Academic Advising

With reading week just around the corner, many students are looking forward to a nice relaxing week away from the regular routine of school life.
Many students use this opportunity to head back home and catch up with family and friends, while others will escape the winter weather and head south for some fun in the sun.
Whatever you plan on doing over your reading week, it is important to not put school on the back burner for the whole week.
Be it back home, or on the beach be sure to take some time to evaluate what needs to be accomplished during the rest of the school year and set aside some time to catch up on readings and assignments. Bus rides, flights and time waiting in the airport are great opportunities to sneak in some reading during your ‘Reading’ Week.
No matter what your plans are for the upcoming break, be sure to include time for relaxation and fun, but also try to find some ways to include some school work during the week to help alleviate your work load when you return to school.

As we move into February, it is now a good time to take inventory and assess how the term is going. Keeping up to date with readings and assignments, understanding the course material, and seeking assistance when needed, whether you are in a full credit or half credit course are all paramount to a student’s success.

It is also an appropriate time to review the current major that you are studying, especially if you are early in your university career. At some point in an academic career as an undergraduate student, you may feel an uncertainty of the major you have chosen to pursue. This is a very common feeling. If you find yourself in this situation, you may feel pressure to come to a decision as soon as possible, however it is important to evaluate your feelings and identify your interests so that you may pursue a major that bests suits your needs.

You must conduct a self-assessment to determine: What do you enjoy? Where do your strengths lie? What career aspirations do you have? and What are you passionate about? Your personal assessment will give you an indication of what assistance you will require in finding a major that is right for you, or reconfirm that you are in fact in the right major.

The 2012/13 Undergraduate Calendar is a resource that can aid in your decision of choosing a major. You may review the many programs Brock has to offer and familiarize yourself with the courses of certain programs you are interested in. Once you have done this, you may book an appointment with an Academic Adviser in the Office of the Registrar to discuss options and requirements of different majors. Appointments can be booked by visiting www.brocku.ca/registrar/advising.

A valuable resource on campus is Career Services, located in the Learning Commons on the main floor of the library. Career Services focuses on self-assessment and research that are regarded as essential first steps toward career exploration. Degree Exploration Guides, Career Cruising and visiting the Job Search section at the Career Services Resource Library are a few tools that can be utilized and assist students in career decision planning.

Visiting your specific program adviser is also essential in confirming if in fact you are in the major you want to be in. You may review not only the courses that you are in, you may also examine the upper year courses that are required for your particular program. You can discuss with your adviser your interests, and establish a program plan that meets your goals and desires. You may contact your specific program adviser by visiting brocku.ca/registrar/advising/departmental-adviser-contact.

This process requires both time and energy. You must be prepared to do the research, use information gathering techniques, meet with the appropriate people, be realistic and be open to suggestions. Keeping all this in mind, finding your passion and finding what excites you is key to eventually being able to say “I love my job”.

As a new year is upon us, it is often a time for reflection. Students may reflect on the past year and begin looking ahead to the upcoming year. This is an excellent time for students to assess their year and analyze the areas they did well on and the areas that may need improvement. It is important to recognize trends or patterns so you can continue doing what it is that is making you successful or implement a new course of action that will assist you in becoming a successful university student.

If you feel that a change is necessary or need an alternative way of approaching your course workload then you may consider enrolling in a learning skills workshop through the Student Development Centre, located on the 4th Floor of the Schmon Tower. Workshops that include Time Management, Setting Your Goals or Avoiding Procrastination can be most beneficial and get you on the right track throughout your university career.

Students that may find some academic challenges regarding course material during the school year should note that there are many options available to them for assistance in a particular course. Taking advantage of the office hours of the instructor is a way of gaining a better understanding of the topics covered and an opportunity to ask questions or voice your concern about certain issues involving the course. Seeking help from the Teaching Assistant’s if your course has a secondary component such as a seminar, tutorial or lab is another alternative. Asking fellow peers is an additional method to share and discuss ideas regarding material relevant to the course. It is important to seek help the moment you feel the need for it, do not delay or procrastinate. If you obtain answers immediately or develop an improved understanding of the course content, this will benefit you when you begin studying for your mid-term or final exams.

Whether you are a new, continuing first year, or upper year student it is important to introduce or reacquaint yourself to the services that Brock University has to provide.

- Academic Advising Services in the Office of the Registrar is a supportive and informative service that provides Brock students with assistance and guidance throughout their university career. Program specific advisers can help students that require an explanation or clarification on their degree requirements specific to their program. Information regarding Academic Advising can be found at www.brocku.ca/registrar/advising.
- Career Services, located on the 4th Floor of the Schmon tower is valuable resource for students seeking information regarding employment after graduating with their particular degree. Career Services can also aid with the development of job search skills including resume and cover letter writing, portfolio and interview skill development.
- The aforementioned Student Development Centre is another vital resource that students can utilize by participating in the free learning skills workshops. For more information on the Student Development Centre please visit www.brocku.ca/sdc.
These are just a few examples of the services that are available to you. For a complete listing of student services please visit www.brocku.ca/services. Using resources and services that are accessible to you is a step in the right direction to being a successful university student. If you are unfamiliar of a location or have questions if a specific service is offered do not hesitate to ask a Brock University staff member. Remember that it is always important to be well informed. Best of luck in the New Year!

Exams can bring about emotions that students will have to manage to be successful in their university career. Preparation is a vital component to doing well on exams. Following some helpful suggestions will hopefully lead to an enjoyable and well deserved Winter break.

• Recognizing such things as what the instructor has stressed in the final few classes and determining what will be covered and what format will be used is very crucial.
• It is important to know if the exam will cover material from the whole term, since the mid term or only certain sections.
• Equally important to know is if the exam will consist of essay type questions, short answer, multiple-choice, true-false or any combination of the four.
• Reviewing copies of previous exams, if available in the library, and recognizing a consistent theme may be helpful.
• Studying with fellow peers may be wise as discussions among classmates can create new ideas and new ways of communicating potential answers. )This strategy can also bring about a better understanding of the topics covered.)
• Remember to take a break! Watch your favourite television program, go out for a quick coffee, tea or hot chocolate and enjoy some fresh air or workout for thirty minutes. Taking breaks is important to stay sharp and to ensure you do not become too overwhelmed with information.

Best of luck on your exams and best wishes this holiday season!

As we make the turn into October, you may find yourself just beginning to settle into student life at Brock. Whether you are a returning student who is familiar with the routines and expectations of professors, parents, roommates, and yourself, or if you are new to the university, September is typically a time for adjustment and transition.

Part of the transition to university is adjusting to the fact that in many courses students are not given weekly assignments or feedback on how they are progressing. You may find it difficult to get a strong sense of how you are doing in a course(s) until after your first major test or assignment is returned.
To better assess how you are progressing academically, take the time to ask yourself the following questions:

- Do I understand the course syllabus?
- Am I staying on top of my required readings?
- Do I understand the readings?
- Am I taking notes that are clear and accurate?
- Am I able to relate lecture material to seminar work and discussions?
- Do I understand instructions for completing assignments?
- Am I participating in seminar activities and discussions?
- Do I submit my assignments on time?
- How have I done on assignments and tests I have received back?

After considering the above key points, you will be able to recognize what is working for you and what improvements need to be made. If you feel that you are struggling in a course speak to your Instructor. Inquire about additional support that the department may be able to offer in the form of extended office hours or tutoring. The Student Development Centre brocku.ca/sdc is a great resource for Brock students. Located on the fourth floor of the Schmon Tower, the Centre offers free study skills workshops and a tutor registry to assist students.

If you are considering removing yourself from a course, you should first discuss the implications of this decision with the academic adviser specific to your program. For a list of departmental advisers please visit brocku.ca/registrar/advising. If you are an undeclared student or are pursing a General Studies degree contact an academic adviser in the Office of the Registrarbrocku.ca/registrar/advising/. Making changes to your timetable may also affect such things as student loans, scholarships, varsity sports or residence eligibility. Students are expected to be responsible for knowing the dates and penalties, both academically and financially for withdrawing from a course. You can view these dates by referring to http://www.brocku.ca/finance/students/undergraduate/withdrawals-and-refunds.
Best of luck with your studies! We hope you have a successful year!

A new academic year is upon us. Feelings of excitement, nervousness, and anxiousness are common with the anticipation of a new school year. If students are beginning university for the first time or are continuing their studies, it is important to be aware of valuable tips to help start a successful new academic year.

Students should set goals that are realistic and achievable. Identify strengths and weaknesses and brainstorm how they can both be improved upon. Determine an action plan and attempt to stay on track.

Goal setting is an important part of having excellent organizational skills and being able to manage time wisely. Be aware of all deadlines, essay submissions, presentations, withdrawal dates and exam dates and make note of them in a day planner, phone or a calendar that would be referred to on a daily basis. Being able to prioritize tasks is also a skill that can assist a student throughout the school year.

Deciding on a place that is comfortable and suitable to do school work is essential to a student’s success. Choose a place that is not disruptive, has adequate lighting and away from distractions such as the television, phone or internet. Attempt to do this both at home or in residence as well as at the university.

Developing a note taking system does not only assist students in preparation for their classes, it is an essential part of studying for tests and exams. Keeping notes organized and neat, attending all classes, asking questions and participating in discussions are all a part of being an active student.

Utilize the office hours of instructors and teaching assistants if questions arise or a student needs clarification of relevant course material. These office hours are designed for this reason. If the office hours conflict with a course, communicate that with the instructor/TA and arrange a time that questions can be discussed.

Utilizing resources such as Academic Advising Services can prove to be vital to a student’s success. If a student is pursuing a General Studies degree, is currently undeclared or is considering changing majors the student should contact an Academic Adviser within the Office of the Registrar. To book an appointment or to view walk-in advising hours please visit www.brocku.ca/registrar/advising. Students who are in a specific major should contact their specific program adviser. A list of departmental advisers can be found at the website above.

For a complete list of Student Services please visit www.brocku.ca/services

Best of luck with your studies and all the best in 2012/13!

Summer has arrived! Though it seems that for returning students, final exams just ended, it is now time to think about the upcoming 2012/13 Fall/Winter year. New year one students have already began to register and registration for continuing students will begin early July. We are excited to welcome back our returning students and to welcome all of the students that are attending Brock for the first time!

For new year one students and new students transferring from another university on a full-time basis, the SMART Start orientation program is a great start to be introduced to Brock University. It is a one day orientation program to assists students with the transition to university life. It is an opportunity to learn more about the services Brock University has to offer, have questions answered, obtain assistance with registration, tour the campus and receive your student identification card. For more information regarding SMART Start, please visit their website at brocku.ca/smartstart.

For mature, part-time or part-time transfer students, Academic Advising Services will be holding an orientation sessions that will aid students by answering questions and assisting them with the transition into the Brock Community. For further information regarding the Summer orientation session specific to these students please visit brocku.ca/registrar/advising.

Each year Academic Advising Services stresses the importance of Academic Advising. It is vital to understand the rules and regulations that govern your studies as well as having a strong grasp on individual degree requirements.

Students that are pursuing a General Studies degree, are currently undeclared or are considering changing their major should contact an Academic Adviser from the Office of the Registrar. They will assist with General Studies program requirements, clarify rules and regulations, inform you of important dates and deadlines and encourage and refer you to valuable resources on campus. To visit the Academic Advising website please visit brocku.ca/registrar/advising.

Students that are in a declared program and require explanation or clarification of their specific degree requirements must be in contact with the Academic Adviser specific to their program. Contact information can be found at brocku.ca/registrar/advising/departmental-adviser-contact.

To determine the dates continuing students are eligible to register, they may visit the online registration guide for returning students at http://www.brocku.ca/registrar/guides/.
Registration is on a graduated scale based on the number of credits a student has accumulated as of June 30th, 2011.

Students, whether new or returning, should familiarize or re-acquaint themselves with the services at Brock University. The Student Development Centre, located on the 4th Floor of the Schmon tower is a service that should be utilized. They offer study skills workshops that help students in the development of helpful study tips and strategies. These free workshops will assist students in such areas as time management, exam preparation and essay writing. To view the Student Development Centre website please visit http://www.brocku.ca/sdc/. This is just one of many services that Brock has to offer. For a complete listing of services please visit http://www.brocku.ca/services/services-a-to-z .

Becoming familiar and comfortable with campus life and taking advantage of the resources available to students will be very useful and beneficial throughout a university career.

The Academic Advising team would like to take this opportunity to wish you all the best and a most successful 2012/2013 Fall/Winter year!

Final exams are officially over. It is now time to get excited about the nice weather that is near and look forward to the summer plans ahead. Whether students intend on taking Spring/Summer courses, returning home or traveling, planning for the upcoming school year is vital. There are key points students should keep in mind when thinking of the Fall/Winter academic session.

For new, year one students, Smart Start is a great way to begin your University experience at Brock. It is a one day orientation program that begins the transition to University life. During the Smart Start program students will be able to tour the university, receive assistance in registering for courses, have an opportunity to learn and understand the services Brock has to provide, get their student card, and hear about University life from current Brock students. To register for this program please visit brocku.ca/smartstart.

For students that are returning to studies, the 2012/13 Fall/Winter timetable for registering for courses will be available in June. New, year one students will be the first group of students eligible to register and the remaining students will register in accordance to the number of credits accumulated as of June 2012. It is based on a graduated scale and it is crucial to determine when one is eligible to register for courses so that they can begin registering specifically on that day.

It is important for students to familiarize themselves with the Academic rules, regulations and policies that govern their studies along with important dates, program information and requirements. This can be reviewed in the Brock Undergraduate Calendar available online at brocku.ca/webcal. Equally important is meeting with the specific program adviser to ensure students are on the right path to satisfying degree requirements. If a student is in a declared program, the student would meet with the specific program adviser. If a student is in a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science General Studies program, or may be thinking of changing their program, the student would meet with an Adviser in the Office of the Registrar. For further advising information please visit brocku.ca/registrar/advising.
If students need to obtain a school letter proving their enrollment or eligibility to return to studies over the summer break, they may do so through the Office of the Registrar. Students may order a letter in person, by mail, or by faxing in a General Request Form. Different letters vary in prices and processing time. Letters can be picked up, mailed or faxed if indicated on the request form.

Following some helpful tips and helpful suggestions, students can begin preparing themselves for the 2012/13 Fall/Winter Academic year. Academic Advising Services would like to wish students a safe and enjoyable summer and all the best in the year ahead!

I can remember the sense of panic when I showed up to my exam and suddenly realized that I had the time written down wrong!  Thankfully, I had written my 7pm exam down as 9 am and I had the rest of the day to review my notes and was still able to write my exam. You do not want to make the same mistake I made and potentially miss an exam or add any additional stress to an already demanding period of time. Be sure to check and double check your exam times and locations by visiting: http://brocku.ca/registrar/guides/returning/timetable/exams.php

We are officially in the Spring season. The completion of the Fall/Winter academic session is near. It can be a very exciting time of year with thoughts of warm weather, the summer break, and the anticipation of summer plans that lie ahead. Students will need to channel this excitement and begin preparing for their final exams.
Preparing for exams should be a process that coincides with the start of the course. Taking proper notes is vital and highlighting key points as the class progresses is essential. Understanding the course material and being able to effectively communicate that in an exam format is also important to a student’s success. It is easier to review course material before an exam rather that attempting to learn the course material for the first time.
Since many students will experience having two exams in two days or two exams in one day, practicing good organizational and time management skills will be beneficial during this time. Organizing times specific to each exam and knowing the exam format (multiple choice, true/false, essay questions, short answer) can help maximize study time in preparing for exams. Asking the instructor questions about the upcoming exam may prove to be helpful although the answers students receive may not be as specific as they would like them to be.
Finding the right place to study is crucial to exam preparation. Students should avoid distractions as much as possible so they can focus on the task at hand. Distractions such as cell phones, television, and the computer can be detrimental to studying. Even family, friends or roommates can be disruptive. Students must determine what works best for them. Choose a location that is comfortable, has adequate lighting, and has a minimal amount of distractions.
Organizing the course material into sections or points covered in the course while developing study sheets is imperative when preparing for exams. Predicting questions and reviewing previous exams if available in the library can be very useful too. Developing strategies that best suits the student’s needs for exam preparation can be challenging and it may take some time to establish what works best.
A valuable resource available for students is the free learning skills workshops presented by Brock University’s Student Development Centre. Workshops offered focus on such things as: Preparing for your Exams, Handling Exam Anxiety, How to Write Multiple Choice Exams and Last Minute Exam Preparation. For more information regarding the learning skills workshops please visit edit.brocku.ca/learning-skills/workshops
Since it can be very hectic preparing for exams, students must remember to reward themselves with a break. Attempt to choose them at appropriate times as this can enable students to remain sharp and not to be overwhelmed with too much information.
So what are you waiting for? Get studying and best of luck on your exams!