[LouisaMay]

And may I add another piece of advice regarding grades?

I've taught college-level courses for a number of years and over & over I see the same problem and I give the same advice. If you find yourself in trouble (big or small, one assignment or the whole course), talk to your instructor as soon as possible. Do not wait until you are drowning to yell for the life raft. Most professors are willing to give you assistance if you ask. Most are not willing to overlook a failing grade when you come to their offices crying on the last day of the term. Too many students think that problems will solve themselves or their issue is too insignificant to bother the prof. Unfortunately, little problems compound themselves because the work-load doesn't stop just because you got a little behind. Speak up!