I’m a senior student at AAU, and one piece of advice I’d like to give you is to always be polite and calm when talking to your instructor. Stick to the facts and avoid making up lies. If you absolutely have to lie, make sure it’s something believable—something that would even convince yourself. It’s also a better to email or text them first to explain your situation and what you need before meeting in person or calling. Since you’re studying geography, you’re probably a natural student. If you’re self-sponsored, you’re in a good position, but if not, getting an F could mean being placed in a department you didn’t choose. So, do your best to persuade the instructor without upsetting them.