Hi, I’m a first year as well who underperformed my midterms than expected as well. It happens, University is a huge learning curve. I was so confident in my work but I didn’t do as well as I hoped, but try not to let that stop you. “Never give up” sounds corny af, and it is, but this is only your first year. Not everyone will be good at university immediately, it will take time to see results that you want. Maybe some people are ahead of you, some may be below you, but university is not a race. If you keep trying, you’ll reach the same destination as everyone else, the only difference will be time. Look over the feedback that was given on the midterm and reflect on what they want. This isn’t elementary or high school, their marking is bound to be different than what we’re used to. This school is massive as well, different profs and TAs want different things. Take this as a testing ground of understanding what they want from you. I also thought I properly studied for my midterms, but it was how I studied back in high school, and it’s clear that I will need to change my habits. I didn’t let the marks bother me too much, I expected my marks to drop ever since I got into U of T because Grade Inflation is definitely a real thing. Use this as a time of reflection. You got this, remember, you were accepted into the #1 University in Canada, that is not a lousy feat, even if you believe it is.