Generalized anxiety is a personal barrier that can interfere with a student's ability to focus and understand new material. Test-anxiety may cause a student to freeze and forget the answers despite hours of studying. Fortunately, anxiety is a highly treatable disorder, according to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America. Many students experiencing anxiety benefit from visiting the campus counseling center. Another option involves discussing anti-anxiety medication with a physician at the school's health care facility. Exercise, meditation, yoga and dietary supplements may also help reduce anxiety.
Students with low self-esteem face a personal barrier that has the potential to derail their academic success. There are many causes of low self-esteem, such as being bullied, ridiculed or rejected by peers. Low self-esteem may cause a student to give up too easily if a course is difficult. Instead of trying harder or seeking tutoring, students may tell themselves they're not capable of mastering the material, and drop out. The University of Texas at Austin’s Counseling and Mental Health Center suggests that students take charge of their life by practicing positive self-talk. This involves replacing self-criticism with daily affirmations of personal worth.
Many students face personal barriers involving physical or psychological disorders. For instance, the 2010 freshman norm survey of incoming students at 279 postsecondary institutions showed that almost 15 percent of incoming freshmen reported having a learning disability, severe medical illness, psychological condition or a physical impairment. Advances in medication, treatment and accommodations, such as extended time on tests and assistive technology devices, make college and a successful career achievable for many students with disabilities. The Americans with Disabilities Act requires schools to offer reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities.
For many people, lack of time and money can pose serious personal barriers to furthering their education. However, many students manage to successfully juggle school, work and family responsibilities. When time and money are in short supply, it’s imperative to set priorities, develop a plan to budget your time or money and stick to it. Financial aid is available to qualified applicants to help them overcome monetary barriers. The process starts with completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. Scholarships, grants and loans may be offered.