Build and Manage a Support System

Two young women holding a friends sign

Building a support system made of social and college supports can be extremely helpful. The many benefits can include:

  • Feeling A Sense Of Belonging
  • Increased Self Confidence
  • Increased Academic Motivation
  • Promote Student Persistence
  • Enhance Academic Self-Efficacy
  • Access To Guidance & Advice
  • Access To Relevant Information
  • Feeling Of Security & Comfort

 

Building Yours 

It’s likely you already have some kind of support system in place. However, when in college, your support system is bound to change.

Here are a few tips to make building and maintaining these supports easier …

  • Get socially involved in your school as early as possible. Participate in extracurricular activities, school events, and intramural sports.
  • Dedicate time to building relationships with other students on campus. Remember, it’s all about balancing work and play.
  • Establish and sustain relationships with faculty and staff where you feel comfortable asking for and receiving help.

 


 

Manage Yours

Speaking BubblesYour old support system will continue being a part of your social network. Therefore it’s important to maintain these connections by periodically keeping in touch through:

  • Emails & Letters
  • Social Media
  • Phone calls
  • Video chat
  • In-person visits

As for the new additions to your support system, make sure to stay in contact with them as often as you can. That way when you need immediate help, you’ll feel comfortable reaching out to them.

 a great resource for students with diagnosed medical conditions about how you can use available support systems that will make your college experience more manageable.