The Census Bureau reported in February 2022, new educational attainment data that revealed 14.4% of Americans hold an advanced degree such as a master’s or doctoral degree. Obtaining a college education is the American dream for many people. When someone decides to continue their education by enrolling in graduate school, they understand it is a significant commitment, and sacrifices are often necessary. A certain amount of discipline must be present to complete the program successfully.
Completing graduate school requires scheduling life around your own schooling to include work responsibilities, childcare, parental duties, home life routines, etc. On top of all that, payment and other financial obligations for grad school can be stress-inducing.
Stress and Anxiety You Might Encounter
Stress and anxiety are becoming more and more common in people of all ages. According to the Mayo Clinic Health System, “Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, rates of anxiety and depression among college students have increased substantially. A recent study found that one in three college students experiences significant depression and anxiety.” There are several reasons why these feelings emerge.
Graduate school in and of itself will have stressors. It is an unknown, and, like all new experiences, it can be exciting and still cause anxiety. You will have new material to learn, new deadlines to meet, new classmates to engage with, and new teachers for each course you are taking. Each course will have a different professor with their own set of expectations and demands. That can be a little frightening at the start. The good news is that after a course or two, most of that “newness” anxiety will disappear and you will get into a routine.
Classwork Stress and Time Management
Coursework at the collegiate level today may feel heavy. There are specific requirements for each course and strict deadlines. Having a solid grip on your time management is essential to remain in good standing.
This may include:
- Setting reminders and timers on your cell phone
- Using a paper or digital calendar
- Setting up/joining a study group
- Clearing your schedule for one day each week to complete all assignments
Online vs. In-Person Challenges
Many colleges and universities now have options for both online and in-person courses. Some programs are hybrid to fit the needs of working or busy graduates. Both settings have pros and cons; you should weigh those before selecting either option.
There are many pros to online courses. One is having the leisure to attend class from any place you need to, even on vacation. Also, being comfortable at home and still being able to supervise your children if needed. Some cons are feeling isolated or not being connected to your instructor and classmates, the likelihood of procrastination, and the heavier course load compared to a face-to-face course.
The pros of in-person courses are the relationships you can build with your cohort and instructor. Some students are more successful when they have personal connections. When you are in a classroom, you don’t face the distractions you might encounter at home; your mind is more focused on the task at hand. There is the opportunity for a more inclusive approach inside the classroom where the instructor can meet the needs of all learning styles, and you may feel more accountable in person.
There are also cons to in-person learning. Scheduling may prevent you from being able to attend at a specific time. Also, there is limited time the instructor has with the students, and the cost of face-to-face courses are typically more expensive.
How to Relieve Stress and Anxiety
Self-Care
Self-care is one of the best ways to relieve stress and anxiety symptoms. You cannot pour from an empty cup. It is imperative to take time for yourself by doing something that makes you happy and helps you relax.
Crafting, reading a fun book, photography, gardening, or whatever gives you the most pleasure will give you a break from everyday stress and anxiety. Be sure to have a friend or trusted mentor that you can go to when things seem rough. Having that person to confide in and to encourage you is a great help along your journey. Regardless of the choices you make to relieve stress, having a healthy balance in your life as you move into graduate school will make all of the difference in maintaining a good mental health outlook. These actions can reduce tension and stress.
This does not require a great deal of time or money. It can be something as small as taking a nap or carving out time to take a long bath.
In Your Classroom Environment
While teaching and going back to school, there are ways to plan that will help ease the stress you may feel. Do your lesson planning ahead of time. Have all materials printed and prepped for the next day before you leave at night or make a regular schedule of coming in extra early to do those things. Have a back-up person in your school in case something happens on the night you have class and have to leave a bit early. Clear it with your principal to make sure it is okay to have your class supervised by someone else should you need to leave a little early once in a while. Most principals have gone through this and will be understanding.
Stay Ahead on Assignments
Staying ahead on assignments will benefit you in either setting you select for graduate school.
Your best work is done when you have time to focus, get clarity, and collaborate if needed. This requires efficient planning and discipline.
Maintain a Good Sleep Schedule
Sleep is a key component to success in all levels of schooling. To do your best work, you must feel awake and alert to absorb the content. Being at your peak performance level is vital to comprehend and deliver. Sleep schedules vary by age, so knowing what is best for your body is important.
Utilize Your Support System
The people in your life who support you and your goals are a lifeline. These are the people you can call on at any time.
Family and friends help to relieve anxiety and stress because they can remind you of your “why,” give you the confidence you may need, and reset you when you are struggling. No man is an island; use your support and never give up.
Remember the words of Arthur L. Williams Jr.: “I’m not telling you it’s going to be easy; I’m telling you it’s going to be worth it.”
If you’re interested in pursuing an advanced degree and want to learn more, check out our online, hybrid, and in-person master’s and doctorate degrees today!
