Which is worse: a W or a B- to possibly a C+ on my transcript?

<p>I, in my ultimate stupidity, have failed my first two tests in my Astronomy class. I had studied for them like crazy but somehow ended up getting D-'s on both tests. As a freshman, I have the option of withdrawing from the class by the end of next week with no GPA penalties. Should I do it? I went to talk to my professor today and he said he would help me so I'll be better prepared for my next test (which is on the day before the deadline for withdrawing) but I'm not so sure that'll be enough since I literally have a D in that class right now... there are two tests left and one final exam which counts for two tests.</p>

<p>I'm not so worried about having a W on my transcript for graduate school as I am for if I decide to transfer (which, as of now, seems very likely..). Should I risk getting a grade as low as a C+ for Astronomy on my transcript? (I'm a IR/Econ/PoliSci major)</p>

<p>Thank you</p>

<p>Is it a required class? Will you have to retake it if you withdraw? Will it slow you down for other classes in sequence?</p>

<p>Otherwise, if it’s just a sort of random class, then seriously consider it, especially since you currently have a D right now (and therefore I’m guessing only by getting a 100 on everything else can get to like a C+ or B-) and considering the semester is mostly over I’d expect there are only a few grades left…those things are a real GPA killer. Imagine a 2.0 factoring into your GPA…ouch. It’ll not only hurt your GPA, but also your self-esteem, your internship chances (most internship people don’t give a crap about most course-related things because of number of apps, only GPA and major), scholarship chances, and a lot of other things.</p>

<p>Personally, I’d say if there’s no hope in raising it to a B- or B, then yes, drop it. The damage will be too much, and the damage from the W is significant but will affect a lot fewer things.</p>