Why My Second-Year Results
I often find it difficult to discuss why my second-year results were not as good as they could have been. I feel my reasons would be diminished, because of society’s response to the idea of depression. Coming to Canada, and starting a new life separated from family and friends was difficult. I had attended Canadian Independent College so I could get accustomed to the educational system here. The school was small and populated with mostly Nigerians, so it was a second home from home. I had imagined I would have the best university experience, with the best grades and friends from every walk of life. However, the reality I faced was slightly different. I found it challenging to interact with others, but with time I did make some great acquaintances.
Hence my first year, although stressful, was significantly good. The actualization that I was alone in Canada hit me in the second year. At this point, I found it difficult to relate with others or focus on school. I figured the only way my situation would change is if I reached out to someone. A friend from the Women's Resource Centre referred me to her counsellor, and after some sessions my situation improved; simultaneously my grades did also (around this time I was fully immersed in the Economics and Women Studies program). Stable mental health, physical health, and hard work are all necessary factors to excel in the university. When one of these is impaired, concentration in school will definitely be affected. This is why adequate support and education around mental illnesses should be readily available in universities, and students can receive the necessary assistance they need.
Counselling and increased involvement in after school activities surely helped me overcome my depression. I participated more in church and volunteering; I could not let this one factor jeopardize my future goals.
In today’s competitive market, students have to push themselves and work harder to be distinguished from the rest. The amount of effort varies depending on that individual’s social identity. Being an international student with higher tuitions and a woman of color, that effort is doubled. But these characteristics can be advantageous in the legal profession. I have a particular relationship with the world that differs from the way others perceive it.
Hence my first year, although stressful, was significantly good. The actualization that I was alone in Canada hit me in the second year. At this point, I found it difficult to relate with others or focus on school. I figured the only way my situation would change is if I reached out to someone. A friend from the Women's Resource Centre referred me to her counsellor, and after some sessions my situation improved; simultaneously my grades did also (around this time I was fully immersed in the Economics and Women Studies program). Stable mental health, physical health, and hard work are all necessary factors to excel in the university. When one of these is impaired, concentration in school will definitely be affected. This is why adequate support and education around mental illnesses should be readily available in universities, and students can receive the necessary assistance they need.
Counselling and increased involvement in after school activities surely helped me overcome my depression. I participated more in church and volunteering; I could not let this one factor jeopardize my future goals.
In today’s competitive market, students have to push themselves and work harder to be distinguished from the rest. The amount of effort varies depending on that individual’s social identity. Being an international student with higher tuitions and a woman of color, that effort is doubled. But these characteristics can be advantageous in the legal profession. I have a particular relationship with the world that differs from the way others perceive it.