Plan to Succeed
They say we never plan to fail, we only fail to plan. A great way to put your best foot forward is to establish a regular routine for studying.
Here are a few tips for student success:
- Set aside a fixed number of hours each week for studies and stick to the schedule.
- Have an open mind and a positive attitude toward your class and your classmates.
- Read the News/Class Announcements first each time you log in to the classroom.
- Log in at the same time every day to establish a rhythm.
- Leverage your peers as a source of information and guidance.
- Contact your professor with questions. Never hesitate to reach out for clarification or explanation on course content, expectations or for individual feedback
Tips for Communication
- Don't be afraid to seek clarification.
- Use proper grammar and sentence structure in all your communications, including responses to other students, advisors, and faculty.
- Reply to your classmates' posts in thoughtful ways, and ask questions to promote further discussion. Participation requirements can vary by instructor, so it's important to review them in your syllabus. There's no hiding in the back row in an online class.
- Keep in contact with your instructor and classmates. Military students, notify your instructor immediately if you will not have access to class during TDY. Be sure to inform your instructor of the length of time you won’t have access.
Networking
Build networks as you take classes, developing relationships not only with classmates and faculty, but also with staff, alumni, and other professionals.
- Try to meet and keep in touch with two classmates in each class.
- Maintain contact information for your faculty members, and stay in touch with them.
- Link up with UMGC alumni.
- Seek out professionals who are working in your chosen field. Consider asking one to be a mentor or to meet with you occasionally.
- Take advantage of UMGC's support resources and tools (advising, career services, tutoring, and mentoring).
- Learn about UMGC clubs and professional organizations, and join those that interest you.