I am an English graduate student bestowed with the hard-won entitlement of educating first-year student writers.

Not unlike other instructors, I have had several students battle mental health issues this semester (my first) and have worked diligently with those who have reached out and tried to stay somewhat current. I have; however, had a couple who just checked out and never reached back or communicated with me. We're now past mid-term and I have had several difficult emails to send.

This is the response I received from the student who has *only* 12 absences, and three of six essay drafts/ polished finals turned in. They had a MH crisis at the beginning of the semester, and though they have been trying to get back to school, have recently succumbed to a virus going around campus, and missed another four days:

"I really appreciate the concern that you have... My sickness is getting better... I should be back in class...Monday

But in terms of in class discussions and instructions, would that be something I can meet with you on to somewhat get caught up with? Whether is it during your office hours, or over zoom. I want to be able to do whatever is necessary to complete the class."

*sigh*

Never once did this student ask for the Zoom link when they were missing class.

I very nicely suggested reading the required text book as a method to fill in the gaps.

I'm quite tired.