Struggling to make it

I just started my junior year and it’s my first semester of upper division classes. However my Biochemsitry course is not going well. I’m pretty sure I failed the first test and the professor only grades 4 homework assignments and 4 tests for the semester. I’ve gone to office hours a few times and it’s helped a little but im not good with coming up with questions about course material and there is no tutoring for offered since it is an upper division course. I’m considering emailing him but I’m not even sure what to say, I just want to learn the material better because I’m just hearing white noise when I attempt problems.

I’m not really into writing professional emails and stuff. But you could try “be yourself”, i guess. If you want to mail him and get all needed materials this way, start with a simple greeting, give short explanation of your situation and source of struggles. Tell him that you would like to get the materials in order to become more successful student. I think you have pretty high chances to get 'em, so what on Earth should stop you from trying? Just, try to defeat this anxiety and pressure and do your best :slight_smile:

You could tell your professor that you are struggling, not exactly sure what to ask, but ask for advice for improving and maybe resources to help you.

I would agree that emailing your professor at this point would be the best choice.
Also, I would recommend taking notice of when the “last day to withdraw from a course with a W” is, and to make a note of it. Of course, no one wants a W on their transcript, but if all else fails, it might be preferable to getting a poor grade.

My kid has had good luck forming study groups with other students. Started with asking someone else to meet at the library to go over a problem set together. Then another student joined them. They help each other understand the material, quiz each other before tests, etc.