Checklist for success

square Check and use your Brock student email account.

square Prepare for the year ahead with Orientation at Brock. Learn more about Brock’s orientation programs and how you can get started. Orientation will allow you to experience preparedness, connection, personalized support, academic readiness, and an exceptional first year experience.

square Set new expectations for yourself. University is a new challenge that should be embraced! Take time to understand the format of your classes and the support available to ensure your success.

square ATTEND CLASS!

square Ensure you are not waiting to submit assignments at the last minute. Technology can fail and you don’t want to risk a late penalty!

square Write professionally and with respect. Include the course code in the subject line, begin email formally (e.g., Hello Dr. Kim), and end with your name and student number.

square Be connected to services, supports, and co-curricular opportunities that will help you succeed and call Brock home: brocku.ca/current-students square Ask for help! There is a lot of support available, but you need to advocate for yourself and for your learning. square Take advantage of supports from Learning Services:

• attend 1-hour workshops led by upper-year students

• how to take notes in fast-paced lectures

• how to speak up in seminar

• how to stay on track

• how to write an academic paper

• how to succeed in university exams

• visit academic drop-in to get advice from upper-year students

• book a consultation with a Learning Skills Specialist

• request a tutor for support in a specific class (pay-per-hour service, $25/hour)

Find more at brocku.ca/learning-services square Visit your Professors and/or TAs during office hours if you need clarification on course content, assignments, etc. square Meet with your academic advisor to ensure you’re on track with your program. Find your advisor at brocku.ca/academic-advising square Treat university like a full-time job. Plan two hours of weekly study time for every hour of lecture. Create a schedule to complete your readings and assignments outside of scheduled class time each week. square Use a 4-month calendar to plan your entire semester. By mapping out due dates, you ensure you have enough time to do your best work. Create start dates and mini due dates for large assignments to help you stay on track. square Work to understand the material, rather than solely memorize. University requires deeper, more critical thinking and application, rather than just memorization. square Go around campus and find your classrooms a few days before classes start. square Make time for yourself! Eat, sleep, be active, socialize. University is more than just classes. Find information about available supports here: brocku.ca/swac square Stay active - intramurals, clubs, other rec activities. square Get involved with clubs, on campus organizations, etc. right away! Use experiencebu.brocku.ca and track your involvement on the Campus-wide Co-curricular transcript (CWC). square Be sure to make a comprehensive budget. Remember to include things like potential increases in rent, groceries, eating out, and extracurricular activities.