<p>So, your basic “math major at MIT” is expected to be stressed. Massively stressed. One can think that “flower arranging 101” at the local community college is going to be a snoozer cake walk – perhaps not. It may be taught by a master in the field (who enjoys sharing her mastery but doesn’t want to be bothered with academic nuttiness and so teaches on a small field). </p>
<p>And it may turn out that it is weird stuff that sends a person from functioning to “not doing well at all.” It could be the stress of getting through a crowded campus. It could be not eating right because what one prefers is not available. It could be the lights or noise level. It could be the sense of isolation – </p>
<p>All of these can vary HUGELY, depending on the campus and the students. The more life experience a student has, the more one knows the “triggers” and the “red flags.” Go and find out what is out there and craft a spot or situation that works for you. I suspect the most valid help will come from an internet forum of other students with the same challenges that are a year or two older.</p>