Empowering Students to Overcome Academic Challenges: A Guide for Counselors and Mentors

One of my students is asking to repeat a class due to poor performance in some subjects, and she feels like giving up. At 18 years old, staying motivated and focused could make all the difference in her future trajectory. As a counselor or mentor, it's crucial to provide the right guidance and support. Let's break down the best advice for this student and discuss practical steps to help her stay on track.

Understanding the Importance of Attitude

Advice for Students: First and foremost, it's essential to understand that giving up is not a solution. She is not the first person to repeat a class, nor will she be the last. What will truly distinguish her is her attitude towards the challenge. Encourage her to keep a positive mindset and see the class repetition as an opportunity for growth and improvement.

Identifying Strengths and Weaknesses

For Counselors: Suggest the student take a psychological test focused on academic performance. This can help diagnose underlying issues that may be impacting her performance, such as personal challenges at home or from peers. If you're not a counselor, refer her to one for proper counseling. This test will illuminate the root cause of her struggles, whether it's academic or otherwise, allowing for tailored support.

Strategies for Improvement

For All: Encourage her to take a step back, give herself a break, and then refocus on the areas where she needs improvement. A well-structured schedule can help her cover all the necessary topics. Instead of trying to do everything, she should focus on developing smart study habits. Solving more problems and creating a habit of writing notes will aid in understanding and retention better than rote memorization.

Building Confidence and Support

For Mentors and Teachers: Encourage regular check-ins with the student, both individually and with other teachers. Her support system is crucial. Discuss with her the importance of graduating and explore the idea of mentoring younger students. If she excels in a particular subject, she can use her skills to help freshmen navigate their classes. This not only boosts her confidence but also reinforces her own learning.

Embracing the Learning Process

A Personal Example: I have a saying, “If you’re not failing, you’re not learning.” During a lesson, I demonstrate the importance of perseverance through a karate demonstration. I have a volunteer who first reads about boxer’s fractures to heighten their anxiety, then I guide them through the process of breaking a board. Despite not initially succeeding, they learn that each attempt brings them closer to success. Seeing that failure is part of the learning process can inspire her to keep going and not give up.

Conclusion

Supporting a student who feels like giving up starts with shifting their mindset. By identifying and addressing her strengths, weaknesses, and any underlying issues, you can help her stay motivated and focused. With practical strategies and resources, she can overcome her struggles and achieve success. Remember, failure is an essential part of the learning process, and perseverance will lead to triumph.