The struggles of a college student can be quite daunting. On top of having to focus on organizations and being active on campus, students must also focus on academics and the financial challenges that come with it. At times, the problems seem overwhelming and too great overcome. The UofM has been helping ease the stress load off of students with such problems.
The UofM was holding the Academic Resource Fair, dedicated to providing aid to students who were struggling financially and academically. Yet, it was not just the event that was the highlight, but the students who benefited most from the Academic Fair, and their stories in finding assistance.
For many students, the idea of having to rely on aid outside of financial aid and occasional tutoring for academic problems is seen as taboo, almost like an embarrassment to their abilities. For some students to admit their struggles, and therefore seek help on it was a step in the right direction. Freshmen through seniors and even grad students have used the resource fair to their advantage. Sophomore Michael Brewer said the resource fair helped him in his struggles with math classes, getting him touch with a capable tudor rather quickly. Before the resource fair, Brewer said math was as foreign to him as a different language, but now it comes easier to him.
"I always hated math classes, mostly because it looked like and seemed like ancient symbol writing," Brewer said. "So for the resource fair to be able to get me in touch with a capable tudor in a matter of moments was amazing. I've been using the resource fair for about two semesters now." A multitude of other students have also used the resource fair for academics. Junior Melissa Stark said she uses the resource fair for her english classes and writing research papers.
"I learned about the resource fair last year," Stark said. "I have been using it for just about all of my english classes for research and term papers. It has been one of the greatest blessings for me as a student to have people who actually care about the students' academic problems." 51
For some students, the academic assistance was only part of the help they were thankful for, because they also needed financial assistance. While most students often state some of their financial problems, few act on the resources. Yet, there were some students who were not afraid to show their need for financial help. Freshman Alex O'Donnell said she needed to rely on the resource fair for help, especially after she lost her job. O'Donnell said she was more embarrassed not getting the help and continuing to struggle, than leaning on the resource fair for answers.
"It was really hard for me at the start of the semester, mainly because I lost my part time job a few days before it began," O'Donnell said. "Then I just swallowed my pride and went to the resource fair for help. They got me in touch with so many people that were willing to provide financial assistance so that I wouldn't have to struggle." O'Donnell said she believes some students are just embarrassed to admit that they need help, saying it is a pride thing to not let anyone know they are struggling. Another student, physics major Christopher Sohaut, said he was directed to the resource fair after he had a hard time paying for a lab he was taking.
"When my advisor found out I was having a rough time paying for my lab, he told me the resource fair could probably help me out," Sohaut said. "It was a benefit, and then some, honestly."
The resource fair took place in the River Room of the University Center from 11a.m, until 1p.m.
