I'm Struggling. What now?

Falling Behind or Low Grades

If your grade is lower than you’d like, consider exploring the Course Grade Calculator worksheet to figure out the points left in the course and what you need to score to achieve your goal grade.  

As you put together a strategy to bring your grade up, reach out to your resources for additional support as well: 

  • Your instructor or TA can help you understand your grades, identify areas to put in extra effort, and strategize how to approach the course content. 

  • Your academic advisor will want to know what is going on and can offer resources and suggestions.  

  • ASC Academic Coaches and Ecampus Success Coaches can help you make a specific plan to complete the remaining coursework.   

  • Graduate students can consult with their advisor, major professor, or graduate program director. 

  • Students in DAS, TRIO-SSS, ASA, INTO OSU and other programs can connect with their academic counselors.  

Can't Pass a Class

Sometimes you may find yourself in a situation where you are too far behind or the instructor does not allow make-up work to the degree necessary to pass the class. In that moment, consider reaching out to your academic advisor to discuss your options. The university has a number of possible tools and policies: 

It’s important to understand how these options work; what restrictions might apply; and how this might impact your degree progression, financial aid, and more. Connect with your academic advisor if you are interested in any of these options.  

Unexpected Life Events

Unexpected life events, personal crises, illness or injury, hospitalization, loss of a loved one, and mental health challenges are examples of challenges that can interfere with college success. Student Care is an office dedicated to assisting students experiencing extenuating circumstances through resource referral, care coordination, and university navigation. They have drop-in and phone support, and you can connect with them by filling out a Student Care Inquiry form.  

two students sitting on a bench and talking
fidgets and puzzle pieces on a table

Disability Accommodations and Accessibility Resources

Accommodations for students with disabilities are determined and approved by Disability Access Services (DAS). Their website provides instructions for getting started if you’re new to DAS. If you believe you are eligible for accommodations but have not obtained approval, please contact DAS immediately at 541-737-4098 or [email protected].  

If you want real-time assistance, visit their drop-in Zoom room during their drop-in hours. 

DAS also provides several accessibility resources for any student. 

Disagreements with Faculty

Disagreement and some healthy conflict is a natural part of human existence. If you experience conflict with someone at OSU, including you instructor or advisor, you may seek solutions by emailing or speaking with them directly, if you feel comfortable doing so. Trying to work through the conflict through dialogue first can help with quite a few issues.  

If you are unable to resolve the issue with your instructor, advisor, or the individual directly, the University Ombuds Office is a confidential office that helps mediate conflicts informally. Additionally, the ASOSU Office of Advocacy is available to help you navigate the process for Student Appeals and Grievances.

Reporting Bias

If you've experienced or witnessed bias in class, know that there are resources here to support you and a number of ways to address the incident. You don't have to do this alone. If you feel comfortable, you might reach out directly to your instructor. You also have access to confidential support through the ASOSU Office of Advocacy or the University Ombuds Office. Through those offices, or on your own, you can explore the option of reporting the incident through the Bias Incident Response Process. 

Academic Misconduct

Students at OSU are expected to uphold the Student Code of Conduct, and for academic coursework, this means following the expectations provided in the syllabus when it comes to notes, group work, use of technology aids and AI, and more.  

The Student Conduct and Community Standards office offers information about the academic misconduct process, prohibited conduct, and more on their website. If you are navigating an academic misconduct process, the ASOSU Office of Student Advocacy can help you understand your rights and support you as you navigate the process.  

Can't find what you're looking for? Reach out for support!

125 Waldo Hall, M-F 9am-5pm | [email protected] | 541-737-2272