Preparing for exams, a never-ending Canvas to-do list and the continuous notifications that something has been graded.

This, in a nutshell, is the typical college student experience in November. 

It’s easy to feel alone as you check your grades and overhear your classmates’ successes. 

But students at USF are here to tell you this is not the case. They are even here to offer student advice to navigate the stress of the end of the semester.

Elaine Feaster 

Sophomore secondary social science education major

“I definitely would say to talk with your professors. I know it can be scary to admit you might be struggling but teachers can give great support. And USF has lots of different support, counseling and accommodations that have helped me.”

Feaster said this includes accommodations like Student Outreach and Support (SOS) and Student of Concern Assistance Team (SOCAT) are valuable resources that she uses.

Both SOS & SOCAT collaborate to help provide support for students undergoing their academic endeavors. 

Feaster said an option is to use the “what if” feature on Canvas to see what grades you may need moving forward. 

Jacob Turbiville

Sophomore geography and geographical information systems major

“I suggest reaching out to classmates to study with, because a different perspective can really help. Also I would recommend contacting your teacher to see if there are any extra credit opportunities that you can complete.”

McKenzie Pyhel 

Senior business administration and management major

“Grades don’t define you and there’s still time to try and get them up. Make time for tutoring or office hours to get that one-on-one help with the professor.”

In addition to that, make a plan for the next month of classes and assignments that need to be completed and also study plan for finals, Pyhel said.

Jillian Borie

Junior mass communications major

“I like to write out a schedule for myself so I can see when everything is due and it helps me manage my stress and make sure I get everything in on time. You just have to lock in and be focused. If you put in the time, work and effort you can bring your grades up.”

Mackenzie Blankinsop

Junior mass communications major

“A letter grade doesn’t define your talent or level of ambition in doing what you love. It’s your experience, dedication and commitment that are important. So always keep trying even when you get knocked down. The advice I’d give is push yourself but not over the edge.”

Blankinsop said stress can be good, as it drives us to succeed under pressure. But too much of this could hurt not only your academic career but your personal life. 

“You’re young, so have fun but also learn to dedicate yourself to school. Both are equally as important to each other,” Blankinsop said.

It’s easy to let school get the best of us and panic over a low grade.

But other USF students and I are proof that getting your grades up at the last minute is possible. It’s just a matter of heeding students’ advice and applying it to your everyday life.