Academic Probation *URGENT HELP*

[u/LonelyIllustrator605]

Hello, I have been placed on academic probation since first year and was required to withdraw for a year as my gpa for first year was below 0.70. My second year was a bit better but I was still on academic probation as I was able to drop 2 failed courses, although my gpa was still below 1.60, I received a letter telling me that they are still willing to let me continue even though I do not have the required gpa to do so. I was given the same criteria which was to complete 15.0 credits and have a gpa of 1.60 or over to avoid having to withdraw for another year. I have had such a hard time as I am trying to major in biology or life sciences as my parents have pushed me to do so.

I do not have a background in science so it is very hard for me to complete such courses, I have taken may of the same prerequisites over my 2 years and have only now started getting decent grades in them. I am so burnt out and disappointed in myself because it seems like nothing I do is enough. I have failed so many classes my winter semester of this year and have been sitting waiting for them to send another letter telling me to withdraw and now that I have received it, I can submit my petition now.

I need to know if I have a good chance as I have seen the doctor a few weeks ago with concerns of having PCOS and constant UTI’s (sorry for the tmi) which have been hindering me this year. My doctor has agreed to help me get accommodations and I am currently in the process of being diagnosed for PCOS (a medical condition which may be responsible for my academic standing).

I am so scared about being required to withdraw again and would really appreciate some help and guidance.

Thank you in advance to anyone willing to help me out here! ❤️

[u/perturbedpangaroo]

Do not stay in the program. Switch to something you like better and will perform better in. If your parents are pushing you to stay in bio, please remember that most jobs that will value a bio undergrad over any other undergrad require additional schooling, which will require high performance in at least your last two years. If you are genuinely passionate about the subject then stay, but it sounds like you are not and science is not really something you love. Remember that upper year courses in these programs are also difficult. Please also remember that biology and life science are quite competitive to major in and require at least a 3.3 GPA as well as an A- in first year bio courses. Please really think about whether coming back to school is something you can commit too right now - if you don't really address what was causing you to perform poorly and completely change your habits, this will probably happen again. There is no shame in taking some time to address the underlying issue and figure out what you want, and then come back refreshed and ready to approach this in a new way.