When it comes to studying at university, introverts face many challenges. That’s not to say that introverts can’t thrive at university. We introverts have many shining qualities on our side, such as our ability to think deeply and focus.
Introverts have a better chance at truly thriving at university if we are aware of the common difficulties that arise for us while studying. Here are some common struggles introvert students face and how to deal with them.
Fear of presenting
Many introverts have a fear of public speaking. But this doesn’t mean that introverts can’t excel at presenting. In fact, because of the planning and practicing components, introverts can be outstanding public speakers.
According to Professor Candy, editor of papersowl.com, the key to nailing presentations is to focus on having good content. She explains: “One of the most popular methods is to make sure that the content they present is completely decent and meets high standards.”
Introvert students ordering papers from professional writers are able to soothe the inner alarm that tells you that you’ll embarrass yourself in front of the class and the professor. This way, you can present with confidence.
Group projects
“The more the merrier!”—said no introvert ever. When it comes to both socializing and studying, introverts tend to prefer one-on-one interactions. Unfortunately, that’s not always possible while studying at university.
Often, you’ll have to work on group projects. This means that you’ll have to deal with many things that frustrate introverts: group conversations, small talk, and interruptions to your concentration.
Of course, there are many introvert strategies to connect and thrive in college and university. But these strategies won’t necessarily help you deal with the academic side of things.
Getting through a group project can present certain challenges for introverts that extroverts may not understand. For example, you may have to defend your point of view when you don’t agree with others. This can be an issue at any stage of the project, from the initial outline, to how it will be presented in class.
This is another scenario where preparation is key. Be ready to back up your point of view with credible sources. Refer to reputable papers or academic projects that reflect your vision. This way you don’t have to say a lot to get your point across.
You can honor your introvert tendency to be a word economist, while still adding lots of value to the project. When you’re well prepared you really can say more with less.
The extrovert bias
Unfortunately, many professors favor extroverted personalities. It’s the same in the workplace. Favoritism is extended to louder more bubbly personalities. Meanwhile, hardworking introverts who may be better at what they do get overlooked.
It doesn’t help that your professors and classmates may misinterpret your introvert traits as a sign that you’re a snob. They assume your quietness means you’re bored or unintelligent. Perhaps, they’re offended by your need to be alone.
Letting your work speak for itself with excellent essays will help. You might also need to clarify your behaviour to your professor and classmates so that there are no misunderstandings.
For example, you might explain that you’re quiet because you’re introverted and need time to process the information. Or you might say that you like being alone because it’s easier to focus and be at your best.
Usually, there’s no need to apologize, because you’re not doing anything wrong. The first step to gaining acceptance from others is to first accept yourself. Then you’ll be able to confidently express your needs to others without tension.
Lack of support
When introverts are stressed out our default coping mechanism is to self-isolate. We push people away at the very moment that we most need support.
This can create a lot of unnecessary problems for introverts studying at university, including burnout, depression, and a lack of motivation. Though introverts need more alone time than extroverts to recharge, that doesn’t mean we have to do everything on our own.
You can accept support in the form of friendship, tutoring, or essay help. When you learn to allow in support, even when you’re stressed, you’ll be able to handle so much more.
Also, life is just more fun when you stop trying to carry the weight of the world on your shoulders. Let someone else share some of the burden.
It’s worth it
Even though being an introvert at university comes with many challenges, it’s worth the effort. When you’re able to overcome challenges, like public speaking and group work, you can excel and actually enjoy your university experience. You don’t have to become an extrovert. Simply draw on your introvert strengths and accept support, whether that be online or in person.
