#12 Peer Interview for the “Mental Health Mentoring Series”

Junior at UC San Diego majoring in Human Biology, and graduate of Palo Alto High School in 2023

In high school, what was your overall stress or anxiety level from a scale of 1-3:  2 - Medium

In college, what is your overall stress or anxiety level from 1-3: 1 - Low

What contributed to your stress or anxiety in high school?  Busy schedule and pressure from peers.

What contributes to your stress or anxiety in college?  It gets busy balancing classes and rowing, but I enjoy being able to make my own schedule. But, even during stressful days, I feel blessed to be where I am and doing what I love at college!

What were your favorite high school activity(ies)?  Rowing and being a part of Mariner Scouts! Also, spending time with family, grilling, and gardening.

What are your favorite college activity(ies)?  Love being on the rowing team! Going to the beach, cooking, watching the sunset, and the farmer's market in San Diego.

How have pressures you faced in high school differ from your experience in college? 

The pressures in high school felt more external and from competition with others. In college, the pressure seems more intrinsically motivated, and focused on working toward my goals.

How have your social relationships changed from high school to college or beyond? 

I have more close friends now, and love that we get to spend lots of time together.

How have your studying habits or approaches changed from high school to college?  

My study habits have definitely improved in college. My approach is staying up-to-date with my classes, so the work doesn't become overwhelming.

When you are stressed or anxious, what techniques, rituals, or ways do you manage?  

I find peace through prayer and reading the bible. Psalm 23 reminds me that God is good, and in Him I have all that I need.

What do you think high school students misunderstand or get wrong about college life?

The freedom in college. While there's a lot of independence, it comes with more responsibility to build a schedule and learn to find balance.

Knowing what you know now, if you were back in high school, what might you do differently? 

High school went by so fast. I would slow down more and appreciate where I am in the moment.

What would be your best overall advice to high school students? 

Enjoy the process! Take time for yourself even when life gets busy.