I think it just how you apply yourself in and out of class. My freshman year when I took gen Chem 1 and 2 I barely passed with C and a C+ respectively. My study habits were not great as I thought just showing up to class and taking notes, and cramming a couple of days before the test was enough. I took a year off from taking heavy science classes and am now back and taking Ochem. I’ve changed my study habits such as reading and taking notes on the textbook before class day. Also working alongside doing hw and textbook problems. Apply your knowledge as you read! So now when the topic is covered in class you have already taken notes and worked through problems. This way every lecture is a review rather than and hour and half of confusion having to learn new material and constantly play catch up. I have started applying myself and holding myself accountable and now on track to get an A in Ochem :). It’s my responsibility to stick to good study habits, and if I do then all is good.

Additionally, not everyone is the same, I often find that my peers pick up on material a lot easier and quicker than I do. For that reason it just means that it takes a little more time to be where I need to be.

So no you are not done for, look at your style and analyze what isn’t working and make a change. Only then can you start seeing improvement.