What Should You Do If You Fail a College Class?
Have you just failed your college class? Perhaps there’s a reason behind this failure. Maybe you didn’t study before the exam. Maybe, you took a course load you couldn’t handle. Maybe, luck wasn’t on your side.
Your GPA is now affected because you flunked a subject. Your parents, guardian, college professor, or academic dean are probably talking to you about this matter right now.
If you find yourself in this situation, there are things you can do to move forward and recover. Here are some tips to remember if you fail a college class.
Don’t Fall into Inaction
Some people get overwhelmed after failing a class. When emotion weighs you down, it's difficult to move forward. The best thing you can do is to act on the things to remedy your problem. Talk to your advisor, instructor, or academic dean right away.
Yes, it’s unpleasant to discuss a failed subject, but you should take this step to recover. Your professor can make you understand why you flunk your college class. Meanwhile, your advisor and academic dean can advise you on what you can do after failing the subject.
Moreover, you can take an online class to pass the subject next time. You can visit MasterClass and choose an online course to expand your knowledge on something. You have to make your move!
Take Advantage of the Available Resources
If you’re planning to retake a subject you’ve flunked, ensure to use all of the available resources that can help you recover. See a representative of the learning center in your college. You probably need to learn new, efficient study methods to pass the class if you retake it. The professionals in the learning center can help you in this area.
You can also visit your instructor during office hours and seek some help. Ask your instructor specifically about lessons you’re having a hard time understanding. This move shows your interest in passing the class, and you’re giving your best effort to achieve it.
Lastly, consider getting a tutor. Perhaps, your college department offers tutors for students to help them pass a subject. Approach anyone who can tutor or recommend a tutor for you.
View Your Degree Audit
Ask if your college has a degree audit tool that enables you to assess your progress on your college course. Checking your degree audit is helpful while your professor and advisor are helping you plan your next steps after you flunk a subject. A degree audit also shows you how much it would take if you change your major.
Viewing your degree audit can also tell you if the college subject you flunked is vital to accomplishing your major. You can opt to take a different class if it isn’t a requirement for your degree.
Switch Majors
You can retake the college subject you failed and continue with your major. However, flunking a class may also indicate you need to change to a different college course. Most people will take this option out of their considerations, but switching majors is not bad.
The problem gets bigger if you realize later that your major isn’t for you. If you learn it sooner, be thankful for it. Imagine taking more years than necessary in a college major you’re having a hard time completing. That can be very frustrating on your part!
Say, you’ve initially chosen a mathematics major, and you've failed a subject. Perhaps, it’s a sign that your course isn’t a good fit for you. Find your strength and go for it. Maybe it’s in another college major you’ll excel.
Don’t ruin your GPA by pursuing a college major that doesn’t suit you. Always keep in mind it’s okay to change majors. Look at your degree audit and consult your advisor to see if another major will be better for you.
Don’t Be Too Hard on Yourself
Yes, you’ll get stressed or even frustrated. It's a pretty normal feeling for anyone who just flunked a college class. But don’t dig a deep hole and bury yourself in it. Never let this unfortunate thing be the end of it all. Being too hard on yourself will only stress you out all the more, and it will change nothing.
All things pass away, and failing a college class will be a thing of the past. Don’t dwell on this failure too much because it doesn’t make you a total failure. Remember, it’s in your hands to turn a negative thing into something positive.
Final Thoughts
Failing a college class can be difficult, but there are things you can do to move forward. You can opt to retake the subject by ensuring you’ll do your best this time. Switching majors is also an option. Consult your advisor, professor, or academic dean about what’s the best thing you can do after failing your college class.
