Just Average

From a GPA that would rival Hermione Granger, it has come a bit of a shock to me that I am doing so poorly on my Japanese Language Course provided by CLAIR (another acronym for yet another JET organization).

And then I realized, I am not doing that "poorly".

I should be a little more realistic. Everyone struggles with language learning so to be making no mistakes would actually be the EXTREME exception and not the norm. Plus, I got arrogant and bit off more than I can chew by choosing the Intermediate Course instead of the Beginner Course. And by the way, CLAIR doesn't allow you to change courses.

I have 6 monthly tests over the course of the year and I must earn a grade of 70% or higher on all of them to receive of Certificate of Completion. I can ask for teacher's help, but I feel a bit guilty doing so because they are so busy. I want to be honest about my level of Japanese comprehension on the tests, but I do not want all this time and energy go to waste by failing them (less than 70%).

So this part is more of an encouragement note from my November 15, 2008, 10:40pm self to the other self in the future, whenever it is that I should read this post again.
1) I am good at reading comprehension.
2) Japanese grammar is the least of my worries. People will understand me even if I can't remember which particle to use or if I moderately botch a verb conjugation.
3) Practice makes perfect. I will understand these concepts better if I can manipulate a situation where I am forced to use the new things I am learning.
4) Ask for help. There is no shame in getting assistance or further explanation.
5) I need to learn to accept that in this area, I will be just average. 70% or above is what the goal should be and I should be satisfied with myself for at least trying to learn something new. Frustrating myself to make a 90% or an "A" is not going to make this process enjoyable. I am going to have to bury my past "Hermione Granger" accolades and focus on the now.