Celebrate The School of Computer Science

“Broadening the Impact of Computing”

Mark your calendar for this series of special events to celebrate the new School of Computer Science and the 50th year of Computer Science at UMass.

Thursday, October 17 through Saturday, October 19

The events, aimed at a diverse audience of students (undergrads, grads, majors and non-majors alike), alumni, campus and community members, are open to all. Come and learn about the many exciting directions in which computing is heading!

Website and schedule: www.cs.umass.edu/SCScelebration

"W" Drop and Pass/Fail deadline: THURS. 10/17

Thursday, October 17th is coming up! This is the deadline to drop a class with a "W" or elect to take a course Pass/Fail. Before you decide to do either, here are some things you need to know:

Dropping with a W isn't a bad thing. It will not count against you should you decide to apply for/declare a major (as long as you have completed all the pre-requisites, predictor courses, and any other requirements). Dropping a course at this point means a "W" will always remain on your transcript, but you will not receive a grade for that class, so the class will not affect your GPA. The W just indicates that you dropped a course after the Add/Drop deadline. You should consider withdrawing from a course with a "W" if you know that you are not doing well in it and there is little chance you can remedy that, especially if your intended major expects a strong cumulative GPA or specific grade in that class. Be careful though that you are not going below 12 credits (full-time) in doing so, as doing so could have an effect on your financial aid, insurance, etc.

There is actual paperwork required to withdraw from a course (you can't do it on SPIRE) and you will need your instructor's signature. So, don't wait until the day of the deadline to make your decision!

The mid-semester date is also your last chance to change a class to Pass/Fail grading. Rather than dropping a course from your schedule you can elect to remain in the class, but instead of getting a letter grade, your transcript will just indicate a P (if you pass) or an F (if you fail). A P will not affect your GPA, but an F will. If you're considering the P/F grading option, be careful! There are many things to consider before making this choice, including the fact that courses taken P/F may not count toward Gen Eds, major reqs, or predictor courses. Just like dropping with a W, electing to take a class P/F requires paperwork (but not an instructor's signature).

You should see your advisor soon if you're considering either taking a W or changing a course to P/F. You can pick up the necessary paperwork in Undergraduate Advising (if you're Undeclared) or the Registrar's Office in 213 Whitmore.

Schedule Change

 There are no classes on Monday, October 14 and most offices on campus will be closed.

Tuesday, October 15 will follow a Monday class schedule.

The rest of the week will follow a normal schedule. 

The Academic Advising Link will be closed on Sunday and Monday.  It will reopen at 4:00pm on Tuesday.

Weekly Preview: October 14 - 18

Monday, October 14 is Columbus Day.  There are no classes and most offices on campus will be closed. 

Tuesday, October 15 will follow a Monday schedule.  The rest of the week will proceed normally.

The Academic Advising Link will be closed on Sunday and Monday.  It will reopen at 4:00pm on Tuesday.

Are you planning on declaring Public Health this semester?  Tuesday, October 15 is the Priority Application Deadline.  For more information, meet with a Public Health Peer Advisor during drop in hours at Arnold House 330.  Click here to find the schedule.



 
Did you know that October is Cyber Security Awareness Month?  Are you doing all you can to keep your information safe and secure?  Stop by the OIT information tables in the Campus Center Concourse on Wednesdays between 10:00 am-2:00 pm through the end of October.  Learn more about safe computing, including steps you can take to secure your devices and personal information. Play the Plinko game for a chance to win a daily prize!

In celebration of the creation of the new School of Computer Science (SCS) and the 50th anniversary of the founding of the Department, the School of Computer Science is hosting a series of events from Thursday, October 17 through Saturday, October 19 that will explore the more expansive and outward looking view of the computing discipline, and its broadening impact across the campus and state, and in society.  The events, aimed at a diverse audience of students (undergrads, grads, majors and non-majors alike), alumni, campus and community members, are open to all. Come and learn about the many exciting directions in which computing is heading!  To see the full schedule, click here.

The last day to drop a class with a W or change a class to Pass/Fail is Thursday, October 17.  If you have any questions, make an appointment to meet with an advisor now.  To do a W drop, you need the signature of your instructor, so don't wait until the last moment.  Taking a class Pass/Fail will not fulfill a GenEd, major, minor, GlobalEd, School/College or certificate requirement.  If you miss this deadline, you will have to petition for a late withdrawal and your request is not guaranteed. 

Gabby's Tip of the Week: Studying for Exams

Congratulations on already completing your first month at UMass! My name is Gabby and I, along with my three fellow peer advisors, will be writing weekly posts on how to have a successful and fun academic experience during your time in college.

Amherst is a truly beautiful place in Autumn! Now that the leaves are changing colors and cider doughnuts are making their way into grocery stores (and our stomachs), there are so many fun opportunities to take advantage of in the area.  Despite all of the loveliness that this season has to offer, it's unfortunately midterm exam time on campus. That's why this week I’ll give you five awesome tips on how to productively study for your exams while also finding time to relax and enjoy! 

Tip #1: Find a comfortable place
Who wants to study in an environment that they don't enjoy?  It's so important to be comfortable wherever you study. This could be your bedroom, the library (they have quiet and talking floors!), under a tree on campus, or even in a local cafe. Ask yourself what type of place works best for you--do you like some background noise, or do you need silence? What kind of lighting is best for your concentration? This is all important for your focus and attention, so explore different locations and figure out the best spot for your studying time!

Tip #2: Organize a schedule
Figuring out when to study is just as important as figuring out where to study. Use the planner that was given out to you and map out what days you can devote to studying. Most importantly, start studying early and don't wait until the night before. Studying at night can be difficult in itself because your brain is FULL from your day--studying the night before an exam is even worse! Pulling an all nighter or not getting enough sleep can only lead to worse habits and even worse exam grades. Organize your schedule to find conducive times for exam preparation.


Tip #3: Find habits that work
Everyone learns differently, so everyone also studies differently. Just like finding a comfortable place, find out how you study best. Do you work well studying in groups or individually? Some study techniques that work for me are making my own study guides, going over readings from class, having someone quiz me, and good ole' fashioned flashcards. 

Tip #4: Ask for help!
It's as simple as that. Remember to speak up in class with concerns, email professors with questions (not the night before!), and even visit your professor or TA during office hours to clarify anything that seems confusing. You have no reason to feel afraid or shy--professors won't bite you...I promise. Take advantage of the tutoring provided by the Learning Resource Center on the 10th floor of the library as well. 

Tip #5: Take breaks because you probably deserve it
Don't stress yourself out too much! Taking breaks to relax will probably help you study better and succeed! Use your breaks wisely--go to the gym, grab a pumpkin spice latte, meditate, call home, or take a power nap. After all that academic pressure, studying, and brain information overload, remember: you do you. 

And remember, The Academic Advising Link is open Sunday-Thursday 4-8pm! Peer Advisors will be there to answer your questions!

Also, check out Undergraduate Advising on facebook !

Weekly Preview: October 7 - 11

Are you thinking about majoring in Public Health?  Come to a Public Health Information Session on Tuesday, October 8 at 6:00pm in the Campus Center Room 905.  If you are interested in applying to Public Health, the Priority Application Deadline is Tuesday, October 15.  Get your questions answered, learn about classes and club events, meet the Public Health Peer Advisors, and learn about internship and study abroad opportunities.  Can’t make it? That’s OK! Meet with a Public Health Peer Advisor during drop-in hours at Arnold House 330.  Click for the schedule. 

TRANSFERmations continues this week with Your Advising To Do List.  On Tuesday, October 8 from 7:00pm - 8:00pm in McNamara Hall or Wednesday, October 9 from 4:00pm - 5:00pm the Student Union Room 314, learn how to make the most of the advising service in preparation for spring course registration!  Learn more about the steps you can take on your own before you see your advisor.


Isenberg School of Management Information Sessions for Sport Management, the BBA program, and Hospitality & Tourism Management will be held on Tuesday, October 8.  Attending an Information Session is required before applying to the Sport Management or HTM majors and highly recommended before applying to the BBA program.  Click here to review our earlier post on how to prepare for these sessions.  There will be one final information session held on October 28.

• The BBA Majors Group Info Session will be at 4:00pm in the Bernie Dallas Room on the 5th floor of Goodell.
• The Sport Management Major Group Info Session will be at 4:30pm in the Bernie Dallas Room on the 5th floor of Goodell.
• The HTM Group Info Session will be at 4:00pm in Flint 203E. 

Upcoming Dates and Information

The last day to drop a class with a W or change a class to Pass/Fail is next Thursday, October 17.  We will have more information about this soon, but if you have any questions, make an appointment to meet with an advisor now.  To do a W drop, you need the signature of your instructor, so don't wait until the last moment.   

Students interested in declaring Sociology and taking majors-only courses in the Spring must declare by October 25.  Stop by the Sociology Advising Office in 722 Thompson Hall.

The next Basic Math Skills (R1) Exemption Test will be on Monday, October 28 at 7:00pm in Marcus 131.

The Majors Fair will be held on Wednesday, October 30 in the Campus Center Auditorium and First-Floor Concourse from 5:30pm - 7:30pm.  We'll have much more information on this event as the date approaches.  This is an amazing resource for all students - undeclared or declared.

The Benefits of Declaring a Major

Choosing a major is one of the biggest decisions you make in college, but remember: people change their minds all the time. It's hard to know whether a major is right for you without trying it out, talking with professors, and taking upper-level classes. Many introductory level courses are taught in large lecture format and cover a broad range of topics. Upper-level courses usually have a narrower focus and can sometimes be smaller. Enrolling in upper-level courses is the best way to confirm your true interest in a subject you may currently be enjoying at the introductory level.

That being said, many departments restrict access to upper-level courses to declared majors only (Psychology, Economics, and Sociology are some examples, but there are many others). If you are considering a major that does this, now might be a good time to declare before registration begins for spring. Remember, you can always change your mind--if you decide to change your major at a later date, it may be possible to roll your initial declared major into a minor or certificate program, thereby broadening your degree. What's most important is making progress toward a degree and exploring the options you have so you can make an informed decision.

Now is a great time to talk to advisors before the registration rush begins! Make an appointment to discuss your interests, assess department restrictions, and decide if declaring a major before registration is right for you!

Paul's Tip of the Week: Info Sessions

As the semester continues and your coursework begins to pick up, it's important to not only focus on your current courses but also start thinking about your future time at UMass. Thinking about a possible major? A possible double major? Want to go on Domestic Exchange? Worried about your future career? Now is your time to start attending information sessions and open houses to learn more about programs, services, and opportunities that you can take advantage of during your time at UMass. While your current coursework is your priority, it never hurts to take an hour study break and attend an information session that might seriously affect your future. Also, some info sessions and open houses have free food. It's a win-win situation, honestly.

Here a list of just some of the exciting and upcoming information sessions and open houses YOU can and should attend:

Domestic Exchange: Have you ever wanted to study at another college or university but wasn't sure you wanted to leave the United States? With over 180 participating schools to choose from, our domestic exchange program might just be the perfect fit for you! Come stop by an information session every Thursday and Friday at 2:30 P.M in 613 Goodell.

Study Abroad: Want to study abroad in a foreign country but not sure who talk to or how to get started? Come talk to an IPO peer advisor in the basement of the library at the Academic Advising Link Monday-Thursday from 4-8 PM.

Career Services: Interested in getting an internship? Want to get ahead start on your future career? Attend an internship information session offered every Monday at 12:30 and Wednesday at 4 in 508 Goodell. 

BDIC: Unsure about whether a traditional major is the right choice for you? Are you more of the type of learner who likes having more autonomy and focus in their studies? Attend an info session about BDIC, a program where students can design their own majors. Click on the link to find out on when they offer info sessions:
BDIC Info. Sessions

Isenberg: Interested in getting into Isenberg School of Management? Make sure to go to one of their info sessions before you apply. Some upcoming information sessions include Tuesday, October 8th at 4 PM for those interested in the BBA program and Tuesday, Oct. 8th at 4:30 PM for those interested in the Sports Management Program. These sessions will be held in Goodell in the Bernie Dallas Room.

Now these are just a couple of the upcoming information sessions for different programs, make sure to keep following our blog and to be on the eye out for other upcoming info sessions that may suit your passions!

Weekly Preview: September 30 - October 4

Curious about Public Health?  Come to a Public Health Information Session:  Monday, September 30 at 5:30pm or Tuesday, October 8 at 6:00pm in the Campus Center Room 905.  If you are interested in applying to Public Health, the Priority Application Deadline is Tuesday, October 15.  Get your questions answered, learn about classes and club events, meet the Public Health Peer Advisors, and learn about internship and study abroad opportunities.  Can’t make it? That’s OK! Meet with a Public Health Peer Advisor during drop-in hours at Arnold House 330.  Click for the schedule.


Interested in applying to the Computer Science major or minor?  Tuesday, October 1 is the Fall 2013 deadline to complete the application!  Questions? Visit the CS Undergraduate Advising Center (ACE) in 144 CS Bldg.  Check the CS website for the latest schedule of hours when the Advising Center is open. Late submissions are not accepted!  Don't miss the deadline!  The application to the CS major can be found by clicking here and the application to the CS minor intent can be found by clicking here.

Do you speak Spanish, or want to?  Want to travel?  Check out your options!  Come to the SPANISH OPEN HOUSE & STUDY ABROAD MINI-FAIR (with free pizza) Wednesday, Oct. 2 @ 5:30 PM in 301 Herter Hall.

The Center for Multicultural Advancement & Student Success (CMASS) invites you to attend our Undergraduate/Graduate Mixer for Fall 2013.  This is a great opportunity to meet current UMass Graduate Students and find out what Graduate School is all about.  The event will be held on Wednesday, October 2nd from 6:00pm - 8:00pm in 201 Wilder Hall.



Isenberg Career Day 2013 will be on Thursday, October 3, from 11:00am - 4:00pm in the Campus Center Auditorium.  The Isenberg School of Management Career Day is the kick-off event for the fall recruiting season. Held annually in late September/early October, approximately 100 companies and 1700 undergraduates attend.  Students may view a list of registered companies here.  Business casual attire is required.  Read our earlier post about how to prepare for a Career Fair and be sure to bring copies of your resume with you.  Don't have a resume yet?  Make an appointment with Career Services!  



OPEN HOUSE at CMASS!  The Center for Multicultural Advancement & Student Success (CMASS) invites you to attend an Open House on Thursday, October 3rd, from 4-6pm.  Come to Wilder Hall (between Morrill and the new science building) to learn more about what CMASS does, meet some people, and enjoy some refreshments.  EVERYONE is welcome!


Don't forget that Thursday, October 17 is the last day to drop courses with a “W” or change a course to Pass/Fail.  A “W” is nearly always preferable to an “F.”  Taking a class Pass/Fail will not fulfill a GenEd, major, minor, GlobalEd, School/College or certificate requirement.  If you're not sure how this will affect your timeline for graduation or want advice on options, make an appointment to meet with an advisor.  In making your decision, bear in mind that you need to carry 12 credits to be considered full-time for financial aid and health insurance purposes.  


We still have a few planners left!  If you have friends who have yet to pick one up and need to get organized, send them to 613 Goodell.  They are also available at the Academic Advising Link, so stop by to talk to our Peer Advisors.

Paul's Tip of the Week: Time Management Skills

So you come to UMass as a freshman and you are amazed at the flexibility and free time your schedule allows.  You are in class way less than you were in high school and you don't always have several homework assignments due the very next day. It's a change. However,  with this change comes new responsibilities and a need to adapt to your new circumstances. Here're some tips on how to manage your schedule at UMass to keep ahead and succeed:

Do the Amount of Work your Professor Expects: The way college classes differ from high school is that you are generally in class less time but are expected to do several hours of work outside of the classroom. Many students don't realize the extent to which they should be doing work outside the classroom. It's important to do all of the readings for all your classes even if you do not have a test or essay immediately on the information.

Plan Ahead: A huge problem I faced my freshman year is that one week I would have a really relaxed week with little homework then the very next week, I would have essays and tests going on in almost every class. I went from calm and cool to frantically stressed out. This is because of my failure to plan ahead. Just because you don't have anything due immediately, does not mean it is time to take a vacation. Try to get homework assignments done ahead of time and stay on top of your work. Having an academic planner makes all of this a whole lot easier.  (If you don't have one, check with the Academic Advising Link, Sun-Thurs, 4-8:00pm in the Learning Commons of the DuBois Library  - they might have one for you!) 

Take Constructive Breaks/Stay Healthy: While a lot of what I have been writing has been focused on work, work, work, it's important to take care of yourself and not to get stressed out. If you are feeling overwhelmed, take a constructive break. A great example of this would be going to the gym, taking a walk, or meditation.

These outlets provide a great opportunity to help clear your mind, focus better, and relieve some of that pent up stress. Reward yourself with getting a paper done with taking a break and eating with friends at a Dining Common or getting some late-night dessert somewhere. Basically, practice self-care and prioritize both getting all your work done along with your personal health. 

Stop Checking Your Facebook: Here's probably one of my most important tips I could possibly give to all students managing their time (especially when you are studying): get off of social media. A "constructive break" does not including refreshing your Facebook newsfeed every 5 minutes, tweeting, updating your Tumblr, snapchatting your friends, or taking a "selfie" of you "studying" and putting it on Instagram. Social media is great and there definitely is a time and place to use it but whatever you do: avoid using it as a procrastination tool. I personally love social media but I try not to let it take over my life nor all my time. 

So remember take care of yourself, your work, and your time. Learning healthy and successful time management skills is one of the most important skills you can get while at college.