From academic probation to Dean’s list: how struggling students turned their grades around

Introduction

Many students face academic challenges during their college careers, sometimes resulting in being placed on academic probation. However, with the right support, strategies, and mindset, it’s possible to dramatically improve academic performance. This article shares inspiring stories and practical advice from students who went from academic probation to making the Dean’s List.

William’s story: finding balance and support

My name is William Dickens, a 21-year-old English major at Loyola Marymount University. My struggle with academic performance began when I transferred to LMU during the coronavirus pandemic. I felt like I had been coasting through school while other areas of my life spiraled out of control. Finally, my grades followed suit and I was placed on academic probation.

At first, I was devastated and unsure how to turn things around. But my relationship with the academic advisors, including Sarah Burtch and Isabel Solano Robles, helped me get on the right track. Meeting with them regularly allowed me to talk one-on-one, form a relationship, and have someone to give updates to.

Their support and validation led me to not only get off probation, but make the Dean’s List by the end of the semester. After that initial success, I realized I didn’t have to settle for being an average student – I could excel academically.

The confidence I gained poured into other areas of my life as well. I lost 100 pounds, improved my physical and emotional health, and found greater balance overall. Looking back, academic probation wasn’t the end – it was the beginning of a new, improved version of myself.

Robert’s journey: overcoming mental health challenges

I’m Robert, and I faced major mental health issues during my first year of college that severely impacted my academic performance. At one point, I was even having thoughts of self-harm and reached out to my advisor for help. With support from the university’s care team and my family, I was able to get the mental health treatment I needed.

My grades suffered significantly as I dealt with these personal challenges, resulting in academic dismissal. However, I didn’t give up. I took time off to focus on my health, seeing a therapist regularly and taking some classes at a community college to improve my GPA.

When I was readmitted to my university, I decided to change my major to a field that was a better fit for me. With renewed focus and better coping strategies, I was able to not only get back on track academically, but excel. I made the Dean’s List multiple semesters and was eventually accepted into a graduate program.

My journey taught me the importance of addressing mental health alongside academics. Getting the right support allowed me to overcome significant obstacles and achieve success I never thought possible when I was struggling.

Sarah’s experience: finding the right study strategies

I’m Sarah, a 20-year-old biology major at State University. During my freshman year, I was overwhelmed by the increased academic rigor compared to high school. My time management skills were poor, and I didn’t know how to study effectively for college-level courses. As a result, I ended up on academic probation after my first semester.

Determined to improve, I met with my academic advisor to develop new study strategies. We worked on creating a structured study schedule, breaking large assignments into smaller tasks, and utilizing campus tutoring resources. I also joined study groups for my science classes, which helped reinforce concepts through peer discussions.

One of the most effective techniques I learned was active recall – testing myself on material rather than just re-reading notes. I started using flashcards, practice problems, and explaining concepts out loud to improve retention.

These new approaches made a huge difference. My grades steadily improved each semester as I refined my study habits. By junior year, I had raised my GPA enough to make the Dean’s List. The skills I developed not only turned my grades around but prepared me for success in my future career.

Key strategies for academic improvement

The stories above highlight several effective strategies for students looking to improve their academic performance:

Seek support from academic advisors and campus resources.

Develop a structured study schedule and time management system.

Break large tasks into smaller, manageable steps.

Utilize active recall and other evidence-based study techniques.

Join study groups for collaborative learning.

Address any underlying mental health or personal issues.

Consider changing majors if current path isn’t a good fit.

Set incremental goals to build confidence and motivation.

Maintain a growth mindset – believe in your ability to improve.

Conclusion

The journey from academic probation to academic excellence is challenging but achievable. These students’ experiences demonstrate that with perseverance, the right support, and effective strategies, it’s possible to dramatically turn grades around. Their stories serve as inspiration for other struggling students to take action, seek help, and believe in their potential for growth and success.