<p>Hello there, </p>
<p>I know the semester is young yet, but I foresee some problems with my current work load, and I'd really appreciate some advice on how I should navigate this. </p>
<p>I'm a freshman currently taking 18 credits: 4 credits in language A grammar, 4 credits in language B grammar, 2 credits in language B conversation, 4 credits in ancient rhetoric, and 4 credits in a global politics class. I had 16 credits last semester and earned a 3.95 GPA, which I'm both surprised and proud of. </p>
<p>I know 18 credit hours are a lot to handle, but the language classes are seriously not a problem. My mother is a professor of language A here and I'm already somewhat proficient in it, and I'm doing great with language B since it's my major and my passion. These classes are honestly the only things I look forward to right now since the upper-level rhetoric and politics classes are pounding on me. </p>
<p>They're really, really hard, but the thing is, I'm doing somewhat well and I do generally like them. It's a LOT of work and I spend HOURS reading and writing, but I'm learning so much and am participating in class the best I can. I just get a knot in my stomach sometimes because I want to do really well but am afraid that I won't be able to, especially since most of my classmates are brilliant juniors and seniors. </p>
<p>Specifically, the global politics class worries me. The professor isn't the best I've ever had since her assignments are vague and since, honestly, she grades rather harshly... As an example, I got feedback on a paper that said "excellent examples and content; well done!", yet I got a 3.7 92%. I know this is still an acceptable grade and of course I'm proud of it, but wouldn't her comment indicate that I did really well? How can I improve if I don't have any feedback telling me what I could have done better?</p>
<p>I told my mom a summed-up version of all this, and she said to just do my best and stay out of trouble. I don't think she really understands, though, and I don't want to worry her since she has enough on her plate with her chair responsibilities. </p>
<p>So basically, I'm working really, really hard and am feeling like I'm getting nowhere. Do I tell my professors this? Do I tell my mother? I am determined to NOT drop anything since I don't have a job and my only responsibility is school, so I know it's doable. I just don't want to feel mediocre or doomed when I might not have to. </p>
<p>Thanks, and I'm sorry that this is so effusive.</p>