I'm in a high school that offers the I.B. program which provides more job opportunities, increased chance of university acceptance, etc. It's been two years of the preview (grade 9 & 10 which are just a bit more difficult than the regular curriculum) and overall I'm getting average grades (70% to 80%) except in one class. In my country, students must learn the country's second language and I am struggling so much and the teacher is terribly strict, assigns a crazy amount of work, and is basically rude with the excuse of preparing her students for higher education when other teachers nicer while doing so. I picked my courses already so I can't change courses or drop out of the program or else I'll get the unwanted courses. I plan on completing this school year but should I drop out of this program for the next? I'm suffering so much from this second language course that I'm becoming sleep deprived, have bad self esteem issues, and I'm constantly stressed out and cannot understand what's happening in class. I understand the benefits of the program with increasing my chances of getting well paid jobs in the future but I'm just so overwhelmed by this 1 stupid class. Should I stay?
Given your situation, weighing the benefits of the I.B. program against the challenges you're facing with the second language course is important. Here are some thoughts to consider:
1. Long-term Benefits: The I.B. program offers significant advantages regarding university acceptance and job opportunities. Consider how much these benefits align with your future goals and aspirations.
2. Current Well-being: Your mental and physical health are crucial. If the stress from this course affects your sleep, self-esteem, and overall well-being, it's important to address these issues. Chronic stress can have long-term negative effects.
3. Support Systems: Look for additional support, such as tutoring or study groups, to help with the second language. Sometimes, external help can make a big difference.
4. Teacher Communication: If possible, try to communicate with your teacher about your struggles. They might offer additional resources or adjustments to help you succeed.
5. Alternative Solutions: Since you can't change courses this year, focus on strategies to manage stress and improve your performance in the current class. Mindfulness, time management, and seeking help from peers or counselors can be beneficial.
6. Future Decisions: If the situation doesn't improve, consider discussing your options with a school counselor or advisor. They can provide guidance on whether continuing in the I.B. program is the best choice for you.
Ultimately, your health and happiness are paramount. If the program's benefits don't outweigh the personal costs, it might be worth exploring other educational paths that align better with your well-being and goals.
