Bad grade for 1st chemistry exam

[ErikaD360]

Hello everyone! I took my first test for inorganic chemistry yesterday and I did less than stellar. I studied my butt off for three nights in a row , reviewed my notes after class, and completed my homework and online exercises. Due to my current family situation, it makes it nearly impossible for me to get to the tutor. The professor has lab hours, but I have another class right after chem. I don't know what to do, I tried my hardest and still fell flat on my face. I went into the test feeling good.

Do I continue to try my best and work my butt off trying to study or just withdrawal from the class and take it next semester? Has anyone else had a similar situation? I am very disappointed in myself because I know I can do much bettter.

[ItsThatJenGirl, CNA]

I think first tests are always difficult because you don't really know what to expect, or how to study for them.

Consider how the test was set up vs. your expectations - what was different? Where did you struggle? Were there tricky answers? Did you go too fast?

Try to use this as an opportunity to improve and try not to be too disappointed in yourself. Happens to the best of us :)

[salukigirl]

I am taking general/organic/bio chemistry right now! I was about to have a panick attack before class started. I have done very well in my other classes but chemistry stresses me to the bone. Absolutely talk to your professor, even if it's just over email. Odds are your professor would arrange a time to meet with you privately if you can't make it to lab hours.

I wanted to drop chemistry but my husband talked me out of it. He said if I dropped it, I was just going to be that much more anxious next time around. I am so glad I am sticking with it because I have a 96 in the class.

I am taking a hybrid class, which means the lecture is online and the lab is on campus. I pester my instructor all the time. Most professors really don't mind and in fact appreciate it when a student tries. I would ask your professor what you could do better and if he/she had any tips.

[Nightmaren, BSN, RN]

Yes, definitely make time to sit down with your professor to talk about your situation openly and assess your options. Once you know what your options are, take a moment to examine your own strengths and weaknesses as a student (e.g., would you be more anxious if you were repeating the class? Do you require extensive support to manage testing anxiety?) and then make a decision.

Lots of times, the first test can be difficult. Even in nursing school, there were so many students who had a false-start in their first semester because the first round of tests knocked the wind out of them. Examine whether you are able to "recover" from this test and whether your expectations are realistic (we are our harshest critics, after all!) and be confident in whatever decision you make.

Best of luck!