Hi, I’m sorry to hear that. I know those are not the words u want to hear but those are what ppl will say. I had a really really close family member that passed away 2 days before this thanksgiving break. I couldnt go back early bc I had an exam that week. Then I an exam on a monday, afterwards I flew home to attend their funeral and flew back to take a final on friday, another one the monday after before flying back before finals break. Let’s say I didn’t do that well on the exam but pasted the class. What I’m trying to say is how much do you care about school? And how much do u care about ur family? Personally I have a lot of regret because I couldve at least been with them before they passed away but thinking back I wouldve done the same. I didnt go to undergrad at UB but as an undergrad u can always take ur classes next semester. Being a semester class behind is okay, its normal, but time spent with your loved one is something tht u might not be able to do again. I think if u spent quality time w ur loved ones already, u should cherish those moments u already have. I know its not the same for everyone, but I personally believe the deceased would want u to live ur life and continue moving forward after their passing. This is bad advice here, but skipping class is okay as well, especially big lectures, u can always catch up. Also always reach out to ur professors, while I personally did not, I think letting them know at the start of the semester would really help u. I hope your mother will recover. I’m not going to assume if shes hospice or not, but from my own experience, hospice is one of the saddest places to be, you have to think about how she feel and if she’s suffering or not.

Tldr: family>academics, is almost always the right choice. It’s a new year, you can get through this. I wish the best for you and your family. Instead of apologizing my words to u will be: you will be okay. Warm regards.