Master's Program in Engineering Help

[womata]

I need some advice, so I'm getting it from everywhere I can.

I'm a third-semester master's student in mechanical engineering. I've done well up to this point, but I took a fluids dynamics test yesterday that is sure to be a disaster when it comes to the grade. It was not hard, but I made mistakes that I normally wouldn't make (mainly solving some of the differential equations. They were easy DE's, too.).

I haven't been able to sleep last night or this morning just thinking about the possible grade. It looks like a 60 or a 65 are most likely. Since the test wasn't hard, I'm pretty sure I'll be below average.

What do I do? I don't want to make rash decisions without having the test back or before the semester ends to see where I am, but I feel sick just thinking about it. I've talked to family members and friends, and even though those talks helped, I still feel sick.

In fact, I feel sick just thinking about the mistakes I made. After I submitted the test, I was able to work out the problems correctly on my own. It's frustrating to know that I can fail this test not because I don't understand the material, but because of foolish mistakes in easy mathematics.My thesis is done, and is being reviewed by my advisor. I have one class left next semester, and the other class I'm currently taking is good so far. It's just this one class. I can't make below a C, however, in anyone class, and I can't have my GPA be below 3.0.

 

[story645]

It's just this one class. I can't make below a C, however, in anyone class, and I can't have my GPA be below 3.0.

Talk to the prof teaching this class and see if the exam will put you below a C range in the class and if you can still climb above C range, and talk to your academic adviser about the whole situation. He may suggest you drop the course (if possible) and retake next semester. He may also tell you that the grade puts you on academic probation and as long as you retake and get over a C, you're in the clear. A C may not drop your GPA below 3.0, that depends on your current GPA, other grades, and the number of credits you have. Policy varies from school to school, so find out yours.

You also need to relax, 'cause everybody messes up an exam once in a while. All the smartest, most successful people I now have gotten some pretty lousy grades, and that's just a part of life. And wait 'til your score comes back before having a meltdown.

 

[Mene]

First of all, I want to say that it's completely normal to feel anxious and worried after a difficult test. However, it's important not to let those feelings consume you and affect your overall performance in the program.

My advice would be to first take a step back and assess the situation objectively. It's important to wait for the test results and see where you stand before making any decisions. It's possible that your grade may not be as bad as you think, or that the professor may offer some extra credit opportunities.

If it turns out that your grade is not where you want it to be, don't panic. Remember that one test does not define your entire academic career. Focus on the remaining classes and your thesis, and try to do your best in those. You also mentioned that your thesis is already done and being reviewed by your advisor, which is great news! That shows that you have the ability to excel in your field.

In terms of the mistakes you made on the test, it's important to learn from them and not dwell on them. Make sure to review your mistakes and understand where you went wrong, so that you can avoid making similar mistakes in the future. Also, don't be too hard on yourself. Everyone makes mistakes, and it's important to not let them affect your confidence and performance.

Lastly, I would suggest talking to your professor about your concerns and see if there is any opportunity for improvement. They may be able to offer some advice or guidance on how to improve your grade. And remember, don't hesitate to reach out to your classmates, TAs, or other resources for help and support.

Overall, my advice would be to stay calm, stay focused, and keep working hard. You have come this far in your master's program and have shown that you have the knowledge and skills to succeed. Don't let one test bring you down, and keep pushing forward towards your goals.