Top 5 tips for new and returning students
January 8, 2024 —
As the Winter term starts, here are our top 5 tips for new and returning students. Take advantage of these great strategies to get set up for a great term!
- Read the course outline. Everything you need to know about your course is found in the course outline. You’ll find contact information for your professors, a detailed description of the material you’ll be learning, a schedule of assignments and tests, and other UM resources available to you as a student. UM takes academic integrity very seriously. To be sure you don’t unintentionally break a rule, read the academic integrity section of your course outline and be sure to ask your instructor or teaching assistant (TA) any questions you may have.
- Make attending class a priority…and talk to your instructors often. Class time is your time! Not only is it when you learn directly from your instructor, but you also have the chance to meet other students with similar interests. Take notes, ask questions and don’t forget that your profs want you to succeed. They want to connect with students and you’re sure to get answers to your questions.
- Get organized and stick to a schedule. Preparing in advance is critical to ensuring success. Create reminders for assignment due dates, midterms, exams and appointments. Don’t forget to add the UM important dates as well. Make small, attainable goals so you feel like you’re making progress and use your schedule and due dates to create mini deadlines to help you keep on track.
- It’s all about balance. Be sure to include time for yourself in your schedule. Pay attention to your stress levels and keep your social media usage in check. Turning off your notifications can help with productivity and reduce stress. Connect with people in person if you can. Take a study break, go for a walk, attend a FREE Bisons home game or visit the Active Living Centre.
- Asking for help is totally normal. You’ve got many resources in the UM community to provide guidance and support during your time at UM. If you need help, the following places are great starting points:
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- First Year Centre or Faculty Advising Office – Academic Advisors can help answer your questions, create an academic plan and connect you with services and resources on campus.
- International Centre – International Centre student advisors are here to help throughout your time at UM. Connect to find resources around academics, university regulations, policies and life in Winnipeg.
- Indigenous Student Centre – Staff, faculty, Elders and Knowledge Keepers are available to ensure your university experience is as valuable, accessible and successful as possible.
Stay Connected – Be sure to check your @myumanitoba.ca email often, follow @umstudent and @umanitoba on Instagram and check all the latest UM news on UMToday.
Check out more campus supports and resources available to you here. Welcome back and have a great Winter Term!