The 2021-22 school year has been a crazy ride. As the pandemic begins to die down, we have had to learn how to manage daily tasks all over again,trying to find our way back to our normal lives. But, to start that journey, it is important to look back and ask questions that will get you thinking about what has happened.
I created a Google Form for students to express their thoughts about how their school year went. I asked a series of questions that focused on how the first and second semester went for MU students; what worked for them and what didn’t, what changes they made and what advice they have to share.
Here are some responses from Mizzou’s very own:
How was the first semester for you?
Student 1: “[It] was a rollercoaster. I am a freshman and it took a lot of adjustment to transition to living in a dorm, being away from home, etc.”
Student 2: “Extremely stressful. I have very little time to myself. One class in particular was a thorn in my side. I had many sleepless nights. That being said, I made some amazing memories and learned so much along the way.”
Student 3: “First semester was a lot of fun for me! I met a lot of really cool people and it was nice to be able to make my own space somewhere new and make connections and join a lot of organizations.”
How was the second semester for you?
Student 1: “[It] was a bit rocky but more so of a growth period. I was able to find out who my true friends were and people who truly cared for me and wanted to be around me. I was also able to be more in tune with my passions and take more care of myself.”
Student 2: “ [The] second semester was more stable. I knew who I was on campus.”
Student 3: “Second semester was much smoother and I had more time to pursue my interests and get more involved on campus, although it feels way longer than the first semester.”
What worked for you and what didn’t?
Student 1: “I tried to do too much at once, because that was what I was used to. Now, I know how to spend my time.”
Student 2: “Reaching out to others for help worked extremely well! When I bottled up my stress, I felt like I was at my lowest.”
Student 3: “Attending class works a ton, actually studying helped a lot too and managing how long to sleep and managing time in general.”
What changes did you make?
Student 1: “I had to prioritize myself and my mental health and make sure to schedule in ‘me time.’”
Student 2: “Some changes I made were the people that I had around me as well as my entire class schedule.”
Student 3: “I reintroduced hobbies into my life to take my mind off of the loads of school work. I started reading again for fun, I started to swim again. I felt like myself after a few months where I just felt like a ball of stress!”
What advice would you share with others on starting the semester?
Student 1: “Always start off with an open mind at the beginning of a semester. I would advise against biting off more than you can chew. Know your limits and don’t promise others more than you can give.”
Student 2: “Don’t put too much energy into someone until you know for sure they’ll be your friend. Be outgoing and engage with new people as much as possible.”
Student 3: “It’s fun to go out and party, but please understand that you must prioritize your studies! Also make sure you are taking time for yourself!”
I would like to thank everyone who responded to my Google Form and wish you all the best in your next endeavor as we reach the end of this year. We all might’ve struggled this year — whether that was academically, mentally, or emotionally. Yet, we found ways that worked for us and continued to push through. We made it through this year, and I know we can do it again. I believe in all of you!
As always, wishing you well!
Galena
P.S. Submit any questions you want advice on to Galena with the Google Form down below:
