Social and psychological adaptation of students to university studies
During September and October of the 2024-2025 academic year, Svitlana Kulakova, a leading specialist of the Department of Social and Psychological Service of SHEI UzhNU, held group meetings with first-year students on the social and psychological adaptation of students to university studies.
The social and psychological adaptation of first-year students to the university is an important stage in their lives, as it affects their academic performance, social development and emotional state. Moving from school to a higher education institution, students face new conditions and learning requirements, the need to make independent decisions and establish new social contacts.
One of the main problems at this stage is adaptation to the learning process. At university, students have to master new teaching methods, such as lectures, seminars and independent work. In addition, the amount of material to be learned increases, requiring them to develop new learning strategies and time management.
Social adjustment is about building relationships with groupmates and teachers. This can be a challenge for those students who are introverted or lack good communication skills. However, communication and interaction with other students is an important factor that helps you feel supported, find friends and create a positive learning environment
Psychological adaptation covers the emotional changes that a freshman faces. Anxiety over novelty, fear of failure, and difficulties with motivation can lead to stress and anxiety. It is important to learn how to manage your emotions, maintain a balance between studying and rest, and seek help from psychologists or mentors if necessary.
Successful social and psychological adaptation depends on the student's active position, desire to learn new things, social support from family, friends and the university, as well as the ability to solve problems and adapt to changes on their own.
During the group meetings with students, Svitlana Kulakova informed them about the possibility of providing free psychological assistance to students by the university's social and psychological service department.
