Reading time | 3 minutes
Let’s be real… study isn’t always as easy as we’d hope. If you’ve just come out of a challenging semester with lower grades than you hoped for, you’re not alone. The good news? One bad semester doesn’t define your entire degree (or your future). Here’s how to hit reset and bounce back stronger.
- Don’t panic. Reflect.
First things first: breathe. Low grades happen to almost everyone at some point. Instead of spiralling, take a step back and ask yourself why things didn’t go to plan. Was it time management? Too many commitments? A tricky unit? Financial struggles? Reflecting and pinpointing the cause is the first step toward fixing it.
- Talk it out
You don’t have to navigate this alone. Reach out to your Unit Coordinator or Wellbeing Advisor: they’re here to help, not judge. They can walk you through your results, give you tips for next time and let you know about any support options.
Need more help? The Student Success team can support you with study strategies, while the Student Wellbeing Team can help if personal stuff is getting in the way (plus, it’s all free). There’s heaps of support if you not only need it but want it. If you’re struggling to figure out what exactly you need help with, or where to find it, take a look through the MyWellbeing page on OASIS for resources personalised to what you need!
- Set new (achievable) goals.
Use what you’ve learned to reset your goals. Maybe it’s aiming for a pass in a tricky core unit or balancing your workload more realistically. Break it down into small, achievable steps, like using a planner, going to more tutorials or joining a study group. There’s a study skills page that might help you find specific skills to hone in on, that will help you in the future.
Your goals don’t just have to be study goals either. Create goals that lead to a more balanced timetable, a less busy schedule or include time for reflecting, relaxation and fun!
- Make use of support services
Curtin has a stack of services designed to help students bounce back. Check out:
You’re not expected to do this all on your own, take the support, it’s what it’s there for.
5. Remember: one semester doesn’t define you
Everyone hits bumps in the road. What matters most is how you respond. Future employers (and your future self) care more about resilience, growth and what you learned from your challenges than a single grade. You’ve got time to turn things around, and you absolutely can.
Pro tip: Follow @curtinlifeaustralia for regular study tips, student advice and reminders that you’re not the only one figuring things out. Uni is a journey, and not every step has to be perfect.
