Meet Your Peer Bloggers!

The Undergraduate Advising Blog is proud to introduce six wonderful undergraduates who will be writing for us. These six students are more than happy to answer questions and give advice. Read their weekly posts and be sure to see them at The Academic Advising Link!




Haley Harrington; '15

CLASS, MAJOR: Senior, Communication Disorders with an Education and Psychology minor

LIKES BEST: I love helping first-year students learn how to navigate UMass. It's a big place and can be very intimidating at times! Knowing that I've had a positive impact on their experience here puts a smile on my face.

ADVICE: Be your own advocate! Make sure you meet with your advisor - they can lead you to great resources and future contacts. Try new things! Get involved and find your niche.



Joe Lawrence, '15
CLASS, MAJOR: Senior, Applied Physics with a concentration in Mathematical Modeling
LIKES BEST: The best thing about being a peer advisor is getting to help students have the best possible experience at UMass. I love passing along all the tips and tricks I've learned in the past 3 years.
ADVICE: My number one piece of advice would be to explore, explore, explore! It's great to find your groove, but don't forget to see what else is out there before it's too late. You could join a club,  even go to school in another state or country, but not if you don't get out there and do it!

Alex Perry; '15

CLASS, MAJOR: Senior, Communication Disorders and Psychology

LIKES BEST: Empowering other students to take control of their academic paths, and helping them explore all of the opportunities that UMass Amherst has to offer.

ADVICE: Be proactive! It's up to you to take responsibility of your experience here at UMass, so dive right in by asking questions, getting involved, and being open to new and exciting things.

Victor Ramos; '16

CLASS, MAJOR: Junior, Communication with a Film Studies Certificate

LIKES BEST: I really enjoy being able to help new and old students with navigating through the university and also being a resource for students who need help with class or major issues.

ADVICE: Ask questions! Ask a million questions all the time, even if you think you already know whatever it is you are learning (because you don't!), ask another question. There is always room to learn more and master your craft, so always ask questions. Don't be discouraged by others into thinking your question is stupid or useless, because other people might have the same one! And in most cases, professors (and people in general) usually love answering questions about things they are passionate or informed about, so never feel afraid to ask somebody a question! Overall, by asking questions  you are able to not only expand on your own knowledge of a certain subject, but you are able to help test others knowledge, so you are really growing together! The only stupid question is the one you never asked!

Shaylene Riley; '16

CLASS, MAJOR: Junior, English and French and Francophone Studies

LIKES BEST: I love being able to help people and enjoy seeing people discover what they're passionate about when they sign up for classes or decide to declare a certain major. 

ADVICE: Find what you love and stick with it. Talk with your advisor often and explore different departments and majors to find something that excites and interests you. The best feeling is when you're able to declare a major and know that it's perfect for you.

Eric Shaw; '17

CLASS, MAJOR: Sophmore, Finance

LIKES BEST: I like the interaction with students, but also being able to help get students on the right track and pursuing the majors they want.

ADVICE: Constantly check the blog. It is nice to have something remind you or helping you along the way than you always trying to remember yourself.

Computer Science Deadline!

Interested in Computer Science? Planning on declaring your major or minor? Wednesday, October 1 is the deadline to apply in order to take Spring 2015 majors only classes. Stop by the CS Undergrad Advising Center (ACE) in the USpace, 144 CS Building with your questions. Click here for the application and more information.

Weekly Preview: September 29 - October 3

Fall is officially here and things are getting busy!  Be sure to update your planner with deadlines, information sessions, and meetings.  Worried about your classes?  Visit the LRC and Writing Center or schedule an appointment with an Advisor to explore your options.  And don't forget about your Peer Advisors in the Academic Advising Link in the Learning Commons in the Library!     

All UMass students are invited to the What (Not) To Wear: Career Fashion Show on Monday, September 29 from 6:00pm to 8:00pm in CHC Events Hall. See models in professional attire, get fashion advice for all, learn how to tie a necktie, get a photo taken for LinkedIn or even wear your favorite interview outfit (or bring a selfie) for a professional critique.

Interested in Computer Science?  Planning on declaring your major or minor?  Wednesday, October 1 is the deadline to apply in order to take Spring 2015 majors only classes.  Stop by the CS Undergrad Advising Center (ACE) in the USpace, 144 CS Building with your questions.  Click here for the application and more information.

The Engineering, Technology and Science Career Fair will be held on Wednesday, October 1 from 10:00am to 3:00pm in the Campus Center Auditorium.  Meet companies seeking candidates for engineering, computer science, IT, or science positions.  Learn about co-ops, internships or full-time positions.  View the list of registered organizations, by clicking here.  Additional questions? Please email Todd Butynski at tbutynsk@umass.edu   Not sure how to prepare?  Reread our earlier post about attending Career Fairs and visit Career Services to get ready.

You are warmly invited to the CMASS Open House on Thursday, October 2nd from 4:00pm to 6:00pm in 201 Wilder Hall.  The Center for Multicultural Advancement & Student Success provides academic support, cultural enrichment, student development as well as support for institutional diversity on the University of Massachusetts Amherst campus.  Come and check out the activities and events for the whole academic year.  There will be games, prizes and surprises.  Light refreshments will be provided.

There will be an iCons Information Session on Thursday, October 2 at 7:00pm in ISB 145.  iCons is a 20-credit academic program offered by the College of Natural Sciences.  Is iCons right for you? What are the program requirements? Will it fit into your schedule?  Click here to learn more about the program.

Are you curious about LinkedIn?  Learn how to set up a LinkedIn profile for job networking and professional purposes.  Join Career Services on Thursday, October 2 from 3:30pm to 5:00pm in the Du Bois Library, Room 1685.  For beginners or students interested in more advanced needs, bring your laptop or use one there.  Stop in any time!



 

Alex's Tip of the Week: Attend Some Info Sessions!!!

Hi Everyone, hope you're having a great start to your semester! My name is Alex and I'm a Peer Advisor with Undergraduate Advising, ready for anything from assisting you with the course selection process, to answering questions about academic requirements, to promoting major exploration and more!

First, let me start by asking you a few questions: Are you considering declaring a major, adding another major/minor, or changing your current major? Do you find yourself wondering about which classes to take, or how to apply to certain majors on campus?

One of the best ways to get information, ask questions, and learn about all of the exciting programs that UMass has to offer is through attending an Information Session!

Knowledge is power, and attending an information session can give you the confidence you need to explore your areas of interest and start making informed decisions regarding your educational future. Attending an info session allows you to check out whether or not various departments on campus are a great fit for you, and ask any questions you have about their specific programs. Through attending an information session you might receive 

• an overview of the department.
• the requirements for that major.
• how to apply and what the next steps are for you.

Info sessions are also awesome ways to meet undergraduate program directors, advisors, and other students--all of whom can offer their unique perspectives and experiences within the department. You never know, this could be a pivotal moment of decision-making in your college experience. Hit the ground running this semester and attend an information session!

Please continue to check the Undergraduate Advising Blog for the most up-to-date information regarding when/where Info Sessions are being held on campus.

Career Fairs: What are they, why do you go, and how do you prepare?

Many employers use career fairs to promote their job opportunities and to pre-screen applicants. Most of these fairs consist of booths and tables staffed by recruiters and other representatives from each organization. For students, a career fair can be an excellent place to gather information about potential employers, make contacts that could lead to a job, learn more about an employer’s application process, and discover new possibilities.


UMass Amherst Career Services sponsors a number of career fairs throughout the year and several will be happening in the coming weeks...be sure to check out their on-going calendar of events.

Not sure how to proceed? Stop by Career Services on the 5th floor of Goodell during their walk-in hours, Monday-Friday from 12 to 4 p.m. You can also visit Career Services online to see the planning timeline recommended for each year and download their handouts on "Make Your First Professional Contacts at the Career Fair" and "Sell Yourself at the Career Fair" for tips on making the most of these events.

Tutoring & Extra Help!!

Need extra help on homework questions or writing a paper ? 

Check out the Learning Resource Center & Writing Center!

The Learning Resource Center (LRC) is located on the 10th floor of the DuBois Library! Open Sunday-Thursday 1:00 pm-10:00 pm, the LRC provides tutoring and supplemental instruction in courses that students often have trouble with. Check out their website for more information on their tutoring and SI schedules.

Writing a paper and want another opinion on it?  Go to the Writing Center located in the basement of the library. Here, a tutor will critique and help improve your essay, whether you are just brainstorming ideas or already have a draft finished. It's always nice to have another person look over your writing. The tutors at the WC are trained and experienced students who may seem less intimidating than a professor. You can even schedule an appointment online.

Check Out Campus Pulse!

Part of what makes UMass so great is that it has such a large campus, which means that there is always something going on every night of the week. Be it a club meeting, a lecture, or a movie night - if you're looking for something fun to do, check out Campus Pulse! The website has a calendar of exciting events going on campus as well as a list of the many RSOs to join. There is something for everyone, so be sure to check it out and get involved!

Weekly Preview: September 22 - 26

Are you interested in working for a startup?  On Monday, September 22 at 5:30pm in the Integrated Sciences Building Atrium, ThinkB1G will lead a discussion on what startups are looking for, the skills to develop to become a highly sought after candidate, how to obtain them both inside and outside the classroom, and best practices in communicating all this when engaging startups. They'll be bringing in founders and heads of engineering virtually so you'll have the opportunity to hear directly from startups.  To register, please click here.

Curious about internships and co-ops?  It is never too early to start thinking about getting some experience!  Join Career Services for Internships and Co-ops Information Sessions every Monday at 12:30 pm in 508 Goodell.

Joe's Tip of the Week: Time Management

Hey UMass! I'm Joe, your friendly neighborhood peer advisor! On behalf of everyone here at Undergraduate Advising, allow me to welcome you to the new school year! If this is your first semester, you might have expected the workload to ramp up slowly. If so...

 SURPRISE!

(If you haven't seen Zoolander, you'll need to watch it now. Go ahead. I'll wait.)

Time management is a critical skill in college, because most of the work you do is outside of class on your own time. If you can't use your time wisely, you're going to have a rough start to your semester. Now, I understand some of you are still adjusting to life back at school...

...but it's time to shake it off and get crackin'. Here are a few tips I use to keep myself from wasting time.

1. Get Moving!

You might have a rough start and just feel like getting back in bed, but don't give up! NEVER GETTING STARTED is the greatest enemy of productivity. If don't start, you'll never finish.

2. Make a Plan!

So you're up. Good. Now what are you going to do? Save yourself the time consuming task of checking each class on Moodle every time you sit down to do work. Instead, keep a record of things you need to do, including homework assignments, projects, test dates, and whatever else is on your plate. If you're "organizationally challenged" like me, the best way to do this is to keep a simple to-do list with due dates. Bring it everywhere, and update it constantly. If you're a pro at thinking ahead, get yourself a planner! Before you get your hopes up, none of the official UMass planners come in "Blue Steel."

3. Start Small!

If you're not doing anything, you're not managing your time wisely. I keep myself busy by putting every little thing I've got to do on my planner. Real-life examples from my current to-do list include:

• Call Mummy (Yes, I call my mom "Mummy." Sue me.)
• Put up poster of The Dude
• Email Professor D.
• Make hair appointment (It's not easy being really, really, ridiculously good looking.)

There are few feelings in life as satisfying as crossing something off your list. The benefits of this are twofold: One, you'll get motivated once you see your list of tasks start to shrink. Two, the less little things you have to do, the less excuses you'll have for avoiding the big tasks. I think everyone knows the feeling of having so much to do that you clean your room instead.

Congratulations! You're now a graduate of The Derek Zoolander School for College Kids Who Can't Plan Good and Want to Do Other Stuff Good Too. Remember, if you apply these tips and keep using any other strategies that work for you, you could even save enough time to grab an orange-mocha-frappuccino!

Career Service's Career Carnival

Step right up! Step right up! The career carnival is finally here! That's right! Career Services is holding a Career Carnival in front of Goodell on Wednesday, September 17th from 1-4pm. Are you unsure about your resume? Have your resume reviewed at the carnival! Just in time for the Fall Career Fairs too! Speaking about careers, talk to a career advisor while you're there and get some advice! There will be free popcorn and ice cream in addition to lots of games and prizes. Don't miss out on all of this fun!

Add/Drop Deadline!

Add/Drop Ends at 10:00pm on Monday!

After this time, you will no longer be able to make any changes to your schedule in SPIRE. 

 

Read our earlier post about Add/Drop and check to make sure that your schedule is correct!  If you need to make any changes after Add/Drop ends, you must complete paperwork at the Registrar's Office, with your instructor, and/or your Academic Dean.

Weekly Preview: Septermber 15 - 19

Add/Drop ends at 10:00pm on Monday, September 15!  You will not be able to make any changes to your schedule on SPIRE after this date and will need to follow a paper process with your academic dean.  Reread our earlier post about add/drop and be sure to double check that your schedule is correct before the deadline.  You have until the Mid-Semester W date (Thursday, October 16) to change a class to Pass/Fail by going to the Registrar's Office in Whitmore.

Monday, September 15 is also the last day to register for a Five College Interchange course.  Reread our earlier post to learn more about registration.  Two copies of the signed forms are due in 613 Goodell by 5pm.

The Fall 2014 Sociology declaration period begins on Tuesday September 16.  For more information and/or to declare the major, contact the Sociology Undergraduate Office in 712 Thompson or the Sociology Peer Advisors Office in 722 Thompson. 
 

On Wednesday, September 17 from 1:00pm - 4:00pm, Career Services welcomes all students to stop by the Career Carnival for free ice cream & popcorn. It will be held in front of Goodell and in case of rain, it will be inside Goodell. There will be games, prizes and resume reviews for those getting ready for the fall Career Fairs! The internship photo contest winners will be stopping by to, so ask them about their internships!

Isenberg School of Management Information Sessions for Sport Management, the BBA program, and Hospitality & Tourism Management will be held on Thursday, September 18 promptly at 5:30pm.  Do not be late!

• HTM will meet in Isenberg 106.
• Sport Management will meet in Isenberg 108.
• The BBA Program will meet in the Bernie Dallas Room on the 5th floor of Goodell.

Attending an Information Session is required before applying to the Sport Management or HTM majors and highly recommended before applying to the BBA program.  We will post detailed information on how to prepare for these sessions over the weekend, so be sure to check back.

Shaylene's Tip of the Week: What I Wish I Knew My First Year

I remember my freshman year on campus like it was yesterday. I was nervous, afraid I wouldn't be able to find my classes, and worried about adjusting to college life in general. However, within a week, those fears were gone. My freshman year at UMass was fantastic. I had interesting classes, made amazing friends, and had a wonderful year overall. However, looking back as an upperclassman, there are still a few things that I wish I knew.

Here is some advice:

1. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions

Everyone has heard the saying, “There’s no such thing as a dumb question” and it’s absolutely true! You just have to be proactive. Interested in a certain major? Go talk to a department and learn about the types of classes they offer. Are you undeclared and have a question about your schedule? Drop by the Undergraduate Advising Office and get advice.  Believe me, if you have a question on just about anything, there will be someone on campus who can help answer it.

2. Get to Know Your Professors

On the first day of class, the professor hands out the syllabus that lists the assignments and course requirements. But it also lists another important detail: their office hours. If I could go back to my freshman year, I would visit my professors during their office hours more often. They have these hours specifically for students to ask questions about readings and assignments due in class. Not only are their office hours extremely useful to have an assignment clarified, but they’re also very interesting knowledgeable people as well. They are passionate about the subjects they teach and it’s great to just sit down and talk to them.

3. Explore

When I first toured UMass I remember my tour guide saying, “You can always make a big school feel smaller, but you can’t make a small school feel bigger.” I couldn't agree more with that statement. While it’s great to make friends with the people on your floor, don’t keep yourself holed up all the time. The campus is HUGE and there is always something to do every day of the week. Check Campus Pulse for upcoming events and look for flyers posted around campus. Take advantage of the cultural events, plays, lectures, and programs offered on campus. Don’t stop there either! Explore Amherst and Northampton. Both are college towns that hold a lot of events and have great local places to eat out with friends.

4. Get Involved and Try New Things

I know the college is already a new experience as it is, but don’t be afraid to break out of your comfort zone a little bit. Four years seems like a long time, but believe me, it will go by in a fast. My advice is to join a club or two on campus that really interests you. There are hundreds of clubs to join and it’s a great way to make friends with people who share similar passions as you.

5. Take Advantage of the Resources on Campus

Even now, I am still learning about the many resources available to students on campus. A few of the biggest resources I wish I took advantage of as a freshman were the Learning Resource Center, the Writing Center, and the Academic Advising Link which are all conveniently located in the library. Not only can you get help on your assignments and classes, but they’re all free! C’mon, who doesn't like free things? Besides that, there are other resources such as the gym, the craft center, and Campus Copy & Design, and that barely scratches the surface of what’s available to you here on campus.

You have four years and thousands of opportunities in front of you. Take advantage of them and make the most of it.

Add/Drop Deadline: Monday 9/15 @ 10:00 pm

Don't let this happen to you!!!

Add/Drop ends on Monday.  Right now you can log into SPIRE and make changes to your schedule, but when Add/Drop ends, you will no longer be able to do so and will have to use a paper process to make requests and get permission.  Look at your Enrollment Appointment to see when you will no longer have access to make changes.

Right now you should log on to SPIRE and look at your schedule.  Are you really in the classes you think you're in?  Are all of your discussions and labs correct?  Did you add a class that's not there or drop something that still is there?  Even if you haven't made any changes to your schedule, you should still check to make sure everything is correct.  If you do need to make adjustments, use the swap and edit functions whenever possible.

Not attending a class doesn't mean you've dropped it! And remember, should you decide to add a class at this point, you will be responsible for any work that has been assigned and you should contact the instructor immediately.

As always, if you have any questions about your schedule, you should see an advisor. Undeclared students can set up an appointment by calling (413) 545-2191 or coming to 613 Goodell.  You can also stop by the Academic Advising Link to talk to a Peer Advisor about your classes.  The Link is open Sunday through Thursday from 4:00pm - 8:00pm while classes are in session and is located downstairs in the Learning Commons in the DuBois Library.

A note about Pass/Fail: You have until the Mid-Semester W date (Thursday, October 16) to change a class to Pass/Fail.  After Add/Drop ends, you'll need to go to the Registrar's Office in Whitmore to fill out the Course Change Request form.  You do get credit for Pass/Fail classes if you pass but they do not fulfill requirements (GenEds, major, minor, certificates, GlobalEds, etc.), so make an appointment to meet with an advisor if you're not sure how this will affect you.

Public Health Information Session

Are you thinking about declaring Public Health as your primary or secondary major? Then attend an information session for prospective majors!

There is one this week on Thursday, September 11 at 5:00-5:45 pm Campus Center Room 911. If interested in attending, RSVP by clicking here.

Feel free to stop by the Peer Advisor Drop-In Center during drop-in hours, starting Thursday, September 11. The hours are as follows:
Monday- 9:00am-5:00pm
Tuesday- 10:30am-2:00pm & 2:30-4:30pm
Wednesday- 8:30am-12:00pm
Thursday- 8:00am-4:30pm
Friday- 11:30-1:30pm

An Enrollment 101 session will be offered Monday, November 17th at 5:00pm. Peer advisors will help you sign up for classes and learn to navigate Spire!

Weekly Preview: September 8 - 12

There will be an R1 Exemption Test on Monday, September 8 at 7:00pm in Marcus 131. 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.  A student ID and a #2 pencil are required. A calculator is recommended. 


 
Are you interested in Computer Science?  Want to learn more about the major?  There will be a Computer Science Information Session on Monday, September 8 at 4:00pm in 150/151 Computer Science Building.  Students interested in applying to CS are strongly encouraged to attend.  Can't make it?  Visit the CS Undergraduate Advising Center in room 144 of the CS building.  Check the website for hours.  Applications for the major or minor are due by October 1.
  

Boltwood Project recruitment nights will be held on Monday, September 8, Tuesday, September 9, and Wednesday, September 10 from 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm in the Campus Center Auditorium.  Placements earn 2 graded credits while helping children and adults with special needs.   You MUST attend ONE of these meetings to sign up (even if you were in before!)  No exceptions! Spaces fill up fast!  Sessions start promptly at 6.  Do not be late.  Click here to learn more about Boltwood and how you can engage with the local community while earning credit.

Thinking about applying to Resource Economics?  Information Sessions will be held on Wednesday, September 10 at 12:20pm and Thursday, September 11at 4:00pm.  Both sessions are in Stockbridge 303.  Students must attend an Information Session and complete the Online Statement of Interest before being invited to schedule an advising appointment to complete the change of major.  Your Statement of Interest is due online by November 26 at noon in order to register for Spring 2015 courses as a Resource Economics major.

Add/Drop ends next Monday, September 15.  Do you still have questions about your schedule?  Do not wait to talk to an advisor!  Make an appointment or stop by the Academic Advising Link soon.

Engineering Information Session!

Are you thinking about choosing an Engineering major?  Do you have questions about your classes and want to know what you need to do to apply?

Come to 604 Goodell on Thursday, September 4 at 5:30pm and meet with Engineering Advisors.  Find out if you need to make changes to your schedule before Add/Drop ends.  Ask questions and get information.

See you there!

Visit the Academic Advising Link!

The semester has started. You're going to classes. You're looking at your syllabi.  You're not sure if you need an appointment with an Advisor, but you do have questions.   

Are you trying to change a class to Pass/Fail? Edit a discussion? Swap into a different class?  Read your ARR? Search for GenEds?  Are you trying to do this on your own but having problems with SPIRE?  Perhaps you're just not sure where to start?

Come to the Academic Advising Link!

Our experienced Peer Advisors are here for you! They're trained to talk to you about using SPIRE, getting into classes, major requirements, GenEds, grading options and much more. You don't need to make an appointment - just stop by!  We're here for ALL students in ALL majors.

The Link is open Sunday through Thursday from 4:00pm - 8:00pm while classes are in session. We are located downstairs in the Learning Commons in the DuBois Library.

Don't wait until the day before Add/Drop ends! Meet with a Peer Advisor now! 

The Writing Placement Exam will be held in Bartlett 202!

The Writing Placement Exam will be held on Tuesday, September 2nd and Wednesday, September 3rd. 

The exam will be in Bartlett 202 at 6:00pm

For more information on the writing placement test, call 413-545-0610 or email the Writing Program at writingprogram@acad.umass.edu.

Thinking About A Five College Interchange Course? It's Not Too Late!

Taking a class at Amherst, Hampshire, Smith or Mt. Holyoke this semester through the Five College Interchange is a great way to expand your academic options!  Registration paperwork is being accepted in 613 Goodell until the last day of UMass Add/Drop: Monday, September 15.

The registration procedure for Five College Interchange classes is different from your regular UMass enrollment process. Once you find the course(s) you want, read the detailed instructions on our website very carefully. The Five College Enrollment form is available on SPIRE, but you cannot submit your registration through SPIRE. You must follow the UMass paperwork procedure and deadlines and turn in your forms to the UMass Five College Interchange office located in 613 Goodell.

Important information:

• You must be in good academic standing and have a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher.
• You must be registered for at least one 3-credit UMass course.
• You must have the instructor's signature in order to be added to the class.
• You can only register by handing in two copies of the UMass paperwork to the UMass Five College Interchange office located in 613 Goodell.  There must be original signatures from the instructor on both forms - photocopies cannot be accepted.  Registration paperwork must be handed in by 5pm on Monday, September 15.

Questions? Visit our website, come see us in 613 Goodell, call us at 413-545-5352 or send an email to 5collreg@acad.umass.edu.

OASIS Seminars for Undeclared Students

The 1-credit OASIS seminar is designed for undeclared students, typically in their first or second semester at UMass Amherst.  In addition to learning about opportunities and resources at UMass Amherst, students are given the tools and tips to be most successful, they forge a relationship with an advisor (who is their instructor), and they explore majors and other academic options available to them at UMass.

• UNIV 125 is for freshmen (some sections are part of the FOCUS RAP programs; others are not); 
• UNIV 125T is for transfers, and 
• UNIV 192G is a slight variation of the seminar for students in academic difficulty.

Most sections of OASIS for Fall 2014 have a final capacity of 20 students. If you are unable to enroll in a section, but it looks as if there might still be room available, email the instructor with your name, 8-digit ID number, and the section of OASIS you'd like to join. NOTE: make sure you get to the first class meeting!  If you did not attend the first class meeting, you will need to meet with the instructor/advisor before you can join the class. Know, also, that the course is also offered in the Spring semester.

For students who ARE already enrolled, you can purchase your textbook at Collective Copies, in downtown Amherst, and we look forward to seeing you SOON!