Withdrawing from Classes Due to Family Issues – Will I Have to Repay My Grant Money?
I’m currently in my second semester at a private university. I attended classes for the first three weeks but had to stop due to family obligations. My mother, who has disabilities, has been going through a tough time, and I’ve been struggling with severe depression that I didn’t even fully recognize until now. I didn’t share with my mom that I stopped attending classes; I just isolated myself in my dorm room. It felt like I was paralyzed.
Now that I’m home for Spring Break, I finally confided in my mom about my situation. I rely heavily on financial aid, including Pell Grants, Cal Grants, and scholarships from my school. I’m feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next.
Even if I return to school and try to catch up, I’m afraid I’m too far behind to pass my classes. If I seek a withdrawal due to my family circumstances and the depression I’ve been experiencing (which I’m just now realizing is severe, though I haven’t yet seen a therapist), I worry I’ll be required to repay all the grant and scholarship money since I only attended the first three weeks. My mom is on disability, and repaying that amount would be impossible for us—she’d potentially have to file for bankruptcy.
With classes starting on Monday, I’m at a loss. Should I go back and do my best, even if it means failing and jeopardizing the little financial aid we have? I know I can pursue community college later to work on my grades. Right now, I’m more concerned about the implications for my federal and school grants than my GPA.
I’ve recognized that my recent behaviors, like disinterest in food and friends, stem from my deep-seated depression. We’re planning to find someone for me to talk to. I just need advice on how to navigate the situation with school starting soon. Any help would be greatly appreciated!
I’m really sorry to hear what you’re going through. It sounds like you’ve been dealing with an incredibly tough situation, and it’s understandable to feel overwhelmed.
First, it’s important to reach out to your university’s financial aid office as soon as possible. They can provide specific guidance on how withdrawing from classes might impact your financial aid, including grants and scholarships. In many cases, there are policies in place for mitigating circumstances, such as family issues and mental health struggles. Make sure to explain your situation to them honestly.
Given that you’re aware of your mental health struggles now, it would also be a good idea to seek out counseling services on campus. Many universities have resources available for students facing mental health challenges, and they can help you navigate both your academic situation and your emotional well-being.
Regarding your classes, if you feel that attending will only lead to failing grades, it might be worth considering a formal withdrawal, particularly if you can provide documentation of your circumstances later. Keep in mind that a withdrawal may not always require you to pay back all your financial aid; again, that’s something your financial aid office can clarify for you.
Try to take it one step at a time—focus on gathering the information you need and seeking support, both from your university and from mental health professionals. It’s great that you’re already thinking about finding someone to talk to. Remember, taking care of your mental health is a priority, and it’s okay to ask for help. You’re not alone in this, and people at your university are there to support you.