By: Destiny (5th year, Psychology, Neuroscience & Behaviour)
1. Find services and opportunities that reflect your needs
The first part of asking for help, is to seek someone who can answer your questions. You might be surprised to find the many services available to you at McMaster and staff willing to help you throughout the year. These services range from academic support (e.g., Academic and Writing Skills, Academic Advising (Faculty), etc.) to personal support (e.g., International Student Services, Office of Registrar, etc.).
2. Enhance your knowledge and learning experiences
Asking for help can provide you with a lot of valuable information. This should also allow you to accept new information and revise previous beliefs. Each question can lead to a response that can shift your perspective. You can also learn a new skill or concept, especially the ones you struggled with. Taking the initiative to seek help shows your willingness to learn and grow as a student.
3. Develop transferrable skills
After seeking support or asking for help, you can reevaluate your skills and apply your knowledge elsewhere. That one appointment with the Writing Centre could improve and enhance your approach to writing in the future. Applying knowledge to future tasks is a part of your learning experience and shows how much you learned. You can also share your information with others and encourage them to seek the same support.
4. Build your connections and network
There are times when asking for help may lead you to someone who could direct you to an open position in their department or another opportunity. You could also be directed to an event where you can meet others. For instance, if you are struggling to find a career in your area of study, a career counsellor can recommend visiting a career fair, especially one specific to your faculty or program. This is a chance to network and talk to people who have experience working in a field related to your degree.
5. Alleviate stress or worries
I feel a huge wave of relief after someone answers my questions, and I am ready to progress from where I left off. The stress and confusion you feel subsides when you seek support. Having someone there to relieve any worries or doubts you feel is better than enduring it alone.
The next time you have a question or concern, don’t be afraid to ask for help and search for someone willing to assist you. You never know what the result might be.