Most students think failing a course is the end of the world. However, the reality is that failing a course is not uncommon, especially given the challenges we faced, like: the pandemic, inflation, food security issues, technical difficulties, and more. Like many others, I failed a course during this difficult time but I did not give up on myself. Instead, I took it as an opportunity to reflect and grow and I believe it served as a turning point in my life. I’d like to share my experience with you and walk through the steps I took and the resources I used to help myself move forward.
The Impact of Failing
Failing a course means receiving a final grade lower than 50%, which comes with many impacts. First, I received no credit for the course and had to take it again to meet my graduation requirements. This translated into paying tuition again and putting an extra financial burden on myself and my parents. Worse still, I had to re-plan my course schedule and possibly delay graduation. Secondly, the “F” standing stays on my transcript even if I repeat and pass the course. This “F” disqualified me from receiving many scholarships that could have potentially supported me in my academic journey. Lastly, the failing mark I received dragged my GPA down by a lot. This put me at a competitive disadvantage when it comes to course registration and applying for graduate school in the future.
How I Bounced Back
Failing a course is not a signal that I don’t belong at UBC but instead, a lesson for me to grow from. Rather than giving up on myself, I sought resources around me and at UBC to help me.
First, I told everything to my best friend. It’s definitely uncomfortable to talk about; however, talking to others can really help relieve stress, anxiety, and fear. More importantly, my best friend stayed when I had emotional rough patches and supported me in every way. He also helped me reposition myself and gave me valuable advice. Looking back, it would have been impossible for me to figure out everything on my own!
Second, I went to my faculty academic advisor. I explained my situation to her and asked for suggestions on how I could revise my course plan so that the impacts were minimized. Fortunately, she told me that first-year and second-year courses shouldn’t greatly affect my academic standing or future applications to graduate school!
Lastly, I went to my enrollment advisor for help with my scholarships and awards. Unfortunately, she told me that students with an “F” standing could lose their eligibility to be considered for scholarships in that academic year. However, she provided me with alternative financial support solutions such as: applying to the Co-op Program, Work Learn job opportunities, as well as the bursary program at UBC.
Resources
Here are a few other resources that can be helpful when faced with difficulties: the UBC Wellness Center, UBC Wellbeing, UBC Thrive 5, UBC Student Health Service, UBC Counselling and UBC Mental Health Awareness Club. We’re often faced with challenges in our journey, but we don’t have to face them alone!
