Disappointing results

unistudent2010

I would really appreciate some advice. This is quite a complex situation, so I will try to provide a brief synopsis. I went to my local University in 2007, after obtaining AAC at A-level (in Double ICT and English) to read English and Theology. At the end of the first year, I achieved a mid 2.1. In the second year, I had to intercalate (take a break from my studies) due to financial problems. This was the year in which I decided to move away from home, but have now returned. The average for the modules I did complete was only 38. In the current academic year, I am currently retaking the year, but my results are diappointing. I am currently 21, so had everything gone to plan, I would be due to graduate this summer.

I take six modules per year, but have failed parts of four of them. This means that I will need to be reassessed, which is capped at 40. The new weightings of undergraduate programmes in my discipline (40 / 60) favours exactly the late surge that I will have to pull off, but I feel discouraged. I was hoping to enter spiritual leadership in the Church (of England), but am tempted to withdraw my application due to these issues. The main reason for this is to 'save face' over my results. A degree is not required, but it is becoming increasingly common.
I also hoped to do postgraduate study, but it is unlikely I would be accepted. I feel I have wasted three years of my life as well as a significant amount of money.

A module structure is currently in operation. I have received results for four modules so far, even though these are not complete. Where I have failed part of a module, the regulations state that the mark for the whole module is capped at only 40%, a bare pass.

Any advice on how to proceed would be much appreciated. I have two exams left for this academic year.

Many thanks

bestpud

I think it depends on the reason you're not doing very well...

Is it because you have too much to deal with or is it lack of ability/interest in the subject...?

MrsManda

I second Bestpud but would also like to add that you need to decide what you really want to do. Your experience with your current studies suggest that for one reason or another the degree you are doing is not for you. Do you know for certain you have failed four units this year or are you presuming this because of how you feel your exams have gone so far?
If you want to be a leader in the C of E do you need a degree? If this is something you really want to do, then there is no need to withdraw your application unless it specifically states you have to have a degree - in which case I'd contact the department dealing with the application as they may be flexible.

Oldernotwiser

I'm a bit puzzled about your financial problems if you're studying at your local university and living at home and also wonder why you're not doing well academically.

I would think that if you're giving up the idea of the ministry so easily, you need to perhaps consider whether you have a true calling for it. Have you discussed these issues with your church leader?

hethmar

Are you a mature student?

Stubert

hethmar wrote: »

Are you a mature student?

They mentioned in their first post that they are 21, so they're not.

unistudent2010

I should just mention that I edited the original post to take account of people's comments and suggestions.

MrsManda

unistudent2010 wrote: »

I should just mention that I edited the original post to take account of people's comments and suggestions.

But there are a couple of comments which haven't been addressed in your edited original post. What do you think is your problem with the degree you are studying? Is it academic ability, interest in the subject, extenuating circumstances?
If you are thinking of withdrawing your application to the church in order to 'save face', are you sure this is really something you have a calling for? As ONW said, have you spoken to your church leader about it?
As for PG study, what PG study do you want to do? If you are unable to pass a degree why would PG study be something you feel you want to do?

With regards what to do next, I think you need to sit and reassess your priorities. What is it you really want to do? What do you think the reasons for your difficulties with your degree? Do you have a calling to become a church leader?

Voyager2002

An immediate question: do you have the same kind of problems with both subjects (English, Theology) or do you find one easier than the other?

I would also point out that there is a big difference between not doing well on a degree, and failing entirely. An honours course can lead to a third class degree, or even a pass degree, while giving up leads to no degree at all. And many universities offer modules that can lead to a pass degree, which is easier than an honours degree.

This distinction could be of particular importance if you feel called to ordained ministry in the Church of England. A degree is usually required for ordination, but it does not need to be an honours degree, and in fact the selection boards are usually concerned with a whole range of issues apart from your academic ability.