College is an exciting time, but it can also be a wake-up call, especially after that first exam. You might have gone in thinking, "I’ve got this!" only to get a score far lower than you expected. Trust me, it happens to most students, even the ones who aced high school without breaking a sweat. College exams are a whole different ball game, and the reality of the challenge is starting to settle in. So, what now?

Let’s take a deep breath. The good news is that this first score doesn’t define your entire semester—or your college experience. It’s just the beginning, and with the right approach, you can turn things around. Here’s how to get back on track, stay motivated, and bounce back stronger than ever.

Why the First Exam Often Feels Like a Gut Punch

It’s not uncommon for students to underestimate how different college is from high school. In high school, you might have been able to get by without much studying, but college is a step up in terms of depth, speed, and complexity. The first exam is often a wake-up call. It forces you to see the gaps in your study habits, time management, or even note-taking.

But let’s flip that perspective—this is also a huge opportunity. Your first exam score isn’t the end of the world; it’s feedback. Think of it as a progress check, not a final judgment.

Step 1: Evaluate Your Study Routine

The first step to getting back on track is to take a hard look at how you prepared for the exam. Did you cram the night before? Were you studying passively by just reading through notes, or were you actively engaging with the material and actively studying?

If your study routine feels a bit scattered, don't worry—You are NOT alone! College requires more structured study habits than high school did. Start by breaking up your study sessions over the course of the week, instead of doing a marathon the night before. This not only helps with retention but also reduces stress.

Step 2: Manage Your Time Wisely

One of the biggest challenges in college is time management. Between classes, social activities, and personal time, it can be tough to figure out when and how to study effectively. If you found yourself scrambling to study before your first exam, it's time to adjust your schedule.

Try setting up a weekly plan that breaks down your study sessions into smaller, more manageable chunks. If you’re someone who struggles with focus, use a timer to keep yourself on track—25 minutes of focused study, followed by a 5-minute break can do wonders. It’s all about consistency.

Step 3: Ask for Help (It’s a Strength, Not a Weakness)

Now that you have a taste of how challenging college can be, it’s the perfect time to use the resources around you. Whether it's attending office hours, joining a study group, or even getting a tutor, asking for help is one of the smartest things you can do.  Many schools have free tutoring sessions and graduate assistants that provide needed help.

So many students feel like they have to figure it all out on their own. But college is a team sport. Professors want to see you succeed, and most schools offer free academic resources. Don’t hesitate to use them.

Step 4: Stay Motivated (But Be Kind to Yourself)

Getting a lower-than-expected grade can be a hit to your confidence, but don’t let it derail you. In fact, this is the perfect time to practice self-compassion. Learning is a process, and everyone has setbacks along the way. The key is to keep going.

Break your goals down into smaller steps. Instead of focusing on getting an A on the next exam, aim to improve by 10-20%. Want to hear how my son did just that?  Yes - went from Ds to Bs.  Check out this link! 

Step 5: Reassess and Adjust as Needed

Finally, stay flexible. As you move through the semester, you’ll learn what study methods and routines work best for you. College is all about finding your rhythm. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different strategies—whether it's trying new note-taking methods, studying in different environments, or using technology to help you stay organized.

The key is to keep adapting. This is a learning process, and your first exam score is just a part of the journey. What matters most is how you use that feedback to improve for the next round.

If your student is feeling overwhelmed by their first exam results, now’s the time to take action. My course helps students build sustainable study habits, manage their time, and stay focused. Click here to learn more about how I can help your student succeed without sacrificing their social life.  Want a discount?  Check out the free training - The Top 3 Mistakes that Tank Student Grades.