Let’s just say the first semester of my college career was probably the low point of my life. I got bullied bad pretty bad by everyone around me for the first few months, and as a result had really bad depression. I had no motivation to go to class (I barely went) or do hw, and mostly just slept and ate (that’s all I felt like doing, I was so sad). I also have ADHD but do not have meds or treatment for it, so tests in college were very hard for me. Now as I’m on thanksgiving break, I realize that I am failing all my classes at the moment. I can probably bring some of them up but for the most part I know it’s not going to be good. I am very worried and scared. I am going to meet with my advisor as soon as I get back, as well as a therapist for the first time. I tried explaining this to my parents, about my situation, however they didn’t believe me and think all I do is party and be lazy, which is the exact opposite of what was really happening. I know I will probably be put on academic probation, which honestly I don’t mind because the programs will help me get on track. I just don’t know what’s going to happen after this semester ends and it’s making me lose a lot of sleep at night. I’m constantly trembling, and this is just deteriorating me. I just need a fresh start, and a fresh new semester where I can rebound and do good. I never had this issue in high school, I was on the deans list, and excelled in many honors and AP classes. Basically I’m just asking what should I do? I can’t just drop out, I need a degree. I’m not trying to get into Kelly or any top school in the university, I just want a basic history degree. Am I gonna be alright?
Don’t bother looking back because what’s been done is already done. No point in beating yourself up over the past. Just acknowledge where you went wrong and use it as a growing experience. You still have another 3 weeks of class so study your butt off and do your best on whatever is left. You can still graduate with good grades if you’re serious about staying on track from now on.
You are not done! I know someone else who went through a similar situation. Two and half months of a negative experience is just that! It is small in comparison to the rest of your life. You are definitely on track by going to see your advisor and going to talk to your parents and a therapist. Buckle down for the rest of the semester. You will be amazed at what you can do if you put your mind to it. My daughter had a rough start her first semester 3 years ago. Now she is a junior and she is doing very well. You already know that you a capable because of the way you performed in high school. I strongly encourage you to get connected with a group on campus. With the size of IU, there is something for everyone. You just have to find that connection! Try something that you did in high school or try something totally new. The most important this is to get connected!!!
You really need to start going to every class. It is by far the most efficient use of your time. If you don’t start going to class or doing homework, nothing is going to change grade-wise. Tell your RA if bullying is an issue
You might be able to get a medical release for this semester if your physician can document all of this. That way, while you did waste a semester of time, you won’t be penalized from a grade perspective. There is such a thing as a medical withdraw.