The transition from high school to university is one of the biggest adjustments in the life of a young person. The "firsts" can include leaving home, setting up in a new city, making friends and choosing an academic path. Amid the excitement and good times, expect some stress: it's a natural response to change and uncertainty. Recognizing the source of anxiety – and how to relieve it – is part of the growing-up process that comes with making the most of university.
AUGUST
Stress: Selecting classes, summer welcome sessions, finances, meeting new people
Help: Peer support,financial aid office
SEPTEMBER
Stress: Less-structured learning environment, orientation week, making friends, feeling homesick
Help: Residence dons, mentors, study groups, club days
MID-OCTOBER
Stress: Mid-term exams, academic workshops, student marks, poor time management
Help: Life counsellors, sleeping/eating/study habits
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER
Stress: Final exams, financial problems, academic workshops, study-personal life balance
Help: Counselling/health services, academic advisers
JANUARY
Stress: Anxiety over end-of semester grades, second thoughts over program choice
Help: Study groups, faculty adviser
FEBRUARY
Stress: Picking a major, reading week, time management, course selection
Help: Registrar's office, mentors, 2nd-year faculty adviser
MARCH
Stress: Final exam preparation, career, summer employment, next-year housing
Help: Academic skills centre, student housing
APRIL-MAY
Stress: Final exams, time management, leaving friends
Help: Study groups, student affairs, academic advisers
SOURCE: TRENT UNIVERSITY; UNIVERSITY OF GUELPH