Wednesday, December 9, 2015

Finals: Studying

It might be your first round of college level finals. Or maybe you've blocked your last couple finals weeks from your memory. Here are some tips when it comes to preparing for them:

Was it mentioned more than once from the instructor? It will be on the exam.

Did you ask your instructor what will be on the exam? If you have not, visit them during office hours and ask. Take advantage of the time they are offering you to ask questions and learn more to prepare.

Go over your notes and handouts. Especially any you took right before other exams that happened earlier in the semester. Those questions and topics will probably show up again.

If you haven't been reading the textbook the entire semester it's time to open it up. Find out what the main concept is from each chapter. Learn the bolded vocabulary terms. You can also use the review questions at the end of each chapter as study tools for the final.


Monday, December 7, 2015

Finals Week Schedule

Not sure where to go or when to be there next week? Check your syllabus or ask your instructor about specifics. Otherwise here are the general University guidelines to when and where to be for taking finals next week!
For all and any information go to the Office of the Registrar
 
*All classes that have a meeting during any portion of this hour (e.g., M, or M/W, or M/W/F, or M/F) will meet during the scheduled final examination time noted below.
**All classes that meet on Tuesday AND Thursday and begin on or during this hour.
***All classes that meet or start during any portion of this hour.
Classes having sections numbered in the 90's will have their examinations in accordance with the regular examination schedule below. For those classes not provided for in the examination schedule, the examinations will be given on Friday, December 18, 2015 or during the last meeting of the class.
 

Wednesday, December 2, 2015

Finals Week Survival Kit



Finals are almost here and you'll probably be spending more time in the Rod studying than you are sleeping. Needless to say, it is a stressful and exhausting week filled with papers, projects and exams. To help you survive the exciting end of the semester, here is a how to make your own finals week survival kit. Throw one together for yourself or for a group a friends.
  • Make late-night studying better with fun study aids like post-its in different shapes or neon highlighters.
  • Everyone loves mindless snacking while buried in your textbooks. Include yummy snacks such as individual popcorn bags, chocolate, granola bars, or cracker packs.
  • Write encouraging notes that motivate you to keep going like “You can do it!” and “Only one more test to go!”
  • Throw in some cozy accessories for those rare hours that you actually get to sleep or relax. Think a little stuffed animal, a soft fleece blanket, or fuzzy slippers.
  • The holidays are right around the corner and as you chug through finals you’re most likely already dreaming of home. Add some of your favorite treats like homemade cookies, candy canes or hot chocolate to put you in the holiday spirit!
  • Finally, every college student needs extra energy to make it through all the 2 a.m. study sessions. Put in coffee, tea, Red Bull, or anything that will give you that extra boost.
Hopefully your survival kit will make finals week a little more bearable. And remember to breath deep, get as much sleep as you can, and try to not stress too much. We're rooting for you!


Monday, November 30, 2015

Selling Back Your Textbooks

At this point in the semester, you are probably wondering how to get rid of some of those textbooks you bought but won't ever read again. Don't worry, there are many ways to get rid of your textbooks and get money back in return! Here are just a few options for you:

Option 1) Sell the book to a friend that needs it

Option 2) Post the book for sale on Facebook

Option 3) Sell the book through an online retailer. For example, Amazon.com has textbook buyback that lets you ship your books to them for free and gives you the money in the form of an Amazon.com gift card. Gather more information here.

Option 4) Sell your textbooks to University Book & Supply and get cash instantly. You can even sell them books you didn't originally purchase through them!
(Helpful Tip: The earlier in buyback you sell your textbook back, the more money you usually get)


Do you have other ideas for selling textbooks that you think would be helpful? Comment below and share!

Thursday, November 19, 2015

Student Leader Spotlight

Joshua Hasstedt
 
Sophomore from Urbandale, Iowa

Studying Accounting

Involved in intramural racquetball and the Rider Hall PAIR

"I love the movie clubs in the halls and seeing the squirrels run around campus."

"If I were a bird I would live in the tree the Keebler Elves make their cookies in."

"Establish a connection with your instructors. They can be a great resource not only for class, but for scholarships and jobs."



Tuesday, November 17, 2015

Getting Sick without Mom

Getting sick on your own for the first time. It's one of the scariest and adult things in your college experience. When it’s all on you to nurse yourself back to health the game has officially changed.

Be Prepared Have a first aid kit of sorts somewhere in your room for when times get tough; packed with band aids, cough drops, tissues, acetaminophen or ibuprofen, anti-diarrheal remedy, antacid, and a thermometer in a container. Those are just the essentials.
Fluids Drink as much water as possible, daily. Warm white soda is good for an upset stomach or menstrual pains while Gatorade helps replenish electrolytes when you’re dehydrated.
Rest It can be frustrating but you have to take care of yourself before you can take care of anything else. Getting enough sleep each night will help your immune system keep from getting sick. But if you do get sick, sleep and relaxation becomes even more important for your recovery.
Contact Professors If you miss one day you can usually grab notes from someone you sit next to or meet your instructor in their office hours to ask questions about material. But if you are missing multiple days you need to get your instructors involved.
Know Your Recourses You have access to the Student Health Clinic and a Pharmacy on campus to get everything you need for combat. You’ve already paid fees for these services, utilize them!

Thursday, November 12, 2015

Roommate Conflicts

The majority of roommates will have a fall out right before Thanksgiving break. It’s just perfect timing. How you decide to handle the situation will reflect on your character and be a part of your reputation when it comes to living with others in the future.

Face-to-Face Discussion It may be the last thing you want to do after a fight, but there are multiple ways to get the conversation started. One way would be inviting your roommate to coffee or dinner; both of you might feel more comfortable in a public space. Dining together relieves the pressure of a one-on-one discussion. When you’re ready to tackle the topic you should state the issues in a kind, positive, and understanding manner. Conversing in an encouraging tone will allow you to work together for the betterment of your living situation.

Seek Assistance Another option is for you to consult your R.A. Ideally your R.A. would be available to orchestrate and mediate a discussion and may even have other suggestions for progress. Letting an outside, unbiased individual into the conversation may be the simplest way to bring about improvements. Furthermore, an R.A. will be able to continually check-in on the situation’s development and hold all roommates accountable in the future.

Wednesday, November 4, 2015

Student Leader Spotlight

 Maddison Jansen

Senior from Lynville, IA

Studying Communication/Public Relations, Political Science, Marketing, and Journalism
 
Involved in UNI Speech Team, CIEP Conversation Partner, Political Science Society, and the Shull Hall PAIR
 
"Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Supreme Court Justice is my spirit animal"
 
"Came to UNI to compete on UNI's nationally-ranked speech team!"
 
"The Goldilocks Zone of sleep is 7.5-8.5 hours. No more. No less."
 
"It's okay to make mistakes and ask for help."

Monday, November 2, 2015

Registration

Registering for next semester can seem a bit overwhelming at first. "I learned how to do it at orientation, but that was months ago!" "Where are the purple polo people to hold my hand!?" It's okay, here are some answers to popular questions.
 
What happens if I get put on a waiting list? We recommend keeping your name on the waiting list and waiting to see if positions open up. Until then, consider adding and additional class to fill that’s space. Another option would be talking to the department about their wait list procedures.
What do I do if a class is closed? Check and see if there is another section available, get on a wait list if offered, check back regularly to see if that class or another class section has opened up, or ask the instructor or department for permission to join the class.
How should I enroll in co-requisite classes? When enrolling in classes that require co-requisites, you must have previously taken the course or add all of the co-requisite classes to your shopping cart and register for them at the same time.

Spring 2016 Advance Registration will be November 2-18. Know when you registar and meet with an Advisor beforehand!
Graduates - November 2
Seniors - November 2-3
Juniors - November 4-6
Sophomores - November 9-12
Freshmen - November 13-18
Unclassified - November 18

 
 
 


Thursday, October 29, 2015

Student Leader Spotlight

Brianna DeMoss

Sophomore from Johnston, Iowa

Studying Family Services and Communication Studies

Involved in UNI Singers, The River, Zumba, and the Noehren Hall PAIR

"The couches in the Mezzanine at Gallagher, the flowers outside of Gilchrist, and wraps from Piazza are my favorites."

"Remember not to sing too loud in the shower after quiet hours."

"UNI because it offers the 'big university' feel but at the same time your professors know your name and you can actively be a leader in all your activities."

Monday, October 26, 2015

Being an Active Listener

It may seem elementary, listening skills, but when we are so engaged in our phones/technology we sometimes lose touch with our basic skills of active listening and what goes into having a conversation face-to-face.

Active Listening Involves...
eye contact
appropriate posture
patience
listening


Active listening means thinking…

about what the speaker is saying
the message and purpose of what is being said
of questions to ask to learn more


Active Listening does not involve...
talking while someone else is
ignoring the speaker
interrupting the speaker
fidgeting
looking distracted

Thursday, October 22, 2015

Student Leader Spotlight

Derek Potthoff

Junior from Wall Lake, IA
 
Involved in UNI Singers, Chi Alpha, Hall Senate, and the Hagemann PAIR
 
"When I became a PAIR, I realized that I wanted to help people. This led to me majoring in Family Services and I'm planning on getting a master's degree in Student  Affairs."
 
"Maucker Union is an amazing place to work on homework or hang out with friends!"
 
"Plan out your daily schedule the night before and make sure you schedule some leisure time for yourself so the day doesn't seem so long. This is a great way to make sure you get your work done and have an amazing college experience!"


Wednesday, October 21, 2015

Countdown to Majors in Minutes

We are less than a week away from Majors in Minutes! Next week, October 27th at 7pm in the Union Ballrooms. Be there! If you still need some help in preparing for the event contact Academic Advising to get set up with someone to talk to.

Here is a video from our YouTube Channel to give you an idea of what is about to happen:



Tuesday, October 20, 2015

Tackling Test Anxiety

Laugh Try to spend some time with a few friends – and laugh! Laughter boosts your endorphins and even curbs stress hormones, making it a great way to keep stress at bay when you need a break.

Don’t Abuse Caffeine Drinking too much caffeine can lead to headaches, upset stomach, and increased anxiety – not what you want during exam time! Instead of abusing your favorite caffeinated drinks to stay up late or focus, try for just one pick-me-up caffeinated drink throughout the day as a reward or incentive for hard work.

Slow Down to Speed Up Anxiety levels are high among everyone at the start of a test. Rather than jumping into the questions as soon as it’s handed out, look at the test and wait for the room to settle before picking up a pen.

Relax As simple as it sounds, concentrating on your breathing can make a big impact when working to overcome test anxiety. The body cannot give you a stress response and a relaxation response at the same time; it can only give one or the other. You can make your body relax by concentrating on your breathing and giving yourself positive affirmations.

Keep Perspective If you start to feel like it’s all too much, try to adjust your perspective. This is just a few hours or days of your life. Sure, exams are important – but they aren’t the most important thing you’ll ever do! This, too, shall pass.

Monday, October 12, 2015

Social Media Dos and Don'ts


DOs
Show Your Personality  Employers hire people they like and want to spend time with. In an interview, it is possible that an employer will ask about hobbies and personal interests to get to know the candidate on a human level. Take advantage before the interview and use Facebook to showcase personal experiences. Post photos of a big trip or community involvement to share a more personal side.
Go Back in Time  Facebook never forgets. Be aware that recruiters and potential employers will not only look at Facebook profiles, they will go back in time to the earlier posts. No one, not even the most careful candidate, wants recruiters to see photos or posts of them from their teenage years. Monitor content now, and go back in time to delete content from the early days.
Network  Facebook’s networking abilities should not be overlooked. Job seekers can use this pool of connections in two ways. First, to secure an interview by reaching out to the whole network of friends, which significantly increases potential job opportunities. Second, once an interview is secured, look for friends and friends of friends to see if there is an existing connection to the organization. During this process, make sure to treat each connection as a possible client, colleague, or manager.
 
 
DON'Ts
Post Illegal Activities A lot of experimenting goes on in high school and college. But when evidence is involved you become exposed to repercussions from your education institution and public authorities; where these consequences can leave an impact on the rest of your life. Privacy settings cannot always be trusted either- anyone can save incriminating videos or pictures for use against you later.
Trash Your Professionals Bullying doesn't just apply to student-to-student interactions. Students who speak poorly of their instructors run a huge risk, too. After all, each instructor could hold the key to a crucial grade, reference, or internship for you. As well as your professors have a right to privacy and respect. The same goes for institutions or persons of authority in general, not just educators.
Post Confidential Information This piece of advice goes for every social media user, not just students. Posting that your apartment will be empty for all of spring break invites to play while you’re away. Or when taking a picture of next semester class schedule to send and compare with friends- make sure your classes are all that you’re sharing and not your ID number at the top of the page. When you share one bit of information, think about what other pieces of privacy are linked to it- like your safety.
Post Emotionally
 We've all said and done things we regret. However, whenever possible, take a moment to imagine how your social media posts affect the feelings, safety and well-being of those around you — even your least favorites. Posting an angry tweet in the heat of the moment may feel liberating, but the momentary pleasure you get from writing it isn't worth the potential harm it could create. Pause before you post.
 




 

Thursday, October 8, 2015

Student Leader Spotlight

 

Kinsey Doerr

Junior from Dubuque, Iowa

Studying Electronic Media: Production/Performance, Journalism and Public Relations

Involved in CAB, Hall Senate, Dance Marathon, and the Bender PAIR

"'Wow, that's a nice pair of crocs,' said no one ever." Is her position on crocs.

"Never take an 8am. I know you think you can, but you can't. Especially math."

"UNI because it is the perfect campus with perfect sized classes...and also the same colors as the Vikings <3"

Tuesday, October 6, 2015

Good --> Better --> Best

"The mission of the Academic Learning Center is to inspire, challenge, and empower students to achieve academic success."

At the Academic Learning Center
Students can receive feedback for class papers or work on improving your writing skills.
Students can work with tutors in Liberal Arts Core math and science courses
Students can learn time management and subject-specific study skills
Students can develop effective college reading and study plans

To learn more visit www.uni.edu/unialc





Wednesday, September 30, 2015

Coping with Loss in College

College is an exciting yet stressful time as it is. But as we grow into young adulthood we sometimes forget that the members of our family and our pets grow older as well. Life happens. Circumstances show up, if we were expecting them or not, that cause us grief. Bereavement is a normal life transition, and though it is never simple or easy for even the most mature adults, it can build another level of stress and anguish on college students who already have a lot going on. Knowing healthy coping strategies will help you through the process.

Grief is a journey, there is no time line to follow nor should you be in any rush. It is going to be a unique experience for every individual. Take your time. Pace yourself but continue your normal routine as much as you are able. It is important that you keep your sleeping pattern as routine as possible. Set a bedtime if you need to and relax in your favorite ways. Please do not use alcohol or medication to “numb” your pain. Nor should you rely on these substances to help you get to sleep. They can interfere with your grieving process or cover it up – not take it away.

Express your grief in whatever way feels right to you. If you need to cry, scream, talk it out, or “do something” then do so.  Use your friends, family, and any spiritual support as needed. Take care of yourself, grieving can put a strain on your physical and mental health. If you find yourself feeling helpless or hopeless talk to a professional. Visit the Counseling Center on campus. You’ve already paid for the service, so go talk to someone because they’re friendly and can help.

Be patient.

Sincerely,
Your Fellow Panther  

Monday, September 28, 2015

How Can We Help You?

"Academic Advising works with individuals who are deciding, changing majors, first-year students, and experiencing academic difficulties. We can help you develop meaningful educational plans compatible with your life and career goals."
 
Your Academic Advisor can assist you with academic and career planning.
Your Academic Advisor can position you up for academic success.
Your Academic Advisor can guide you through exploring your options and answer questions.
Your Academic Advisor can help you with scheduling your classes for future semesters.
 
To Learn More
 


 
 

Thursday, September 24, 2015

Student Leader Spotlight

Never underestimate the power of your peers next to you.

Rylee Junk

Sophomore from Waverly, Iowa

Studying Elementary/Middle Level Education and Literacy

Involved in Senator for the Northern Iowa Student Government, National Residence Hall Honorary, Cat Crew, and the Campbell PAIR

"Netflix cannot be a priority, sadly."

"Do anything that challenges your perspectives and beliefs; don't hide in a filter bubble. Also, call your parents, they miss you!"

Wednesday, September 23, 2015

Preparing for Majors in Minutes

We are 6 weeks away from this year's Majors in Minutes! October 27th at 7pm might feel far away right now, but being right after Homecoming, this is going to sneak up on you. Don't wait to start preparing or at least thinking about it.Talk with your Academic Advisor on tips for preparing and using your time at the event wisely. It is time to start thinking about the majors you want to visit with.

Here is a video from our YouTube Channel to help explain how the event works:





  
Questions to ask at the event:
What do you study in -insert major here-?
How did you get involved in this major?
What are the different jobs/careers in this major?
What surprised you about the major?
What types of classes do you take? ---> What classes would you suggest I take to learn more about the major?
Are there skills or experiences I should have if I am thinking about the major?
What do you like the most about this major? ---> What do you like the least?
Are there opportunities for internships or field experiences in the major? ---> What are some examples of things I could do?
Would you recommend getting involved in campus organizations? ---> If so, which ones?
Anything else you want to learn!

Thursday, September 17, 2015

Beating Homesickness

Labor Day Weekend was a while ago, or maybe you haven’t been home since you’ve moved into your Hall. You might be feeling a bit homesick right about now. Moving can be an emotional experience. You can overcome it by engaging yourself in your new environment and find ways to adapt.  It’s important not to get caught up in the nostalgia. So, here are some ideas to help ward off the blues:

Get to know some of your new neighbors. Whether you’re living in the halls, off campus or commuting, there are lots of new faces and now’s your chance to meet these strange and interesting folks. Take advantage of your newfound freedom to get to know somebody that just may turn out to be a lifelong buddy.

Ask friends and family members to come and visit you on campus. Introduce your family and hometown friends to people you have met in the first few weeks. Schedule times to call your family and friends in between visits.
Join clubs, groups or societies specific to your interests. Student government, religious and faith organizations, hobby groups, lifestyle clubs, athletic teams and theater can all reduce homesickness for college students. Or volunteer and help others for a few hours each month. Choose to volunteer at a place that matches your interests. Attend athletic events to help ward off homesickness. Become an involved spectator by wearing your purple & gold and cheering. Sporting events are an effective way to become more involved in campus life and meet new people.
Get a job. Not only is this a social thing, but a financial thing. Not to mention, if you can funnel some of your newfound riches into paying for your education, you’ll have a little less to pay off when you graduate.
Exercise for at least 30 minutes three times a week, so head to the WRC. Take the stairs instead of elevators whenever possible. Try out different types of sports such as volleyball or rock climbing to help decrease homesickness.
Get to know Cedar Falls- it’ll start to feel like home. Well, you did pick UNI for a reason didn’t you? What attracted you to this location? Check out the local scene and you may be surprised what you find. And most likely, you’ll find others that are interested in some of the same things you are. You might even find a restaurant that serves your favorite foods from home; but if you can’t ask a family member or friend to send you a care package with your favorites.
Deal with your homesickness in a smart way, don’t let it keep you from starting a new life. Also, have a plan. Be positive and figure out how you will better yourself on this journey. Set goals. Will you read more? Start going to the gym? Study for 3 hours each night? Give yourself something to strive for and before you know it your blues will melt away. Just be reasonable so you don’t get burnt out.
Seek professional help from the Student Health Center and Mental Health Services for severe homesickness. Academic Advisors, Resident Assistants, and trusted friends can also provide much-needed support when you have feelings of homesickness.
There is always the nuclear option: dropping out. This should only be done after careful consideration and a lot of talking with family and advisors. You will invariably make it through any rough patches in university life.
Be realistic about homesickness, give it a little time. Allow yourself to grieve for the things that you have left behind at home. Settling in and getting used to all these new things can be tough. It’ll take a toll on anyone. Just take a deep breath, and try a couple of the ideas above, and more than likely you’ll be just fine. Embrace your new life at UNI!

Tuesday, September 15, 2015

Question of the Day

What do you want to learn outside of the classroom this semester?
*Comment and Share!

Friday, September 11, 2015

Disney College Program

Ever dream of working for "the mouse?" That dream can become a reality; and on top of being a great resume builder and life experience- could possibly count for college credit. More information can be found at http://cp.disneycareers.com/en/default/.  You can also make an appointment with Laura Wilson in Career Services or Barbara Stratman in Academic Advising to speak further about the opportunity! Have a magical day!

Thursday, September 10, 2015

Student Leader Spotlight

Student Leaders lead by example. They have a couple semesters under their belt and now want to help others navigate UNI. "Student Leader Spotlights" will highlight resources on campus that you do not necessarily have to go to an office to find but are sitting in class with you or living in your hall.
First up,

Megan Nissen

Sophomore from Anamosa, Iowa

Associate Director of Fundraising for the Northern Iowa Wishmakers
Dancer PAIR

Studying Elementary-Middle Level Education and Mathematics

"When you go to class in the morning, pack your bag for the whole day, and use your breaks between classes to do homework or other studying instead of returning to your room. You'll be much more productive this way!"

"College isn't High School; don't be afraid of changes."

 "I've known I wanted to teach since I was in early elementary school and UNI is the best school for it. I love the size of the campus and purple is my favorite color so that's was a plus too!"



Tuesday, September 8, 2015

10 Tips for Saving $$

1. Use Your Meal Plan
If you’re already paying for a college food plan – use it! You’ll save money by not spending your cash on food elsewhere.
2. Drink Coffee at Home
If you’re trying to save money in college, it might be time to rethink that extra-large triple-shot mocha you buy every morning at Chats.
3. Recycle Your Cans
Yes, it’s good for the Earth, but recycling can also be good for the wallet. Return your bottles and take advantage of the extra change!
4. Avoid Brand Names
Save money in college by avoiding expensive brand-names and buying generic brands when purchasing items like food, soap and detergent for when you do your laundry.
5. Get a Roommate
If you live off-campus, save money by living with roommates to help split costs of rent and utilities.
6. Save Your Change
Keep all of your loose change in a jar. You’ll be surprised to find how fast it adds up!
7. Walk Everywhere and Carpool
A few trips to the grocery store a week can really add up. Try to walk to places or carpool with friends. It’s a good way to save money in college and to stay fit!
8. Cut Back on Bad Habits
Drinking and smoking are bad for you – and they’re also bad for your bank account. Cut back or quit!
9. Get a Job
Find student work in college to bring in some extra cash to offset expenses. Check out online student job board for on and off campus positions!
10. Find Free Stuff
Find free or discounted food, entertainment and events that you enjoy. You can save money in college and still have a blast!

Thursday, September 3, 2015

Music and Studying



Music has a profound impact on our mood, heart rate, and state of being. It can energize, depress, inspire and calm, which is why major moments in our favorite movies are accompanied by an appropriate background track. It is not uncommon for students to listen to music while they are studying at home or in the library, but it is important to understand that positive and negative impacts of this.

Listening to tunes while studying can help isolate you from your roommate or drown out noises in the Rod. It can also be a valuable tool to maintain a neutral state of emotion. If you are feeling agitated, you can listen to more calming music and find it to have a positive affect on your focus and mood.

Conversely, music can also be detrimental to studying, especially if the music is fast, loud and lively. You would never try to study your Humanities while sitting on a roller coaster, would you? Although more subtle, certain types of music can have the same affects on you as the rush and disorientation an amusement park ride can bring.

Listening to music with lyrics is very likely to have a problematic effect on schoolwork  that requires writing or reading. If Katy Perry is in your ear while you are trying to get your Oral Communication speech written, you will be a mess because of your cognitive limitation to multitask in a positive way. It hinders your comprehension and focus.

In other words, it seems carefully tailoring the music you listen to while studying, based on the subject matter and your mood, can help keep you focused — so long as you stay away from lyrics while doing language-based work.

Tuesday, September 1, 2015

Know Your Limits

So, now you’re a college student. You can eat ice cream for breakfast, lunch, and dinner if you want. And it will be delicious. Until you get sick.
This is the time, right in the beginning, where you learn your limits. For better or for worse.

Freedom- You have no curfew, no one will make you do your homework, and you can eat whatever you’d like. Make smart decisions with your time, education, and body.
Restrictions- Make a code for yourself. Think about what your boundaries and values are. Keep to them. Let others know what they are up front so you don’t find yourself in sticky situations later.
Homework- The whole point of being in college is to earn an education. Own your education. What you put into this adventure is what you’re going to get out of it- time, effort, good grades, networking, a diploma.
Responsibility- Take ownership of each and every one of your actions. Remember to vote and pay your bills on time. That doesn’t mean you can’t have fun. Take this opportunity to learn time management in real time.
Expectations- Make goals for yourself. Make sure they are obtainable and measurable. Write them down at the beginning of each semester- what you’ll improve personally vs academically. Then review them after finals are over.

Friday, August 28, 2015

Approaching the Professor


You’ve made it through the first week of classes! But have you personally spoken with your instructors? Professors are here to help you understand content they are passionate about! Here are some tips if you are hesitant to introduce yourself:

1.       Visit during their posted office hours or schedule an appointment with them. Their office hours are time devoted to helping students. You don’t have to try to spontaneously start a conversation before or after class.

2.       Prepare to some extent for your visit. Have questions planned ahead of time, write them down if need be. Topics could include questions about what was covered in class, about how you did on an assignment or test, about their field experiences, further education in their area of expertise, etc.

3.       Visit with an open mind and good attitude. This could be easier for those who enjoy the class versus student who are struggling. But respect your professors for their experience and remember that they are humans and were once students too.

Wednesday, April 29, 2015

{Finals}

Finals week is getting close. Now is the time to figure out when you have your finals. The finals week schedule is not the same as every other week. You only meet once for each of your classes and it could be at a different time. But how do you figure out when you meet?

Option 1) Look in the course syllabus calendar. In most cases the instructor will including the date and time for your final.

Option 2) Use the final examination schedule from the schedule of classes. It's included here. How do you read it? You look first for the time that the class usually meets, then the days of the week it usually meets. Once you find that and go across, it will tell you the date and time for that final! Here's an example:
I have class usually at 9:30am on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Answer: My class starts in the  9:00 hour of Tuesdays and Thursdays which means my final is from 8:00-9:50am on Wednesday, May 6th!

Here is the Final Examination Schedule:

Monday, April 27, 2015

{What can I do with an interest in: Children & Youth}


Possible Personal Characteristics: Enjoy working with a younger population, like being in a leadership role, and are responsible and caring


Majors

  • Leisure, Youth, and Human Services: LYHS allows students to move from theory to application. The focus areas are: Nonprofit Administration, Outdoor Recreation, Community Recreation Services, Therapeutic Recreation, and Tourism
  • Psychology: Psychology is
    the study of human and animal behavior (normal and abnormal) and the cognitive, emotional, social and biological processes related to that behavior
  • Communicative Disorders: Students will first focus on the basic anatomy and physiology of speech and auditory systems. Students will then move into treatment and diagnosis of problems in speech and hearing. The undergraduate major in Communicative Disorders is designed to provide the academic preparation and experiences required for admission into a graduate program in Speech-Language Pathology or Audiology.
  • Special Education: Programs provide teacher candidates with the opportunity to gain knowledge, skills, and attitudes, and learn the best practices necessary for becoming effective teachers responsive to the needs of individuals with disabilities and their families
  • Social Work: Students will develop the skills and knowledge to work with a diverse population. Graduates of the social work program find jobs in child and adolescent social work, family practice, probation and parole, medical social work and working with the aged
  • Family Services: The discipline of Family Studies explores patterns of family functioning and how relationship processes and other contextual factors influence individual development and behavior
  • Early Childhood/Elementary Education: Students will learn to teach and work with children from infants through elementary. Provides teacher candidates with the opportunity to gain the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary for becoming teachers who are responsible, reflective decision makers in a global society.

Minors: Coaching; Leisure, Youth and Human Services; Family Studies; Psychology


Career Possibilities: Child Psychologist; Coaching; Education Administrator; Childcare Worker; Counselor; Special Education Teacher; Preschool Teacher; Audiologist; Speech Pathologist