Cheated my way through most of college. Am I screwed?
Title pretty much explains it. I’m in my first semester of senior year as a Undergrad finance major and have cheated a lot of my way through college. It depends on the courses though. Some classes have in-person exams and so I have always studied enough to pass those type of tests. Any exam online has been cheated through. Most of my HW I cheat on too. I feel like a failure, and I am worried that I will be underprepared for the real job market. I feel like I have a grasp on a lot of general concepts in Accounting, and finance in general, but when it comes to the nitty gritty and hard stuff, I feel like I will be lost. My one hope is that I have heard a lot of what you learn is on the job, and being clueless going into the job market is somewhat expected. Anybody here that can give me hope, or am I actually screwed?
Also this post is not me trying to gain pity from anyone. I acknowledge this was solely on me and no one else. I am just so anxious right now about the outcome of my future that I am holding on to strings about possibilities.
One response
First of all, it’s important to acknowledge that cheating your way through college is not a sustainable or ethical approach to education. However, it’s commendable that you are taking responsibility for your actions and seeking advice on how to move forward.
It’s understandable to feel anxious about the future, especially if you are worried about your preparation for the job market. While it’s true that some on-the-job learning is expected, having a strong foundation of knowledge and skills from your college education can greatly benefit you in your career.
Here are some steps you can take:
Self-assessment: Take some time to reflect on the areas where you feel most lacking in knowledge. Identify specific topics or concepts that you struggled with or didn’t fully grasp. This will help you focus on what areas you need to improve on.
Seek help: Consider reaching out to professors, tutors, or career counselors for guidance and support. They may be able to provide additional resources or advice on how to strengthen your understanding in key subject areas.
Self-study: Take initiative to study independently and fill in the gaps in your knowledge. Utilize textbooks, online resources, and practice problems to deepen your understanding of the material.
Internships or job experience: Consider gaining practical experience through internships or part-time work in the field of finance. This will not only provide you with real-world experience but also help you develop relevant skills and knowledge.
Networking: Connect with professionals in the field of finance through networking events, informational interviews, or online platforms like LinkedIn. Building relationships with people who have experience in the industry can provide valuable insights and opportunities for growth.
Continuous learning: Remember that learning is a lifelong process. Stay curious, stay open to new information, and be willing to adapt and grow in your career.
Ultimately, while cheating may have provided a temporary shortcut, investing time and effort in your education and professional development will pay off in the long run. It’s never too late to change course and work towards achieving your goals. Good luck!