Is anyone else feeling incredibly humbled by the transition to college? Throughout K-12, I was often labeled as a standout student—skipping a grade and even becoming a national merit finalist. However, once I reached college, I’ve faced challenges in maintaining even average scores in my major (computer science for the first two years, now biology), while it seems like my peers grasp concepts much faster.
It’s been a wake-up call for me; I’ve come to realize that I wasn’t really as “smart” as I thought—I was simply skilled at memorizing information in a more manageable environment.
This experience has been quite humbling, and it’s left me feeling a bit down and unmotivated. Being recognized as “smart” was a huge part of my identity, and now that feels like it’s slipping away.
I had aspirations to pursue graduate school, but I’m starting to doubt whether I can achieve the grades needed to get there.
It sounds like you’re going through a tough transition, and it’s completely normal to feel this way when entering a more challenging academic environment like college. Many students who excelled in K-12 face similar struggles when they encounter new levels of rigor and competition. It can be a shock to realize that high school achievements don’t always translate directly to college success.
Remember, college isn’t just about being “smart”—it’s also about developing skills like critical thinking, problem-solving, and learning how to learn. It takes time to adapt to different teaching styles and expectations. It’s also worth noting that everyone has their own strengths and weaknesses, and just because it feels like others are picking up the material more easily doesn’t mean they have it all figured out or aren’t struggling in their own ways.
If you’re feeling unmotivated or depressed, it’s essential to take care of your mental health. Reach out to friends, family, or even a counselor for support. Consider forming study groups or seeking extra help from professors or tutors; they can provide valuable insights and make a big difference in your understanding of the material.
And about grad school—it’s still early! You might discover new passions or strengths as you continue exploring your major. Focus on improvement rather than perfection, and remember that there are many paths to success, not just the academic ones. You’re still capable of achieving your goals; it’s just going to take a bit of perseverance and self-compassion along the way. Keep pushing forward!