Let’s be real—there are going to be classes and professors that just don’t click. And that’s okay. College isn’t about everything being perfect; it’s about learning how to adapt and succeed, even when things aren’t ideal.  And that's a life skill that will benefit you for years!

For students, this might look like dealing with a disorganized professor, a lecture that feels impossible to sit through, or material that seems way too difficult. For parents, it might mean watching from the sidelines as frustration builds and grades start to slip. Instead of letting that frustration spiral, here’s how both students and parents can tackle the situation together.

1. Focus on What Can Be Controlled

Students: It’s easy to get caught up in what’s wrong with the class or professor, but shifting focus to what you can control makes all the difference. You can’t make the professor more engaging, but you can take charge of how you interact with the material. Taking detailed notes, recording lectures (if allowed), or reviewing the syllabus closely can help bring structure to a chaotic class.

Parents: Encourage your student to be proactive. If assignments are unclear, they can email the professor or visit office hours. If the class is disorganized, keeping their own checklist of due dates can minimize frustration.

2. Find a Study Hack That Works

Students: A dry lecture doesn’t mean the material itself has to be boring. If the professor’s teaching style isn’t clicking, you might need to find a different way to absorb the information. Watching YouTube explainers, using AI study tools, or forming a study group can be game-changers.

Parents: If your student is struggling with heavy reading assignments, suggest using an audiobook version. If they find the material overwhelming, encourage them to break it into smaller chunks and reward themselves along the way.

3. Make Office Hours Your Secret Weapon

Students: Most students avoid office hours, but here’s the secret—professors often grade more favorably when they see effort. Even if the professor isn’t your favorite, a quick visit can clear up confusion and show you’re serious about the class. Plus, professors can offer insights into what they’re really looking for in assignments.

Parents: If your student is hesitant, remind them that office hours aren’t just for struggling students. They’re a chance to build rapport, get insider tips on exams, and make the class a little less overwhelming.

4. Find a Friend in the Class

Students: A boring or difficult class is always easier to handle with a study buddy. Even just one friend in the class can help with accountability, catching up on missed material, and keeping things from feeling isolating.

Parents: Encourage your student to connect with classmates. Sitting near the same people each class and starting small talk before or after can lead to natural study partners. Many students are in the same boat, just waiting for someone to start the conversation!

5. Remember the Big Picture

Students: At the end of the day, this one class is just a small piece of your college experience. It’s easy to get caught up in frustration, but take a step back. Will this class matter in five years? Probably not. But the ability to push through challenges will serve you for life.

Parents: Remind your student that resilience is one of the best skills they can develop in college. Encourage them to find one thing they can appreciate about the class—maybe an interesting fact, a skill they’re developing, or even just a lesson in patience and perseverance.

Final Thoughts

Not loving a professor or class isn’t the end of the world—it’s an opportunity to build adaptability and problem-solving skills. By shifting focus, using the right strategies, and making the most of available resources, students can not only survive but thrive in any class.

If your student is struggling and needs more structure to stay on top of their work, my Win the Semester system gives them the tools they need to study smarter, stay organized, and take control of their academic success. Check it out [here] !

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