studies less inviting. When the student calls home, parents realize the enthusiasm is wavering.
Understandably, college parents are concerned when a student's motivation begins to disappear. Statistics show parents have every reason to be concerned. According to the U.S. Department of Education, nearly 50% of students who enter a four-year college do not graduate. So how do you, as a parent, help your student to be among those who do?
Motivation is something students must develop and maintain themselves. Still, parents can be available to talk with their student and provide advice.
The following are some tips parents can share with a college student struggling to stay motivated:
A student will remain more motivated if she sets goals, whether major or minor ones. Working to meet goals gives her something to aim for and a reason to keep her momentum. If your student has a vision for career and life after college, this can be very motivating. Encourage her to think about goals. Encourage her to write her vision on a piece of paper and place it someplace she will see it each day.
The amount of work in college can be overwhelming. If large assignments are looming, suggest that your student break them into smaller, achievable steps. She will feel a sense of accomplishment with each step she completes. She may even reward herself in some small way for each step completed.
While it may not be easy as a parent to influence your student's choice of friends, you can still provide a gentle reminder that he is attending college to experience college life and prepare for a career. If friends are hampering his ability to do so, it may be beneficial to spend less time with them.
Along the same line, remind your student of the importance of a strong on-campus support system. He isn't alone. He should look for other students who can provide daily support and encouragement.
Remind your student of the need for good health. It is difficult for a person to stay motivated if she doesn't feel well. Nutrition, sleep and exercise are all important to the college student. Also, she should not feel guilty getting away from the work on occasion to rejuvenate. She should take time for a hobby or activity she enjoys.
Finally, if your student has lost all motivation, encourage him to seek the advice of college advisors, counselors or another trusted adult. Keep the lines of communication open. Your student may be independent, but you can still be the best source of motivation he or she will ever have.
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