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I am studying a performance study and the main professor which is responsible for teaching me told me at the beginning of the study program that I am not able to pass the final exam which means I will not graduate as the course that I have with him has 30 credits. He also told me the reason that I got admission for this studying program was the low number of good applicants! But I continued and told him that I will try my best to pass the exam despite that he ignored me and behaved me like I was not capable to study this program. Now I am getting close to the final exam and I'm thinking about his words and it is a huge concern for me which also effects on other aspect in my life and my self confidence. I don't know what should I do now and whether it is ethical to talk about his negatives effect on my personality with administration or other university staff and if the answer is yes where I have to contact?
Sosionom svarer
Thank you for sharing this with us. It sounds like you are in a difficult situation, and reaching out to other people is imporant when that happens to us.
First - I would like to acknowledge the effort and determination you have shown by continuing with your studies despite the discouraging comments from your professor. Your commitment to your education is impressive.
Regarding your concerns about the professor's behavior and its impact on your confidence and well-being, here are some steps you can consider:
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Seek peer support: Do you know if there's a student representative in your program? Most programs have this. I would also recommend opening up to a friend or a classmate at school. Maybe there are more students who have negative experiences with this professor? Regardlessly, in a situation like you describe, we would all need support and comfort.
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Consider Counseling Services: You find the contact info here. A professional counsellor or psychologist, can provide support to help you manage the stress and worry you're experiencing and can also give you advice on your student rights.
- Contakt your Ombudsperson. The student Ombudsperson offers guidance, support and advice to students, as well as ensure that their cases are handled responsibly and correctly by the university. Here is a link to the Ombudsperson at UIS. You dont commit to anything by approaching her, and it is fully confidencial.
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Speak to the Department Head: If you feel comfortable, you can arrange a meeting with the head of your department to discuss your concerns. Explain how the professor's behavior has affected you and your academic performance. It’s important to remain professional and focused on how the situation has impacted your studies.
- Document your experiences: I am assuming you don't have any proof of the conversation with your professor, but keep this point in mind should you have conversations with him / correspondence with him in the future. This documentation can be helpful if you decide to escalate the issue further.
It is indeed ethical to report behavior that you believe is unprofessional and detrimental to your well-being. Universities have policies in place to ensure that all students are treated fairly and with respect. Taking action can not only help you but also ensure that future students do not have to face similar issues.
Standing up for your rights as an admitted student might also help you boost your confidence. There's nothing wrong with your personality, as you write, the negavtive effect his words had on you are completely understandable and human.
I wish you the best of luck
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