Golden Eagle Experience

Dealing with Unexpected Grades

Midterms are upon us! College is more difficult than high school, and sometimes you’ll go through a rough patch during your time here. We want you to be prepared when talking with your family about your low grades. While they may be upset or disappointed, especially if they are used to seeing you make good grades in high school, know that they are coming from a place of care and want to see you succeed. Here are three key steps to help you address your bad grades with your family in a productive manner.

  1. Be 100% honest. It’s best to just rip the bandage off and let them know directly instead of dragging it out longer. Chances are, your family will appreciate your honesty and will be more likely and willing to hear you out.
  2. Own up to it. Take the ownership for your poor grades, but don’t beat yourself up over it. If you felt you did your best, let your family know that. By taking responsibility, both you and your family will be able to move forward with the situation. Evaluate what could be improved on for next time and make a plan of action.
  3. Create a plan for improvement. It may be best to do this before you talk to your family. Whether you are planning to visit with your professor to discuss how you can perform better in their class or take advantage of the free tutoring offered on campus, let your family know you have a plan in place and have carefully thought about how you will move forward. To help your family feel involved in your education and ask them what additional ideas they may have to help you improve. This will reassure them that you are working toward improvement and can allow them to help you stay accountable.

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