Failing is Learning

Answer 1

One of the toughest, but most valuable experience in college is failing a class. Failing a class can be extremely demoralizing and may even lead you to change your major. However, the first thing to realize is that you are not alone. It happens to many and for a variety of reason, so before you give up on your major entirely think about how you might turn this into a learning experience. Below are a few suggestions for how to make the most of failing a class.

1. Reflect

   . Take some time to think honestly about what went wrong. Focus on yourself and try not to blame others for why you were not successful. For example, even if the teacher was horrible or your partner failed to follow through put those reasons aside and concentrate on what you were able to control. Did you take too many classes at once? Could you have found a tutor? Did you take time to talk to your professor? Did you not realize you were struggling until you saw you report card? Finding the answers to these kinds of questions can help you plan how to tackle difficult classes in the future.

2. Repercussions

   . Be sure to check with your major department and financial aid about the consequences of failing a course. If it could potentially endanger your status then immediately take the necessary steps to remediate the problem. If there are parents or guardians that you should inform, tell them about failing the class after you have a plan of action. It is important to keep people informed, but it will be easier to talk about it if you are in control and able to handle your own problems.

3. Retake the course

   . Don’t just give up. Sign up for the course again and this time use what you learned from the first time to help you succeed in the class. How will you manage your time? Maybe you should hire a tutor? Or take the class with a lighter load? Investigate different teachers and try to find one that fits your learning style. Find resources on campus that can help you through the class. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.

If you truly believe that you failed because of something inappropriate or inaccurate, follow through professionally. First let your emotions settle before approaching the teacher or the department head. Teachers do make mistakes which is why it is vital to keep track of your assignments and when they were turned in. Be an advocate for yourself and ask to see the results of the test if you feel the grade is much lower than you expected. If the teacher is not cooperative than file a complaint through the proper channels. Always try to stay polite and remain professional.

Many times students dismiss their failures because of embarrassment, instead of taking the opportunity to learn form them. The immediate reaction is to blame the teacher or on the inadequacies of the class. Some may even alter their majors completely and choose an easier course of study. It is important to force ourselves to step out of our comfort zones to find ways to challenge ourselves. Don’t be afraid to take those difficult classes because it will force you to learn and reach beyond your limitations. For example, if you play tennis with someone who is better, your game will improve even if you lose every game. The same goes for school. When you challenge yourself and take difficult classes you will learn in the process. Learning how to deal with failure is a valuable skill that you can carry with you even after school. So, the next time you come in last place, fail a class or get fired, celebrate, because you learned something that day.

Answer 2

Failing provides an opportunity for growth and learning. By experiencing failure, we gain valuable insights into what went wrong and how we can improve. It allows us to refine our approach and ultimately become more successful in the future.