Letters

Dear Marlen,

When I started this course I did not realize the amount of work involved and I was not prepared for this. I started my semester holding 15 credits and a Spanish major. I realized that I could not follow through with my major because of financial issues and had to change my major to journalism, temporarily; therefore I dropped my Spanish course so that I would have more classes to take next semester. I am having mental blocks this semester and I am not sure what is wrong with me. I had to withdrawal from another class because I could not handle to work, let alone even going to class. Down to 9 credits, I thought I could handle this class and there is no reason I shouldn’t be able to; however, this semester is weird for me. When I go home for Spring break I am going to see a doctor about my problems because I think I have a serious mental block.

In high school, teachers focused mostly on English grammar and writing papers. I came from a school that was ranked highest for our writing program. I would get C’s on papers in high school that I get A’s on here at IUP; so honestly, I do not think that I should be having any problems in this class. I realize it’s a lot of work, but I know I can do it; I just don’t know how and that’s where my problem comes in. I realize I am failing this class right now, but over spring break I am going to try my best to catch up and try to pull a C out of this class.

During this semester, I would not like to fall behind anyone. I want to get my assignments done when they are due and get the grade I actually know I deserve in this class. There is no reason for my falling behind, except for those I cannot explain. I am not usually like this and I am very much ashamed that you see me as a student that does not do work and can not impress you. I am usually the first one done and first one raising my hand in class. I am embarrassed and ashamed to even come to class when I am not caught up in my work and know exactly what is going on in class.

I need to have more meetings with you and with student advisors. I believe that will help me keep my mind on track. After Spring break I should be able to keep my brain on target so that I can finish this semester with a bang. I need to get my life together and these personal blocks are not helping. Hopefully I can pull it together soon because, well, I know I have to.

Signed, a seriously concerned,

Victoria Barrasso