Week 9: Make Tough Decisions

Take Risks

"Being able to stand up and say, 'This is what I need for myself,' is going to make you a better, happier person."

— Jason Watkins, Kent State FlashGuide studying Athletic Training

It's a lifelong skill

You dealt with peer pressure as a middle school and high school student. These types of experiences will carry over to your college years — and perhaps even your adult years. Even though you control your circle of friends as you grow older, you will still find yourself in challenging situations. You may wonder if a particular relationship is right for you. Your siblings may expect you to remain in proximity to care for aging parents vs. taking advantage of a career opportunity on the other side of the country. Your best friend or cousins may attempt to coax you into a vacation you really can't afford. Clearly, you'll have plenty of practice at making tough decisions beyond college.

While making a tough decision can be uncomfortable, once your decision is made and shared, you're likely to feel a sense of relief.

How to arrive at the decision?

Talk the issue through with someone you trust - a parent, mentor, professor or friend.
Try the traditional pros and cons list.
Consider whether the outcome brings with it positive or negative fallout. Are there moral or legal ramifications?
Would your decision be something you can reflect on later in a way that the memory brings with it a positive feeling?

Common Challenges at College

Kent State offers various resources for some of the more common situations you may encounter at college, including:

Interested in switching your major? Explore how credits will - or won't - transfer.
Considering a party invitation where alcohol or drugs will be prevalent? Is it worth the risk? Take advantage of this ethical decision-making quiz.
- Get familiar with the Kent State Student Code of Conduct.
Unsure of whether a friend or acquaintance needs assistance? Review the Step Up Speak Out website, it contains information on dealing with disruptive or distressed individuals.
Do you or a friend need assistance dealing with a violent relationship? Do you know the signs of a violent relationship. Get educated by visiting Kent State's Sexual and Relationship Violence Support Services website.

Distractions

Juggling personal and professional relationships, homework, a part-time job and extracurricular activities is complicated. Rely on your planner or calendar to help you maintain your focus. Are you keeping up with your classroom assignments?

"You need to learn how to work with people. That skill translates to the job market too. You need to learn how to get along with people whom you may not like or agree with. This applies to living with other people. Learning to live with someone whom you disagree with is important. Learning to do that will make you better at what you do."