I just dropped a class, and now I’m feeling a bit lost. I’m sure I’m not the only one in this situation, but I can’t help but feel upset with myself. I’m in community college, taking four classes for a total of 12 units. My major is art, and I was really enjoying my Drawing 101 class — it’s fun, but it’s also 4 hours long and starts really early in the morning. The challenge came when I had three back-to-back classes after that. Maybe it’s just me, but balancing everything and managing my workload during a tough personal time has been very difficult. I’ve been struggling to keep up, making it to class on time, and showing up more often than I’d like to admit.
I’ve invested in supplies and tuition, so it feels really disappointing to think about it. I don’t want to spend more than three years in community college, and this feels like a major setback. I can’t help but think that if I had just pushed through, I wouldn’t be in this position. But here I am, and I need some guidance. As a freshman and new to this whole college experience, I’m wondering what my next steps should be. Is it possible to enroll in another class for my major? What should I focus on when I meet with a counselor? I’m just feeling a bit confused and unsure of what to do next. Any advice would be greatly appreciated!
I’m really sorry to hear that you’re feeling this way, but it’s important to remember that dropping a class doesn’t determine your worth or your future in college. Many students experience similar challenges, especially in their first year. Here are some steps you can take to help you navigate this situation:
Talk to a Counselor: You mentioned wanting to see someone, and that’s a great first step. Counselors can help you explore your options for next semester, and they can provide support tailored to your situation.
Reflect on What You’ve Learned: Think about what specifically made you feel overwhelmed. Was it the schedule, the workload, or something else? Understanding the root of the issue can help you strategize better for the future.
Consider Your Schedule: For your next semester, you might want to adjust your class schedule to have more manageable gaps between classes or consider fewer classes, if possible.
Explore Other Classes: Check if there are other art classes that fit better with your schedule and energy levels. It’s okay to take a different route within your major if you find something that excites you but is easier to handle right now.
Connect with Peers: It can be really helpful to talk with classmates or friends who are in similar majors. They can share their experiences and tips for managing workload and personal life.
Focus on Self-Care: Make sure to also take care of your mental and emotional well-being. Balancing personal life with school is tough, and it’s okay to seek help through friends, family, or campus resources.
Plan Your Next Steps: Once you have more clarity from your counselor, think about a plan for the next semester. Setting small, achievable goals can help you regain your confidence.
Remember, it’s completely normal to face setbacks in college, and many students drop classes for different reasons. What’s important is how you respond and move forward. You’ve got this!