Asking for help is important...here's why
University life marks the beginning of an exciting academic journey for students. Whether you're in your first week or final year, one truth remains constant: none of us have all the answers, and that's perfectly fine.
Being at university throws plenty of challenges our way - from understanding complex course material to managing deadlines and navigating new social environments. It's natural to feel uncertain or overwhelmed at times, yet many students hesitate to ask for help, worried it might make them appear less capable.
This mindset needs to be challenged. Every expert in their field began as a beginner. Your lecturers, tutors, and even that confident-looking student sitting next to you are all still learning. The difference often lies not in natural ability, but in their willingness to seek support when needed.
Think of university as learning to swim. No one jumps into the deep end without first mastering the basics. Some pick up floating quickly, while others take time to feel comfortable in the water. Both approaches are valid, and both benefit from guidance along the way.
Intellectual humility - recognising and accepting what we don't know - stands as a cornerstone of academic and personal growth. Leading researchers regularly collaborate and seek input from colleagues because they understand that knowledge expands through questioning and discussion. They know that asking for help isn't a weakness; it's a strategic tool for learning and development.
When you ask questions or seek support, several benefits emerge. Your understanding of course material improves, relationships with teachers strengthen, and your problem-solving skills develop. Stress levels also decrease as challenges become more manageable, and you'll likely find your time management improving as you learn to identify and address difficulties early.
As one student shared with us: "I spent my first term thinking everyone else understood everything perfectly. When I finally spoke up in a tutorial, I discovered half the class had similar questions. Now I see asking for help as part of the learning process."
This openness to seeking support creates a ripple effect. Each time you ask a question in class or visit a lecturer's office hours, you help create an environment where others feel comfortable doing the same. Your courage in speaking up might give another student the confidence to seek the help they need.
Universities offer various support services precisely because learning encompasses more than just academic content. Whether you're grappling with coursework, feeling overwhelmed by deadlines, or facing personal challenges, dedicated professionals and resources exist to help you thrive.
Seeking help represents more than just getting answers - it's about developing crucial skills for your future career. Professionals who excel in their fields often stand out not because they know everything, but because they know how to find information, collaborate with others, and continuously learn.
Life at university isn't about reaching a final destination of complete knowledge - it's about developing the tools, mindset, and confidence to embrace learning as a lifelong journey. Your questions and requests for help when needed aren't interruptions to this process; they're essential steps along the way.
