What am I doing wrong?

Question

I am a university student, I study software engineering and it is my third year. This year, I decided to really focus on my studies because two years I did everything besides studying. This term, even though I go to my classes and take notes and everything; I can't get enough grades and my friends always get better grades than me. In this case, what am I doing wrong? Why do I keep getting lower grades than my friends ?

OreoAndMilk · Accepted Answer

I study in the same field and all I can say is that it is a really demanding field. Lots of reading, reviewing, thinking and self-learning.

I am the opposite actually haha. I have been studying so much that now I feel like I have missed out on so much and I feel a bit bad because of it.

However, in your case, I would suggest trying group study. Do not hesitate to reach out to your profs! They are always really friendly and love when students put effort in their studies.

Also a very useful tip is to plan how you are going to attack your assignments and revision work. It doesn't have to be a detailed scary plan. I just have a little to-do list every day and I try to complete everything on it. Even if I can't finish everything on it, I don't worry too much.

But it's always nice to have that little list.

Sometimes I also feel like you can skip lectures and read the lecture notes instead and rely a lot on the books to help navigate through the course. But this really depends on the course, the prof's approach and your learning technique.

NZGirl07 · Accepted Answer

First of all university is hard, don't beat yourself up. I have also been slacking for 2 years and I do struggle with guilt and motivation. What helped me was getting a tutor, meeting with lecturers to discuss your work and how it can be improved, and joining study groups with people. Don't compare yourself with others, but with yourself. Always try be a better version of yourself, but don't try be someone else. You can do it.

mobiusforniner · Accepted Answer

Thats the purpose of engineering school. Im an engineer myself, working in industry now 15 years. What i learned most in those grueling college years, wasn't differential calculus, or fluid mechanics or heat transfer- it was about myself- what I can do and how I can overcome.

You'll go through ruts. Resist the temptation to compare to others. Accept there's always gonna be some asshole nerd solving rubics cubes in class and acing all the midterms. In the end, this has no bearing in practical reality. And what sets you apart from the rest is your ability to recognize your limitations and finding ways to succeed despite them. Dont give up.

nolabels · Accepted Answer

Are you so far behind that might need to take a step back to regroup? Tutoring at least?

In freshman year of high school, I was placed in some advanced classes. Two weeks into the year, I was injured and out of school for a few weeks.

When I returned, I had no idea what was going on in the advanced classes and had to take a humiliating step back into standard classes. I believe that I would have been up to the advanced classes had it not been for the time lost.

I wish you the best.

Zenit93 · Answer

You’re likely not as gifted as they are. It sounds insensitive but it’s likely the truth. Software is a intellectually demanding discipline of study. Some people just aren’t cut out for it. You’re likely more gifted than the general population by scale, but I’d have an honest conversation with yourself. Approach your studies in a new way in an attempt to find the most effective way to produce good grades. Maybe find a tutor. Finish the degree at least. Once you get to your field, you can likely work on front end development or even work in sales or something else relating to the field.

OlderAndWiser · Answer

Perhapas you have chosen a major that is not approprate for your natural aptitude. I graduated with honors from law school, because it was a good fit, I loved it, and I had a natural aptitude for understanding the law. If I had tried to go to dental school, I would have flunked out.

Alex8736 · Answer

if your taking the same classes as you it's best to see their studying method or if you know someone who has already taking the class you are in now professors give the same tests every semester so if you do know someone who has already taken the class your in you should see if they still have the exams and you will ace the course

QuietVerbena · Answer

You’re studying too much. You need to take breaks and go out a little too. Otherwise you’ll burn your brain out.

Agape93 · Answer

Is your professor leaving notes on your turned in works?

ZenJen444 · Answer

Sounds like you don't understand the material. Sure you're studying but it seems as though you're only memorizing instead of actually understanding.

Anonymous · Answer

Maybe get a tutor and pray.

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