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[quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous]I would sit down for a serious conversation to discuss waht happened in fall, and to assess the spring semester schedule and whether it is too much.  For instance, you could suggest that they drop 3 credits and take them over summer.  Or discuss whether they are in the right major.

This serious conversation demonstrates that performance in class is important and that you care about it, just as you did in high school.  It also may give you insight about whether the kid just slacked off or really struggled (both things happen in school).

And hopefully gets them to 'own' the problem and the solution.  They probably don't want to spend summer in summer school so would find a way to improve things for spring semester on their own.[/quote]

This is good advice.  Please don't get waylaid/distracted by the posters who are telling you to pull financial support.
College is a huge transition.  A lot of kids struggle to adapt to the demands of college courses--managing your own schedule, being responsible for notes, outside readings, assignments, etc. while trying to navigate a new environment, make new friends, keep yourself alive, etc.  My DD struggled her first year in college; she was working flat out but was working inefficiently so was underperforming.  Eventually, she was frustrated and anxious and discouraged which further impacted her academic performance.  My DH and I talked to her about what was happening and how she planned to address the problems.  We gave guidance and suggestions; she didn't needs us piling on, she felt bad enough as it was.  She found a program at her school that focused on providing support to kids struggling with the transition.  After some fits and starts, things clicked for her.  Her grades are excellent, she is well thought of by her professors and has had some opportunities to participate in research projects, etc.  She's now looking at graduate schools.

Good luck to you and your DC.[/quote]

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