BEATING THE RUSH

Exciting time of the year–last weeks to enjoy summer sun, friends, plus anticipation of the new year to come. Thoughts of new school clothes, maybe tablets and phone and laptops, maybe new friends . . . a fresh beginning!

It’s exciting whether you’re going on to the next year, a new program or your first year as a frosh. Most students get into gear the first week of class, but quite a few get a head start on the year–and I encourage you to do that! The strongest reason to get some of the detail out of way early is that so much takes longer than you’d think, and so much takes even longer if you wait until the people and offices you need to access are booked up! 

If you’re keen, you’ve already read ahead in some of your courses and have your thoughts into your first papers–I’m not talking for you today. Later.

I’m writing for the universal student, who will get more done with less hassle if they look after some of the aministrivia over the next week. These do-ables are listed more or less in order of time urgency:

Money: Make sure your grant applications are made, moving along, and you’ve filled everything out. You’d be surprised at the information required, and it takes time to access it. Your parents may need time to fill out the forms too.

Advisors: If there are faculty advisors, program advisors, or departments you need to contact for advice or for special permissions, get your appointments made before the start of term rush crowds you out.

Accommodations: If you require accommodations, get appointments with the facilitators, get the forms, and get any medicals or supporting appointments made. Make sure you have the forms for your medical professionals to fill out.

Requirements: Review the calendar and the website for your department and program. You don’t have to memorize how each course grades each paper, but an overall awareness of the key culture and  requirements of your program can save unpleasant surprises as you get further into the program. 

Course Registration: As soon as you know your courses, register! You want to beat the wait lists, or at least be high up on them if a desirable course is full. You may need to seek special permission, or make an alternate choice if you don’t have a prerequisite, or if there is a timetable conflict.

Resources: Browse the campus website and the calendar to be aware of what services can be useful and bookmark them: learning centres (exam writing, research, writing papers, learning strategies, time management–put me on your list here too (if I’m not already on it), peer tutoring, student health, dentistry, counselling, speech pathology, disability supports . . . anything that might provide information or support that will help you get to your goal.

Desirables: Check for campus volunteer and job opportunities that can benefit your program. Your faculty advisor may have suggestions here, and choice opportunities. 

Social Interest: Note the clubs and groups that align with your special interests and values, from chess to jazz to political activism. 

Those are the highlights: A few hours spent this week can save days of delay down the road!

Next week: Goal setting for a successful year.

I’m looking forward to the new term–let’s get a jump on it! [email protected]