Signs Your Student May Be Struggling
The Midterm Reality Check
By October, most students face their first big tests or projects of the semester, and for many, this is when the honeymoon phase of college ends. Parents often notice subtle shifts: fewer texts, shorter phone calls, or hints of stress. Midterms are the first true test of whether your student has developed the time management and study habits needed to succeed in college, and for some, it’s a wake-up call. If you’re noticing early signs your college student is struggling, it’s worth checking in.
Subtle Signs to Watch For
Students rarely say outright, “I’m falling behind.” More often, the clues are emotional or behavioral: exhaustion, irritability, skipped classes, or vague comments like, “I just can’t keep up.” Parents often have a gut feeling when things start to go awry. Missed deadlines or dropping grades on early assignments are also warning signs. While these moments are common, consistent struggles can signal deeper issues with organization, prioritization, or focus: the core elements of executive function and frequent signs your college student is struggling.
How to Open the Conversation
When you suspect your student is struggling, start gently. Instead of asking, “Are you doing your work?” try, “What’s been most challenging about your schedule so far?” or “What’s helping you stay on track?” These questions invite reflection and reveal whether they have systems in place to manage their workload.
Encouraging Problem-Solving
Empower your student to identify how to move forward. Meeting with professors and TAs, attending extra-help sessions or walk-in centers, joining study groups, and setting structured study times may not come naturally, but they can help get things back on track. Remind them that struggling doesn’t mean failing; it’s feedback that something in their approach needs adjustment.
When Support Makes the Difference
If your student seems overwhelmed or keeps falling into the same patterns, professional coaching support can help. College Success Plan coaches work one-on-one with students to build personalized systems for managing time, studying effectively, and staying accountable. Our coaches know college and have up-to-date, hands-on experience with everything students need to manage in today’s world. If you’re seeing clear signs your college student is struggling, targeted support can accelerate the turnaround.
Midterms can feel like a breaking point, or they can be a turning point. If your student could use expert guidance, book a free consultation to help them turn things around before finals. At College Success Plan, our executive function coaches work one-on-one with students to build structure, accountability, and personalized strategies for lasting success throughout college. Reach out today for a free consultation for college success coaching and career success coaching.