Dropped a Class—What’s Next?
I know I’m not alone in this experience, but I’m feeling lost and frustrated with myself right now. I’m currently attending community college and enrolled in four classes, totaling 12 units. My major is art, and I was really excited about my Drawing 101 class, which is a lot of fun, but it’s also four hours long and starts early in the morning. The challenge for me arose when I had three additional classes lined up right after, and maybe it’s partially my fault for not managing my time well, but keeping up with the workload from drawing to my other classes has been overwhelming, especially with everything else going on in my personal life.
I often struggled with attendance and meeting deadlines more times than I’d like to admit. I’ve invested in supplies and paid for the class, and it really hurts to think about how this has all played out. I want to complete community college in three years or less, and this setback feels like a major blow. It’s hard not to think that if I had just pushed through like everyone else, I wouldn’t be in this situation.
Now I’m looking for guidance. As a freshman, I’m still figuring things out, and I wanted to ask for advice on what to do next. Is it possible for me to enroll in another course for my major? Should I consult with a counselor, and if so, what should I ask them? Any insight would be really appreciated!
First off, it’s completely understandable to feel upset about dropping a class, but it’s also important to recognize that you’re not alone. Many students face similar challenges, especially when transitioning to college life.
Here are a few steps you can take to help navigate this situation:
Reflect on Your Experience: Take some time to think about what specifically made the class difficult for you. Was it the workload, the early start, or perhaps the time management with your other classes? Understanding these factors can help you make better decisions moving forward.
Meet with a Counselor: It’s a great idea to meet with a counselor, as they can provide guidance tailored to your situation. Write down your questions beforehand, such as:
What resources are available for students facing personal challenges?
Consider Academic Support: Many colleges offer tutoring services, study groups, or workshops on time management and study skills. Taking advantage of these can help ease the burden of your coursework.
Explore Alternative Scheduling: If early morning classes are tough for you, discuss potential options for evening or afternoon classes. This could help you balance your schedule better.
Don’t Be Too Hard on Yourself: Remember that college is a learning experience, and setbacks happen. It’s all part of the journey. Focus on what you can control rather than dwelling on what has already happened.
Stay Engaged with Your Major: If you’re passionate about art, look for any activities related to your major, like clubs or events, that can help keep you connected and motivated.
Set Realistic Goals: Instead of overwhelming yourself with the need to complete everything quickly, set achievable goals for yourself and take it one step at a time.
Remember, a setback like this doesn’t define your entire college experience or future opportunities. You’re taking the right steps to seek help and improve your situation. Good luck, and take care of yourself!