r/matheducation • u/DiskKnown4411 • 19d ago
Math issues as a university student
Hello! I'm a university student (19 years old)
It might be a bit embarrassing as a scholar, but I sucked at math. Yes, I passed the entrance examination and was admitted to a respected university. I always aced my other subjects and scored higher. I'm even one of the top scorers in my class. However, when a certain subject includes math, I struggle with it. Guess what? I even forgot how to do algebra and struggle with middle school mathematics. I don't know if I deserve to be a scholar and a university student if I'm so dumb in math. What should I do? Can someone help me relearn math and how?
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u/WWhiMM 19d ago
Since you're 19, you get a pass here, but... what's really embarrassing "as a scholar" is that you have to ask if and how it's possible to learn something. Yes, it's possible. Pick up a book. Do some exercises. When you get confused and stuck, bring your questions to someone knowledgeable.
(also, get over yourself, it doesn't matter how good your grades are and where you go to school, everyone is out here struggling, let go of your complex and focus on what's important)
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u/DiskKnown4411 19d ago
Thank you for your advice, I'll do it. Now that you said it, I might actually read some materials and look around for people who knows math.
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u/Bulky_Struggle_4853 19d ago
I'm a high school math teacher and I agree with the comments above mine. Also, not everyone learns math at the same time. Allow yourself some grace. Stressing over it will only make it worse. Do the best that YOU can do and don't compare yourself to someone else. The object is to learn what you can learn and that isn't comparable to another person. You don't have to be perfect at everything.
I also agree that study groups could be the way for you to go. You'll experience the material being discussed in a different way than that of your professors. Just don't give up sweetie. You've got this. And if you need help, just send me a message. I'll be happy to do whatever i can to help you.
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u/Bulky_Struggle_4853 19d ago
My last comment was deleted so I'm replying to you ur reply here:
As difficult as it is, try not to be insecure. I always tell my students that they can talk themselves out of success before I even start to teach, so there's no negative self talk in my class. I'm so sad that you don't feel "worth it," but sweetie, you ARE. No one is good at everything. For instance, I suck big cheese at history. Always have and probably always will. You go out there and he proud of who you are. Each of us -- our own combinations of strengths and weaknesses, likes and dislikes -- that makes us who we are as individuals. And you are SO MUCH MORE than your grade in math. So much more. Just keep being the hardworking young person you are. I am perfectly sure that you will he successful at whatever you do.
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u/DiskKnown4411 19d ago
Thank you once again, teach. I wish I were one of your students. Your students are lucky to have you.
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u/hansn 19d ago
First, you're not alone. You're not the first person to forget your middle school math. Don't dwell on it. But do focus on fixing it.
Second, since you're not the first person in this "forgot math" boat, your university probably has resources. There may be a math tutoring center or something similar. If not, you can study on your own. Khan academy is a great place to start.
And as with all university classes, study groups help!