Dear Students:

Welcome to Casper College!  I hope your year is off to a positive start and you are settling into the rhythm of being a college student.  I also hope you are meeting new people, learning new ideas, and taking advantage of all the programming we have for you at the college.  There is truly something for everyone here at Casper College!

While college is fun and exciting, I know it can be stressful as well.  I was once a college student, and I remember having a few exams and research papers due in the same week–not to mention work and trying to have a little bit of a life and some fun.  

While it seems overwhelming at first, there are a few things you can do to find some balance with all your responsibilities to make it all a bit more enjoyable.

One of the most effective ways to navigate this stressful time is to stay connected with your instructors. They’re not just there to grade your papers—they’re a key resource for your success. If you’re feeling uncertain about how you performed on your exams or need help with upcoming material, don’t hesitate to reach out as they appreciate students who are proactive about their learning. If you’re struggling, your instructors can often provide guidance, additional resources, and support.

Building strong relationships with your instructors also has long-term benefits. They become your mentors, offer valuable advice, and provide recommendations if you’re looking for internships, jobs, or transferring to a four-year university.

Beyond your instructors, the college offers many support services that are designed to help students succeed. If you’re feeling stressed or overwhelmed, there are resources that can make a big difference:

Tutoring Centers: Whether it’s math, science,  or writing, our tutoring centers offer personalized help to make challenging material more manageable.

Counseling Services: If your stress feels unmanageable, or if you’re dealing with personal issues that are affecting your academic performance, counseling services are there to provide emotional and mental health support.

Career Services: If you’re thinking about your future career, career services can help you explore job opportunities, build your resume, or prepare for job interviews.

Using these resources is a smart way to stay on track and ensure you’re getting the support you need.

It’s easy to get caught up in the grind of studying and working, but taking breaks and setting aside time for yourself is crucial. Research shows that taking breaks can actually improve focus and productivity. Try stepping away from your work and doing something you enjoy—whether that’s hanging out with friends, going for a walk, or simply watching a favorite show. College is about learning, but it’s also about balance. Give yourself permission to relax and have fun.

This is also the time to explore your interests outside of academics. Join a club, attend campus events, or volunteer in the Casper community. These experiences can help you build friendships and make lasting memories during your college years. Many of my friends now are people I met when going to college.

Finally, college is an exciting time of personal growth and discovery. While exams and deadlines are important, so is navigating and enjoying your journey. Yes, there will be stressful moments, but remember that these experiences are part of a larger process that will lead you toward your success. 

So, take some deep breaths, talk to your instructors, use campus resources, and make time for fun along the way. You all have such bright futures, and I can’t wait to see where your journey leads!