Classes and Studying
How do I pick my electives?
Talk about finding a class in the planner functionality on beartracks
Talk about your own experience trying new and different courses
What is virtual learning like?
Speak to your challenges but be sure to discuss how you overcame them
Provide tips and tricks to effectively working virtually
Discuss how you still maintain a community with classmates and professors
Is the meal plan mandatory? How does it work?
Mandatory for first years in Lister and PLH
Talk about 5 day versus 7 day plan
Opportunities to cook in each tower
Own experience with food and the meal plan
Benefits of the meal plan (recruitment fact)
What makes the U of A special in comparison to other universities?
We do not engage in discussions about other universities or disparage them
Only speak to what you know about the U of A and your experiences and how they might be special to you
Where/how do I buy my textbooks?
U of A Bookstore - has online order and in-person options
Used textbooks - Facebook groups etc.
Recommendations on when to buy - before first class, after first class etc.
Borrow them on reserve from the librarie
How do you study?
Ultimately depends on what works best for the individual
Can talk about what works best for you though
How have you gotten involved virtually on campus?
Can talk about the Ambassador program
Have any other student groups pivoted to an online format?
Other tips and tricks for staying connected in a virtual environment
Can I bring a mini fridge/other appliances to my dorm room?
Can bring a mini fridge as long as it is no larger than 4 cubic feet
Can find a list under “Move In” at uab.ca/residence
Talk about importance of bringing personal items that make the room feel like home
What can you do in Edmonton/why should I move to Edmonton?
Talk about all of the festivals
River valley and access to nature
Downtown or Whyte Ave
Whatever your favourite aspect of Edmonton is
What is a ONEcard and where do I use it?
Access to gym and other facilities on campus
Student ID card
Load funds for library printing, food etc
Place your U-Pass on it use on transit
How big are the class sizes and how do you handle them?
Can use the recruitment fact on class sizes to help guide your answer
Okay to talk about experience in large classes
Professor office hours, TAs etc. as resources to help
Focus on how majority are smaller classes
How do I make friends in a virtual setting?
What have been helpful steps for you to stay connected
Can talk about joining clubs/student groups to meet new people
How is Residence handling the COVID-19 pandemic? What safety protocols have been put in place?
Masks currently required in all common areas
Reduced guests allows in residence
Reduced capacity at this time - no roommates
Isolation accommodation program
RAs foster online community building
Can learn more at uab.ca/residence
How do you manage the cold temperatures in Edmonton?
Can talk about the pedway system and how most buildings are connected
Personal tips on staying warm (i.e. layering)
Can talk about how it is a dry cold
How can I manage school and a part-time job?
Using a physical or digital calendar, staying organized
Priority lists
Use syllabus to map out important dates
Any other personal experience
How do I manage my course load? Should I take 4 or 5 classes a semester?
Course load depends on individual preferences
Many people do take fewer classes and extend their degree
Depends on comfort, if doing extracurriculars, working etc.
Can always try and change your mind later
Professional programs may have course load requirements
How did you navigate online exams
Talk about your first year experience of finals
Creating quiet environment for exam writing
online proctoring
If you experienced challenges, how did you overcome them?
Should I live in residence?
This is completely based on personal preference and what would be the best learning environment for an individual
Key messages from manual - why residence?
How did you manage the transition from high school to university?
What tips and tricks helped you adjust
Academic and social aspects of the transition
What are the Indigenous student resources on campus?
First People’s House
Writing mentors
Tutoring
Transition Year Program
Elders
Housing
Student wellness support
Advocacy
Emergency bursaries
Someone to talk to