Thinking About Dropping Out?
College is a time of immense growth and transition within the lives of students. Many changes can occur during the few short years you'll spend at the University of Oklahoma. It takes time to adjust to these new aspects of your life. It is very understandable to feel that you might need a break from it all. Please take time to consider the items listed below as you are making your decision.
GPS would love to meet with you one-to-one to discuss your concerns. We can help you create a plan to address them and also connect you with valuable campus resources to support your specific circumstances. For more information or to make an appointment, call us at (405) 325-8103 or email us at gps@ou.edu.
Am I panicking?
Dropping out of college is a major, life altering decision. Sometimes our gut reaction is to give up when times are tough. Step back, breathe, get some sleep, and have a good meal. Once these are done, you will be in a better place to start making this decision.
Have I shared my concerns with anyone?
Confide in someone on campus about what is going on in your life. Whether it is an academic advisor, faculty member, counselor, or campus mentor, don't try to navigate this decision alone. It is beneficial to include your campus connections in your considerations, as they are valuable resources who can aid you in weighing all your options and making every effort to fully address your questions and concerns.
Have I considered the cost?
College is expensive and it is best to consider it as an investment if your future. When a student steps away from higher education any loans that were taken out will go into repayment in about 6 months. If finances are a major contributor for you stepping away, be sure to meet with your MoneyCoach before you go any further. You MoneyCoach will help you work on a plan to pay for college. Set up an appointment at iadvise.ou.edu.
What comes next?
It is true that college is not for everyone, but if you leave higher ed what comes next? Will you get a full time job? Maybe attend a technical school? Join the Military? You have come to a fork in the road. Take some time to think about your next few steps to make sure you are on the right path.
Can I change my mind later?
Of Course! No two students have the same journey. It doesn't mean that college is always not going to be for you. It just might be for you right now. When you are ready to return, OU will be here.
How can OU help?
Are the reasons and things that made you want to be an OU student still important to you? Anyone who still wants to be here should never feel that dropping out is the only solution for their situation. The circumstances leading you to consider leaving may be resolvable, or at least manageable, with the help of people and resources at OU, and a little more time. The University of Oklahoma has many resources available to help students who may be experiencing difficulties during their time here. You can meet with GPS to discuss your situation and receive information about people and places on campus designed specifically to support you in your success. Call us at (405) 325-8103 or email us at gps@ou.edu to make an appointment.
This article was adapted with permission from The Secrets of College Success, Second Edition, by Lynn F. Jacobs and Jeremy S. Hyman, 2013.
