Editor's note: Barry Courter has a 24-year-old son who is a college graduate and a 20-year-old daughter who is a sophomore in college.

Q: Dad, accounting is killing me. Should I drop it?

A: There is wisdom in dropping some classes, and there are some that you just have to pass and put behind you. If this is one you must have for your major, and you are anywhere close to being able to pass it, I'd stick it out. Talk to your professor (bring cookies), find a friend who passed the class and get help, and do your best. A lot of times, professors help those who made a good effort.