5 Ways to Help Your Struggling College Student
With October approaching and college classes in full swing, many students have that moment when they recognize they are struggling in one or more classes. It may be that getting used to college versus high school is challenging, or it could be that adjusting to more rigorous upper-level courses is a hard transition. No matter the cause of college stress, at College Success Plan our coaches are experts at coming up with college solutions! Here are 5 practical steps your student can take to turn things around in a class that’s not going well.
1. Talk to your Professor
If you read last month’s blog, you already know how important building relationships with your professors can be. If you haven’t gone to office hours yet, now is the time! Make an appointment and come prepared to show your notes and explain how you have been studying for the class. Most professors want to see their students do well and will offer suggestions for different ways to approach their class and materials.
2. Shake things up
Take a realistic look at how you’ve been studying. Do you need to schedule more time for your readings? Take a moment to review your notes right after class when the lecture is fresh in your mind? Maybe studying in the “social” section of the library isn’t cutting it for you and you need to find a quieter study place with fewer distractions. Whatever the case may be, try tweaking your approach and take note of what changes work for you.
3. Take advantage of extra support opportunities
From writing and math labs to supplemental instruction sessions, colleges and universities often offer numerous opportunities for students to get extra help. It may take a bit of digging into your college’s website or your class syllabi, but chances are your school has these extra supports in place - it’s up to you to find them and take advantage of these great resources.
4. Form a study group
If you’re struggling chances are you’re not alone! Approach 2 or 3 other students in class and plan to get together on a regular basis to review class notes and study for quizzes and exams throughout the semester. Taking turns “teaching” concepts to each other is a great strategy - as a teacher you need to explain the concepts clearly so you must understand them first, and when others teach you often gain insights you may not have recognized on your own.
5. Take a different path
Tried these suggestions and still struggling? If you feel you can pass the class but not earn the grade you want, check into pass/fail options. You will get credit for the course, but it won’t impact your GPA. If that option is not available, or if you feel that no matter how hard you try you will not pass the course, it’s time to check into policies for withdrawing from a class. Generally, the earlier in the semester you withdraw, the less severe the impact on your transcript. While you may have a “W” for a withdrawal, it’s a better option than an “F” on your transcript. Check your school’s offerings for January or summer classes, or see if possibly a class at your community college would satisfy your credit requirements. Being able to focus on only that one class may make all the difference!
Think your student needs more individualized support? College Success Plan coaches are experts at keeping students on track! Big school, small school, and anywhere in between - we work with them all. Typical results are better grades, more confidence, less stress and a path towards independence. We offer a free consultation where we can discuss your student’s unique strengths and challenges - schedule a call with us today!