So overwhelmed...Advice pls everyone!?

Question

I'm studying an university preparation program (mature-age) at UNSW. The program has 2parts:
(1) Study Skills: practise essay writing, a lot of history
(2) Philosophy study

I have problem in English reading and writing. I told my tutor about that (I think that I shouldnt tell) and he and the co-ordonator recommand me to withdraw the course, they think that I will not be able to complete the course sucessfully cos academic english is required and I dont have! So its hardly to pass the course...

The choice is mine, but I'm not sure! My interest is design and hate history...The course is just started 4 wks and end in Dec. Should I try it, see how its go OR withdraw it?
I really dont know wt to do if I withdraw it...All the courses r already started! PLUS there has family pressure...they expect me I will do well! How can I tell them about this?

I'm 21 this yr n I have no more time to waste! I need advice!!!

(((Syd, Australia is where I live now)))

Answer 1

G'day,

Are you studying Foundation Studies? Learning history in Foundation studies is actually quite hard. I can understand you frustration. I used to be an international student in Australia as well and I know how tough it is.

You have actually done the right thing by talking to your tutor and course coordinator. However I'm very surprised to hear what they suggest to you, instead of telling you what support that they/the institution can give you to help. Did you actually did an IELTS test before coming to Australia? Or did an English course before starting the foundation studies?

This is what I'll suggest to you to improve your English:
1. Try the library and talk to the librarian abt material for study English more.
2. Watch the news in TV or hear in Radio
3. Dun limit your friends to the one that come from the same country of origin of yours. This will have impact on your English progress
4. Listen to English songs and English TV program. Not your home country songs or TV programs.
5. This is the hardest... think in English. Example: when you think "What do I want to eat now?", you actually think it in English, not in your own language. In this sense, you will accustom your brain to think and hear and talk in English. My English teacher used to tell me that and it works for me.

Also it may not be very easy to withdraw now, since there may be some complication with your student visa as well, since you will have to stay in your initial institution for at least 1year before able to change institution.

Hope this helps. Good luck with your study :)

Answer 2

I don't know what your finances are like, but consider a personal tutor to help you grasp your english and writing skills. Maybe a friend that excels in this area could tutor you on the side. Also, get some books or DVD's that will assist you on on your problem areas. I don't know what your first language is but I am sure there is something out there to help you. Your english s pretty good from what I can see, you just need to enhance your grammatical skills. For instance, you wrote "The course is just started 4 wks and end in Dec." It should read "The course started 4 weeks ago and ends in December" You just need some fine tuning on your grammar. I wouldn't quit if I were you. Just put in the extra effort. Good Luck

Answer 3

I understand that you haven't done well in your language skills, but I'm not sure why - are you from another country, or was your earlier education inadequate, or do you have a learning disability? If the first, I think you can improve over time, and if you get help, you will be alright. If the second, then maybe you need a more basic course before you do this one. If the third, you should go for help, not hide it.

Answer 4

First of all, you are definitely not stupid for wanting to actively pursue your dreams through the necessary academic channels. I get the feeling from your writing that possibly English is not your native language. All I can say is that it's definitely going to be a struggle and, although the philosophy curriculum seems a bit excessive, the other skills are ones necessary to any future success you hope to enjoy. So, buck up baby girl, and buckle in for a tough but valuable experience. P.S. Don't spend too much time worrying about family pressure; it seems to me any family would be proud of someone who wants to improve him/herself and is actively working toward that objective.

Answer 5

just judging from this post I would say your English skills are not good enough to pass a course that has a lot of English in it. I would drop it and take it again at a later time, after you work on your skills. Also, don't be afraid to tell your counselor anything, that's why they are there.

Answer 6

You can get a tutor. Some public libraries offer coaching to adults for free. Check with your local library. Just ask if they have adult literacy classes. The coaching is one on one so you can be sure that you get the attention you need. They also tailor the class according to your needs.

It's up to you if you want to do both your class and the coaching. Personally, I think you should get the coaching first and then get the class when you feel confident enough to tackle it.

Answer 7

go on with it, life is about challenges. its not about what you love or hate or emotions, its about learning. open your mind and try to see the good things you can get with the subject. your problem is your negative attitude towards these subjects. but if you change it to positive you will see how your learning or studying will be meaningful.

do please your family first. besides it just a short course after you have pleased them you can again choose the course which you desired most.

Answer 8

No sister you should go on and finish that course, because you will only be disappointed in yourself if you give up. Don't ever let someone tell you , you can't ! Just get another tutor. Someone who will believe in you. Don't ever give up because something is hard. It just means that you are being challenged. So step it up.

Answer 9

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Answer 10

well if one thing i know for sure is that if you really want this and if you withdraw it ur gonna regret it 4a very long time...You should give it a try...if u realy want ait u'll figure out a way to do it....