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Tegan
Student
Fort Wayne, Indiana
1
Question
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How did you overcome your most challenging courses?
I am attending the University of Cincinnati. I am in finals week of my second semester of freshman year. What is the most challenging class you had to take as an undergrad and how did you successfully get through it?
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Jayden Binford
Learning Program Manager
4
Answers
West Valley City, Utah
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Jayden’s Answer
Hi there! First off — congrats on making it to finals week of your second semester. That’s a huge accomplishment!
One of the most challenging classes I ever took during undergrad was a master’s-level epigenetics course. It was intense — the material was difficult, the exams were closed book, and we had to know the concepts deeply, not just memorize facts.
Here’s what helped me get through it (and actually end up loving the class!):
Focused Study Techniques: I knew surface-level studying wouldn't cut it, so I developed strong techniques like active recall (quizzing myself without looking at notes) and creating mini-teaching sessions where I explained concepts out loud as if I were teaching someone else.
Study Groups: I made friends in the class, and we shared notes, discussed confusing topics, and held each other accountable. Explaining ideas to others really helped the information stick.
Consistency: Instead of cramming before tests, I reviewed small sections regularly. It kept me from getting overwhelmed and helped me feel more confident leading up to exams.
Building Relationships with Professors: I worked hard and asked thoughtful questions, which eventually led to a research opportunity with the professor. That experience ended up opening even more doors for me.
If you’re struggling with a tough course, remember: it’s normal. Lean on your classmates, don't be afraid to ask for help, and give yourself time to truly learn the material instead of just trying to memorize it. Sometimes the hardest classes end up being the most rewarding!
You've got this — keep going!
One of the most challenging classes I ever took during undergrad was a master’s-level epigenetics course. It was intense — the material was difficult, the exams were closed book, and we had to know the concepts deeply, not just memorize facts.
Here’s what helped me get through it (and actually end up loving the class!):
Focused Study Techniques: I knew surface-level studying wouldn't cut it, so I developed strong techniques like active recall (quizzing myself without looking at notes) and creating mini-teaching sessions where I explained concepts out loud as if I were teaching someone else.
Study Groups: I made friends in the class, and we shared notes, discussed confusing topics, and held each other accountable. Explaining ideas to others really helped the information stick.
Consistency: Instead of cramming before tests, I reviewed small sections regularly. It kept me from getting overwhelmed and helped me feel more confident leading up to exams.
Building Relationships with Professors: I worked hard and asked thoughtful questions, which eventually led to a research opportunity with the professor. That experience ended up opening even more doors for me.
If you’re struggling with a tough course, remember: it’s normal. Lean on your classmates, don't be afraid to ask for help, and give yourself time to truly learn the material instead of just trying to memorize it. Sometimes the hardest classes end up being the most rewarding!
You've got this — keep going!