"Academics"
(part 1)
(part 1)
These skills (often involving a planner or calendar) will help you keep track of your schedule and avoid procrastination.
What are time management skills?
This document, which you will receive for each class, can help clarify many questions about expectations for both you and the instructor; think of it as sort of the "contract" or "handbook" for the course.
What is the syllabus?
What is get involved/get engaged/get out of your room?
Be aware of what you post here - your posts WILL follow you forward.
What is social media/the Internet?
Don't just stay here with the door closed - sit in a lounge, lobby, the library, the UC, or anywhere others are gathering so you can get to know others. Maybe even get free or discounted tickets to athletic events or shows at the River Campus!
What is your room?
This behavior is very important - if you aren't there, you don't get the benefit of the lecture/discussion.
What is class attendance?
You should check this daily for messages from faculty and staff; when using it to send messages, be sure to include your name, your S#, and the course number and section.
What is your SEMO email account?
Be sure to try to achieve this in your life - make time for schoolwork, employment, activities, and socializing, but don't over-extend yourself.
What is balance?
Learn to have this for others - people will be coming from all walks of life, and having this will help you make connections.
What is concern for others/empathy/a caring attitude/compassion?
These types of events and activities can be as important as your GPA in building your resume while you are in college.
What are extracurricular activities/study abroad opportunities/internships/memberships in student organizations, etc.?
Be sure to do this if you aren't sure where or how to do something, but choose your sources wisely - perhaps seek out a faculty or staff member, rather than another new student.
What is "ask questions"?
This metric (based on a 4.000 scale at SEMO) matters from Day 1 - it can affect your eligibility for financial aid, scholarships, acceptance into some programs, and even on campus employment.
What is grade point average (GPA)?
Don't be afraid to do this - others are likely as anxious as you!
What is introduce yourself/meet new people/approach someone you may not know yet?
Establish one of these for your major classes - these are the classmates you'll be around your whole time at SEMO, so it's a great way to build friendships (and learn class content).
What is a study group?
(1) Talk to the faculty member directly.
(2) Talk to the department chair.
(3) Talk with the dean of the college.
(4) Talk with the Provost.
(5) Talk with the President.
What is the "chain of command" or process to follow if you have a serious academic issue in a class?
Do this with instructors, advisors, and staff members frequently, as they can be some of your greatest resources. (For faculty members, office hours are intended just for this!)
What is visit them/get to know them/build relationships with them?
Check these early and often for your classes, and ask for assistance right away if you are struggling - don't wait until midterm, since the longer you wait, the harder it is to recover.
What are grades?
If you don't have any of these here on campus already, try to make a few you can trust to have your best interests at heart.
What are good friends/close friends/trusted friends?
If you experience homesickness or other issues as you adjust to college life, consider visiting one of these offices on campus.
What are the Center for Behavioral Health & Accessibility, the Counseling Clinic, Learning Assistance Programs, etc.? [depending on the issue]
This person is ultimately responsible for your education.
Who is YOU? (the student)
These resources on campus (like Tutorial Services, the Math Lab, the Center for Writing Excellence) can be very helpful, and do not cost you anything.
What are academic support services?
Take an inventory of how you are feeling on a regular basis; if you are feeling overwhelmed, consider reaching out to this office on campus.
What is the Center for Behavioral Health & Accessibility?
Remember that college is an opportunity to do this, if you want - everyone is starting fresh with this experience, and probably doesn't know your history.
What is re-invent yourself/try something new?
Don't rush home right away on weekends so you don't miss out on campus activities, but do schedule time to stay in touch with these people. (For the first few weeks, in particular, make some time to text or call these folks to touch base - this is a big transition for them, too, and they'll want to know that you are happy and healthy.)
Who are family/friends/support network?
Be sure to take time to do this while you are here - this is a unique experience.
What is enjoy/reflect on your college experience?