Excuses and Realities of Skipping University Classes

During my 4 years as an undergraduate and 5 years as a graduate student, I have never skipped a class, as I have always found ways to attend them. This essay will explore some common excuses used by students to skip university classes and the realities behind them.

The Professor's Excuse: 20th Century History Class

There was a time when I skipped most of the classes in a 20th Century history course. The reason? The professor was a drunk, who made up tests directly from the textbook. He never took attendance, and students could skip the lectures and only attend for tests. This excessive indulgence in personal experiences might seem like a valid excuse, but it raises questions about the value of consistent attendance and the importance of comprehensive learning outside of a single professor’s biases.

Obvious Excuses

While there are various justifications for skipping classes, the most straightforward one is illness. Nobody wants to spread germs, and attending when you're unwell can be counterproductive. As for traveling, while the example given of visiting parents doesn't sound glamorous, it is a plausible excuse. However, it highlights the need for flexibility and prioritizing one’s health and well-being over academic commitments.

Individualized Realities

The reality is that each student’s schedule and health are unique. For instance, sleep deprivation can significantly affect one's ability to focus. If getting fewer than six hours of sleep turns a student into a zombie, attending a 7:30 am lecture would be less productive than using that time for rest. Similarly, stress can make a difference in how well one performs in class, and it might be better to take a few extra hours to decompress than to continue struggling through a stressful period.

Reflection on Habits and Academic Success

The decision to skip classes is a deep reflection of a student’s attitudes towards education and personal well-being. While habitually skipping will inevitably impact academic success, there is nothing inherently wrong with taking time for oneself when it is necessary. It is a matter of finding the balance between academic responsibilities and maintaining one's health and sanity.

The Role of Professors

Many professors base assessments on in-class activities, which cannot be replicated through external study alone. This underscores the value of active participation and the importance of attending lectures and discussions. Additionally, some professors are more forgiving during certain times, such as earlier in the day, compared to later hours, reflecting the need for flexibility and understanding in academic settings.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while there may be valid reasons to skip classes, such as illness or travel, the decisions to do so should be made with consideration of the long-term impact on one's academic performance and well-being. It's essential to maintain a healthy balance and prioritize personal health over academic commitments when necessary.