UST Explorer

A Blog for Undeclared Students

Month: March 2017

Helpful Hints for Making the Most of Your Advising Appointment

  1. Don’t wait until the last minute to make an appointment with your advisor. Your advisor has many students to see, and you will have more options to choose from if you schedule now.
  2. Go to the appointment with a list of questions. If you are meeting to discuss registration, have you reviewed the current course offerings and catalog requirements? Did you make a list of classes that interest you?
  3. Arrive on time! Confirm the location of your advisor’s office. Keep the office number handy, just in case you’re running late and need to let someone know.
  4. Since academic decisions are ultimately your responsibility, tell the advisor if you don’t understand a requirement or are not clear about a UD policy or procedure. Ask the advisor to help you find the answers to your questions.
  5. Don’t be afraid to bring up sensitive issues (e.g., missing classes, financial concerns). Tell your advisor if there is something that is affecting your ability to succeed academically.
  6. Remember to thank your advisor for his/her time. This may seem obvious, but it is an important part of establishing a professional relationship.
  7. Make sure you follow-up on any referrals that your advisor gives you (e.g., tutoring, counseling center).

 

Student Spotlight: Braulio Florentino

Braulio Florentino, Class of 2020, is a first-year student who entered UD undeclared because he wanted the opportunity to explore his options. He told his advisor, Adrian McCleary, that he has always been fascinated by science and excelled in math in high school. Braulio chose UD because it provides the type of environment where he can thrive, and he has decided to major in Biological Sciences in preparation for attending medical school.

“If I Knew Then What I Know Now…” Student-to-Student Advice

“Don’t judge yourself too harshly. You need to own up to your mistakes, but don’t be irrational. If you messed up, recognize that it’s part of growing up. And DO SOMETHING DIFFERENT next time.” Sophomore Economics student

“Being on academic probation is nothing to be ashamed of. It’s still possible to do what you want if you work with the people on campus who know how to help you. Get a tutor, go to the Writing Center, do whatever it takes to get back on track.”
–Sophomore Undeclared student

“Your life may feel overwhelming right now. I know mine was until I switched direction. I really struggled when I got to UD. Everyone kept telling me I should be so excited and being at college was going to be so great. But it wasn’t great. I didn’t make friends right away and the classes were a lot harder than they were in high school. I always thought I wanted to be a doctor, but then I realized it was going to be very stressful, and I had to decide what else to do. But my advisor reminded me

that I don’t need to decide exactly what I want to do for the rest of my life right now this minute.” – Freshman Undeclared student

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