I think your comments hit on something that is important to recognize: Grades have a limited function in assessment. The function they have is quite important, but there are many other ways to measure abilities and progress. When people ask me about what GPA is required to enter the Ph.D. program at DTS, my first response is always to tell them that GPA is only one factor of many which the faculty take into consideration when examining an applicant. Often students place far too much emphasis on them and neglect other matters in their education.

Your second point is also very important. Often students will need to balance their education with other life requirements. If being a whole person with other obligations means that a course or assignment is not at the top of the list, that is ok. I remind myself of this constantly as I teach: There is not a one-to-one correspondence between grades in a class on the one hand and interest, ability, potential, etc. on the other. They are simply a limited reflection of whether an assignment or work in a course meets a particular standard.