What to Do When You Hate Your Course
We’ve all been there—you sign up for a class expecting it to be okay, maybe even interesting… and then it turns out to be the worst. Maybe the content is boring, the workload is overwhelming, or it just doesn’t click with you.
So, what now? Do you suffer through it, or is there a way to make it better?
Let’s break it down.
1. Figure Out Why You Hate It
Before making any big decisions, ask yourself: What exactly do I hate about this course?
✅ The content? (It’s boring or irrelevant to your interests.)
✅ The professor? (Teaching style doesn’t work for you.)
✅ The workload? (Too much reading, too many assignments.)
✅ The format? (Online when you’d prefer in-person, or vice versa.)
Identifying the main issue will help you figure out your next step.
2. Change Your Mindset (If You Have to Stick With It)
Not every course will be your favourite, but that doesn’t mean it’s useless. Try reframing it:
Find a connection. Even if it’s not your dream subject, is there any aspect that’s mildly interesting?
Think long-term. Will this class help you in future courses or a career? (Even the worst classes can teach useful skills.)
Make it a challenge. If you’re stuck in the class, turn it into a game—can you beat it and get a good grade anyway?
3. Use Outside Resources
If your issue is with the way the material is taught, look for alternative ways to learn:
🔹 YouTube tutorials
🔹 Podcasts or blogs that explain concepts in a more engaging way
🔹 Study groups or tutoring (Large Tutoring, ahem, can help!)
Sometimes, the problem isn’t the course itself—it’s how it’s being presented.
4. Consider Dropping It (If That’s an Option)
If the course is dragging down your GPA, causing extreme stress, or not required for your degree, dropping might be the best choice. But before you do:
✅ Check the drop deadlines (so it doesn’t impact your transcript).
✅ Talk to an academic advisor to see if it will affect your progress.
✅ Ask yourself: Is it worth sticking it out, or is it truly hurting you?
If dropping isn’t possible, focus on damage control—how can you get through it with the least stress?
5. Reward Yourself for Powering Through
If you’re stuck in class, find ways to keep yourself motivated:
🎯 Set small goals (finish a chapter, then take a break).
🎬 Treat yourself (movie night after a tough assignment).
👫 Study with friends (misery loves company, right?).
Rewards can help keep you going, but it’s important to remember that you won’t always get to do this. In school—and in your future career—there will be tasks you don’t enjoy but still have to do. Learning to push through even when there’s no immediate reward is a valuable skill that will set you apart.
Remind yourself: It’s temporary. One bad course won’t define your entire academic journey.
Final Thoughts
Not every class will be exciting, but that doesn’t mean you’re doomed. Whether you find a new way to engage with the material, seek extra help, or power through with minimal damage, you will get through this. And if you need a boost, Large Tutoring is here to help you survive (and maybe even thrive) in the courses you can’t stand!
Hang in there—you’ve got this. 💪
If you found these insights helpful, be sure to explore our other blog posts on more topics like changing majors to find your career path, how internships can jumpstart your career, and optimising your study habits. Looking for extra support? Book a lesson today! Have questions or thoughts on this post? We’d love to hear from you! Reach out and don’t forget to check out our list of amazing tutors—your perfect match might be waiting! 🚀
