CULTURE SHOCK II: RECOVERY

Last week’s blog described the plight of a student who transferred into a more challenging program–and experienced the fear that they were not going to succeed. To recap, classes were bigger, there was a lot more material to cover, assignments were more complex, exams were tougher, some instructors seemed less than supportive, and grades were dropping.

I promised that this week I’d outline what the student did, what we did together.

First, and perhaps the most important the student reached out and connected, so we could resumed academic coaching sessions.

Then we kicked things up a notch. We analyzed the issues. We adapted what had worked well in the less challenging program. We drew up a plan to deal with the issues in the tougher environment. The student implemented the plan. They checked in regularly to report issues and make modifications.

The plan worked because (a) it was tailored to their particular learning style and situation, and (b) they owned the program and put in the work. Key elements that we worked together fine-tuning included

• Planning ahead to allow for academic as well as work and social commitments
• Scheduling catch-up time on work that was behind
• Building a new routine that found time for longer review and assignment preparation
• Taking ownership of connecting with instructors in an environment where a student is only a number unless they initiate positive connection
• Implementing the plan
• Checking in regularly to report issues, maintain motivation, and make modifications.

Grades went up. This student passed the fall term with respectable marks, and we are focusing on upping their GPA this term.

If culture shock affected you last term, connect with me to discuss a plan that will work for you. [email protected]