There’s a first time for everything. And unfortunately my first time of failing my first college test came too soon. So after receiving my grade and having a mental breakdown, I decided to try to find the positive in the situation. I think, however, that writing this article may make me some type of hypocrite because sometimes it is hard for me to believe what I am going to say is true.
When I first received my grade, I can honestly admit that I was shocked. I knew that the test was more difficult than the first one, but I did not think it was that much harder. Instantly, the grade affected me more than I had hoped. I began to panic and assume that this single grade was the downfall of my college career, that the first semester of my college experience destroyed my life. I already began to prepare myself to fail the class, drop out of college, be denied from every single med school and basically have nothing to do in the future. After ranting to many different friends who kept telling me “everything is fine,” “it’s only one test,” it was still difficult to believe them. If I had studied for hours on multiple days and did all the homework and work assigned and still failed, how would I ever succeed? I came to believe that my best wasn’t good enough. The saddest part is that it was one test that changed my entire mentality.
College can be an extremely stressful time, especially when it is your first year transitioning from high school. Coming from a high school where straight A’s were the only thing on your report card, it could take a bit of an adjustment to get accustomed to the academic style of college. Thinking back on this now, it amazes me how one letter can drastically alter my mood and has the power to convince me that I will not be successful in my future field, whatever that may be.
If you have ever failed a test, which is highly possible and common, do not let it control you. It is just one test, and you can only improve from here on. Go to office hours, get a tutor, or alter your study habits! Do not be ashamed to get help and do not let a grade define you. You are more than just a letter.
If you are having trouble in class, you can reach out to The Connors Family Learning Center by calling 617-552-0611.
If you are feeling stressed or overwhelmed, make an appointment with Counseling Services by calling 617-553-3310 or visiting Gasson 001.
Sources:
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