The Squirrels Missed You!

Start strong, finish strong! Review your course syllabuses and Blackboard modules. Be sure you secure all your course materials as soon as possible to stay ahead of the game--this includes double checking technology such as laptop compatibility and Blackboard access. Use your calendar planning tools of choice to track upcoming readings, deadlines, and exams. Blackboard has a built-in feature to check out!

If your semester is off to a rocky start, seek help early and communicate with your professors about any concerns you may be facing. Office hours are usually labeled at the top of your syllabus--use them to notify the professor one-on-one when something is hindering your success.

Proactively seek academic support. While it may seem counterintuitive, seeking academic support before you encounter academic difficulty can help provide accountability and a solid foundation for tackling the workload you'll face during the semester. The Academic Success Center offers support services, including appointment and drop-in tutoring, the Writing Center, academic success meetings, and much more.

Perhaps you've had time to reflect over the last year and are considering an alternative academic pathway. Advisors in the  Office for Academic & Pre-Professional Advising(OAPA) welcome the opportunity to discuss your academic plans, including any potential significant changes you are considering.

Connect with other students in a way that feels right to you. Building relationships with your peers provides you with an invaluable support network as you navigate back onto campus. 

Are you living on campus? The Office of Residential Life is hosting various programs throughout the semester to build community in your Retriever neighborhood.  Are you commuting to campus? There is also programming through the Off Campus Student Services offices that exclusively cater to students on-the-go throughout the week and looking to stay connected to campus life.

Cheers to a fresh start on prioritizing self-care, forming habits conducive to balance and academic success, and ultimately maximizing your time on campus (and virtually) to bridge connections with dedicated resources and vibrant student life.

We hope your semester is a great one!