Rajesh is a self-described “proud, somewhat-stubborn son of immigrant parents” who is trying to navigate campus life on his own. Help-seeking isn’t the norm within his culture, so he keeps any struggles close to the vest, not even discussing them with his family. Rajesh doesn’t want to worry anyone or be perceived as “weak” – and he’s convinced he can handle whatever comes his way.
However, as the semester goes on, Rajesh finds himself having difficulty keeping up in a writing class. Feeling behind and not on top of things is making him anxious, feeling he’s “less than” because he can’t get what the instructor is asking for. Rajesh is beating himself up emotionally and intellectually, and a few close friends can see the stress this situation is exacting.
After midterms, things get to a critical point. Rajesh is failing the writing class and can’t believe this is happening when he’s used to being an excellent student. He starts ignoring his academic concerns because he can’t handle them, often using alcohol as a numbing agent to take the edge off.
One of Rajesh’s friends comes to you, outlining his concerns. He’s very worried that Rajesh will find out he talked with you because he knows how proud he is. You want to approach Rajesh and offer guidance, yet you don’t want to betray the friend’s confidence. What might you do?
For Discussion:
- How can you address issues of pride, self-sufficiency and agency among students while also providing assistance?
- How might you wade into this situation with Rajesh?
- What types of barriers do students face when it comes to help-seeking?
- What types of resources could be available on your campus to help a student like Rajesh?
- What might you recommend to his friend?
- How does an issue like this tie into concerns about retention and persistence?
Find 99 other case studies and discussion questions like this one to address student well-being concerns with our BRAND NEW 100 Campus Case Studies: Staff Training Tools to Raise Awareness and Handle Difficult Situations resource.
