So I'm starting community college in about two weeks, and I'm starting to become really nervous. Of course I'm excited, but I'm just worried about how it's going to be! See, I was never the best student in high school. I had to switch to an alternative school my junior year because I missed so many days, since I couldn't care enough to go. And obviously I had bad grades because I was never there to do the work, and when I was there I didn't care enough to do work. But my last year for senior year, I cleaned up my act the beginning for the year, and did amazing in school that I ever have my whole 4 years. I went to school 85% of the time, compared to 10% my other four years, which is a really good for me. So as I got older and understood how important school is, I realized that I have to be serious with it. So know that I understand how important this is, I won't ditch, or not pay attention in school. My main worry is that I have really bad anxiety, and I get overwhelmed very easily. For example, doing something new, or going to a new place with new people. So is there any tips for me to stop being so nervous? And I really hope this all made sense, because I'm extremely tired and worried already lol

Honestly, no matter how much you prep yourself you're going to be nervous, haha! It's just kind of one of those things you just can't avoid. I also suffer from anxiety, and while college was pretty hard on me both mentally and physically, it was also probably the most fun I've ever had in my life so far. You'll get to experience all sorts of new things, and meet (hopefully) awesome new people.

I would definitely get a planner, or a calendar or something to help keep everything in order, and keep track of classes/homework/exams, etc. just to make things easier on yourself, especially when you're first starting out and feeling frazzled.

I agree, I think a planner would be the best for me, so I can see everything written down and know what I have to do for school. I'm also nervous because I've heard a lot of horror stories of kids taking a class, passing it, and not even getting the credit for it.

- Did you skip so much because of anxiety or for other reasons? Because if it was because of anxiety, you can try your hand at online classes. But, they do require a lot of self discipline.

I've never heard of someone not getting credit for their class. If that ever happened, you would have to talk to the professor and student services to solve the problem.

If you have to go in person, go in the evenings and weekends if you can. Those students are overall more mature and more serious with school. Fridays and weekends tend to be empty, which is really nice for someone with anxiety.

If you drive, park in the furthest lot possible to avoid all the crazy parking lot traffic.

Biggest tip: Don't overwhelm yourself. If you need a semester break, take it. Take only take the amount of classes you can handle. Even if it takes longer than 2 years to get an AA degree, going slow is better then quitting.

It took me 6 years to get my general AA degree. I have terrible anxiety too, which made college difficult. But, it can be done!

No matter how much prep you do, you'll be nervous because it triggers many of the point that you stated in your post. As times goes on, you'll acquire new tools and skills to deal with these, but it takes time and some "internal" work.

At my college, I have the chance to file for a special college experience: I have 4 classes a week and make my exam in a separate classroom with very few people like me. I don't know if your college offer the same opportunity, but if you have a doctor note you may qualify (and ofc if your college offer the same thing). We also get a free planner every year. Planners are amazing when it comes to write down your homework, test, study moments .. it's just your best friend. You can colour matche your classes, highlight, post-it and such. It will be much more less stressful for you already.

You'll need to attend your classes. If you cannot attend one, email/go see your teacher and ask them if they'd be willing to explain and give any sheets that they may have given during the lesson. Also, try to have a backup partner that you trust (they could grab the sheets for you, explain what you've missed etc..) You can go on Youtube and Tumblr (Studyblr) to find great ideas to study, how to work with the stress and such.

I've been in college for almost 3 years now (since 2011) and my first experience made me quit. I've found that I was very immature, scared and not ready to make big life decision. I came back in 2013 and I feel in control now and my grades are very good.

Remember that a grade will never define you and that it's okay to feel lost sometimes. Just remember that you're worth it and it will be okay next time.

Good for you! You'll be fine. Get a planner and whenever in doubt of something, go and speak to the teacher. That's the nice thing about community colleges: they see you as a person, not just a face in a huge lecture hall. And don't be too hard on yourself. Do the best you can do. Don't start out with 18 credits because it can get overwhelming towards the end of the semester. Good luck and be sure to make make friends. Sounds kind of weird but if you make friends, it will make it easier because you know someone will always have your back

I started at a community college and really loved it. There was a lot of diversity and interesting people. I also loved the freedom I felt after being in high school. I definitely recommend making a friend or two in your classes so you'll have fun and also keep a planner to organize due dates and assignments! (I just used a wall calendar and filled in important things from the syllabus every month c:) I hope you enjoy and do well! I love your HA btw!

Honestly, not trying to be at all negative towards you or your choices for education. However I found that when I went to college everyone (including the teachers) were quite dim-witted, and seems like the teachers were paid to half-ass their jobs. I actually failed in my 1st year not due to lack of drive or passion - it was due to being overwhelmed by too many assignments in a short time. Towards the end of the 2nd semester at one point I had 6 assignments all due at the same time, talk about stressful!

College is becoming more of a myth for people because with minimum wage constantly increasing, college only provides you with a job that raises your potential income by 3-15$ max if you're lucky. My field was Horticulture and minimum wage in Canada right now is sitting pretty at 11.25$/hr which is really good. My field would've seen me making maybe 15-20$/hr if I found the right job.

Most people move right into the work field now since if they stay long enough and obtain a manager's position they could easily be making close to the same amount - without schooling.

College can be quite fun for the most part, but I had a hard time making friends so I had very little help. Hope it goes well for you.