During the height of the pandemic, my mental health was at a low point, and I ended up missing an online final. I will never forget the kindness and compassion of my professor, who understanding what her students were going through, provided grace during an exceptional time by providing us all with an extension to the due date.

The nature of the college experience as a young adult is marked by change. It felt lonely being affected by mental illness in the college setting, where struggles were silenced in light of responsibilities. Having advocates on campus was a necessity for me to feel supported in my mental health.”

The classroom should be a safe space for us. The best learning experience comes froma. Healthy and respectful class. I deeply appreciate when my professors take time to include students’ needs and voices in the dynamics of the class, whether syllabi, feedback, or flexibility.

Stressing out over assignments and exams drove me to isolate myself and not ask for help. If I could do it over, I would tell myself to ask for help and collaborate with others as much as possible to feel less alone and supported during those anxious college years.

It may seem like everyone knows exactly what they’re doing in college, but the reality is, no one does. Once you start accepting the fact that you do not have to have anything figured out, the burden you’re carrying gets lighter.

College was a terrifying new adjustment, but it was also the place that gave me opportunities to better my mental health. Coming from an environment where discussions of seeking professional help were frowned upon, taking advantage of on campus counseling resources opened up new avenues for me and my self-advocacy.

Learning is an extremely emotional and transformative process; if educators are not disability- and trauma-informed, education will continue to be inaccessible to neurodiverse minds. The difference in a classroom with a disability-minded educator and one without is stark. It’s the job of educators to ensure that learning is a positive experience for everyone, not just those lucky enough to be aligned with the current system of hegemonic pedagogy.

College is what you make of it…there is no cookie cutter experience. Do things in a way that makes sense to you and if someone thinks you won’t succeed, prove them wrong.

My advice is to take note and find what makes you feel more centered, and combine it with mental health resources that are available to you to maximize your wellness when you feel off-balanced. once you are centered, the good academic performance is likely to follow.

One of my favorite professors would give us weekly well-being challenges such as practicing mindfulness, entering flow states, and sharing gratitude. Being encouraged to take care of my mental health by this professor helped me feel more grounded amid a hectic semester. It was my favorite part of the week!