Bombed a Test

[Kinesio19]

In my second semester of PT school and bombed a test in one of my classes right at the end of the semester. We have a recovery process that should allow me to pass the class, but I performed 18 points below average on the test, and I'm wondering exactly what I should say when I have to meet with the professor. Truthfully I think it was an issue of time management, as this was the last test after a hard three weeks of several exams, mini practicals and assignments and it was almost all essay. But I'm not sure would be the best way to approach this when I'm asked. Has anyone ever performed significantly lower than average before? And how did you justify it?

Thanks!

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[jblil]

Were I the professor, I'd be interested in knowing what you learned from your "failure" and what you plan to do to avoid a repeat occurrence. If it's indeed time management, how would you set up a review schedule, going forward? I think you should focus on the future as you talk to the prof, and not dwell too much on the reasons for the bombed test.

If it's any consolation, at my school (UNC) we had to go meet with the prof if we made less than 80 on any exam. After some tests, there was a procession out of some professors' offices... But we all graduated. Your school doesn't want you to fail. And once you start working, you'll realize there is little correlation between high test scores and being an effective PT.

 

[Kinesio19]

I appreciate your response. When I say I bombed it I mean I got a 70 when an 80 is what is required. I will try to focus on preventing it from happening again when we talk, but I'm sure she will lead the discussion. Usually you have to analyze each question missed and why one by one. It's hard to justify it when the rest of the class did great, but I guess it happens sometimes.

 

[DesertPT]

Don't try to justify anything or try to come up with any smart excuses. Just tell them that you didn't study enough and weren't prepared for it and then explain what you plans are to not let it happen again. Simple as that.

 

[Ndebt]

You have to meet with a professor for making a 70 on an exam? Seems odd, especially if you are maintaining the gpa they require and balance out that score with other better test scores and class work too. Seems like a classic case of perfectionism glitching out when something is below average. Very common to see this in PT school sadly.


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[Kinesio19]

Yep, my program requires every single assignment, quiz, test, anything to be an 80 or above in addition to maintaining a 3.0. My first time having to do this. It's a really hard standard for me personally.

 

[NewTestament]

Every assignment has to be above 70? That's crazy. They have to expect that you're not going to do well on an assignment. Everyone has a bad day. No wonder it's hard for you.

 

[Azimuthal]

Ew. My program required a 75 or above, also the 3.0 minimum or its academic board. First board is a warning and no need to personally meet. However, we had to initiate a plan with our advisor and professor of the course. Second time requires the sit down.

Just let them know that you believe it is time management and what your plans are to prevent something similar in the future. Believe it or not, there are probably a few other people in the same situation. Professors know of the stress they place on students, and are typically understanding so long as the attitude is in the right place. Good luck, you're going to be fine.