Sunday, April 28, 2013

Last Call for the Academic Advising Link!


The Academic Advising Link will close for the semester at 8pm on Wednesday, May 1.  

Stop by to get help with your end of the year questions. We are open to all students in all majors.
If you need any help with your GenEds for next year, reading your ARR, navigating SPIRE, questions about closed courses, or you have other questions, be sure to come talk to our trained Peer Advisors.  We're located in the Learning Commons in the W.E.B. DuBois Library
Peer Advisors will be there from 4:00pm - 8:00pm from Sunday April 28 until Wednesday, May 1.
Have a great summer and we'll see you in the fall!



 

Saturday, April 27, 2013

DEADLINE: Isenberg SOM Applications for BBA, HTM, and Sport Management Due May 1st

If you're planning on applying to the BBA track (Accounting; Finance; Management; Marketing; Operations Management), Hospitality & Tourism Management or Sport Management majors, time is running out.



Applications are due Wednesday, May 1 at 5:00pm.

If you have questions about the process, make an appointment to meet with an advisor before Wednesday. Read the instructions and information on the Isenberg site before coming in.








If you miss this deadline, you will have to wait until the Fall to apply.



It's Time For Finals!!!

Wednesday, May 1st is the last day of classes, and finals begin on Friday the 3rd! Now is the time to take hold of your academics and wrap up your semester on a positive note. Try out some of these tips for a stress-free finals week:

  1. Make sure you know if your exams are cumulative. Cumulative exams will cover more material and including some material you probably haven't seen since the first half of the semester. Try this 5 Day Study Plan to help manage your workload and time.
  2. It's also important to know the format of each exam. Is the exam multiple choice? True/False? Fill-in-the-Blank or Short Answer? Essay? You'll want to prepare differently for each type of exam, so knowing what to expect on test day is step one. 
  3. Not sure where to begin? Knowing what type of learner you are can help you tailor your study methods to those that work best for you! Try this learning styles inventory to discover study strategies that will work best for you. 
  4. Try forming a study group with classmates. Study groups can help keep you motivated and discussing course concepts with others can actually increase your ability to commit such information to long-term memory!
  5. Whatever you do, don't let the Ten Traps of Studying get you!
  6. Finally, don't forget to utilize campus resources. Many classes offer review sessions and most courses have TAs available to help clarify material. The Learning Resource Center in the library offers FREE peer-to-peer tutoring (by appointment only during finals week) and the Writing Center is a great place to have any essays or final papers reviewed before you hand them in.

Good luck!

Tuesday, April 23, 2013

Paul's Tip of the Week: Peer Advisors' Advice

This week, I asked some of my fellow peer advisors ways in which they deal with the high amounts of stress and work associated with the end of the semester. Here are their little tips on strategies on practicing self-care and make sure you stay focused and motivated during this critical time of the semester.

Tyler:  "Sleep, make time in your schedule to sleep before an exam...also set multiple alarms if you have an early exam. There is nothing more embarrassing than walking in late to a final or missing it completely."

AND

"Plan ahead. look at your finals schedule early to make sure you don't have 3 on one day or 2 at the same time. Also use this to plan out a study schedule for the week ahead"

Gabby: "Go to the gym to release some stress from studying"

Liz:  "My main advice is taking small 5 minute breaks throughout studying (like every hour) but making sure that they only last 5 minutes. That and lots of sunshine/fresh air."

So remember, it is important to stay busy and focused on your work during these next few weeks but it's also important to take care of yourself, get some sleep, and take breaks.

Maybe one of those breaks you take could include going to this year's Acappellooza event this Wednesday at 7 PM in Bowker Auditorium featuring performances from all the acapella groups on campus! Great way to sit back and relax for a little while. 




Monday, April 22, 2013

Whoops! Resource Economics Deadline is THIS Wednesday!


We accidentally listed the deadline for submitting your Statement of Interest for Resource Economics as May 24. 

YOUR STATEMENT OF INTEREST IS DUE ONLINE BY 
WEDNESDAY APRIL 24  
IN ORDER TO REGISTER FOR FALL 2013 COURSES AS A RESOURCE ECONOMICS MAJOR!


Reread the (corrected) post to learn more about what to do if you're planning on declaring ResEc for the Fall.

Sunday, April 21, 2013

Resource Economics Online Statement of Interest DUE APRIL 24


In order to declare Resource Economics before the end of the semester and be able to add ResEc courses for the fall, you must submit your Statement of Interest Online by APRIL 24.

Be sure to read their Undergraduate Handbook to familiarize yourself with ResEc prior to submitting your statement. Here are the three options of fields of study that are possible within Resource Economics. But you should begin your search here if you want to be a Resource Economics major.

Good luck!

Friday, April 19, 2013

Weekly Preview: April 22 - April 26

Welcome to the last full week of classes!
As classes wind down and you're preparing for your finals, there are still deadlines and events to pay attention to.

Speaking of finals, you did check your schedule and clear up any conflicts, right?  Right???  Click here to reread what you must do right now!



The deadline for declaring Resource Economics for the Fall is this Wednesday, April 24.  You must submit their online Statement of Interest by noon!  Click here to read more about the major and to find the Statement of Interest link.




Career Services will be holding a free Ice Cream Social on Friday, April 26 from 12 - 4 in 511 Goodell.  All students in all majors are invited to meet with Peer Adviors and Career Services staff to learn more about what Career Services can do for you! 





Two important dates for next week

There will be an R1 Exemption Test on Monday, April 29 at 6:30pm in Marcus 131. 
Bring a #2 pencil, ID, and calculator.  Passing the R1 exam (at least 12 out of 20 correct) will satisfy the R1 requirement for graduation but will not result in the awarding of any credits. There are, however, credit courses that will also satisfy the R1 requirement.

The deadline to submit your application for any of the majors in the Isenberg School of Management is Wednesday, May 1 at 5:00pmReread our earlier post for more information and links to the applicationsThis deadline is not negotiable.

Tuesday, April 16, 2013

Get the JOB


How do you get a job when you graduate?



>>  Your chances improve if you've had an internship (or several).

As cited in an NPR story on 3/4/13, the “National Association of Colleges and Employers found that 63 percent of paid interns in the class of 2012 had at least one job offer when they graduated. Of those who did no internship, only about 40 percent had an offer.”



How do you get started?


INTERNSHIP HOW-TO
Thursday April 18 
from 4-5:00pm in 604 Goodell

Hear from staff and a student about what you need to do . . . and how cool it can be!


Five College Interchange Pre-Registration ends on Friday, April 19. 

Click to read more about how to register and how the Interchange program worksTwo copies of your pre-registration form must be brought to 613 Goodell before 5:00pm on Friday.

You will have another opportunity to register during UMass Add/Drop in the Fall.

Monday, April 15, 2013

Still struggling with your schedule for fall?

Undeclared Students - you have one more opportunity:

Walk-In Registration Assistance
Tuesday, 4/16, 1-3:00pm


Come prepared to talk about a possible major direction and have 3-5 possible course choices picked out. Bring a completed Advising Checklist (see http://ualc.umass.edu/advising/registration/) and check in at the front desk in 613 Goodell.

Remember also the Academic Advising Link (Learning Commons, lower level of library) is open 4-8pm, Sundays through Thursdays - PLUS you can schedule an appointment with an advisor by calling 413-545-2191.



Sunday, April 14, 2013

Monday/Wednesday Schedule Change

Monday is Patriots' Day.  There are no classes and most offices on campus will be closed.

Wednesday will follow a Monday schedule.  The rest of the week will be normal.
 
 

Friday, April 12, 2013

Weekly Preview: April 15 - April 19

Monday is Patriots' Day.  There are no classes and most offices on campus will be closed.

Wednesday will follow a Monday schedule.  The rest of the week will be normal.



The final session of Walk In Registration Assistance for Undeclared Students will be on Tuesday, April 16 from 1:00pm - 3:00pm in Goodell 613.  You must have at least three courses in your shopping cart (or already be enrolled in at least three courses) before you will be able to meet with an Advisor.  Go to http://ualc.umass.edu/advising/registration/ and bring your completed Advisor Meeting Checklist.  Appointments are first come, first served and you may only have 15 minutes to talk to an advisor, so be prepared!  The more work you do before coming in, the more you'll get out of your appointment.


Are you ready for Career Services Boot Camp?  On Thursday, April 18, head over to the Campus Center Room 911-15 and prepare for your job search!
  • 12:00 - 12:45     Resume Writing Critque
  • 12:50 - 1:35       Job Searching Review
  • 1:40 - 2:25         Interviewing How To
  • 2:30 - 3:15         Social Media Tips and Tricks
  • 3:20 - 4:00         Job Security
 
When you've finished Boot Camp, head over to Goodell to learn about internships!  Want a job when you graduate?  First, you'll need an internship!  Career Services and Undergraduate Advising present Internship How-To!  On Thursday, April 18 from 4:00pm - 5:00pm in Goodell 604, come learn more about internships and how they will help you gain important experience and skills.  Hear from students who have had internships and find out why you should get one, too!


Tuesday, April 9, 2013

Engineering Info Session




There will be an Engineering Information Session for interested students on Wednesday, April 10 from 4:00pm - 5:00pm in 613 Goodell. Bring an up-to-date transcript (NOT an ARR), and an Engineering progress worksheet (if you have one).

ISOM Applications Have Posted!


Are you planning on applying to the Isenberg School of Management?  
Applications are now online!



Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) On Campus Transfer Information

Hospitality and Tourism Management (HTM) On Campus Transfer Information

Sport Management On Campus Transfer Information 




THE APPLICATION DEADLINE IS MAY 1, 2013 AT 5:00PM!
This deadline is not negotiable.


What's your Alternate Major?  Remember that applications, by nature, can be rejected. Have an alternate major in mind just in case. For more information on suitable alternates, call (413) 545-2191 and make an appointment to see an advisor in our office.  Come in now to discuss other options and interests and be prepared to enroll for your Fall courses. 

Saturday, April 6, 2013

for UNDECLARED STUDENTS . . . .


 
Walk-In Registration Assistance 
is available for undeclared students at these times:

Wednesday, 4/10, 1-3:00pm

Thursday, 4/11, 10am-12:00pm

Tuesday, 4/16, 1-3:00pm
  Come prepared to talk about a possible major direction and have 3-5 possible course choices picked out. Bring a completed Advising Checklist (see http://ualc.umass.edu/advising/registration/) and check in at the front desk in 613 Goodell.   Remember also the Academic Advising Link (Learning Commons, lower level of library) is open 4-8pm, Sundays through Thursdays.

Friday, April 5, 2013

Weekly Preview: April 8 - 12

As the end of the semester nears (!!!) be sure you're paying attention to deadlines, especially for applications to majors.  But also be sure you're staying mentally, physically, and emotionally healthy!  Check out these tips from University Health Services and take advantage of the resources offered by UHS from A to Z.



Are you thinking about majoring in Public Health Sciences?  If you are interested in the major or new to the major, come to an information session!  You are invited to attend on Monday, April 8 at 6:30 PM in Hasbrouck 228.



There will be an Engineering Information Session for interested students on Wednesday, April 10 from 4:00pm - 5:00pm in 613 Goodell.  Bring an up-to-date transcript (NOT an ARR), and an Engineering progress worksheet (if you have one).



Are you Undeclared and need help with enrollment?  There will be Walk-In Registration Assistance for Undeclared students on Wednesday, April 10 from 1:00pm - 3:00pm; Tuesday, April 11 from 10:00am - 12:00pm; and Tuesday, April 16 from 1:00pm- 3:00pm in 613 Goodell.  You must have at least three courses in your shopping cart (or already be enrolled in at least three courses) before you will be able to meet with an Advisor.  Go to http://ualc.umass.edu/advising/registration/ and bring your completed Advisor Meeting Checklist.  Appointments are first come, first served and you may only have 15 minutes to talk to an advisor, so be prepared!  The more work you do before coming in, the more you'll get out of the appointment.



Applications for the Isenberg School of Management should be available today.  There have been technical difficulties, so please check back and be patient if you cannot access them.  For applications and instructions go to http://www.isenberg.umass.edu/undergrad/  Click on “For Prospective Students” and Select “On-Campus Transfer Information.”  THE APPLICATION DEADLINE IS MAY 1, 2013 AT 5:00PM!  Please note that this deadline is not negotiable.


 Upcoming Events and Deadlines


Students interested in Resource Economics must submit their online Statement of Interest by Wednesday, April 25 at noon

There will be an R1 Exemption Test on Monday, April 29 at 6:30pm in Marcus 131.




Thursday, April 4, 2013

Need a Passport? Of course you do!



The UMass International Programs Office in partnership with the US Department of State Boston Passport Agency and the US Postal Service will be set up for you to apply for or renew passports on Tuesday, April 9 from 9:30 AM - 2:30 PM in the Campus Center 165-69.  

Bring the following documents:
  • Proof of citizenship: previous passport, an original certified birth certificate, naturalization certificate or certificate of citizenship 
  • Proof of identity: two forms of ID (driver’s license, military/student ID)
  • Copies of the identity documents: In addition to the originals, you must bring photocopies of the IDs
  • Passport photo: For quicker processing, bring a passport photo.  Photo service will be available on-site.

Payment: NO CASH OR CREDIT CARDS. Personal checks or money orders ONLY.  Bring two checks or two money orders:
  • Check 1 for the execution fee of $25 made payable to “USPS”
  • Check 2 for the application fee made payable to “U.S. Department of State.”  The amount of the application fee depends on whether you want a passport card in addition to a passport book ($110 for book only, $140 for book and card). 
  • Expedited processing is an additional $60 payable by check or money order to “U.S. Department of State.”
  • Application forms can be completed at the event, or you can bring a completed form with you. Forms available are at www.travel.state.gov/passport/


For more information contact the International Programs Office, 467 Hills South, 4th Floor, 413-545-5247.




Wednesday, April 3, 2013

Paul's Tip of the Week: What To Do When a Class is Full

With registration for classes in the Fall beginning this week, I wanted to give some advice on a problem almost every UMass student has experienced. What happens when that perfect class you wanted is full? That ideal class would have fit so perfectly into your schedule, looked so darn interesting, fulfills that requirement you needed, and isn't at 8 AM. It would have been great. Well, we can't always get into all the classes we were hoping to but there are a couple of ways you can still potentially get into that perfect class. Here are some general tips on what to do when you don't get your perfect schedule.

1.) Sign up for a full load of credits anyways
Register for classes right when your registration appointment begins. Just because you didn't get into your last class, it doesn't mean you shouldn't sign up for another class. When looking for classes for Fall 2013 you want to pick out a couple of backup classes in case you do not get into every initial class you wanted to take. Oftentimes, all the classes you want are still open but then two minutes later when your registration appointment begins, they magically fill up. 
If the class you could not get into eventually opens up you can always swap it with your backup class using the "Swap" feature on SPIRE. 
2.) Check periodically to see if the class opens up
People are literally making changes to their schedule from the beginning of April this semester till the end of Add/Drop period in September. With this said, people could potentially be dropping the classes you want to get in. Check every once in a while to see if the class becomes available.
3.) Wait list
Check to see if the class has a wait list and add yourself to the waiting list if it does (Not sure how?  Come to the Advising Link!).  But, be careful--wait lists can be tricky!  First, not every class has a wait list.  Second, wait lists only work if you arrange your schedule in a way that leaves space for the class.  So, for example, if you enroll in Psych 100 but are on the wait list for a section of Pub Hlth 160 that meets at the same time, if/when your wait list number comes up, SPIRE will not be able to add you because of the time conflict and your number will be skipped.  Also, you have to have enough credits available to accommodate the class.  SPIRE cannot automatically enroll you in a wait listed class if doing so will put your over your credit maximum. Your maximum credit load may depend on your major, so check with your advisor if you have questions.  Finally, wait lists expire on the first day of classes.  If you're still patiently waiting for a seat in the class at that point, attend the class on the first day and speak to the professor directly.
4.) Email the Professor
No luck with anyone dropping the class yet? Try emailing the professor of the class. See who is teaching it and find their email on "Peoplefinder" on the UMass homepage. Send them a professional email telling them why you are interested in taking their class and if there is any way that you can get in despite the fact that it is full on SPIRE. Some professors might not respond, others will tell you there is nothing they can do, but some may override you into the class or give you some advice on getting into the class. 
5.) Show up on the first day
Even if the professor never emails you back or you are not officially enrolled in the class, show up on the first day of the class and talk to the professor in person. This way you can get a feel of whether or not this course is truly a course you want to be in and it gives the professor another reason to let you into their class. I have done this before and my professor told me to keep showing up for the first and second week and he eventually let me into the course.

So don't get discouraged when all those beautiful green circles turn into blue boxes. You can still have have the beautiful schedule of your dreams. 

Tuesday, April 2, 2013

Want to be an ENGINEER?


If you're interested in applying to be an Engineering major, attend one of these information sessions to speak with an advisor from Engineering about your course selection and your prospects.    
 
Engineering Info Sessions

Thursday, 4/4, 4-5:00 pm or
Wednesday, 4/10, 4-5:00 pm
Check in at 613 Goodell

Bring an up-to-date transcript (NOT an ARR), and an Engineering progress worksheet (if you have one).