Homework = Stress

[BubbleBoy]

This is my first year trying out real college math, and I'm really stressed out about the math classes I'm taking this semester. The professor is really tough. He makes us do like 3 hours of homework a day, and he grades really harshly, which makes me feel like I might as well not put in the time anyway. I'm not doing very well in classes right now and feel like just sitting in a hole for the rest of my life. I'm contemplating whether math is what I'm really supposed to be doing, and if not, what the heck should I be doing?

Also thinking about everything else, feeling lonely, giving up a few dreams, and starting to think I'm just a useless person. I wouldn't mind some sincere prayer.

[Maynid]

Praying for you.  My first college year started out in music, but because I'm a drummer, I didn't get any of the actual music theory (notes, chords, etc.).  I took a psychology class on a whim ('cause I hated hard sciences) and wound up changing majors, and eventually got a Master's degree and do counseling and crisis work.  God will show you what you are meant to do, probably when you don't even realize it...I don't think He would want you to be in an area that seems to be so tormenting.

[Professoralstad]

This is my first year trying out real college math, and I'm really stressed out about the math classes I'm taking this semester. The professor is really tough. He makes us do like 3 hours of homework a day, and he grades really harshly, which makes me feel like I might as well not put in the time anyway. I'm not doing very well in classes right now and feel like just sitting in a hole for the rest of my life. I'm contemplating whether math is what I'm really supposed to be doing, and if not, what the heck should I be doing?

Also thinking about everything else, feeling lonely, giving up a few dreams, and starting to think I'm just a useless person. I wouldn't mind some sincere prayer.

Which math classes are you in? I don't think I could commit to tutoring you necessarily, but I could certainly offer some sort of help/advice. As far as harsh grading, don't stress out about it too much. Average grades in upper level math are usually, percentage wise, far below where failing grades are for high school math. I know it depends a lot on your professor, but if it's hard for you, it's hard for most people.

Anyway, I'll be praying for direction and guidance. And just know that not all college math classes are incredibly hard. So even if a certain class or two is frustrating you, you might have to just get through it and take other math classes that are more in line with how your brain works.

[The M]

Praying. Homework can be extremely stressful at times but it (and anything else) can get better with hard work and prayer.

[Sean]

Fact: You are NOT a useless person.

Praying for you.

[BubbleBoy]

Well here's a pleasant update: Today was Math day (MWF, I have 3 math classes in a row, same teacher, same room), and I went to class, in spite of having not finished the homework, only to find that class was cancelled. This gives me the much needed time to catch up on the homework that was supposed to be due today.

Not sure if this is a sign from God, but it seems to be the closest thing I've ever had to one. I'm feeling much better now that I know God has things covered. Praise Him!

[Alex_Olijar]

What sort of classes/degree are you in/pursuing?

[Professoralstad]

Well here's a pleasant update: Today was Math day (MWF, I have 3 math classes in a row, same teacher, same room)

Glad that today was pleasant, but this might be the problem. I love math, but I don't think that three math classes in a row is good at all. I graduated with a BS in math, and never took more than two math classes in the same semester. I guess it depends on what you're taking, but if none of those classes are anything like stats or number theory, you might be doing yourself a disservice.

[BubbleBoy]

Well, the last two classes are very similar--in fact the last one is almost just a mini version of the second.

[Alex_Olijar]

Statistics isn't math. I'm glad to find others agree. I hope your work load becomes more manageable for you, Jeremy.

[Professoralstad]

Statistics isn't math. I'm glad to find others agree. I hope your work load becomes more manageable for you, Jeremy.

Just because its not hard relative to other areas, its still math. I had a stas class where I used basic calculus (I know some may find that to be an oxy-moron) on a semi-regular basis.

[goldencomet]

What's your major?

Yeah it's 12 midnight here and i still have 2 projects and a bunch of tests in the next two days, even though I've been steadily working since 3:30 (only 6 classes ftw) I've not COMPLETED a single thing due tomorrow. Senior year DX
Well I guess that's what 6 AP classes do to you.

But then, I remember that honestly the grade won't really matter - not to discourage you from trying, but if a few bad grades happen, so what? In 100 years no one will care, and nothing will be different than if you got a 100. That's something I learned from God, because I used to have a lot of anxiety, and as soon as I let Him help me with the freaking out my grades actually got better. Anxiety = bad. What WILL matter is who you bring into heaven with you ^_^

Although, I know you'll do great. Odds are everyone is doing same/worse than you are, from what I hear of college. Idk how much different high school is from college but I hope you'll tell me if I have to severely watch out lol

Right now 3 am bedtime is lookin like BLISS

[BubbleBoy]

Math major, or at least that's my plan.

I learned long ago that anxiety was bad, but my "training" continues to bring it back to me, and every once in a while I need a refresher. I guess this was that refresher. I definitely feel a lot better.

I still like college way better than high school.

[SomeKittens]

I also can sympathize.  I'm only taking 15 credits this semester, and I'm still swamped.  As to the major, do you like doing math?  If so, it works for you.  If not, find what you like to do.

[katedid]

I can relate to a lot of this. I spent my the majority of my whole life wanting to be an eye doctor and study biology. When I got into it I realized that the amount of chemistry and math involved was just not something I could do in a traditional sort of education. Ive changed my  major to psychology knowing that this is something Im good at and I still want to be an eye docotr I can go back later and do the courses slowly and concentrate on them.

[BubbleBoy]

I also can sympathize.  I'm only taking 15 credits this semester, and I'm still swamped.  As to the major, do you like doing math?  If so, it works for you.  If not, find what you like to do.

So far, I pretty much don't like anything. But I'm good at math, so that's what I'm doing.