But failure often isn’t the monster we imagine it to be, it’s a normal, sometimes necessary part of learning and growth.
If you feel anxious about what might go wrong, here are a few ideas to keep in mind and don’t forget UC support services are available to help:
What to know about failure
Failure is part of learning
It’s how we figure out what works and what doesn’t - and everyone’s learning curve looks different.
Everyone fails sometimes
Even the people you admire most have had setbacks. What matters is how they responded and kept going.
Failure can actually lead to success
Each misstep helps refine your approach, strengthen your skills, and move you closer to your goals.
Failure isn’t the same as defeat
Falling short doesn’t mean you’ve failed entirely – it's just one moment in a bigger journey.
Be kind to yourself
Treat yourself with the same patience and encouragement you’d offer a friend. It makes moving forward easier.
Didn’t get the grade you wanted?
It’s okay to feel disappointed – especially when you’ve put in real effort. Once you’ve had a moment to regroup, try a few practical steps: Pause and breathe. Take time to process how you feel, then gently shift focus toward what you can learn.
Ask for feedback. Understanding what tripped you up can help you make confident changes next time.
Make a plan. Identify small, achievable actions - like attending a workshop, talking with a tutor, or changing up your study habits.
Finding support
You don’t have to face challenges on your own. UC has services and people ready to help you feel supported and capable:
Under Pressure: Understanding Assessment Anxiety
This Ako Aotearoa resource helps you recognise and reduce the stress that comes with exams and assessments.
Pokapū Pūkenga Ako | Academic Skills Centre
Free for all students, this service offers advice on writing, study skills, and strategies for success.
Te Pōpū Rapuara | UC Careers
Discover where your degree could take you, get help polishing your CV, or practise for interviews with expert support.
Atawhai Ākonga | Student Care
When things feel overwhelming, Student Care provides practical advice, guidance, and a listening ear.
Mentoring Programme
Connect with a student who’s been where you are and can share what helped them.
UC Health Centre’s Counselling Service
Free and confidential – a safe space to talk about stress, anxiety, or anything on your mind.
Failure isn’t fun, but it’s not final. Every time things don’t go to plan, you’re building resilience, self-awareness and strength. With the right support and a bit of self-compassion, what feels like failure today can become a turning point tomorrow.
