University Life

[Bone Gryphon]

Hey guys and gals

wondering if there are people here that study at university.

I am at a college in Australia.

Its my last year 2013.

I've performed pretty well.

would like to know how others are doing.

My ptsd is bullying related.

 

[Ayasha]

I'm an undergraduate at a University in America.

I'm glad to hear you've been doing rather well in school, it's an inspiration for me to continue going despite how difficult it is to manage PTSD among classes.

As for me, this is my first semester where I'm managing to do halfway decent in my classes (mostly through the help of services on campus). It's still hard for me to manage going to classes and getting work done but I'm getting better at it.

 

[Bone Gryphon]

That is good to hear that you are continuing with your studies. I wish you all the best for future success.

 

[Ayasha]

Thank you very much, I am glad a few of us are able to keep up with it although it is so hard.

One of the only reasons I'm able to is because my support system here is what has helped me to begin healing from my past trauma.

 

[Gecko]

I'm trying to start here in Tampa, FL. I tried to go earlier last year, but quit halfway through the semester due to an incident.

Any advice?

 

[BlueKitty]

Hey Gecko,
Since I do not know what situation you faced, I will just put out some general advice.

I believe most four-year institutions are finished with the enrollment process for the spring entrants. You might want to start looking into application process for the fall 2013 semester soon, as most undergraduate regular admissions application deadlines are rapidly approaching. If you intend on applying to an institution as a transfer student, then you probably have time until late February - mid March. Also, do take advantage of the Common App if you can.

You can also choose to start as a part time student and take few classes at an institution nearby where you live and just try out and see how it goes. This might also require some admissions process, I am not entirely sure.

Another option is taking classes through continuing education programs. Many universities offer continuing education classes. I believe that University of Florida has DCE (Distance and Continuing Education) program. As a flagship university, I would assume it is well-established and fairly challenging. I do not know how much help this could be if you are seeking a degree, but this could be a good starting place to test the water out!

 

[Gecko]

First, let me say thank you for replying BlueKitty.
Then, let me give you a bit of the background, since it kind of helps to have some information, huh? :)

Enrollment isn't the issue; already done. I'm a disabled vet. I tried doing the online thing first, and got 'A's for the courses (which one would think was great), but couldn't remember a damn thing for the next semester courses. So I enrolled on campus. Got halfway through my semester when a chance encounter with a "peace-loving" fellow student forced me to quit (actually sent me into a spiral that landed me for a week of suicide watch). I had been managing my stress / anxiety moderately well up until then. I hadn't been doing as well on campus as I had online though, and was easily distracted.

 

[Bone Gryphon]

Gecko,

Only thing I would suggest is speaking to your psychiatrist in regards to techniques that can be used to manage your stress levels.

Ive just finished my semester and scored 5.5 out of 7 on the gpa scale.
Im studying a part time load of 2 subjects and working part time as well.

Its nice to meet people that are in similar situations to myself.

Ive got my last year next year.

 

[FaerieJayne]

I am an undergraduate here in New Zealand studying Anthropology and Creative Arts. I have been finding it extra difficult but only because my past decided to come back and bite me. If my father hadn't tried to contact me last year it wouldn't be so bad. My marks went from A grade down to just passing this year... although I have failed a couple of papers due to severe PTSD symptoms which did not allow me to do much at all. I have support on campus, as well as at Sexual Abuse and Rape Crisis Centre. I hope that I will get better with my grades next year, however I have cut my papers back as I don't want to be overwhelmed.

 

[Bone Gryphon]

Hmm perhaps the best course of action is to immediately seek help from professionals.

Ive just completed a semester, and Ive just done a course in mental health first aid at university.
So my experience is growing and my skills are developing.

Best of luck with it all.

 

[Ayasha]

Gecko,

Does your school have an office for disability services? That is a great resource if you have not already been in contact with them. I just met with the one at my school this year and honestly I wish I'd done it sooner because they have accommodations that reduce the risks of my being triggered in the classroom.

I really hope things work out for you. :)

 

[FaerieJayne]

I ended up having to apply for impairment for an examination due to slamming doors causing severe flashbacks. They slammed all the time due to people coming and going from the building, ignoring the signs. Even though I knew all the material and was excited about it, I couldn't put together any form of essay. I had two to write, and they couldn't be pieced together in the space of time allowed to me. I hope like hell they took this into consideration because I am freaking out about it somewhat. I am thankful the disability services are there, and they have decided not to use that room for exams again. I take my exams by myself because I need total silence. Next year, as long as they are inspected, I am allowed ear plugs which is a good thing.