Undergraduate Advising - UMass Amherst

Summer Communication: Stay In Touch!

2013-05-02T09:00:00.000-04:00

Official UMass business is conveyed via your UMail email address, and this includes anything that happens during the summer. Make sure you check your UMail on a regular basis, read any messages completely, and respond promptly, if required. Don't miss the deadline to apply for a special scholarship or appeal a suspension because you didn't read your UMail!

Make sure your personal information on SPIRE is up-to-date! Does SPIRE have your cell phone number? Correct address? Review your information and make sure it is both correct and complete. It can be a bit embarrassing if someone from a UMass office calls to change the time of an appointment and reaches your parent, not you!

Read the Undergraduate Advising Blog during the summer to make sure you don't miss important information. While many posts will be directed to incoming students, watch for information that might pertain to you, your schedule, or your academic program. Be among the first to know when grades will hit SPIRE or which department is hosting an info session the first week of class!

Last Call for the Academic Advising Link!

2013-04-28T08:00:00.000-04:00

The Academic Advising Link will close for the semester at 8pm on Wednesday, May 1.

Stop by to get help with your end of the year questions. We are open to all students in all majors.

If you need any help with your GenEds for next year, reading your ARR, navigating SPIRE, questions about closed courses, or you have other questions, be sure to come talk to our trained Peer Advisors. We're located in the Learning Commons in the W.E.B. DuBois Library

Peer Advisors will be there from 4:00pm - 8:00pm from Sunday April 28 until Wednesday, May 1.

Have a great summer and we'll see you in the fall!

DEADLINE: Isenberg SOM Applications for BBA, HTM, and Sport Management Due May 1st

2013-04-27T09:00:00.000-04:00

If you're planning on applying to the BBA track (Accounting; Finance; Management; Marketing; Operations Management), Hospitality & Tourism Management or Sport Management majors, time is running out.

Applications are due Wednesday, May 1 at 5:00pm.

If you have questions about the process, make an appointment to meet with an advisor before Wednesday. Read the instructions and information on the Isenberg site before coming in.

BBA Track Application Information

HTM Application Information

Sport Management Application Information

If you miss this deadline, you will have to wait until the Fall to apply.

It's Time For Finals!!!

2013-04-27T08:00:00.000-04:00

Wednesday, May 1st is the last day of classes, and finals begin on Friday the 3rd! Now is the time to take hold of your academics and wrap up your semester on a positive note. Try out some of these tips for a stress-free finals week:

Make sure you know if your exams are cumulative. Cumulative exams will cover more material and including some material you probably haven't seen since the first half of the semester. Try this 5 Day Study Plan to help manage your workload and time.
It's also important to know the format of each exam. Is the exam multiple choice? True/False? Fill-in-the-Blank or Short Answer? Essay? You'll want to prepare differently for each type of exam, so knowing what to expect on test day is step one.
Not sure where to begin? Knowing what type of learner you are can help you tailor your study methods to those that work best for you! Try this learning styles inventory to discover study strategies that will work best for you.
Try forming a study group with classmates. Study groups can help keep you motivated and discussing course concepts with others can actually increase your ability to commit such information to long-term memory!
Whatever you do, don't let the Ten Traps of Studying get you!
Finally, don't forget to utilize campus resources. Many classes offer review sessions and most courses have TAs available to help clarify material. The Learning Resource Center in the library offers FREE peer-to-peer tutoring (by appointment only during finals week) and the Writing Center is a great place to have any essays or final papers reviewed before you hand them in.

Good luck!

Thinking About Summer Courses?

2013-04-25T09:30:00.000-04:00

Are you thinking of catching up, getting ahead, or retaking a class this summer? Here's what you need to know:

You can earn CREDIT for courses taken at another institution--such as a community college near home--but these courses WILL NOT affect your UMass Amherst GPA. Want to be sure the class you take will actually transfer to UMass before you spend your beach-time doing homework? Complete a Prior Approval Form before enrolling in the class.

You may also consider taking a class through UMass Amherst, either in-person or online. Only courses taken through UMass Amherst will grant you a grade as well as credit. You can check availability and cost and even register for such courses through UMass Continuing & Professional Education. If you plan on repeating a course that you got a C- or below in over the summer, this is the way to do it! Remember, you cannot repeat a course to replace a grade anywhere else but here. Before going this route though, you may want to speak to an advisor. The grade you get the second time is the one that counts toward your GPA, even if it's lower than your original grade, and summer courses can move at a very different pace than regular session courses, especially if they are taught online. Check in with your advisor to assess which summer course options are best for you!

Paul's Tip of the Week: Peer Advisors' Advice

2013-04-23T11:17:00.000-04:00

This week, I asked some of my fellow peer advisors ways in which they deal with the high amounts of stress and work associated with the end of the semester. Here are their little tips on strategies on practicing self-care and make sure you stay focused and motivated during this critical time of the semester.

Tyler: "Sleep, make time in your schedule to sleep before an exam...also set multiple alarms if you have an early exam. There is nothing more embarrassing than walking in late to a final or missing it completely."

AND

"Plan ahead. look at your finals schedule early to make sure you don't have 3 on one day or 2 at the same time. Also use this to plan out a study schedule for the week ahead"

Gabby: "Go to the gym to release some stress from studying"

Liz: "My main advice is taking small 5 minute breaks throughout studying (like every hour) but making sure that they only last 5 minutes. That and lots of sunshine/fresh air."

So remember, it is important to stay busy and focused on your work during these next few weeks but it's also important to take care of yourself, get some sleep, and take breaks.

Maybe one of those breaks you take could include going to this year's Acappellooza event this Wednesday at 7 PM in Bowker Auditorium featuring performances from all the acapella groups on campus! Great way to sit back and relax for a little while.

Whoops! Resource Economics Deadline is THIS Wednesday!

2013-04-22T10:57:00.001-04:00

We accidentally listed the deadline for submitting your Statement of Interest for Resource Economics as May 24.

YOUR STATEMENT OF INTEREST IS DUE ONLINE BY

WEDNESDAY APRIL 24

IN ORDER TO REGISTER FOR FALL 2013 COURSES AS A RESOURCE ECONOMICS MAJOR!

Reread the (corrected) post to learn more about what to do if you're planning on declaring ResEc for the Fall.

Resource Economics Online Statement of Interest DUE APRIL 24

2013-04-21T12:00:00.000-04:00

In order to declare Resource Economics before the end of the semester and be able to add ResEc courses for the fall, you must submit your Statement of Interest Online by APRIL 24.

Be sure to read their Undergraduate Handbook to familiarize yourself with ResEc prior to submitting your statement. Here are the three options of fields of study that are possible within Resource Economics. But you should begin your search here if you want to be a Resource Economics major.

Good luck!

Weekly Preview: April 22 - April 26

2013-04-19T10:00:00.000-04:00

Welcome to the last full week of classes!

As classes wind down and you're preparing for your finals, there are still deadlines and events to pay attention to.

Speaking of finals, you did check your schedule and clear up any conflicts, right? Right??? Click here to reread what you must do right now!

The deadline for declaring Resource Economics for the Fall is this Wednesday, April 24. You must submit their online Statement of Interest by noon! Click here to read more about the major and to find the Statement of Interest link.

Career Services will be holding a free Ice Cream Social on Friday, April 26 from 12 - 4 in 511 Goodell. All students in all majors are invited to meet with Peer Adviors and Career Services staff to learn more about what Career Services can do for you!

Two important dates for next week

There will be an R1 Exemption Test on Monday, April 29 at 6:30pm in Marcus 131.
Bring a #2 pencil, ID, and calculator. Passing the R1 exam (at least 12 out of 20 correct) will satisfy the R1 requirement for graduation but will not result in the awarding of any credits. There are, however, credit courses that will also satisfy the R1 requirement.

The deadline to submit your application for any of the majors in the Isenberg School of Management is Wednesday, May 1 at 5:00pm. Reread our earlier post for more information and links to the applications. This deadline is not negotiable.

Get the JOB

2013-04-16T13:38:00.000-04:00

How do you get a job when you graduate?

>> Your chances improve if you've had an internship (or several).

As cited in an NPR story on 3/4/13, the “National Association of Colleges and Employers found that 63 percent of paid interns in the class of 2012 had at least one job offer when they graduated. Of those who did no internship, only about 40 percent had an offer.”

How do you get started?

INTERNSHIP HOW-TO

Thursday April 18

from 4-5:00pm in 604 Goodell

Hear from staff and a student about what you need to do . . . and how cool it can be!

2013-04-16T08:00:00.000-04:00

Five College Interchange Pre-Registration ends on Friday, April 19.

Click to read more about how to register and how the Interchange program works. Two copies of your pre-registration form must be brought to 613 Goodell before 5:00pm on Friday.

You will have another opportunity to register during UMass Add/Drop in the Fall.

Still struggling with your schedule for fall?

2013-04-15T10:00:00.000-04:00

Undeclared Students - you have one more opportunity:

Walk-In Registration Assistance

Tuesday, 4/16, 1-3:00pm

Come prepared to talk about a possible major direction and have 3-5 possible course choices picked out. Bring a completed Advising Checklist (see http://ualc.umass.edu/advising/registration/) and check in at the front desk in 613 Goodell.

Remember also the Academic Advising Link (Learning Commons, lower level of library) is open 4-8pm, Sundays through Thursdays - PLUS you can schedule an appointment with an advisor by calling 413-545-2191.

Monday/Wednesday Schedule Change

2013-04-14T08:00:00.000-04:00

Monday is Patriots' Day. There are no classes and most offices on campus will be closed.

Wednesday will follow a Monday schedule. The rest of the week will be normal.

Weekly Preview: April 15 - April 19

2013-04-12T08:00:00.000-04:00

Monday is Patriots' Day. There are no classes and most offices on campus will be closed.

Wednesday will follow a Monday schedule. The rest of the week will be normal.

The final session of Walk In Registration Assistance for Undeclared Students will be on Tuesday, April 16 from 1:00pm - 3:00pm in Goodell 613. You must have at least three courses in your shopping cart (or already be enrolled in at least three courses) before you will be able to meet with an Advisor. Go to http://ualc.umass.edu/advising/registration/ and bring your completed Advisor Meeting Checklist. Appointments are first come, first served and you may only have 15 minutes to talk to an advisor, so be prepared! The more work you do before coming in, the more you'll get out of your appointment.

Are you ready for Career Services Boot Camp? On Thursday, April 18, head over to the Campus Center Room 911-15 and prepare for your job search!

12:00 - 12:45 Resume Writing Critque
12:50 - 1:35 Job Searching Review
1:40 - 2:25 Interviewing How To
2:30 - 3:15 Social Media Tips and Tricks
3:20 - 4:00 Job Security

When you've finished Boot Camp, head over to Goodell to learn about internships! Want a job when you graduate? First, you'll need an internship! Career Services and Undergraduate Advising present Internship How-To! On Thursday, April 18 from 4:00pm - 5:00pm in Goodell 604, come learn more about internships and how they will help you gain important experience and skills. Hear from students who have had internships and find out why you should get one, too!

Engineering Info Session

2013-04-09T10:56:00.000-04:00

There will be an Engineering Information Session for interested students on Wednesday, April 10 from 4:00pm - 5:00pm in 613 Goodell. Bring an up-to-date transcript (NOT an ARR), and an Engineering progress worksheet (if you have one).

ISOM Applications Have Posted!

2013-04-09T10:50:00.000-04:00

Are you planning on applying to the Isenberg School of Management?

Applications are now online!

Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) On Campus Transfer Information

Hospitality and Tourism Management (HTM) On Campus Transfer Information

Sport Management On Campus Transfer Information

THE APPLICATION DEADLINE IS MAY 1, 2013 AT 5:00PM!
This deadline is not negotiable.

What's your Alternate Major? Remember that applications, by nature, can be rejected. Have an alternate major in mind just in case. For more information on suitable alternates, call (413) 545-2191 and make an appointment to see an advisor in our office. Come in now to discuss other options and interests and be prepared to enroll for your Fall courses.

for UNDECLARED STUDENTS . . . .

2013-04-06T09:56:00.000-04:00

Walk-In Registration Assistance

is available for undeclared students at these times:

Wednesday, 4/10, 1-3:00pm

Thursday, 4/11, 10am-12:00pm

Tuesday, 4/16, 1-3:00pm

Come prepared to talk about a possible major direction and have 3-5 possible course choices picked out. Bring a completed Advising Checklist (see http://ualc.umass.edu/advising/registration/) and check in at the front desk in 613 Goodell. Remember also the Academic Advising Link (Learning Commons, lower level of library) is open 4-8pm, Sundays through Thursdays.

Weekly Preview: April 8 - 12

2013-04-05T09:27:00.000-04:00

As the end of the semester nears (!!!) be sure you're paying attention to deadlines, especially for applications to majors. But also be sure you're staying mentally, physically, and emotionally healthy! Check out these tips from University Health Services and take advantage of the resources offered by UHS from A to Z.

Are you thinking about majoring in Public Health Sciences? If you are interested in the major or new to the major, come to an information session! You are invited to attend on Monday, April 8 at 6:30 PM in Hasbrouck 228.

There will be an Engineering Information Session for interested students on Wednesday, April 10 from 4:00pm - 5:00pm in 613 Goodell. Bring an up-to-date transcript (NOT an ARR), and an Engineering progress worksheet (if you have one).

Are you Undeclared and need help with enrollment? There will be Walk-In Registration Assistance for Undeclared students on Wednesday, April 10 from 1:00pm - 3:00pm; Tuesday, April 11 from 10:00am - 12:00pm; and Tuesday, April 16 from 1:00pm- 3:00pm in 613 Goodell. You must have at least three courses in your shopping cart (or already be enrolled in at least three courses) before you will be able to meet with an Advisor. Go to http://ualc.umass.edu/advising/registration/ and bring your completed Advisor Meeting Checklist. Appointments are first come, first served and you may only have 15 minutes to talk to an advisor, so be prepared! The more work you do before coming in, the more you'll get out of the appointment.

Applications for the Isenberg School of Management should be available today. There have been technical difficulties, so please check back and be patient if you cannot access them. For applications and instructions go to http://www.isenberg.umass.edu/undergrad/ Click on “For Prospective Students” and Select “On-Campus Transfer Information.” THE APPLICATION DEADLINE IS MAY 1, 2013 AT 5:00PM! Please note that this deadline is not negotiable.

Upcoming Events and Deadlines

Students interested in Resource Economics must submit their online Statement of Interest by Wednesday, April 25 at noon.

There will be an R1 Exemption Test on Monday, April 29 at 6:30pm in Marcus 131.

Need a Passport? Of course you do!

2013-04-04T07:00:00.000-04:00

The UMass International Programs Office in partnership with the US Department of State Boston Passport Agency and the US Postal Service will be set up for you to apply for or renew passports on Tuesday, April 9 from 9:30 AM - 2:30 PM in the Campus Center 165-69.

Bring the following documents:

Proof of citizenship: previous passport, an original certified birth certificate, naturalization certificate or certificate of citizenship
Proof of identity: two forms of ID (driver’s license, military/student ID)
Copies of the identity documents: In addition to the originals, you must bring photocopies of the IDs
Passport photo: For quicker processing, bring a passport photo. Photo service will be available on-site.

Payment: NO CASH OR CREDIT CARDS. Personal checks or money orders ONLY. Bring two checks or two money orders:

Check 1 for the execution fee of $25 made payable to “USPS”
Check 2 for the application fee made payable to “U.S. Department of State.” The amount of the application fee depends on whether you want a passport card in addition to a passport book ($110 for book only, $140 for book and card).
Expedited processing is an additional $60 payable by check or money order to “U.S. Department of State.”
Application forms can be completed at the event, or you can bring a completed form with you. Forms available are at www.travel.state.gov/passport/

For more information contact the International Programs Office, 467 Hills South, 4th Floor, 413-545-5247.

Paul's Tip of the Week: What To Do When a Class is Full

2013-04-03T08:00:00.000-04:00

With registration for classes in the Fall beginning this week, I wanted to give some advice on a problem almost every UMass student has experienced. What happens when that perfect class you wanted is full? That ideal class would have fit so perfectly into your schedule, looked so darn interesting, fulfills that requirement you needed, and isn't at 8 AM. It would have been great. Well, we can't always get into all the classes we were hoping to but there are a couple of ways you can still potentially get into that perfect class. Here are some general tips on what to do when you don't get your perfect schedule.

1.) Sign up for a full load of credits anyways

Register for classes right when your registration appointment begins. Just because you didn't get into your last class, it doesn't mean you shouldn't sign up for another class. When looking for classes for Fall 2013 you want to pick out a couple of backup classes in case you do not get into every initial class you wanted to take. Oftentimes, all the classes you want are still open but then two minutes later when your registration appointment begins, they magically fill up.

If the class you could not get into eventually opens up you can always swap it with your backup class using the "Swap" feature on SPIRE.

2.) Check periodically to see if the class opens up

People are literally making changes to their schedule from the beginning of April this semester till the end of Add/Drop period in September. With this said, people could potentially be dropping the classes you want to get in. Check every once in a while to see if the class becomes available.

3.) Wait list

Check to see if the class has a wait list and add yourself to the waiting list if it does (Not sure how? Come to the Advising Link!). But, be careful--wait lists can be tricky! First, not every class has a wait list. Second, wait lists only work if you arrange your schedule in a way that leaves space for the class. So, for example, if you enroll in Psych 100 but are on the wait list for a section of Pub Hlth 160 that meets at the same time, if/when your wait list number comes up, SPIRE will not be able to add you because of the time conflict and your number will be skipped. Also, you have to have enough credits available to accommodate the class. SPIRE cannot automatically enroll you in a wait listed class if doing so will put your over your credit maximum. Your maximum credit load may depend on your major, so check with your advisor if you have questions. Finally, wait lists expire on the first day of classes. If you're still patiently waiting for a seat in the class at that point, attend the class on the first day and speak to the professor directly.

4.) Email the Professor

No luck with anyone dropping the class yet? Try emailing the professor of the class. See who is teaching it and find their email on "Peoplefinder" on the UMass homepage. Send them a professional email telling them why you are interested in taking their class and if there is any way that you can get in despite the fact that it is full on SPIRE. Some professors might not respond, others will tell you there is nothing they can do, but some may override you into the class or give you some advice on getting into the class.

5.) Show up on the first day

Even if the professor never emails you back or you are not officially enrolled in the class, show up on the first day of the class and talk to the professor in person. This way you can get a feel of whether or not this course is truly a course you want to be in and it gives the professor another reason to let you into their class. I have done this before and my professor told me to keep showing up for the first and second week and he eventually let me into the course.

So don't get discouraged when all those beautiful green circles turn into blue boxes. You can still have have the beautiful schedule of your dreams.

Want to be an ENGINEER?

2013-04-02T09:00:00.000-04:00

If you're interested in applying to be an Engineering major, attend one of these information sessions to speak with an advisor from Engineering about your course selection and your prospects.

Engineering Info Sessions

Thursday, 4/4, 4-5:00 pm or

Wednesday, 4/10, 4-5:00 pm

Check in at 613 Goodell

Bring an up-to-date transcript (NOT an ARR), and an Engineering progress worksheet (if you have one).

Five College Interchange Pre-Registration Starts on April 1

2013-03-31T08:00:00.000-04:00

Are you interested in taking a class at Amherst, Hampshire, Smith or Mt. Holyoke? Get ready for Five College Interchange pre-registration!

Pre-registration requests begin on April 1 and end on April 19. These dates may be different from your UMass enrollment appointment! Anyone can request to pre-register starting on April 1 even if they can't start enrolling in UMass classes until later.

The registration procedure for Five College Interchange classes is different from your UMass enrollment process. Once you find the course(s) you want, read the detailed instructions on our website very carefully. The Five College Enrollment Request Form is available on SPIRE, but you cannot submit your registration through SPIRE. You must follow the UMass paperwork procedure and hand in two copies of the UMass paperwork to the UMass Five College Interchange office located in 613 Goodell.

Important information:

Pre-registration is a request, it is not guaranteed.
You must be in good academic standing and have a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher.
You must be registering for at least one 3-credit UMass course.
You can only request to pre-register by handing in two copies of the UMass paperwork to the UMass Five College Interchange office located in 613 Goodell.
You also have an opportunity to register for Five College Interchange classes during the UMass add/drop period in the Fall.

Questions? Visit our website, come see us in 613 Goodell, call us at 413-545-5352, or send an email to 5collreg@acad.umass.edu.

Paul's Tip of the Week: Post-Spring Break Problems (and Solutions!)

2013-03-30T09:00:00.000-04:00

Whether you were in Florida soaking up the sun or at home in your pj's all break, a common consensus among the UMass population is that none of us got enough work over break and now we are all freaking out and pretty stressed. With projects, papers, tests, classes to register for, housing deadlines, and the inevitable finals week in May, the end of the semester is not going to be easy. Here are a couple of tips to help you navigate your remaining time at UMass this academic semester:

1.) Plan your time wisely
Time management is going to be critical in your success in this final stretch to the summer. I would recommend marking any and all important events in your calendar/planner. This could include when your tests are, when projects are due, and even when social or club events are hosted. This will make it much easier to manage your time and figure out where your priorities should be on any given day.

2.) Registration
Registration for Fall 2013 begins on April 1st. Have you...
.....checked to see when your registration appointment is?
.....met with your academic advisor yet?
.... started looking for classes? How about a Five College course? Five College Interchange Infomation

3.) Housing
Make sure you stay on top of all on-campus housing priority deadlines! And if you are thinking about off-campus housing, do your research. Read more about on and off campus housing on Res. Life's website: Residential Life Info

4.) Keep on task
While it is starting to get warm outside (sort of...) and sometimes your workload may seem unbearable, it is extremely important to continue to work hard and stay focused. You don't want to throw away all your hard work this semester in this last month of school. If you are struggling in a class and feeling overwhelmed, make sure to contact your professors and TAs for extra help. Our campus is here to support you and there are always resources available to help you out.

So good luck and perserve!

Weekly Preview: April 1 - 5

2013-03-29T08:00:00.000-04:00

The Five College Interchange Pre-Registration Request period begins on Monday, April 1 and ends on Friday, April 19. We'll post much more information about the process on Sunday.

Interested in getting CPR certified? The Public Health Club is hosting a CPR Certification Night for only $10! The event will be held on Monday, April 1st at 6pm in the Student Union Ballroom. Register and pay the registration fee in Arnold House 330. Space is limited. Any questions? Email phclub@schoolph.umass.edu

Are you interested in becoming a Communication major? Attend the Communication Registration Meeting on Wednesday, April 3 from 12:15 - 1:15 in Machmer E-37. Majors and prospective majors are cordially invited to attend.

Resource Economics Information Sessions will be held on Thursday, April 4 at 5:30pm and Friday, April 5 at 12:20pm. Both sessions will be in Stockbridge 303. You must attend an information session and fill out the Online Statement of Interest in order to meet with a Resource Economics advisor to discuss the major. Your Statement of Interest is due online by Wednesday, April 24 in order to register for Fall 2013 courses as a Resource Economics major.

The 16th Annual SPHHS Research Day will be on Tuesday April 2, from 2:00 pm-5:00 pm in the Student Union Cape Cod Lounge. This event highlights the outstanding education, research and practices being performed by students within the School of Public Health and Health Sciences. Students from all departments within the School will present posters of their work. The SPHHS holds this event as an opportunity for the university, media and surrounding communities to learn more about the research, instruction and outreach efforts being conducted by their students.

Are you interested in Engineering? Come meet with Engineer advisors to learn if this is the major for you! There will be information sessions on Thursday, April 4 and Wednesday April 10. Both sessions will be held from 4:00pm - 5:00pm in Goodell 613. Bring an up to date transcript (not your ARR) and you Engineering progress worksheet (if you have one).

Upcoming Information, Dates, and Reminders

Are you thinking about majoring in Public Health Sciences? If you are interested in the major or new to the major, come to an information session! First Years are invited to attend on Monday, April 8 6:30 PM - Hasbrouck 228.

Final Exam Reminder! Have you taken care of any conflicts? Read our earlier post and be sure you're ready for Finals Week.

Don't forget about Academic Advising Link! Our experienced and trained Peer Advisors will help you with SPIRE. They'll talk to you about major requirements, GenEds, grading options and more. You don't need to make an appointment - just stop by! The Link is open Sunday through Thursday from 4:00pm - 8:00pm. We are located downstairs in the Learning Commons in the DuBois Library.

Writing Placement Test: TOMORROW!

2013-03-27T08:00:00.000-04:00

The Writing Placement Test will be held tomorrow (Thursday, March 28) at 6:00pm in Bartlett 203.

Any student who has not previously taken this test MUST do so before being able to enroll in English Writing 112.

For more details, call the Writing Program at 413-545-0610, visit their webpage or click here to learn more about the University Writing Requirements.