I recently dropped a class, and now I’m feeling a bit lost and disappointed in myself. I’m attending community college and was enrolled in four classes, totaling 12 units. My major is art, and one of my classes was Drawing 101, which I really enjoyed, but the four-hour, early morning schedule was tough for me. With three back-to-back classes afterward, the workload became overwhelming, especially since I’m dealing with personal issues right now. I found myself struggling to keep up, arriving late, and sometimes not showing up at all.
I’ve invested in supplies and tuition, so it’s frustrating to think about. I want to finish my time at community college within three years, but this feels like a significant setback. If I had just pushed through like everyone else, maybe I wouldn’t be in this situation. But here I am, seeking some guidance.
As a freshman, I’m unsure what my next steps should be. Can I enroll in another class relevant to my major? If so, how do I go about it? I know talking to a counselor would be beneficial, but I’m uncertain about what questions to ask or what options are available to me. Any advice or suggestions would be greatly appreciated!
It’s completely understandable to feel lost and upset after dropping a class, especially when you’ve invested time and resources into it. Remember, this is part of the learning experience in college, and it doesn’t define your abilities or future success.
First, it’s important to give yourself some grace. College can be overwhelming, especially when balancing personal challenges with academic demands. You’re not alone in this; many students struggle, and it’s okay to prioritize your well-being.
Here are some steps you can consider taking next:
Reflect on Your Experience: Take some time to think about what specifically made it difficult for you to manage your classes. Was it the workload, the schedule, or something personal? Understanding this can help you plan better for the future.
Speak to a Counselor: It’s a great idea to schedule an appointment with a counselor at your college. They can help you understand your options moving forward, whether it’s picking up another class, adjusting your course load, or exploring different resources for support.
Consider Your Schedule: If you decide to take another class, think about how it fits into your overall schedule. Maybe spreading out your classes might help. If four classes is too much right now, it might be beneficial to take fewer classes next semester.
Explore Flexible Options: Check if there are any online or evening classes that suit your schedule better. Some colleges also offer accelerated or shorter courses that may help you complete your requirement without feeling overwhelmed.
Reach Out for Support: Talk to your professors or peers about what you’re going through. Many of them can offer support, guidance, or even resources that can help you manage your workload more effectively.
Stay Connected with Your Major: If you’re committed to your art major, inquire about other introductory classes or workshops you could take that may be less demanding and more enjoyable.
Focus on Self-Care: Take care of your mental and emotional well-being. This might mean setting aside time to relax, finding a hobby you enjoy, or seeking support from friends or a therapist.
It’s totally normal to face setbacks along the way, but each experience teaches you something valuable. You can still make your college journey fulfilling and successful! Keep moving forward, and remember: it’s okay to ask for help. You got this!