So I’m a Freshman in College and am failing a class…specifically intermediate algebra. I shouldn’t be failing this class to be honest, initially I was keeping up with the work and doing well then I started to procrastinate along with some personal issues. The class is computer-based in a classroom where teachers walk around and help.
So, I am failing and am very behind. I really think I am going to have to retake this course next semester, but I do not want to have a fail on my transcript. My withdrawal deadline is coming up soon and I am not sure what to do…whether to just try until the end or withdraw as soon as possible.
What are the positives of withdrawing from a class versus failing it?
A W is better than failing. A bunch of W’s on a transcript is not good though. Meet with your prof and academic advisor immediately. Ask what they recommend. In future, be proactive. Go to the prof office hours immediately. Go to the tutoring center. Don’t ait to get to the point where you are failing. Also go to the counseling center and figure out your issues. You can’t procrastinate in college and be successful.
Withdrawal is MUCH better than a Fail…because it won’t be in your GPA. HOWEVER,
Things to consider when thinking about Withdrawing from a class:
**TALK TO YOUR ADVISER ** before you make any decisions
** Will taking a W move you from full time to part time? ** Full time is usually 12 credits (check your college). If you are part time you are not eligible for financial aid or living in dorms.
** Is this class needed for your major? ** If you don’t take it now, will you have to take it again? Will it cause you to fall behind in keeping up with your major classes?
**Why are you getting a F? ** What happens the next time you get a F? W again? One W is okay, but a pattern shows that you have difficulty with college.
**Will Withdrawing from a course make it difficult to graduate on time? ** Will you need to make it up in summer $$ or do you have extra credits from HS?
If this course is in your major, is this the right major for you? If you are pre-med but are getting a C in Biology, maybe this is not the major for you. If you are getting a C in an elective, that is another story.
**Sometimes W’s are necessary. ** My daughter was in the hospital for a week early in the semester…she Withdrew from a course because she would not be able to catch up on all her courses if she kept all the classes. A W here or there is no problem, but a pattern of them looks like you have trouble with college work.