How To

How to Find Academic Help in College

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By eHow Contributing Writer
(4 Ratings)

College is tough, and chances are that somewhere along the line, you'll have some academic difficulties. Taking these steps should help.

From Quick Guide: Preparing for Grad School
Difficulty: Moderate
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  1. Step 1

    Get in touch with your professor or teacher's aide as soon as you realize there's a problem. Putting forth this kind of effort will help get them on your side.

  2. Step 2

    Try to work out a solution with your professor or TA.

  3. Step 3

    Contact the student services office, or whatever office at your school provides academic advising to students.

  4. Step 4

    Visit your professor's and/or TA's office hours as often as possible. Teachers appreciate students showing that they're involved and interested in improving.

  5. Step 5

    Know your options: Keep abreast of deadlines for dropping classes and changing grading options.

  6. Step 6

    Keep in touch with your professor and TA through the whole process. The more proactive you are, the more sympathetic your teachers are likely to be.

Tips & Warnings
  • Know your rights. If your academic problem is due to a strained personal relationship with a professor or TA, this is something the student services office should know about.
  • If you don't have a computer, try to get one. It will help you work much more efficiently.
  • Start looking for help early. Waiting too long will limit your options and may result in your failing a course.

Comments  

Anonymous

Anonymous said

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on 11/22/2005 Unfortunately, many professors and teaching assistants have no interest in (or talent for) teaching. This is especially true at those huge research universities where large numbers of undergraduates are taught by the sink-or-swim method. So, in addition to seeking out your professor or TA early on, go to the library and check out a dozen introductory books on the subject you are struggling with. Very often, at least one of these books can clear up what's stymying you. Overviews and elementary introductions can be an academic lifesaver. Also, check the audio-visual library for taped lectures by other professors. Some of these are outstanding.

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