UWI. Three letters that cause so much pain. Those of you who’ve felt it knows what I’m speaking of. Those who haven’t, don’t worry. You’ll be perfectly fine *Insert nervous laughter*. This is the time of the year where we, university students, are plagued with the sudden realization that our summer is coming to an end. But have no fear! This year I’ve decided to provide a guide to help you navigate through the jungle that is “back to school”.
Tip 1: Know Your Platforms
We mainly use around three platforms which have their own functions and serve their own specific purpose. You have the UWI student email, the eLearning platform and CHOL which is just a short fancy way of saying “Cavehill Online”. The student email is pretty self-explanatory, if it isn’t maybe now’s the time to reevaluate your university career. On eLearning you’ll find all the details pertaining to your courses after you have successfully registered. Finally, CHOL. This recently updated platform houses many features. Luckily for us, the home page provides video tutorials for those who may need assistance with proper navigation of the site. On CHOL you can view and update your personal information, view your grades/transcript and even pay your fees. The feature which garners the most interest, however, is registration. I would suggest you get acquainted with the site’s features before this time. Why?
Tip 2: Registration
Registration is like the Hunger Games. You need to be prepared to train for the biggest battle of your university career. Not only do we compete against each other for class spaces, but the UWI servers and administrative mistakes so may the odds be ever in your favor. In addition to learning the platform its best, where possible, to map out your courses for the semester. This can be done by going into the system and taking note of the courses you wish to check off your list. You can also take it a step further and record the CRNs (Course Reference Numbers) for the specific class you’re interested in taking. In my experience, this makes the registration process way easier since it eliminates having to try to find classes which fit your schedule on the day. Plus, it reduces major registration anxiety! All you have to do is input the CRN and click register. Very important side note for the new ones, “R” means Thursdays. That may go over your head now, but you’ll understand once you’re in the system.
Tip 3: Decide What Student You Want to Be (Set Goals)
Some students aim for straight A’s, others want to do the minimum required to pass. Me? I’m a final year student who just wants to do what’s needed to leave and that’s ok. I believe as a society we need to move past the notion that there’s only one way to be a good student. I’m not saying you shouldn’t always try to do your best; I’m saying we need to recognize that everyone’s “best” is not the same. Set your own personal goals and stick to them.
Tips 4: Stay Organized and Plan Ahead
Planning should be an essential part of your semester. The workload has a funny way of sneaking up to you. One minute its week one and you’re doing introductions in class; the next it’s week six and you’re trying your hardest to recognize the topics on the upcoming midterms. Many of us go in with the infamous “I’ll do the work as soon as I get it, so it won’t pile up” mentality. While our efforts are mostly futile the idea is correct. Try not to procrastinate too much. I promise Netflix and that lady child will be there when you get back. Find fun ways to implement strategies that keep you on track. Invest in a planner, use sticky notes as reminders. Utilize the calendar app on your devices. Remain consistent with your small habits so you can eventually see big return.
Tips 5: Find Your Core Group
The soldiers on the battlefield with you could easily make or break your experience. Having a solid group of friends make the journey more tolerable. However, for maximum efficiency, I would suggest you diversify your group. If you’re hoping to surround yourself with studious individuals that’s fine but remember your university experience transcends academics. Here’s the list I would suggest:
1. The Organizer - keeps tracks of all assignments and tests. Plus, always carries extra supplies.
2. The Cheerleader – never lacks motivation or positive energy. It may seem a bit much at times but best believe you’d miss it if it wasn’t there.
3. The Life of the Party – this friend knows every flash zone special and reminds you to live a little.
4. The Foodie – always has the snacks on clutch. Comes in very handy for all day study sessions.
5. Mr./Mrs. Present – the one that always shows up to class. Trust me on this one, they’re needed.
Also bear in mind the university boasts a very diverse campus. Don’t just stick to who you know, meet friends from around the region or even the world. Broaden your horizons. Learn about different cultures.
I hope these tips help as you ascend the steps to the new semester. Our current reality is filled with uncertainty so we as individuals are now forced to find a way to remain solid even when everything around us may be crumbling. We’ve made it this far though and I think that should be celebrated. As you move forward remember that you define your own success. Perform at the level that is best for you this semester and own it. Pay close attention to your mental health and make adjustments to your lifestyle where necessary. Now, go forth my loves and be great.
List of Supplies That Just Might Come in Handy:
· Toilet paper/ Baby wipes
· Water Bottle
· Planner
· Extra Food
· Sweater/Jacket
· Sticky Notes
· KFC/Chefette Delivery #
