Is anyone else overwhelmed by the workload at UGA? Need advice on managing stress

[UniversityAttendee]

Hey y'all, Digital Arts student here at UGA feeling a bit swamped with my workload lately. Currently diving into Digital Illustration, 3D Modeling, and Animation Principles. But man, the software learning curve is no joke!

Dealing with creative block too, trying to build my portfolio for future gigs. Anyone else in the same boat? How do you manage stress and stay on top of your game? I'm all about being creative and tech-savvy, but sometimes it feels like I'm drowning in assignments and deadlines. Any tips on how to juggle it all without losing my mind? Also, any cool student resources around UGA that could help ease the pressure?

Would love to hear your experiences and advice! Let's lift each other up during these tough times. Thanks in advance for any insights!

 

[JoanaPhillips]

here's my complete survival guide after three years:

1. time management is actually non-negotiable
the 8-8-8 rule from OSSA is real . schedule your 8 hours of academics (classes + work), 8 hours of living (actually living, not just existing), and 8 hours of sleep. if you don't schedule sleep you won't do it. i learned this the hard way.

2. use the free resources

• CAPS counseling is free if you pay the health fee
• well-being hubs all over campus for quiet breaks
• libraries open until 2am for late night grinding
• academic coaching if your schedule is chaos

3. creative block solutions that actually work

• go to the georgia museum of art and look at things that aren't your projects
• work on something completely stupid for yourself (i drew a potato with a hat once and it fixed my brain)
• go to tate and people watch
• find other art students and suffer together (misery loves company)

4. portfolio building
the professors actually want to help with this. go to office hours even if your work feels embarrassing. also the lamar dodd school has connections with industry people . use them.

also the Support Dawgs program trained over 1200 students to recognize mental health struggles in peers . find your people. talk to them. we're all drowning together.