Why Me, Lord?

Abstract

Charlie, a student in your first-semester sophomore course, stands in front of your desk in obvious distress. He starts talking about the test he just failed, and then he tells you that he had a B average in his freshman year but things are falling apart this semester and he’s failing most of his courses. As he talks, he gets more agitated and seems to be fighting back tears. Then it’s as if he suddenly thinks “Hey, this is my professor—I can’t lose it right in front of him.” He makes a heroic effort to pull himself together, apologizes to you for taking your time, and turns and heads for the door. What should you do?