Stuck and scared in college

I failed last semester. Now my graduation plans are delayed, and I’m once again thinking about changing majors.

I’ve looked into project management, but now that feels overwhelming too. Truth is, I never wanted a corporate job. My real dream is to be an entrepreneur. But I’m still in school because my family wants that degree.

Now I just feel like I’m failing them and myself.

If anyone’s been through something like this how did you move forward?

#AskLemon8 #LetsChat #CollegeStruggles #MentalHealthMatters

#gettoknowme

2025/8/13 Edited to

... Read moreExperiencing setbacks like failing classes or delaying graduation can significantly impact a college student's confidence and future plans. It’s common to feel lost or overwhelmed, especially when unsure about a chosen major or career path. Changing majors is a major decision that requires careful thought about personal interests, career goals, and academic strengths. Entrepreneurship, as a career aspiration, often conflicts with traditional expectations to complete a degree and enter the corporate world. Many students face pressure from family and society to follow conventional paths, which can lead to stress and feelings of failure if one's passions do not align. It's important to recognize that pursuing an entrepreneurial dream while still in school can coexist if approached strategically—such as through elective courses, internships, or side projects that build relevant skills. Mental health matters deeply in this process. Feelings of failure and pressure can trigger anxiety and self-doubt, and seeking support through counseling services, peer groups, or online communities can provide guidance and encouragement. The hashtag #MentalHealthMatters highlights the importance of addressing emotional well-being during academic struggles. Additionally, incorporating project management skills can be valuable across many professions, including entrepreneurship. Although it may seem overwhelming at first, breaking down tasks into manageable steps and learning effective time management can reduce stress. Many resources and workshops are available on campuses to develop these skills. For those feeling completely lost after changing majors or failing classes, as seen in the OCR phrase '1 changed majors, failed classes, andnow 1 feel completely.lost. UD', it is essential to remember that setbacks do not define your entire journey. Seeking advice from advisors, professors, and mentors can help realign your goals and create a personalized plan to move forward. In summary, overcoming college struggles involves balancing academic decisions, managing mental health, and aligning with personal aspirations. Embracing flexibility, seeking support, and staying focused on long-term dreams can transform feelings of being stuck and scared into empowerment and progress.

44 comments

Dryaslereth's images
Dryaslereth

As someone who went to collage later in life, go find what makes you happy. Life is too short to be living it for other people, especially if you’re unsure of a direction. There are a bunch of universities offering free courses that you can pay to get a certificate in if you want to. You can find them on Coursera and EdX. If your family can’t understand that you’re a little lost and unhappy about your direction right now, then they are encouraging you to finish for the wrong reasons. No one should be miserable or unhappy when in school. Find what makes you happy. If you want to finish school later, then you will do it. Otherwise, it’s a waste of your precious time and money. Because time is precious and money doesn’t grow on trees. You got this, no matter what you decide. You can do whatever makes you happy and glow. Just my thoughts on it.❤️

Erin Lynn's images
Erin Lynn

I dropped out, worked in retail management, and went back years later after figuring out what I really wanted to do. Keep a job while you’re trying to figure things out to so that your resume doesn’t have gaps. I graduated with a degree in Business Administration, and I was able to use that plus the skills I developed as a retail manager to transfer into field marketing at a Alani Nu & Prime during their startup stage. Promoted to a Regional Manager in 2 years, and now I’m overseeing all youth events in APAC countries, Mexico, and regular US events. You’re young, so take risks with an entry level positions at some up-and-coming companies that spark your interest and grew your network. The main thing is to not stop believing in yourself no matter how discouraged you feel. I don’t know what you believe in, but prayer and perseverance helped me exponentially. You’ve got this 💕

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