Beyond High School: Dealing with Peer Pressure in College

Every school student is excited about their college life. They want to break free from the strict rules and regulations and step into the carefree world of college life. As much as college is fun, there are some things that one has to watch out for. Often in a bid to fit in with other people, one tends to give in to peer pressure and do things that they later regret. Peer pressure is a common issue among students. While this influence can sometimes be positive, it can also be harmful, leading to unhealthy behavior.

When transitioning from school life to college, this peer pressure becomes more evident among the students. This often leads to selecting the wrong colleges or courses one does not want to pursue. Rahul Jain & Prateek Bhowmick, the cofounders of Reviewadda, are working towards guiding the students while selecting a college.

“We get many questions on how to find the right college; students these days are more concerned about getting selected along with their peers.” Rahul Jain, Cofounder Reviewadda.

To cope with peer pressure, it is advised that staying firm on your values and limits is the first step. Understanding your beliefs and what you stand for can help you make the right decisions when faced with undesired nagging and pressure. It’s essential to be clear about what you are willing to do and what you are not and communicate your boundaries. Students must surround themselves with people who share similar views, making it easier to resist negative peer pressure. Seek out the company of supportive people who encourage you to make healthy choices and refrain from following people just because they are your friends. Don’t make any hasty decisions in a blind quest to fit in.

Learning to say no is an important skill, and it’s okay to say no to activities or situations that make you uncomfortable or go against your belief system. While saying no can be difficult, it’s important not to get pulled into doing something that your mind doesn’t give you the go-ahead for. No person is worth compromising your peace of mind for. If you struggle, seek help from a trusted friend, family member, or professional. Talking to someone can help you work through your feelings and develop coping strategies. It’s important to remember that you are not alone, and some people can help you.

Rahul Jain, Cofounder of Reviewadda, bridge the students and the college management. Most of their discussions emphasize how peer pressure can damage a student’s self-confidence. Colleges can also provide assertiveness training, which teaches students to communicate their opinions and boundaries clearly and respectfully.

Mindfulness training can help teach students how to manage stress and anxiety through meditation or deep breathing exercises. In addition, colleges can offer sports clubs, music groups, or volunteer organizations that allow students to pursue their interests and connect with like-minded individuals. By doing so, students will be less likely to feel pressured to conform to the behaviours of their peers, as they will have other activities that they enjoy and find fulfilling.