Review semester grades

Overview

Final semester grades are in! Take time to reflect on what worked, what didn't, and how to improve.

What to Review

Your Grades

• Final grade in each class
• How it compared to your goals
• Any surprises (good or bad)?

Your Effort

• Where did you work hardest?
• Where could you have done more?
• What study strategies worked?

Patterns

• Were certain subjects stronger?
• Did grades improve through the semester?
• Where do you need help?

If Grades Were Strong

• Congratulations! Celebrate your success
• Note what strategies worked
• Plan to continue those habits
• Consider challenging yourself more

If Grades Need Improvement

• Don't panic — freshman year is for learning
• Identify specific issues (not just "I need to try harder")
• Make a concrete plan for next semester
• Consider getting help (tutoring, study groups)

Talking to Your Parents

• Share your grades proactively
• Discuss what went well and what was challenging
• Present your plan for improvement
• Ask for support you need

Important Reminder

For California students: Freshman grades don't count in your UC GPA! But they do:

• Affect course placement
• Appear on your transcript
• Build (or don't build) strong habits

Planning for Spring

• What will you do differently?
• What support do you need?
• What goals are you setting?

Encouraging Thought

Every semester is a fresh start. Use what you learned!