Podcast Summary: Dr. Laura Call of the Day – "I Feel Disconnected In College"

Episode Information:

• Title: I Feel Disconnected In College
• Host: Dr. Laura Schlessinger
• Release Date: February 13, 2025
• Platform: SiriusXM Triumph 111

Introduction

In this episode of "Dr. Laura Call of the Day," Dr. Laura Schlessinger addresses a poignant issue faced by many college students: feelings of disconnection and lack of fulfillment amidst the bustling college culture. The discussion delves into personal responsibility, the pursuit of meaningful goals, and the importance of aligning one's actions with genuine passions.

The Student's Dilemma

[00:45] College Student:

"I'm currently a junior in college and for like the past two years my school is very party-focused and it's very football-focused. And so for the past two years I've been trying to get myself to go to everything... I've been very depressed."

The student expresses frustration over the prevailing party and football-centric culture at their college. Despite actively participating in various activities, clubs, and maintaining a job, they grapple with persistent feelings of depression and a sense of unfulfillment.

Dr. Laura's Initial Response: Accountability and Questioning Motives

[01:19] Dr. Laura:

"I'm sorry, I don't understand that you've been trying to do everything. Why in the hell would you be doing that?"

Dr. Laura challenges the student’s approach, questioning the rationale behind overcommitting to every available activity. She draws from her own college experiences to highlight that not every conceivable opportunity aligns with one's future goals.

Redefining Fulfillment and Purpose

[02:36] College Student:

"I was just talking to my advisor and he said that I could finish my degree online and I would get the same degree as if I stayed in person."

The student considers switching to an online program in hopes of finding a more fulfilling path. Dr. Laura emphasizes that not every activity during college needs to be fulfilling but should instead serve the purpose of preparing for the future.

[03:43] College Student:

"I want to work for a public relations company because my mom did and I'm really good at it."

Dr. Laura probes deeper into the student’s motivations, challenging the notion of pursuing a career solely based on proficiency or familial precedent.

[04:10] Dr. Laura:

"Is it really what you want? I got to tell you, people are good at various things they might not want to commit their lives to, but because you're good at something doesn't mean it has to be yours."

She underscores the difference between capability and passion, urging the student to seek a profession that resonates with their true interests rather than settling for what seems practical or inherited.

Encouragement to Pursue Genuine Passions

[07:12] Dr. Laura:

"What do you think you would like to write about that might make a positive influence on the world?"

Dr. Laura redirects the conversation towards the student’s genuine interests, particularly in writing, suggesting that the student harness their passion to create meaningful content.

[09:53] Dr. Laura:

"What do you think you would like to write about that might make a positive influence on the world?"

She encourages the student to explore writing topics that align with personal values and societal benefits, moving away from the superficial allure of public relations.

Practical Steps Toward Fulfillment

[11:09] College Student:

"Right?"

[11:11] Dr. Laura:

"So how about we focus the writing. And I think you should start today. I think you should get yourself a notebook and just start writing stuff. Anything."

Dr. Laura provides actionable advice, urging the student to begin writing regularly as a means of self-discovery and finding a purposeful path. She emphasizes consistency and openness in exploring one’s thoughts and interests.

[11:45] College Student:

"It's just hard because I'm a junior already, so, like, I don't know if I can."

[11:50] Dr. Laura:

"What degree you graduate with, kiddo, I don't care what major you graduate with. Start writing. You can take 15 minutes out, take less time in the shower. Sit down and write 15 minutes. Just write something silly and just keep that notebook going and you will find yourself in that notebook."

Despite the student's concerns about being a junior, Dr. Laura reassures them that it's never too late to pursue meaningful activities. She stresses the importance of dedication, suggesting small, manageable steps to integrate writing into their daily routine.

Conclusion: Embracing Purpose and Responsibility

Dr. Laura concludes by reiterating the significance of purposeful work and personal responsibility. She challenges the student to transcend superficial engagements and seek activities that not only occupy their time but also contribute to their personal growth and the betterment of society.

Notable Quotes:

• Dr. Laura on Fulfillment:

  "[...] your fulfillment comes from work. [...] Have a spouse who travels a lot, a new driver in the family, a kid in college when you turn on Life360 [...]"
  [04:19]

• Dr. Laura on Purposeful Jobs:

  "A plumber has a very purposeful job. Yes, and fulfilling because they save people from not having water and being up to their eyeballs in sewage. They make the earth a better, cleaner, safer place to be."
  [08:13]

• Encouraging Writing:

  "Start writing. You can take 15 minutes out, take less time in the shower. Sit down and write 15 minutes. Just write something silly and just keep that notebook going and you will find yourself in that notebook."
  [11:50]

Final Thoughts:

This episode serves as a compelling reminder of the importance of aligning one’s actions with genuine passions and long-term goals. Dr. Laura Schlessinger adeptly navigates the conversation, offering both tough love and constructive guidance to help the student find a path to fulfillment and personal responsibility amidst the often chaotic landscape of college life.