Senior D-am I done?

M_s_Mom
Tue, 01 Feb 2011 14:40:18 +0000

“he wouldn’t let me retake” sounds like you are blaming the teacher for a bad grade that resulted when you missed tests and quizzes for reasons you had control over. And on those occasions when you were allowed to do a make up, you didn’t do well.

Like I said, one D isn’t going to force you into junior college. If this is one of many, then the issue is not a single class, but rather a pattern that raises legitimate questions about your college readiness (not your ability, mind you - some people are just late bloomers.)

So, back to your question: Yes, I would send a letter to point out that this was an exceptional situation, assuming it is. Take responsibility and indicate lessons learned (which, from your post, hasn’t actually happened just yet). And no, don’t bother taking it over the summer. (It won’t be a negotiation with admissions. You are in or out.) Retaking the class would make sense only if you were a junior and were allowed to replace the D with a higher grade if you retook the class. It makes no sense as a senior unless you are genuinely interested in this subject and felt badly that you won’t have the background you will need to take higher level courses in this area. Doesn’t sound like the situation here.