Freshmen

Your first year at the University of St. Thomas is very important, as we want you to experience the best education and transition from high school to college. For this reason, we have some tips and words of advice for you.

• Attend classes.

Some classes may not have strict attendance requirements, but it is important to attend all your classes to increase your confidence in the course. In fact, since the average class size at UST is only 21, it is not possible for your absence to go unnoticed.

• Always refer to your syllabus.

As you already know, every class has a syllabus at the beginning of every course, which contains the professor’s contact information, required course text, description of course objectives and assignment deadlines, and details on how final grades are calculated. It is advisable to always keep this syllabus handy for easy and quick reference.

• Be prepared for your classes.

Preparing before classes enhances your understanding and readiness for your courses. Prepare by completing your assignments and reviewing your notes before each class.

• Take notes during class.

Some professors give notes to students in hard copy or online. Others give guidelines using slides and lecturing. Whatever your professor does, it is advisable to always take notes in class, as they help for future reference.

• Always turn in your assignments on time.
   
• Keep developing your ability to think independently, socially and critically.

It is always good to accept new ideas and challenge them by yourself first, and then socially. Thinking deeply about things always enhances understanding and when challenged, asking friends and other colleagues for assistance doesn’t hurt.

• Always ask questions when confused about something.

Remember that the most successful students ask questions to their professors, advisors, staff, friends and other individuals when they have difficulty of some sort. Most professors believe that their office hours aren’t well utilized, so stop in and keep them busy with your questions.

• Develop your reading strategies.

Keep in mind that each course requires 2-4 hours a week for outside the class work for every credit taken, so make sure you don’t slide back and relax. If your reading strategy isn’t working out for you, you can always adopt a new one. The Academic Support Center can help.

• Study in a good environment.

Find a good place to study. A good studying environment is one that is well lit, quiet and comfortable. This might vary for people, but be careful of any distraction (sound, food, etc.) during reading that may have an impact. If you can’t find a good reading environment, try going to one of the libraries.

• Review material often.

Most people learn and forget due to major study breaks they give themselves throughout the semester. It is advisable to review study materials regularly. Last minute studying is stressful and reduces chances for good grades. Use the Writing Center, Math Resource Center (MaRC), and tutors. They aren’t just there for when you encounter difficulties, so use them frequently.

• Visit your academic adviser each semester.

Everyone is assigned an academic adviser. See your adviser at least once every semester to plan the classes that would suit your needs and help you in achieving your academic goals.

• Get involved.

Getting connected to campus broadens your knowledge of the university, develops your leadership skills, adds to your resume and helps you feel like you matter. Find out what you can do!

• Get a campus job.

It is great to work on campus. This is a way to earn money, meet people and feel more connected on campus. Your job experiences on campus would help you out in the future, especially adding to your resume. Contact Human Resources for on-campus jobs, and the Career Development Center for off-campus jobs.

• Manage your time wisely.

As people get involved with campus activities, they need to sure to continue focusing on their studies. Remember this is a personal issue, so no one can best tell you how to manage your time. Do only the things you can handle, don’t overdo. Time management tips can be found at the Academic Support Center.

• Honor the academic integrity of this community.

As a member of the UST community, you are expected to maintain high academic standards. Review academic conduct codes at www.stthomas.edu/policies/,  and ask your professor if you have any questions.

• Explore career/major options.

Choosing majors and finding career paths can be a challenge, so there are a number of useful resources available on campus to help students. Your Academic Adviser and the Career Development Center are just two of your options. Be sure to plan ahead and don’t wait until your senior year to discuss your career path!

• Know how to manage your stress.

For a college student, stress is bound to happen, but it can be managed. There are a lot of resources on campus to help: Yoga sessions offered through the Wellness Center, meditation spaces, group or individual counseling through Personal Counseling are just a few options.

• Keep fit.

It is always good to stay active and keep fit by exercising. The school has a lot of resources to help students keep fit. Staying fit in college increases your confidence and keeps you healthy. Stop by the Wellness Center in the lower level of Koch Commons to find out about all of the resources available to you.

• Develop ways to express your faith.

This is a great way of relaxing your soul. Be open to learning other faiths, and deepen your own faith, by using campus resources such as Campus Ministry