How to Bounce Back from Academic Setbacks
Performing poorly in college is a common thing. I've heard every reason from, "I didn't take it seriously," to "I'm a good student when I'm not in jail!" Whatever the cause, the result often looks the same – low grades, failed courses, and gaps in attendance. Any of these things can make a student think that no college or university wants them. This is not true. Here we will go over several ways that students can return to school after setbacks.
How to Approach Your GPA
"Hello! I am Rozzum 7134. But you can call me Roz."
Roze – The Wild Robot (2024)
GPA. The number that rules the transcripts and seems to dictate our academic abilities. When we do good it goes up, when we do badly, it drops like a stone. This number can make us feel like a million bucks or give us a major blow to our confidence. It feels like it might as well be part of our name or student ID number. The most important thing to remember when you're looking to get back on track in college after a bad experience is that this number will affect you but does not define you.
There are ways to conduct what I call "GPA Damage Control," which can rehabilitate your grade point average and help you meet scholarship, financial aid, and program requirements. It's important not to let a low GPA discourage you from pursuing your goals or keep you from exploring your options. While many students who experience difficulty in college do so because of things outside of the classroom, there are lots of academic success strategies that you can use to get more out of the time you put into your college experience.
How to Assess Your Situation
"Houston, we have a problem"
Jim Lovell – Apollo 13 (1995) / Jack Swigert (1970)
So, you've had a bad semester or two. The first step is a quick assessment of your situation. What was the cause of the problem? Was it a specific subject that you struggled with? Was it a lack of time to study? Were there extenuating circumstances that prevented you from completing coursework?
Just like a ship lost at sea, you can't correct your course without knowing where you are and what went wrong. It's important to be honest about your situation because you can't fix the problem if you don't acknowledge it. Once you've identified the factors that led to the bad experience, you can start building a plan to address them. Sometimes issues resolve themselves. If it was extenuating circumstances that prevented you from completing coursework, are you in a better situation? Just about everything else can be addressed through problem-solving.
Build Your Support System
"All for one, and one for all!"
The Three Muskateers (1993)
Having someone to talk to can be useful for identifying issues and exploring possible solutions. Building a support group of family, friends, and university personnel who know your goals and can help you with your plans is one of the best things a returning student can do. Many schools have academic or student success coaches who can help walk you through resources available or college study tips. Family and friends can help you keep sight of your goals and stay focused. No student is alone on their journey.
Create a Plan to Get Back on Track
"I love it when a plan comes together!"
John "Hannibal" Smith – The A-team (2010)
Let's talk about some specific ideas to overcome academic challenges. In no particular order, the following is a list of tools you can use to help keep yourself on track:
- Set a schedule: Designate specific study times throughout the week and prioritize them.
- Make a goal for each study session: What do you want to accomplish right now?
- Work with others aka "Body Doubling": Even if the people you choose to work with aren't doing schoolwork, being with someone else who is working on something can help keep you on task.
- Make use of technology: Online classes can often be accessed through a mobile app, allowing you to stay connected to your class and make use of free time.
- Find ways to apply what you learn: Share what you're learning with family, friends, and colleagues. Relate what you're doing with what you're learning.
- Ask questions: If you don't understand a concept or idea, ask someone. The professor, a classmate, family, or friends. Even if the person you ask doesn't know the answer, the resulting conversation can lead to discussion and discovery.
- Celebrate victories: It doesn't matter if it's big or small, give yourself credit for what you accomplish.
- Use university resources: Look for tutors, librarians, writing centers, and other student support.
- Connect with your classmates: Ask them how they study and organize in-person or virtual study sessions.
- Connect with your professor: Ask them if you understand something correctly, chat with them after a test about your results and how you can improve, keep them informed of any challenges you're facing beyond your control, and ask for help if you need it.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
"This is your time. Now go out there and take it!"
Herb Brooks – Miracle (2004)
Regardless of what you have previously faced in your academic experience, you can bounce back and succeed in earning your degree. You are not alone — you have teammates and fans cheering you on and excited to see you claim the trophy at the end. So, square your shoulders, set your sights, and take that first step into the future you want to build. We're here to help and want to see you succeed more than you know.