College resources are kind of underrated. There are so many things available to us, but not many people take advantage of them. I am going to share some resources that made my life easier. I will be speaking from the perspective of my college, but check with your school to see if there's something similar, or inquire about starting something.
Communication Center (CC) - The CC was helpful in writing papers, preparing for presentations, and similar needs. I went several times for people to read over my personal statements or papers I had written for class. They really provide great feedback and advice on how to make things better, and they walk you through it so that you'll be better prepared the next time you go to write a paper. Check to see if your school has a communication center. It may be under a different name, but most should be similar.
Student Tutoring - I used this more than anything. Students had jobs at my institution where they were to tutor other students in various subjects like math, science, etc. These students are ones who did well in the courses and understood the concepts. I'd sign up online for a time that fit my schedule and meet the student there. They'd list the person's name so that you could choose them again if they were super helpful. I really loved having this resource because sometimes students can better explain stuff or help put things into perspective using examples that make sense to you. I used it mostly for math, but they had options for many subjects.
Career Center - The career center is a great resource for finding internships, taking career-based tests, getting your resume in tip top shape, figuring out what life after college looks like for you, etc. I did not use the career center a bunch, but I wish that I would have. I did, however, become really close with a woman who worked in the career center. We still keep in contact and she has been helpful in my end of college/after college life. I would recommend using the career center to help you as it relates to your future.
Office Hours - I used office hours quite a bit, but I went and spoke with the teaching assistant (TA) more than the professor for most courses. Again, I used mine for math a lot. It was very helpful in understanding concepts. We also had classes called recitation where we'd get extra time with a TA who would explain and review concepts with us and give us worksheets. This was in addition to our class time. They were helpful in retaining math concepts. I think going to get extra help is not only good for retention, but building a rapport with professors and TAs. Building that relationship lets them know that you're trying and makes them want to give you extra help. It definitely helped me through math.
Fitness Facilities - Last but not least, the fitness facility. This is not a resource one would probably normally think about, but staying fit in college is important. It's a part of your holistic health. One of my favorite pastimes was going to the recreational center at 10-11pm and working out. It allowed me to let out some steam and release some endorphins. It was beneficial to my mental and physical health. It also helped me to sleep. My institution had options to work with trainers or take classes like yoga. It's also a great spot to meet up with friends and spend time together doing something healthy. I 10/10 recommend.
These are a few of many resources available at most colleges. I encourage you to look into these resources and the other ones offered at your school. Often times, there are advisors and different organizations set up to help minority students. Take advantage of all that is at your disposal. Most of them are free or things you pay for through tuition and fees anyway. It can only help you in the long run.
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