What can I do if I'm having trouble in my classes?

The Academic Standards Department is available to help you succeed. Here are some suggestions on how to overcome the academic struggles you may be experiencing.

1. Talk to Your Instructor
   Inform your instructor about any extenuating circumstances you are experiencing. Ask them about supplemental materials that may help you better understand the concepts that are being taught. Ask for suggestions on how to more effectively study the material. If you have a question, don't hesitate to ask.
   
   The quality of your interactions with professors will ensure a successful college experience. Take responsibility for relating with your instructor in ways that will most benefit YOU. Be courteous and forthright. The key is communication. If you have an issue with a class, make sure you approach the instructor first.
   
   
2. Talk to Your Advisor
   Your advisor can help you understand your options. Find out if you can still withdraw from the class. Ask if the class is necessary for your degree. Advisors are your advocates and will direct you to the resources for your specific situation.
   
   
3. Take Advantage of Campus Tutoring Services
   All tutoring services on campus are free. UVU has a Math Lab, Writing Center, and Peer Tutoring Lab. The Peer Tutoring Lab offers drop-in tutoring in a variety of subjects from Accounting to Zoology. Click on the links above for more information on tutoring times and locations.
   
   
4. Be Aware of Campus Resources
   Academic Standards has created a list of campus resources for everything from physical health to creating a support system. Please see this list for more information.
   
   
5. Create a Routine and Work on Time Management
   • For every hour in class, plan to spend two hours of study time outside of class
   • Watch out for time wasters
   • Create a routine: set a specific time to do homework, studying and work each day. Make sure to include time in your schedule for YOU
   • Find a way to stay organized: use a planner, task list, cell phone reminders, etc.
   • Meet with the Learning Strategist to work on time management
     
     
6. Develop Study Skills
   • Spend time right after class reviewing and going over your notes
   • Sit in the front and participate in discussions
   • Create study groups and meet frequently before tests
   • Take breaks from studying every 20 to 40 minutes
   • Take CLSS 1000 University Success
     
     
7. Understand Your Learning Style
   1. Just like you have your own distinct personality, you have your own learning style
   2. Knowing your learning style - both strengths and weaknesses - can help you study more effectively. Take the Learning Style survey at www.vark-learn.com
   3. Use your learning style to your advantage to help you study and retain information
   4. Visit the Learning Strategist to learn more about this
      
      
8. Unsure of Your Career and/or Academic Goals?
   • Take the Career Assessments (Myers Brigg Type Indicator and Strong Interest Inventory) in order to better understand what careers might be a good fit for you
   • Visit with a Career Counselor in the Academic Counseling Center for career exploration
   • Visit Career Services and Student Employment to learn more about potential careers through job shadowing, interest interviews, and internships
   • Meet with your (desired) major advisor to discuss your options
     
     
9. Lacking Motivation or a Constructive Attitude?
   Answer these questions:
   • Why are you in school at UVU right now?
   • What is important to you? (What do you value?)
   • What are you willing to sacrifice in order to reach your goals?
   
   You may want to take CLSS 1200 Seven Habits of Highly Effective People to help you assess your goals.  Consider getting involved in clubs and organizations on campus that match your interests.
   
   
10. Poor Emotional or Physical Health?
    • Visit Student Health Services for medical services, mental health therapy, and wellness education for a reasonable fee
    • CLSS 1100 Stress Management and Hardiness can help you learn how to manage stress in a healthy way

When things get rough, keep going. Perseverance is the key!

Academic Standards specifically works with students whose GPA is below a 2.0 for one or more semesters. To learn more about academic standing and the procedures for each level, please visit the webpage. The Academic Standards office specifically counsels students who are at the continued probation or suspension level.