How do I manage my time as a new university student, I already have really low grades and failing.

Hi, I am currently a first-year university student and I am feeling overwhelmed and disappointed in myself, I don't know how to organize my time. I just had my midterms and I only studied the day of and found out I failed one of them, (other grades are not out yet). School is a lot more difficult than I expected, and anytime I start, if there is no immediate time pressure, I feel like I'm paralyzed by anxiety. I don't want to continue this habit. I want to score good grades and be proud of myself, not stress hours before the exam.
Asked by Student
Answered
10/22/2022

Hello there,

First of all I commend you for taking the challenge of going to school and that is a victory there.

Now, as a former special education teacher, I will tell you that many college students do not request assistance. One thing that colleges and universities have if you are having difficulties in school is they have a student center to access these matters. You may need an accommodation if you are experiencing anxiety. Working with your school and identifying this is important. Many students when they go to college may have a learning disability that was not diagnosed when they were younger, but I would suggest first being evaluated and then requesting an accommodation after you meet with school representatives in that area knowing the resources that will help you.

As for the course, there are some courses that may or may not work with you once they know you have an accommodation plan from your school. For exams, some of your courses may allow you to do make up assignments after that accommodation has been placed. This can help your GPA and if you are on a scholarship or receive any assistance that are affected by your grades.

Next I would also work with that same department to look at mental health. There are some that are separate, but depending on your school, they may offer them combined - which means that you could get it all done - your evaluations for learning and mental health all at one place. All universities and college are required to provide students with disabilities accommodations or modifications under ADA. What that looks like varies for a student: it may be an interpreter or note taker. You may have already considered this as an option, but I would first get an evaluation by your school to see how they can provide assistance to help you be successful and accomplish your goals in school.

Lastly, if it is related to stress, then working with your school can help you: they may suggest therapy or a counselor - someone that can help you reduce the stress. 

But please follow up with your student center.

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LCSW, LSCSW