Overcoming Unfair Accusations Driven by Personal Feelings: What Can You Do?
Navigating challenges in an academic environment can be tough, especially when faced with perceptions that feel unjustified. Recently, I found myself in such a situation at school while studying Information and Communication Technology (ICT). With only a week remaining in my first year and just a few points left to complete my coursework, I was confident in my progress. I had nearly finished all 60 study points, needing only 12 more — one final project.
Throughout the course, we’ve had regular reviews where we explain the location of specific user stories. I’ve consistently answered these questions well, and my classmates generally perform similarly. Occasionally, there are topics we all struggle with—normal for any learning process.
Today, I decided to put in extra effort. During our review session, I participated more actively, providing correct answers when a classmate was unsure, and clearly presenting my assigned segment. I felt I was making a positive contribution.
However, at the end of class, our teacher made a remark that took me by surprise. He stated that if we perform well on the upcoming final assessment, we wouldn’t need an individual evaluation. When a classmate asked for clarification, the teacher responded, “Your group will definitely pass… except my name.” It was a personal comment that felt unkind and dismissive.
After class, I approached the teacher to understand his remark, asking, “Which questions did I miss that my classmates got right?” His answer was, “I don’t know, it’s just my feeling.” That struck me as unfair—judging someone based solely on a feeling does not seem appropriate. Ideally, assessments should be based on clear criteria and concrete evidence.
It upset me that he seemed to have already decided I wouldn’t pass, even before the final assessment. Why focus solely on me? I was filled with frustration and stress. He also mentioned that on Tuesday, I’d have to do most of the assessment on my own, with minimal group discussion. That struck me as unusual, but I am preparing diligently.
Despite my efforts to succeed, I worry about the possibility of failing. I have consistently received good grades, but this situation leaves me feeling powerless. I am determined to do my best on the upcoming evaluation to prove myself. Still, it’s difficult to accept that if I genuinely don’t know something and my classmates do, I might be judged unfairly based on feelings rather than facts.