-
Essay / The Phenomenon of Poor Grades in College
Table of ContentsCauses of Poor Academic PerformanceConsequences of Poor GradesSolutions and InterventionsConclusionReferencesThe issue of poor academic performance in college is multifaceted and encompasses a variety of causes and consequences. Poor grades are not simply a reflection of a student's intellectual abilities; they often signify deeper systemic problems. This essay aims to explore the reasons for poor grades in college, their consequences, and potential solutions to alleviate this problem. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essay Causes of Poor Academic Performance One of the main reasons why students receive poor grades is the overwhelming pressure and stress associated with college life. According to the American College Health Association's National College Health Assessment, 45% of students reported feeling higher than average stress, while 87% felt overwhelmed by their responsibilities at some point during the academic year ( ACHA, 2019). This stress can lead to burnout, which significantly affects a student's ability to concentrate, retain information, and succeed academically. Another important factor is the lack of proper time management skills. Students often juggle multiple responsibilities, including part-time jobs, extracurricular activities, and social commitments. A study by the National Survey of Student Engagement (NSSE) found that 43% of full-time students work more than 20 hours per week, which contributes to their inability to devote sufficient time to studying (NSSE, 2018). Poor time management leads to procrastination, which can result in rushed and poor work, ultimately resulting in poor grades. Additionally, mental health issues such as anxiety and depression have a detrimental impact on academic performance. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that 20% of adolescents experience mental health problems, which often persist into young adulthood and college (WHO, 2021). These problems can impair cognitive functions, reduce concentration and motivation, all essential elements for academic success. Consequences of Poor Grades The ramifications of poor academic performance extend beyond the immediate academic environment. Students with persistently low grades may experience diminished self-esteem and confidence, which can harm their personal and professional development. According to a study published in the Journal of Educational Psychology, students' self-concept is closely related to their academic performance, which impacts their future aspirations and career choices (Marsh & Martin, 2011). Additionally, poor grades can limit a student's opportunities. for scholarships, internships and professional placements. Many scholarships and internships have minimum GPA requirements, and failing to meet these criteria can result in lost opportunities. According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), 67% of employers screen applicants based on their GPA, often setting a threshold at 3.0 (NACE, 2019). This practice further highlights the long-term impact of poor academic performance on a student's career prospects. Solutions and Interventions Addressing the problem of poor grades requires a multifaceted approach, involving students, educators and institutions. An effective intervention, 42(5), 535-547.