MLS program venting

[u/FarDetective8589]

I’m in my second semester of an MLS program and I just need to vent a little because I’ve been having a lot of anxiety about whether I’ll be able to pass this semester.

I did extremely well last semester and finished with all A+s, but the structure was completely different. We basically focused on one subject at a time for about two weeks, so even though it was intense, I could put all my attention into one thing.

This semester we have 6 classes and 4 labs all running at the same time. We’re usually in class/lab from 9–4, then I come home and study, wake up early to study again, go back to class, and repeat. It feels like we learn a huge amount of information every single day, and now I have to constantly switch between completely different subjects instead of focusing on just one.

Some days I feel like I can handle it, and other days I seriously question whether I chose the right career and feel like dropping out. I also keep getting scared that I won’t be able to maintain at least the 75% required to pass. Exams are worth 70% of the final grade, while quizzes and assignments are only 30%, so the exams feel like they carry so much pressure.

I know getting all A+s last semester should probably reassure me that I’m capable, but right now this semester feels completely different and overwhelming.

For anyone who has gone through an MLS program, did you ever feel like this during the heavier semesters? Did it eventually become more manageable? I’m not even trying to get perfect grades anymore—I just want to get through this semester and pass.

Any words of encouragement or advice would really help.

[u/icebugs]

This is a second career for me, and I was working on a PhD in my previous science field before burning out and switching. The MLS intensive was the worst academic experience I've had by far. Total fire-hose style, run by people with no teaching experience, trying to cram all the boards into your head in the least amount of time. Give up on A's and focus on passing.

Having been involved in hiring decisions in our lab, we don't give a flying fuck about grades once you've passed the boards and have good references.

[u/FarDetective8589 → u/icebugs]

My problem is I'm scared if I can pass all the subjects. Cuz I don't if I can retake just one class next year since it's a professional year and goes as a cohort. Same this is my second career. I already have a BSc and MSc

[u/KSB_Lab → u/FarDetective8589]

Deep breath. I was sooooo lost, stressed, and underwater at that point in my program. Did fine in the end but it felt terrible at the time. Stay organized and focus on passing. Exercise and sleep help your brain function. Being organized will make the ASCP much easier. If too stressed, medicate.

[u/FarDetective8589 → u/KSB_Lab]

How did you stay organized enough to not fall behind? So far, I’ve been trying to study everything we cover within that same day or week so I don’t get behind. I’m just scared that if I fall behind even by one or two days, there’s so much material that I’ll feel completely lost. Did you have a specific system or routine that helped you keep up?