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Entering college for the first time can be an overwhelming experience.
BYU's freshmen will be coming from all over the world and, for many, it is their first time away from home. The transition can be difficult.
The university has provided several tips that incoming freshmen can put to their advantage. The following is a list of tips and advice,
courtesy of the university's academic services.
1. Make a full commitment to the BYU lifestyle. It is expected that all BYU students will understand, esteem and embrace the standards of the Honor Code. BYU's Honor Code is what makes us unique and is what attracts members and nonmembers of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to our campus. Our students share the responsibility for maintaining these standards.
2. Become immersed in the university culture. The importance of involvement at BYU cannot be understated. Our most successful students are those who get involved quickly. They attend all New Student Orientation activities; they rarely miss class; they participate in
student activities and get involved in study groups; they attend cultural, sports and community events as well as weekly Devotionals and Forum Assemblies; they participate in ward activities; they get involved in student clubs and take advantage of opportunities for service.
3. Use University Resources. BYU provides a plethora of resources designed to assist you in successfully completing your academic, career and professional goals. Take advantage of the programs and resources available to you. Become familiar with the library, learning resource centers, the Career Learning and Information Center (CLIC), Academic Information Management (AIM), Advisement by Computer (ABC) report, Major Academic Plans (MAPs), writing labs, the Counseling and Career Center (CCC) workshops, and the Open Major and College Advisement Centers (CACs). These resources will prove to be of invaluable assistance to you while you attend BYU.
4. Keep informed of what's happening. Being informed begins with your classes. Understand what is expected of you in all of your classes, both inside and outside the classroom. Know important deadline dates.
Reading the Daily Universe regularly will help with this.
Become familiar with information available on the kiosks and review on a regular basis. Read and review BYU's student publications, such as the Undergraduate Catalog and Class Schedule. Any major policy or procedural change will be noted in these documents. Be sure to keep
your address updated on AIM or by notifying the Registration Office
(B-150 ASB). You are still responsible for important information from the university even if you never received it because of an outdated address. Be sure to ask questions.
5. Establish key relationships. Establishing key relationships early
will greatly enhance your chances for success. Take the initiative.
Get to know your professors; ask them questions. Seek them out before you run into academic difficulty. Visit with your advisor in the College Advisement Center at least once each semester. Make sure you are 'on track,' and know what is expected of you in your major program. Find out who your student leaders are. They usually have been here longer than you and can help alleviate any concerns you might have.
6. Take responsibility for your education. Valuable resources have
already been listed above, but they don't do any good if you don't take
advantage of them. Attend class regularly and participate in classroom discussions. Visit your College Advisement Center every semester. They can help you select and solidify your major. Use your ABC report, MAP and CAC advisor to fill prepare an academic plan. Learn how to use AIM. Participate in study groups. Use the library often. Plan to enroll in 15-16 hours a semester. Get to know two or three faculty members in your field. Connect your major with career opportunities.
Take advantage of internships and co-op programs. Attend CCC
workshops. Ask questions. Work hard.