Failing a technical course on purpose

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the challenges faced by a student considering dropping a technical course, specifically a probability class, in favor of prioritizing computer science courses. Participants explore the implications of intentionally failing the course, including potential impacts on GPA and future employment opportunities.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Homework-related
  • Meta-discussion

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses a desire to drop a probability class due to struggles with multiple technical courses and considers taking it Pass/Fail to avoid GPA penalties.
  • Another participant suggests checking with institutional offices regarding the implications of a Pass/Fail option and warns that an F grade may raise questions from employers.
  • A third participant advises against intentionally failing the course, emphasizing the negative impact on GPA.
  • One participant recommends consulting with an academic advisor for tailored guidance, noting that advisors are familiar with similar student situations.
  • Another participant stresses the importance of discussing the situation with the professor to explore options for achieving a passing grade rather than accepting a failing one.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the best course of action. While some advise against failing the class, others suggest exploring institutional options and emphasize the importance of seeking advice from academic staff.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight the potential long-term consequences of an F grade on a transcript, but there is uncertainty regarding how different institutions and employers view such grades.

Who May Find This Useful

Students in technical majors facing similar academic pressures, particularly those considering dropping courses or exploring grading options.

freshman2013
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I think I bit off more than I could chew and I'm struggling to keep up with my technical courses this semester. Thus, I'm thinking about just giving up on my probability class, since it's lower in priority than doing in well in my CS classes, as a CS major. The class is incredibly interesting, but I'm already really behind in all my tech courses and I fear crashing and burning all of them, which is why I'm considering this course of action. It's already past the drop deadline and I'll definitely be petitioning for a late drop, but assuming I can't get that, should I just take that class Pass/Fail and fail it on purpose without it affecting my GPA? How bad would a Fail look on my transcript for a technical? Should I bring it up when searching for internships next summer, and should I be worried about employers questioning it?
 
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Check with the attendance or counseling office or admissions & records office of the details to your second option (grade option change to Pass/NoPass, or whatever is near to this). Many institutions and employers may question an F grade.
 
I would strongly advise against it.
 
I would recommend speaking with your advisor. As soon as they are available. She or he has most likely advised many students in exactly the same situation as yours, and they know you and the options available to you at your institution. I wish you the best.

jason
 
My advice is to talk to your professor about this. A grade of F looks terrible and lowers your GPA. If the pass/fail option means the grade won't count in your GPA then the F will still look very bad. See what it will take to get a passing grade.
 

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