Kate: Thanks for making time to see me so quickly. I’m really worried about my marks.

Guidance Counselor: As you should be. You’re close to failing three of your four courses, Kate.

Kate: I bombed my midterm exams. My parents are going to kill me if I fail those classes. What a waste of money.

Guidance Counselor: Not to mention time. At this rate, you’ll have to repeat your whole first year. That is, if you decide to come back next year.

Kate: I’m not going to drop out if that’s what you mean.

Guidance Counselor: Did you know that your failing grades will appear on your transcript? Your marks from first year could stand in the way of future jobs.

Kate: What if I take the courses again? Does the first grade still count?

Guidance Counselor: The best mark counts toward your grade point average. The lower one will still show up on your transcript, though.

Kate: Great. Speaking of programs, I’m wondering if I’m in the wrong program altogether. I’ve always liked reading, but I’m not that interested in the classics.

Guidance Counselor: Do you have any other subjects in mind? It’s not too late to change your major for next year.

Kate: I’m interested in taking some social media courses, if there is such a thing.

Guidance Counselor: We offer lots of marketing and communications programs. Maybe that’s more up your alley.

Kate: Is there a lot of reading and essay writing?

Guidance Counselor: Yes, Kate. Reading and essay writing are the bread and butter of most university courses.

Kate: It just feels like I don’t have enough time in the day. Maybe I could concentrate more if I was enjoying school.

Guidance Counselor: First and foremost, you need to work on pulling up your marks. Next year, you can focus on choosing courses that interest you.