I got one of my absolute least-favorite student comments today:

Student: Are there any chances for extra credit?
Me: Just the few extra problems I've told you about before. (These were generally kinda-tricky problems that required a tiny bit beyond just basic comprehension of the material.)
Student: Oh. Well, what can we do if we're getting a D, but we don't think we're D students?
Me: Well, you've got two homework assignments, one quiz, and the final left. You can come to my office hours or hire a tutor to try to do better on those and bring your average up. Student: Oh. (Clearly disappointed with this answer.)

I've gotten this sort of "I'm not a D student" or "I'm not a C student" argument before (sometimes way more hostile than this girl was), and I so don't get it.

I've gotten this sort of "I'm not a D student" or "I'm not a C student" argument before

"You're right.

But they don't let me give you an 'effin' idiot' grade."

Well, what can we do if we're getting a D, but we don't think we're D students?

Go back in time and stop sucking?

Well, what can we do if we're getting a D, but we don't think we're D students?

Be more realistic in your self-perception.

Well, what can we do if we're getting a D, but we don't think we're D students?

"You're not a Buffista (and dog knows we wouldn't want you to be), but see the Movies thread for a discussion about your specialness and what everything thing else in the Universe think of it."

Go back in time and stop sucking?

Exactly!

I would not be able to not laugh in their faces. And that's just one of the reasons I knew teaching was not for me.

Be more realistic in your self-perception.

It took every ounce of self-control I posess to not respond with something like this.

It took every ounce of self-control I posess to not respond with something like this.

And we applaud you for it.

Even as we secretly wish you had said it.

The thing is, this is far from the first time I've had this conversation. Generally, at least one or two students per semester.

Just for kicks I sometimes wish I could go back to school so I could say

"What can you do if you're getting an A, but you know damn sure you're not an A student?"