I missed my midterm exam and I’m contemplating whether I should withdraw from the class. I’m a freshman and I made a mistake that cost me a midterm worth 20% of my grade. It’s unlikely that I’ll have the chance to make it up, which means I’m looking at a potential B- or C+ at best. Since I’m aiming for top law schools, would it be better to withdraw rather than accept this grade? How does a withdrawal (W) compare to a C on my transcript? I’m really frustrated with myself right now.
It’s completely understandable to feel frustrated about missing your midterm, but it’s important to consider your options carefully. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Impact of a W vs. a Grade: Generally, a ‘W’ (withdrawal) doesn’t negatively impact your GPA like a C would. However, excessive withdrawals can raise flags for law schools, so consider how it fits into your overall academic record.
Future Classes: If you’re doing well in the rest of the course and think you can still perform, it might be worth staying in and accepting the lower grade, especially if you think it’s a one-off situation. A B- or C+ isn’t ideal, but it happens to a lot of students.
Context Matters: If you have a strong overall GPA and this is a rare situation, it might be easier to recover from a single lower grade. However, if you think this class will be critical for your major or future studies, think about how a W might affect that.
Talk to Your Professor: Before making a decision, have a conversation with your professor. They might have options available or advice tailored to your specific situation.
Long-term Goals: Consider how you would feel about a W on your transcript in the context of your career goals. Sometimes it’s better to take a small hit now to preserve your overall GPA and mental well-being.
Ultimately, think about what feels best for you academically and personally. Whatever you choose, make sure to lean on your support network and remember that one setback doesn’t define your entire college journey!