7 answers
18
Questions
Asked
1416 views
How to Ask My Ochem Professor for Leniency?
Hi, I don’t know if this is the right place to ask, but I really need advice.
I’m currently failing Organic Chemistry, but I’m only a few points away from passing. This semester has been really hard for me, both academically and personally. I’m trying to figure out if there’s a way to bargain with my professor or what I can do to improve my situation.
Has anyone been in a similar position? Is it worth reaching out to my professor to explain my circumstances and see if there’s anything I can do to make up the points? I’d really appreciate any advice on how to handle this.
Thanks in advance for your help!
Login to comment
7 answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Angel !
First I would gladly like to assure you that Career Village is a good place to ask this question that you have been thinking about. I would suggest that you wait a couple of days and read advice here before deciding what to do.
Unlike High School, and depending on which college you're attending, "leniency" may or may not be offered for students in college. You have some options, however. It doesn't seem as though you are far from a passing grade, but you may only have a few weeks left to semesters' end. It's pretty late in the semester.
There are some choices, maybe not the easiest ones, but something to consider. I would advise that your first step would be to go to your academic counselor and explain the situation and what you want. They know everything about your college's system and special circumstances and general information about this will not be of much help. See what they say. You can then visit the Dean of the Science Department and discuss it. If you are told by either source that students are granted some sort of leniency when almost failing a course, make sure they verify that it can be done and then and only then should you go to your professor to ask for it. You do not want to go straight to the professor not knowing if leniency is a thing at your college, especially when it is this late in the semester.
It just may be that the professor is not effective and you would do well with a different professor. The choice here is difficult. Would you rather fail the course or drop the course knowing you've paid for it and most likely would not get any of your payment for that course back. If you drop the class, will it affect your financial aid if you're on financial aid, it may if it takes you below 12 units of credit. You must weigh the options after speaking with the academic counseling office, then the Dean of the Science Department.
Moving forward to next semester, be conscious of your course load. It's worth it to mix some light courses with maybe one or two heavy courses. See if any of the heavy courses are offered in a Summer Session if your college has that. And of course, try to work on the personal situation you've mentioned to improve things so that your focus can be on college so that you can focus on school and enjoy your experience. There are most likely supports on your campus
through the clinic at which you may be able to receive situational counseling.
Once you have received a variety of advice, make a decision that will benefit you now and for the rest of your college days. I wish you all the best !
First I would gladly like to assure you that Career Village is a good place to ask this question that you have been thinking about. I would suggest that you wait a couple of days and read advice here before deciding what to do.
Unlike High School, and depending on which college you're attending, "leniency" may or may not be offered for students in college. You have some options, however. It doesn't seem as though you are far from a passing grade, but you may only have a few weeks left to semesters' end. It's pretty late in the semester.
There are some choices, maybe not the easiest ones, but something to consider. I would advise that your first step would be to go to your academic counselor and explain the situation and what you want. They know everything about your college's system and special circumstances and general information about this will not be of much help. See what they say. You can then visit the Dean of the Science Department and discuss it. If you are told by either source that students are granted some sort of leniency when almost failing a course, make sure they verify that it can be done and then and only then should you go to your professor to ask for it. You do not want to go straight to the professor not knowing if leniency is a thing at your college, especially when it is this late in the semester.
It just may be that the professor is not effective and you would do well with a different professor. The choice here is difficult. Would you rather fail the course or drop the course knowing you've paid for it and most likely would not get any of your payment for that course back. If you drop the class, will it affect your financial aid if you're on financial aid, it may if it takes you below 12 units of credit. You must weigh the options after speaking with the academic counseling office, then the Dean of the Science Department.
Moving forward to next semester, be conscious of your course load. It's worth it to mix some light courses with maybe one or two heavy courses. See if any of the heavy courses are offered in a Summer Session if your college has that. And of course, try to work on the personal situation you've mentioned to improve things so that your focus can be on college so that you can focus on school and enjoy your experience. There are most likely supports on your campus
through the clinic at which you may be able to receive situational counseling.
Once you have received a variety of advice, make a decision that will benefit you now and for the rest of your college days. I wish you all the best !
This is the best, most realistic answer.
Dr. Kelly Desso
@Dr. Kelly Desso - - Thank you so much for your feedback and have a wonderful day !
Michelle M.
Updated
Brooke’s Answer
Firstly, let me assure you that you're not alone in this journey. Many have walked this path before you, and it's absolutely worthwhile to engage in a dialogue with your professor. Remember, if you don't take a step forward or ask, you'll always be left wondering.
- Contact Early and Be Transparent: Procrastination is not your friend here. Lay out your situation for your professor in a respectful and concise manner—acknowledge your current position in the course, the hurdles you're facing, and the reasons behind your struggle. Professors often appreciate students who show drive and take ownership for their education.
- Seek Specific Assistance: Instead of vaguely asking for a grade boost, request specific ways to enhance your performance—this could be extra credit tasks, opportunities to revise certain assignments, or more detailed feedback on previous exams. Demonstrating a readiness to put in the effort can make a significant impact. This strategy could also serve you well when finals approach.
- Develop a Strategy for Progress: Be ready to share the steps you're taking to boost your performance, such as engaging a tutor, forming a study group, and so on. This indicates that you're not just waiting for things to change but are actively seeking solutions.
Remember, you may have a final exam on the horizon that you can prepare for by reviewing past tests and seeking help from a tutor. This focused effort could significantly improve your overall class score. Keep pushing forward, and success will follow.
If you've already taken the final, it's possible you've waited too long to address the issue. You can still try, but moving forward, consider the advice above to avoid falling behind. If you proceed with the conversation remember to be transparent about your situation, clearly state your request, and make sure to express your understanding of the process. Acknowledge that it's not ideal to make a request after grades have been finalized, but emphasize that you respect and understand the instructor's decision.
Good luck!
Review past exams and start looking for a tutor
Prepare a plan before meeting with professor
- Contact Early and Be Transparent: Procrastination is not your friend here. Lay out your situation for your professor in a respectful and concise manner—acknowledge your current position in the course, the hurdles you're facing, and the reasons behind your struggle. Professors often appreciate students who show drive and take ownership for their education.
- Seek Specific Assistance: Instead of vaguely asking for a grade boost, request specific ways to enhance your performance—this could be extra credit tasks, opportunities to revise certain assignments, or more detailed feedback on previous exams. Demonstrating a readiness to put in the effort can make a significant impact. This strategy could also serve you well when finals approach.
- Develop a Strategy for Progress: Be ready to share the steps you're taking to boost your performance, such as engaging a tutor, forming a study group, and so on. This indicates that you're not just waiting for things to change but are actively seeking solutions.
Remember, you may have a final exam on the horizon that you can prepare for by reviewing past tests and seeking help from a tutor. This focused effort could significantly improve your overall class score. Keep pushing forward, and success will follow.
If you've already taken the final, it's possible you've waited too long to address the issue. You can still try, but moving forward, consider the advice above to avoid falling behind. If you proceed with the conversation remember to be transparent about your situation, clearly state your request, and make sure to express your understanding of the process. Acknowledge that it's not ideal to make a request after grades have been finalized, but emphasize that you respect and understand the instructor's decision.
Good luck!
Brooke recommends the following next steps:
Thanks for your encouragement!
angel
Updated
Hannah’s Answer
Hello Angel!
From personal experience, I can assure you that feeling uncertain about passing Organic Chemistry is not uncommon. Given that the semester is nearing its end, it's crucial to act fast! If you feel at ease sharing your concerns, I would recommend being candid about your current situation. Depending on your rapport with your professor, you could discuss your predicament with them and seek their advice on the next steps.
For future courses, it's a good strategy to secure a tutor right from the start, even for subjects you feel confident about. I found that this approach made it less daunting to seek help and eliminated the stress of scrambling for assistance outside the classroom.
They will most likely suggest the following:
I hope you find this advice helpful!
Seek out extra help/ tutoring
Studying tips for upcoming exams
Extra credit opportunities
From personal experience, I can assure you that feeling uncertain about passing Organic Chemistry is not uncommon. Given that the semester is nearing its end, it's crucial to act fast! If you feel at ease sharing your concerns, I would recommend being candid about your current situation. Depending on your rapport with your professor, you could discuss your predicament with them and seek their advice on the next steps.
For future courses, it's a good strategy to secure a tutor right from the start, even for subjects you feel confident about. I found that this approach made it less daunting to seek help and eliminated the stress of scrambling for assistance outside the classroom.
They will most likely suggest the following:
I hope you find this advice helpful!
Hannah recommends the following next steps:
Thanks, can't wait to put this advice into action!
angel
Updated
Oishi’s Answer
Hey Angel!
I suggest you speak to your organic chemistry professor first and see if there is an assignment or project you can do in order to pass the class after explaining your situation. You can also ask for extra help/tutoring sessions to attend and then take an exam so you can get a passing grade. If your professor is unwilling to accommodate you or not understanding of your situation, I suggest you speak to a school guidance counselor or assistant principal/department supervisor right away to see if there is anything they can do on their end. Do not wait to do this, speak to your professor as soon as possible.
Hope this helps!
I suggest you speak to your organic chemistry professor first and see if there is an assignment or project you can do in order to pass the class after explaining your situation. You can also ask for extra help/tutoring sessions to attend and then take an exam so you can get a passing grade. If your professor is unwilling to accommodate you or not understanding of your situation, I suggest you speak to a school guidance counselor or assistant principal/department supervisor right away to see if there is anything they can do on their end. Do not wait to do this, speak to your professor as soon as possible.
Hope this helps!
Thank you so much for the advice.
angel
Guidance counselors and principals are HS-level.
Dr. Kelly Desso
Hey Angel! I apologize for not realizing you are talking about a college level course. My advice is still applicable- you can speak to a department chair if your professor is unwilling to work with you. Its the last step I suggest you take after speaking to your professor to find a possible solution.
Oishi Rahman, PharmD
Updated
Dr. Kelly’s Answer
Michelle's perspective aligns with mine, and having experienced life at five different universities, I can confidently say her answer is likely to be the most accurate.
In the majority of colleges, the academic year is winding down this week or the next, unless you're on a unique schedule. If you're anxiously checking your final grade, and there are no remaining assignments to boost your score, things might look bleak. In such instances, your professor might suggest that you should have addressed these issues as they occurred. They might also recommend that if you're dealing with exceptional circumstances, you should reach out to student services for assistance. However, it's important to remember that such accommodations are typically not applicable retroactively.
As others have suggested, there are numerous resources available to help you improve, such as peer tutors, professional tutors, and the "student success" center, or its equivalent, which can assist you in overcoming your academic hurdles. Moreover, if you've maintained good rapport with your instructor, retaking the course under their guidance could be beneficial. This would not only give you a chance to improve your grades but also to better understand their expectations. If this isn't the case, don't hesitate to ask your peers about their experiences with different instructors. Sometimes, a change in teaching style can be a powerful motivator. If you don't have anyone to ask, turn to your advisor. They're usually familiar with their colleagues' personalities and a trustworthy one will steer you in the right direction.
Look at where you were making mistakes and see what one can improve on.
In the majority of colleges, the academic year is winding down this week or the next, unless you're on a unique schedule. If you're anxiously checking your final grade, and there are no remaining assignments to boost your score, things might look bleak. In such instances, your professor might suggest that you should have addressed these issues as they occurred. They might also recommend that if you're dealing with exceptional circumstances, you should reach out to student services for assistance. However, it's important to remember that such accommodations are typically not applicable retroactively.
As others have suggested, there are numerous resources available to help you improve, such as peer tutors, professional tutors, and the "student success" center, or its equivalent, which can assist you in overcoming your academic hurdles. Moreover, if you've maintained good rapport with your instructor, retaking the course under their guidance could be beneficial. This would not only give you a chance to improve your grades but also to better understand their expectations. If this isn't the case, don't hesitate to ask your peers about their experiences with different instructors. Sometimes, a change in teaching style can be a powerful motivator. If you don't have anyone to ask, turn to your advisor. They're usually familiar with their colleagues' personalities and a trustworthy one will steer you in the right direction.
Dr. Kelly recommends the following next steps:
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Hey Angel!
I’m really sorry you’re going through this tough time. Organic Chemistry is a challenging subject for many students, and life has a way of making everything harder when you’re juggling personal issues on top of academics. First off, I think reaching out to your professor is definitely a good idea, but it’s important to approach the situation with professionalism and a clear plan.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to handle this:
1. Be Honest and Respectful
It’s important to be honest with your professor about your situation, but also respectful of their time and authority. Professors understand that life happens, and many are willing to work with students who are proactive and sincere.
2. Frame Your Request Thoughtfully
When you email or speak with your professor, try to frame your request in a way that shows you’re committed to improving your performance and taking responsibility. Here’s an example of how you could structure the email or conversation:
Subject: Request for Support in Organic Chemistry
Dear Professor [Last Name],
I hope you’re doing well. I’m writing to explain some of the challenges I’ve been facing this semester, both academically and personally. As a result, I am currently struggling in Organic Chemistry and find myself just a few points away from passing.
I’m committed to doing everything I can to improve my understanding and performance in the course. Is there any possibility for extra credit, additional assignments, or other ways to make up for the points I’ve missed? I would greatly appreciate any guidance or support you can offer, and I’m happy to discuss my situation further if needed.
Thank you so much for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Angel
3. Provide Context Without Over-Explaining
You don’t need to go into deep personal details, but it’s helpful to briefly explain why you’re struggling. Professors will usually be more understanding if they see that you’re actively trying to get back on track.
4. Ask About Extra Credit or Additional Help
If you’re close to passing, it doesn’t hurt to ask about any extra credit assignments, retakes, or opportunities for additional help. If your professor can’t offer extra credit, they may be able to recommend tutoring or other resources to help you improve your grade.
5. Take Initiative
Beyond just asking, make sure you’re putting in extra effort on your end. Attend office hours, review any material you might have missed, and show your professor that you’re working hard to improve. The more you show that you’re putting in the effort, the more likely your professor will be to help you out.
6. What If They Don’t Offer Leniency?
If your professor can’t offer any leniency, don’t give up! You can focus on getting a better grade for the remainder of the semester. If you work hard, you might still be able to pull your grade up enough to pass. And remember, there’s always the option to retake the class if necessary.
7. Consider Other Resources
If you're struggling with the material itself, consider seeking tutoring or forming a study group. Sometimes, the way things are explained in class doesn’t click right away, and hearing it from a different perspective can make all the difference.
Good luck, Angel! I’m confident that with a bit of effort and communication, you can turn this around. Don’t be afraid to ask for help—it’s what professors are there for, and they want to see you succeed.
I’m really sorry you’re going through this tough time. Organic Chemistry is a challenging subject for many students, and life has a way of making everything harder when you’re juggling personal issues on top of academics. First off, I think reaching out to your professor is definitely a good idea, but it’s important to approach the situation with professionalism and a clear plan.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to handle this:
1. Be Honest and Respectful
It’s important to be honest with your professor about your situation, but also respectful of their time and authority. Professors understand that life happens, and many are willing to work with students who are proactive and sincere.
2. Frame Your Request Thoughtfully
When you email or speak with your professor, try to frame your request in a way that shows you’re committed to improving your performance and taking responsibility. Here’s an example of how you could structure the email or conversation:
Subject: Request for Support in Organic Chemistry
Dear Professor [Last Name],
I hope you’re doing well. I’m writing to explain some of the challenges I’ve been facing this semester, both academically and personally. As a result, I am currently struggling in Organic Chemistry and find myself just a few points away from passing.
I’m committed to doing everything I can to improve my understanding and performance in the course. Is there any possibility for extra credit, additional assignments, or other ways to make up for the points I’ve missed? I would greatly appreciate any guidance or support you can offer, and I’m happy to discuss my situation further if needed.
Thank you so much for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Angel
3. Provide Context Without Over-Explaining
You don’t need to go into deep personal details, but it’s helpful to briefly explain why you’re struggling. Professors will usually be more understanding if they see that you’re actively trying to get back on track.
4. Ask About Extra Credit or Additional Help
If you’re close to passing, it doesn’t hurt to ask about any extra credit assignments, retakes, or opportunities for additional help. If your professor can’t offer extra credit, they may be able to recommend tutoring or other resources to help you improve your grade.
5. Take Initiative
Beyond just asking, make sure you’re putting in extra effort on your end. Attend office hours, review any material you might have missed, and show your professor that you’re working hard to improve. The more you show that you’re putting in the effort, the more likely your professor will be to help you out.
6. What If They Don’t Offer Leniency?
If your professor can’t offer any leniency, don’t give up! You can focus on getting a better grade for the remainder of the semester. If you work hard, you might still be able to pull your grade up enough to pass. And remember, there’s always the option to retake the class if necessary.
7. Consider Other Resources
If you're struggling with the material itself, consider seeking tutoring or forming a study group. Sometimes, the way things are explained in class doesn’t click right away, and hearing it from a different perspective can make all the difference.
Good luck, Angel! I’m confident that with a bit of effort and communication, you can turn this around. Don’t be afraid to ask for help—it’s what professors are there for, and they want to see you succeed.
Updated
Patrick’s Answer
Angel, please understand that it is definitely worth reaching out to your Organic Chemistry professor, especially since you're so close to passing and are facing significant personal challenges. Professors are often more understanding than students realize, especially when you're proactive in addressing your concerns and willing to put in the work to improve. That said, it's important to approach the conversation with professionalism, respect, and a clear understanding of what you’re asking for.
You might want to consider the following situation:
* Before reaching out, take some time to reflect on your performance in the class. Be clear about the specific challenges you’ve faced—whether they are personal, health-related, or academic—and how they have impacted your ability to succeed. This reflection will help you communicate your situation more effectively and demonstrate that you're taking responsibility for your performance.
* Your professor is likely busy, so it’s best to approach them professionally via email first. Keep it concise, polite, and to the point. You might say something like:
"Dear Professor [Last Name],
I hope this message finds you well. I’m reaching out because I’m currently struggling in the course and am just a few points away from passing. I want to acknowledge that this semester has been particularly difficult for me, both academically and personally. I have been working hard, but I feel that my circumstances have impacted my performance. I was hoping we could discuss whether there might be any way for me to make up some of the points, either through extra credit, additional assignments, or any other options you might suggest. I am fully committed to improving and would greatly appreciate any guidance or consideration you could offer.
Thank you for your time and understanding, and I look forward to hearing from you."
* Professors will often be willing to help, but they may not always be able to offer leniency, especially if it’s against department policy. They may suggest additional assignments, recommend office hours, or provide advice on how to improve. Be open to their suggestions, and be sure to follow through with any actions they recommend. If they cannot offer leniency in terms of grades, inquire about what specific areas you can focus on to raise your grade before the end of the semester.
* If your professor is open to helping, be sure to outline how you intend to improve. Whether it’s attending extra office hours, participating more actively in class, or dedicating extra time to studying, showing that you are committed to improving your performance will demonstrate responsibility and initiative.
* Understand that professors may have specific grading policies that they cannot adjust for individual students. If leniency isn’t possible, focus on what you can control moving forward. Ask for feedback on your performance, identify areas for improvement, and take advantage of any resources available to you (tutoring, study groups, additional materials).
* Given that you're facing personal challenges, it’s also essential to seek out resources to help manage your well-being. If you haven’t already, consider reaching out to your campus counseling services, academic advising, or a trusted mentor for additional support. Balancing personal struggles with academics is difficult, and seeking guidance from others can help you navigate through tough times.
Angel, in the end, it’s absolutely worth reaching out to your professor, but it’s important to do so thoughtfully and respectfully. Even if your professor can't offer leniency, the conversation could lead to additional support or guidance that will help you succeed. Most importantly, continue to focus on strategies for academic improvement, and remember that your professor likely wants to see you succeed.
You might want to consider the following situation:
* Before reaching out, take some time to reflect on your performance in the class. Be clear about the specific challenges you’ve faced—whether they are personal, health-related, or academic—and how they have impacted your ability to succeed. This reflection will help you communicate your situation more effectively and demonstrate that you're taking responsibility for your performance.
* Your professor is likely busy, so it’s best to approach them professionally via email first. Keep it concise, polite, and to the point. You might say something like:
"Dear Professor [Last Name],
I hope this message finds you well. I’m reaching out because I’m currently struggling in the course and am just a few points away from passing. I want to acknowledge that this semester has been particularly difficult for me, both academically and personally. I have been working hard, but I feel that my circumstances have impacted my performance. I was hoping we could discuss whether there might be any way for me to make up some of the points, either through extra credit, additional assignments, or any other options you might suggest. I am fully committed to improving and would greatly appreciate any guidance or consideration you could offer.
Thank you for your time and understanding, and I look forward to hearing from you."
* Professors will often be willing to help, but they may not always be able to offer leniency, especially if it’s against department policy. They may suggest additional assignments, recommend office hours, or provide advice on how to improve. Be open to their suggestions, and be sure to follow through with any actions they recommend. If they cannot offer leniency in terms of grades, inquire about what specific areas you can focus on to raise your grade before the end of the semester.
* If your professor is open to helping, be sure to outline how you intend to improve. Whether it’s attending extra office hours, participating more actively in class, or dedicating extra time to studying, showing that you are committed to improving your performance will demonstrate responsibility and initiative.
* Understand that professors may have specific grading policies that they cannot adjust for individual students. If leniency isn’t possible, focus on what you can control moving forward. Ask for feedback on your performance, identify areas for improvement, and take advantage of any resources available to you (tutoring, study groups, additional materials).
* Given that you're facing personal challenges, it’s also essential to seek out resources to help manage your well-being. If you haven’t already, consider reaching out to your campus counseling services, academic advising, or a trusted mentor for additional support. Balancing personal struggles with academics is difficult, and seeking guidance from others can help you navigate through tough times.
Angel, in the end, it’s absolutely worth reaching out to your professor, but it’s important to do so thoughtfully and respectfully. Even if your professor can't offer leniency, the conversation could lead to additional support or guidance that will help you succeed. Most importantly, continue to focus on strategies for academic improvement, and remember that your professor likely wants to see you succeed.