Here we go again, or, if you’re new to CUE, welcome! Whether you’re starting your very first semester or returning after a well-deserved break, the beginning of a new academic year can feel exciting, overwhelming and just a little chaotic.
Starting university comes with a lot of new responsibilities. Suddenly, you’re expected to keep track of your own schedule, deadlines, assignments, finances and, somehow, still find time to have a life outside of class. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t worry. You aren’t expected to have everything figured out on day one.
Start by finding your routine
Your first few weeks are a good time to figure out what works for you. Look at your class schedule and plan when you’ll study, eat and take breaks. University gives you more freedom than high school, but that freedom also means you need to be intentional with your time. You don’t need a perfect schedule, just one you can realistically stick to.
Don’t wait until you’re struggling to ask for help
One of the biggest mistakes you can make is assuming that you need to figure everything out on your own. CUE has a number of resources designed to help students succeed, and they’re there for you before you reach a crisis point.
Having trouble with an assignment or understanding course material? The library offers research, academic, writing and citing support, including W.A.L.L.I.E, the library’s chatbot, which can help point you toward useful information and resources. Peer tutoring is another option, connecting you with students who have previously taken the courses you’re working through.
If you need help figuring out your courses, academic advising can help you navigate your schedule and make decisions about your degree. And if finances are becoming a concern, you can book an appointment with financial aid online to discuss your options.
Academic advising: learningservices@concordia.ab.ca
Take advantage of support that is made for you
Students with accessibility needs can connect with the Student Success Centre for accommodations and support that can make their academic experience more manageable. If you know you need accommodations, it’s best to reach out as soon as possible, because getting support takes several weeks to be put in place (depending on the type of accomodation). Reaching out for support isn’t a sign that you aren’t capable of succeeding; it means you’re using the tools available to you.
Student accessibility services: sas@concordia.ab.ca
Student Success Centre: studentlife@concordia.ab.ca or find them at room HA 113
Career Services: careerservices@concordia.ab.ca or find them at room HA 113
Get involved outside the classroom
Finally, you can join a club, attend an event, talk to your classmates or simply spend some time getting comfortable on campus. Your university isn’t only about grades. The people you meet and experiences you have along the way can become just as important.
You don’t need to have university completely figured out when you walk through the doors. Give yourself time to adjust, ask questions when you need to and make use of the resources around you.
Most importantly
Remember you are not doing this alone.
