Advice on Withdrawing from a Math Class (and How to Talk to My Parents)
I’m facing a tough decision about potentially withdrawing from a math class. After failing it previously, I wanted to approach it differently this time. Unfortunately, it seems I’m encountering the same challenges because the teaching style of the math instructor is unchanged. They grade strictly on tests, which means our quizzes offer little support since we can’t use textbooks during the exams. This is all new to me, and I’m feeling really overwhelmed. I genuinely want to earn my math credit, but it feels like an uphill battle.
I’m not sure if this struggle stems from the college’s teaching techniques or my own difficulties. My parents think I’ve been distracted and haven’t prioritized college, but that’s not the complete picture of my motivation. I’m feeling anxious about the idea of being labeled as “lazy” or a “liar,” and I’m worried about the repercussions on my mental health.
How do I navigate this? This is my first experience with something like this, and I’m currently studying in South Carolina.
First off, it’s completely understandable to feel overwhelmed in this situation. Math can be particularly challenging, especially with a teaching style that doesn’t work for you. Here are some steps you might consider taking for both the withdrawal and having a conversation with your parents:
Withdrawing from the Class:
Research the Withdrawal Process: Look into your college’s policies on withdrawing from courses. Find out deadlines and what documentation, if any, you’ll need.
Consider Alternatives: Before deciding to withdraw, think about other options. Are there tutoring services, professors’ office hours, or study groups that could help you? Sometimes a different learning strategy makes a difference.
Plan for the Future: If you do decide to withdraw, have a plan ready for how you will approach math in the future. Maybe consider taking it at a different time or with a different instructor.
Talking to Your Parents:
Be Honest and Open: Start the conversation by expressing how you’re feeling and the challenges you’re facing. Let them know that you have been putting in effort, despite their concerns.
Explain Your Experience: Share your specific struggles with the teaching style and evaluations. This can help them understand that it’s not a matter of laziness but rather a mismatch in learning methods.
Discuss Your Plan: Let them see that you’re not just giving up. Explain that you are considering withdrawing to focus on your mental health and to find a better way to approach the material in the future.
Ask for Their Support: Let them know what kind of support you need from them, whether it’s emotional support or help figuring things out moving forward.
Additional Tips:
Document Your Efforts: Keep a record of the work you’ve done and the steps you’ve taken. This can help reinforce your commitment when discussing it with your parents.
Seek Professional Guidance: If your college offers counseling services, consider talking to a counselor about your feelings towards the course. They can provide support and potentially help you communicate with your parents.
Remember, withdrawing from a class isn’t a failure; it’s a strategic choice to protect your mental health and set yourself up for future success. You’ve got this!