Academic Help /studentlife/ en Your major, your journey: Explore what’s possible /studentlife/deciding-major <span>Your major, your journey: Explore what’s possible </span> <span><span>Kyra Raye Loch</span></span> <span><time datetime="2025-09-02T11:54:38-06:00" title="Tuesday, September 2, 2025 - 11:54">Tue, 09/02/2025 - 11:54</time> </span> <div> <div class="imageMediaStyle focal_image_wide"> <img loading="lazy" src="/studentlife/sites/default/files/styles/focal_image_wide/public/2025-09/preview.jpg?h=34bbd072&amp;itok=nnZPKGbW" width="1200" height="800" alt="A student at Norlin Library"> </div> </div> <div role="contentinfo" class="container ucb-article-tags" itemprop="keywords"> <span class="visually-hidden">Tags:</span> <div class="ucb-article-tag-icon" aria-hidden="true"> <i class="fa-solid fa-tags"></i> </div> <a href="/studentlife/taxonomy/term/134" hreflang="en">Academic Help</a> <a href="/studentlife/taxonomy/term/133" hreflang="en">Career Help</a> </div> <span>Career Services</span> <div class="ucb-article-content ucb-striped-content"> <div class="container"> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--article-content paragraph--view-mode--default"> <div class="ucb-article-text" itemprop="articleBody"> <div><p><a class="ucb-link-button ucb-link-button-blue ucb-link-button-regular ucb-link-button-default" href="/studentlife/deciding-major-audio" rel="nofollow"><span class="ucb-link-button-contents"><i class="fa-solid fa-play">&nbsp;</i>&nbsp;Listen to this article</span></a></p> <div class="imageMediaStyle large_image_style"> <img loading="lazy" src="/studentlife/sites/default/files/styles/large_image_style/public/2025-09/majors%20crop.jpg?itok=tcW_nRnl" width="1500" height="375" alt="A student at Norlin Library"> </div> <div><div><p><br><span lang="EN-US">Deciding on a major is a big step, and it’s totally normal to feel unsure or change your mind along the way. College is all about discovering what excites you and what fits your strengths, interests and goals. That might mean changing your major, adding a minor or customizing your academic journey after your first semester.&nbsp;</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p></div><div><p><span lang="EN-US">The good news: you don’t have to figure it out alone. Career Services and other campus departments offer free tools, tips and support to help you explore your options and find a path that feels right for you.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p><hr><h2><i class="fa-solid fa-pen">&nbsp;</i>&nbsp;<span lang="EN-US">Get to know yourself better</span><span>&nbsp;</span></h2><p><span lang="EN-US">First, exploring majors starts with understanding you. Think about the classes you’ve enjoyed, either at or in high school, and the ones that didn’t quite click.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p></div><div><p><span lang="EN-US"><strong>Ask yourself:</strong></span><span><strong>&nbsp;</strong></span></p></div><div><ul><li><span lang="EN-US">What subjects do I genuinely enjoy?</span><span>&nbsp;</span></li></ul></div><div><ul><li><span lang="EN-US">What academic skills come naturally to me?</span><span>&nbsp;</span></li></ul></div><div><ul><li><span lang="EN-US">What causes or ideas get me fired up?</span><span>&nbsp;</span></li></ul></div><div><ul><li><span lang="EN-US">What topics do I love talking about with friends?</span><span>&nbsp;</span></li></ul></div><div><ul><li><span lang="EN-US">What feels boring or just too tough?</span><span>&nbsp;</span></li></ul></div></div><div><div><p><span lang="EN-US">Reflecting on these questions can help you narrow down your options and focus on majors that match your interests and strengths. You can also try using the </span><a href="https://www.icscareers.com.au/card-sort/" rel="nofollow"><span lang="EN-US">Career Values Card Sort</span></a><span lang="EN-US">, a free tool to help you discover what matters most to you in a career.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p></div><div><hr><h2><i class="fa-solid fa-laptop">&nbsp;</i>&nbsp;<span lang="EN-US">Explore different career paths</span><span>&nbsp;</span></h2></div><div><p><span lang="EN-US">Your major won’t lock you into one career. Some majors lead directly to specific jobs, while others build versatile skills that open doors across many industries.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p></div><div><p><span lang="EN-US">If you’re wondering how your interests and strengths connect to possible careers, you’re in luck—there are great tools to help you explore:</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p></div><div><ul><li><span lang="EN-US">Check out </span><a href="/career/node/469" rel="nofollow"><span lang="EN-US">What Can I Do with This Major?</span></a><span lang="EN-US"> to see if there are any careers that interest you associated with majors you might be thinking about. The website will guide you through 96 of the most common majors and typical career areas for each.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></li></ul></div><div><ul><li><span lang="EN-US">Try the </span><a href="/career/node/641" rel="nofollow"><span lang="EN-US">Majors Card Sort</span></a><span lang="EN-US">, a free online tool that can help you identify the top majors that align with your goals.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></li></ul></div><div><ul><li><span lang="EN-US">Browse the </span><a href="/exploratorystudies/exploration/programs-different-lens" rel="nofollow"><span lang="EN-US">Programs from a Different Lens</span></a><span lang="EN-US"> webpage to explore degrees that have the same key features as the majors that interest you. Find information on course topics, learning outcomes and how classes are taught.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></li></ul></div><div><ul><li><span lang="EN-US">Use the </span><a href="/exploratorystudies/exploration/i-want" rel="nofollow"><span lang="EN-US">I want to ... website</span></a><span lang="EN-US"> from the </span><a href="/exploratorystudies/" rel="nofollow"><span lang="EN-US">Program in Exploratory Studies</span></a><span lang="EN-US"> to learn more about degree paths that will help you achieve your specified career goals.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></li></ul></div><div><ul><li><span lang="EN-US">Schedule </span><a href="/career/job-searching/networking/informational-interviewing" rel="nofollow"><span lang="EN-US">informational interviews</span></a><span lang="EN-US"> with professionals in your fields of interest. You can ask about their academic journey to learn how it influenced them professionally.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></li></ul></div><div><hr><h2><i class="fa-solid fa-comments">&nbsp;</i>&nbsp;<span lang="EN-US">Research and dive in</span><span>&nbsp;</span></h2></div><div><p><span lang="EN-US">Once you’ve narrowed down a few areas of interest, take the next step to dig deeper. Research majors to see how they align with your goals, strengths and curiosity.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p></div><div><p><span lang="EN-US">Use these free tools to help you decide if a major is the right fit:</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p></div><div><ul><li><a href="/registrar/students/degree-planning/audit/run" rel="nofollow"><span lang="EN-US">Degree audits:</span></a><span lang="EN-US"> Find out the required courses and credit hours needed to graduate. Department websites and the </span><a href="https://catalog.colorado.edu/undergraduate/" rel="nofollow"><span lang="EN-US">university catalog</span></a><span lang="EN-US"> can provide additional information.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></li></ul></div><div><ul><li><a href="/advising" rel="nofollow"><span lang="EN-US">Academic advisors:</span></a><span lang="EN-US"> If you’re not in a rush to declare or change your degree, take a class or two in a major you’re interested in and consult with an advisor from that area of study for course recommendations. You can also ask questions about the major to determine if it matches your interests and goals. Use advising drop-in hours or </span><a href="/buffportaladvising/" rel="nofollow"><span lang="EN-US">make an appointment</span></a><span lang="EN-US">.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><span>&nbsp;</span></li></ul></div><div><ul><li><a href="/advising/ralphies-advising-help-lab" rel="nofollow"><span lang="EN-US">Ralphie’s Advising Help Lab:</span></a><span lang="EN-US"> While this doesn’t replace appointments, Ralphie’s Advising Help Lab is a supplemental resource that allows you to access general advising or enrollment help quickly. Get assistance with dropping courses, switching majors and other advising questions.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></li></ul></div><div><hr><h2><i class="fa-solid fa-lightbulb">&nbsp;</i>&nbsp;<span lang="EN-US">Keep a positive mindset</span><span>&nbsp;</span></h2></div></div><div><p><span lang="EN-US">Choosing a major is a journey, not a race. Whether you’re ready to decide or still exploring, you’re right where you need to be. Stay curious, try out the tips and tools available and enjoy the process of discovering what fits you best.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p></div><div><p><span lang="EN-US">Need support? Career Services is here to help. </span><a href="/career/get-started" rel="nofollow"><span lang="EN-US">Meet with a career advisor</span></a><span lang="EN-US"> to talk through your reflections and plan your next steps, and learn more about </span><a href="/career/career-exploration/find-major" rel="nofollow"><span lang="EN-US">finding a major</span></a><span lang="EN-US">.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p></div></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div>Deciding on a major is a big step, and it’s totally normal to feel unsure or change your mind along the way. The good news: you don’t have to figure it out alone. Career Services and other campus departments offer free tools, tips and support to help you explore your options and find a path that feels right for you. </div> <h2> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--ucb-related-articles-block paragraph--view-mode--default"> <div>Related Articles</div> </div> </h2> <div>Traditional</div> <div>0</div> <div>On</div> <div>White</div> Tue, 02 Sep 2025 17:54:38 +0000 Kyra Raye Loch 2519 at /studentlife Balance classes, work and life like a pro /studentlife/time-management-tips <span>Balance classes, work and life like a pro</span> <span><span>Emily Sampl</span></span> <span><time datetime="2025-08-28T14:50:59-06:00" title="Thursday, August 28, 2025 - 14:50">Thu, 08/28/2025 - 14:50</time> </span> <div> <div class="imageMediaStyle focal_image_wide"> <img loading="lazy" src="/studentlife/sites/default/files/styles/focal_image_wide/public/2025-08/time%20manegement%20tips.jpg?h=495d632a&amp;itok=3coSSsw3" width="1200" height="800" alt="Two students sitting at a table outside on campus"> </div> </div> <div role="contentinfo" class="container ucb-article-tags" itemprop="keywords"> <span class="visually-hidden">Tags:</span> <div class="ucb-article-tag-icon" aria-hidden="true"> <i class="fa-solid fa-tags"></i> </div> <a href="/studentlife/taxonomy/term/134" hreflang="en">Academic Help</a> <a href="/studentlife/taxonomy/term/129" hreflang="en">Find Support</a> <a href="/studentlife/taxonomy/term/126" hreflang="en">Life Skills</a> </div> <span>ASAP Tutoring</span> <div class="ucb-article-content ucb-striped-content"> <div class="container"> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--article-content paragraph--view-mode--default 3"> <div class="ucb-article-text" itemprop="articleBody"> <div><p><a class="ucb-link-button ucb-link-button-blue ucb-link-button-default ucb-link-button-regular" href="/studentlife/time-management-tips-audio" rel="nofollow"><span class="ucb-link-button-contents"><i class="fa-solid fa-play">&nbsp;</i>&nbsp;Listen to this article</span></a></p> <div class="imageMediaStyle large_image_style"> <img loading="lazy" src="/studentlife/sites/default/files/styles/large_image_style/public/2025-08/time%20management%20tips%20crop.jpg?itok=9nZ-a0my" width="1500" height="375" alt="Two students sitting at a table outside on campus"> </div> <div><p><br><span lang="EN-US">Between hanging out with friends, working and keeping up with classes, your schedule can get packed fast. But don’t worry! Here are some time management tips to help you stay on track this semester and still have time for fun.&nbsp;</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p><h2><i class="fa-solid fa-calendar-days">&nbsp;</i>&nbsp;<span lang="EN-US">Get organized&nbsp;</span><span>&nbsp;</span></h2></div><div><p><span lang="EN-US">First, get yourself organized. Whether you prefer a calendar, a planner or an app, use something to keep track of your schedule and responsibilities. Mark down things like exam dates, project deadlines, work shifts, club meetings, study sessions and events you want to attend. Regularly check your calendar to see what’s coming up and prioritize what needs to be done.&nbsp;</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p></div><div><h2><i class="fa-solid fa-clock">&nbsp;</i>&nbsp;<span lang="EN-US">Block out study times&nbsp;</span><span>&nbsp;</span></h2></div><div><p><span lang="EN-US">Set aside specific times each week just for studying or reviewing class materials. Having a routine can help balance schoolwork with social activities and keep you prepared for midterms and finals.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p></div><div><h2><i class="fa-solid fa-book-open">&nbsp;</i>&nbsp;<span lang="EN-US">Plan your study sessions</span><span>&nbsp;</span></h2></div><div><p><span lang="EN-US">Break down big assignments like papers, projects or exams into smaller tasks with deadlines. This way, you can make steady progress and avoid last-minute stress. For group projects, discuss with your team how to divide tasks and who’s responsible for what. Having a plan helps prevent procrastination and keeps you on top of your work.&nbsp;</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p></div><div><h2><i class="fa-solid fa-mobile">&nbsp;</i>&nbsp;<span lang="EN-US">Fight distractions</span><span>&nbsp;</span></h2></div><div><p><span lang="EN-US">While you're studying, try turning off your phone or leaving it out of reach to help you focus. Set a timer for a focused study session—maybe 15 or 20 minutes—then take a 5-minute break when the timer goes off. Stretch, check your phone or grab a snack. Repeat the process to stay focused and get your work done faster.&nbsp;</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p></div><div><h2><i class="fa-solid fa-comments">&nbsp;</i>&nbsp;<span lang="EN-US">Ask for help&nbsp;</span><span>&nbsp;</span></h2></div><div><p><span lang="EN-US">If you’re stuck on a problem or don’t understand something from class, don’t struggle alone. Text a classmate, visit your professor during office hours or join a study group.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p></div><div><p><span lang="EN-US">You can also find support through the </span><a href="/living/asap" rel="nofollow"><span lang="EN-US">Academic Success and Achievement Program</span></a><span lang="EN-US"> (ASAP Tutoring), which is available to all first-year students, new transfers and students living on campus, and other </span><a href="/oue/tutoring" rel="nofollow"><span lang="EN-US">campus academic resources</span></a><span lang="EN-US">. The sooner you ask for help, the less likely you are to fall behind.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p></div></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div>Between hanging out with friends, working and keeping up with classes, your schedule can get packed fast. But don’t worry! Here are some time management tips to help you stay on track this semester and still have time for fun. </div> <h2> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--ucb-related-articles-block paragraph--view-mode--default"> <div>Related Articles</div> </div> </h2> <div>Traditional</div> <div>0</div> <div>On</div> <div>White</div> Thu, 28 Aug 2025 20:50:59 +0000 Emily Sampl 2174 at /studentlife AI and the Honor Code: 3 things to know /studentlife/ai-honor-code <span>AI and the Honor Code: 3 things to know </span> <span><span>Anonymous (not verified)</span></span> <span><time datetime="2025-08-28T00:00:00-06:00" title="Thursday, August 28, 2025 - 00:00">Thu, 08/28/2025 - 00:00</time> </span> <div> <div class="imageMediaStyle focal_image_wide"> <img loading="lazy" src="/studentlife/sites/default/files/styles/focal_image_wide/public/2025-08/ai%20honor%20code%20thumbnail.jpg?h=9855f42d&amp;itok=-yIdcZfY" width="1200" height="800" alt="A student sitting outside the UMC"> </div> </div> <div role="contentinfo" class="container ucb-article-tags" itemprop="keywords"> <span class="visually-hidden">Tags:</span> <div class="ucb-article-tag-icon" aria-hidden="true"> <i class="fa-solid fa-tags"></i> </div> <a href="/studentlife/taxonomy/term/134" hreflang="en">Academic Help</a> <a href="/studentlife/taxonomy/term/129" hreflang="en">Find Support</a> </div> <span>Student Conduct &amp; Conflict Resolution</span> <div class="ucb-article-content ucb-striped-content"> <div class="container"> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--article-content paragraph--view-mode--default 3"> <div class="ucb-article-text" itemprop="articleBody"> <div><p><a class="ucb-link-button ucb-link-button-blue ucb-link-button-regular ucb-link-button-default" href="/studentlife/ai-honor-code-audio" rel="nofollow"><span class="ucb-link-button-contents"><i class="fa-solid fa-play">&nbsp;</i>&nbsp;Listen to this article</span></a></p> <div class="imageMediaStyle large_image_style"> <img loading="lazy" src="/studentlife/sites/default/files/styles/large_image_style/public/2025-08/ai%20honor%20code%20crop.jpg?itok=zKN8cxkM" width="1500" height="375" alt="A student sitting outside the UMC"> </div> <div><p><br><span lang="EN-US">Curious about using AI tools like ChatGPT in your classes? You're not alone! As AI becomes part of everyday life, students, faculty and staff are figuring out how to use it in smart and ethical ways.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p></div><div><p><span lang="EN-US">That includes staying true to </span><a href="/sccr/students/honor-code-and-student-code-conduct" rel="nofollow"><span lang="EN-US">’s Honor Code</span></a><span lang="EN-US">, which is all about academic integrity and personal responsibility.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p></div><div><p><span lang="EN-US">So, as you head into the semester, here are three important things to know about using AI tools in your coursework.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p></div><div class="ucb-box ucb-box-title-hidden ucb-box-alignment-none ucb-box-style-fill ucb-box-theme-lightgray"><div class="ucb-box-inner"><div class="ucb-box-title">&nbsp;</div><div class="ucb-box-content"><div><h2><span lang="EN-US">1. Learn about Honor Code standards for AI use&nbsp;</span><span>&nbsp;</span></h2></div><div><p><span lang="EN-US">Right now, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all policy on AI in curriculum, because every course and professor might approach AI tools differently. The goal is to help you learn how to use innovative tools like ChatGPT in ways that support your success, not replace your work.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p></div><div><p><span lang="EN-US">Here’s what that means for you:</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p></div><div><p><i class="fa-solid fa-user">&nbsp;</i>&nbsp;<span lang="EN-US"><strong>Your professors set the rules</strong>. Each instructor decides if, when and how AI can be used in their class. It’s up to you to ask questions and make sure you understand their expectations before using any AI tools for assignments.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p></div><div><p><i class="fa-solid fa-square-check">&nbsp;</i>&nbsp;<span lang="EN-US"><strong>The Honor Code still applies</strong>. Using AI without permission—especially if it gives you an unfair academic advantage—is considered cheating. That includes things like having AI write your paper or using essay bots (free or paid) without approval.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p></div><div><p><i class="fa-solid fa-pen">&nbsp;</i>&nbsp;<span lang="EN-US"><strong>Plagiarism is still plagiarism</strong>. Whether it’s copying from a website or using AI to generate content, passing off someone else’s work as your own violates the Honor Code.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p></div></div></div></div><div class="ucb-box ucb-box-title-hidden ucb-box-alignment-none ucb-box-style-outline ucb-box-theme-black"><div class="ucb-box-inner"><div class="ucb-box-title">&nbsp;</div><div class="ucb-box-content"><div><h2><span lang="EN-US">2. Clarify AI guidelines for each course&nbsp;</span><span>&nbsp;</span></h2></div><div><p><span lang="EN-US">Not sure if you can use AI in a class? Just ask your instructor. Every course might have different expectations when it comes to using tools like ChatGPT or other AI. If you're ever unsure, the best move is to check in with your instructor before using AI for any assignments. It’s a simple way to avoid mistakes and stay on the right side of the Honor Code.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p></div><div><p><a href="/sccr/" rel="nofollow"><span lang="EN-US">Student Conduct and Conflict Resolution</span></a><span lang="EN-US"> recognizes that AI can be a helpful and creative tool in education. But it must be used the right way—and that depends on your course and your professor’s guidelines.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p></div></div></div></div><div class="ucb-box ucb-box-title-hidden ucb-box-alignment-none ucb-box-style-fill ucb-box-theme-lightgray"><div class="ucb-box-inner"><div class="ucb-box-title">&nbsp;</div><div class="ucb-box-content"><div><h2><span lang="EN-US">3. Be aware of the consequences</span><span>&nbsp;</span></h2></div><div><p><span lang="EN-US">If you use AI tools in a way that doesn’t follow your course’s guidelines, it could lead to an Honor Code violation. And while that might sound intimidating, ’s approach is about helping you learn from mistakes.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p></div><div><p><span lang="EN-US">Here’s what to keep in mind:</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p><p><i class="fa-solid fa-triangle-exclamation">&nbsp;</i>&nbsp;<span lang="EN-US"><strong>Violations are handled case-by-case</strong>. If you're found responsible for breaking the Honor Code, you may go through a resolution process designed to help you reflect, learn, and grow in your academic journey. Review examples of </span><a href="/sccr/resolution-outcomes" rel="nofollow"><span lang="EN-US">resolution outcomes</span></a><span lang="EN-US">.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p></div><div><p><i class="fa-solid fa-bullseye">&nbsp;</i>&nbsp;<span lang="EN-US"><strong>Professors decide academic outcomes</strong>. Your instructors have the final say on what happens academically if a violation occurs in their class.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p></div><div><p><span lang="EN-US">Bottom line: know the rules, ask questions and use AI responsibly. It’s all part of learning how to navigate new tools with integrity.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p></div></div></div></div><div class="ucb-box ucb-box-title-hidden ucb-box-alignment-none ucb-box-style-outline ucb-box-theme-black"><div class="ucb-box-inner"><div class="ucb-box-title">&nbsp;</div><div class="ucb-box-content"><div><h2><span lang="EN-US">Find support</span><span>&nbsp;</span></h2></div><div><p><span lang="EN-US"> offers a wide variety of </span><a href="/oue/tutoring" rel="nofollow"><span lang="EN-US">tutoring and learning resources</span></a><span lang="EN-US"> to support you and your academic success.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p></div><div><p><a href="/living/asap" rel="nofollow"><span lang="EN-US"><strong>Academic Success and Achievement Program (ASAP)</strong></span></a><span><strong>&nbsp;</strong></span><br><span lang="EN-US">ASAP offers peer tutoring and study resources to all first-year students and students living on campus. ASAP also offers the Textbook Lending Library, allowing students to check out books for many general education and lower division classes.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p></div><div><p><a href="/disabilityservices/" rel="nofollow"><span lang="EN-US"><strong>Disability Services</strong></span></a><span><strong>&nbsp;</strong></span><br><span lang="EN-US">If you’re planning to use testing accommodations through Disability Services, make sure you’re on the same page as your instructors about how they’ll be administered. Your dedicated access coordinator can help answer any additional questions or concerns.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p></div><div><p><a href="/program/writingcenter" rel="nofollow"><span lang="EN-US"><strong>The Writing Center</strong></span></a><span><strong>&nbsp;</strong></span><br><span lang="EN-US">The Writing Center is a free academic support service that offers writers from all academic disciplines and skill levels the opportunity to work one-on-one with professionally trained writing consultants.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p></div></div></div></div></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div>Curious about using AI tools like ChatGPT in your classes? Here are three important things to know about using AI tools in your coursework. </div> <h2> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--ucb-related-articles-block paragraph--view-mode--default"> <div>Related Articles</div> </div> </h2> <div>Traditional</div> <div>0</div> <div>On</div> <div>White</div> Thu, 28 Aug 2025 06:00:00 +0000 Anonymous 2256 at /studentlife Level up your study game this fall /studentlife/jump-start-semester <span>Level up your study game this fall</span> <span><span>Emily Sampl</span></span> <span><time datetime="2025-08-28T00:00:00-06:00" title="Thursday, August 28, 2025 - 00:00">Thu, 08/28/2025 - 00:00</time> </span> <div> <div class="imageMediaStyle focal_image_wide"> <img loading="lazy" src="/studentlife/sites/default/files/styles/focal_image_wide/public/2025-08/study%20tips%20thumbnail.jpg?h=a1e1a043&amp;itok=sPv7K0jJ" width="1200" height="800" alt="A student sitting outside on the lawn"> </div> </div> <div role="contentinfo" class="container ucb-article-tags" itemprop="keywords"> <span class="visually-hidden">Tags:</span> <div class="ucb-article-tag-icon" aria-hidden="true"> <i class="fa-solid fa-tags"></i> </div> <a href="/studentlife/taxonomy/term/134" hreflang="en">Academic Help</a> </div> <span>ASAP Tutoring</span> <div class="ucb-article-content ucb-striped-content"> <div class="container"> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--article-content paragraph--view-mode--default 3"> <div class="ucb-article-text" itemprop="articleBody"> <div><p><a class="ucb-link-button ucb-link-button-blue ucb-link-button-regular ucb-link-button-default" href="/studentlife/jump-start-semester-audio" rel="nofollow"><span class="ucb-link-button-contents"><i class="fa-solid fa-play">&nbsp;</i>&nbsp;Listen to this article</span></a></p> <div class="imageMediaStyle large_image_style"> <img loading="lazy" src="/studentlife/sites/default/files/styles/large_image_style/public/2025-08/study%20tips%20crop.jpg?itok=Gmx31WF1" width="1500" height="375" alt="A student sitting outside in the lawn"> </div> <p><br><span lang="EN-US">This semester brings new opportunities to learn, connect and grow. By embracing a few simple strategies, you can lay a foundation for academic success and personal well-being right from the start.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p><div class="ucb-box ucb-box-title-hidden ucb-box-alignment-none ucb-box-style-fill ucb-box-theme-lightgray"><div class="ucb-box-inner"><div class="ucb-box-title">&nbsp;</div><div class="ucb-box-content"><div><h2><i class="fa-solid fa-calendar-check">&nbsp;</i>&nbsp;<span lang="EN-US">Get organized&nbsp;</span><span>&nbsp;</span></h2></div><div><p><span lang="EN-US">At the start of the semester, take some time to go through each syllabus for your classes. Look for details like readings, expectations, deadlines and exam dates. This will help you know what's ahead and keep you on track from day one.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p></div><div><ul><li><span lang="EN-US">Add important dates to your calendar, such as exams, project deadlines and assignments.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></li></ul></div><div><ul><li><span lang="EN-US">Break down big projects into smaller tasks to avoid procrastination.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></li></ul></div><div><ul><li><span lang="EN-US">Schedule regular study sessions—aim for 2-3 hours of study per hour of class.&nbsp;</span><span>&nbsp;</span></li></ul></div></div></div></div><div class="ucb-box ucb-box-title-hidden ucb-box-alignment-none ucb-box-style-fill ucb-box-theme-lightgray"><div class="ucb-box-inner"><div class="ucb-box-title">&nbsp;</div><div class="ucb-box-content"><div><h2><i class="fa-solid fa-clock">&nbsp;</i>&nbsp;<span lang="EN-US">Attend office hours</span><span>&nbsp;</span></h2></div><div><p><span lang="EN-US">Meet one-on-one with professors during office hours to ask questions or seek support. Introduce yourself early on to build rapport for future help. </span><a href="/studentaffairs/make-most-office-hours-semester" rel="nofollow"><span lang="EN-US">Get more tips for attending office hours</span></a><span lang="EN-US">.&nbsp;</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p></div></div></div></div><div class="ucb-box ucb-box-title-hidden ucb-box-alignment-none ucb-box-style-fill ucb-box-theme-lightgray"><div class="ucb-box-inner"><div class="ucb-box-title">&nbsp;</div><div class="ucb-box-content"><div><h2><i class="fa-solid fa-lightbulb">&nbsp;</i>&nbsp;<span lang="EN-US">Discover what works for you&nbsp;</span><span>&nbsp;</span></h2></div><div><p><span lang="EN-US">Take time to explore which study strategies and learning environments help you feel focused and motivated:</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p></div><div><div><ul><li><span lang="EN-US">Try studying alone or with a group</span><span>&nbsp;</span></li></ul></div><div><ul><li><span lang="EN-US">Study in the early mornings and evenings to see what you prefer</span><span>&nbsp;</span></li></ul></div><div><ul><li><span lang="EN-US">Test out total silence or background noise&nbsp;</span><span>&nbsp;</span></li></ul></div><div><p><span lang="EN-US">Try flashcards, rewriting notes or color-coding concepts, and explore different </span><a href="http://www.colorado.edu/students/find-your-study-spot" rel="nofollow"><span lang="EN-US">study spots on campus</span></a><span lang="EN-US">.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p></div></div></div></div></div><div class="ucb-box ucb-box-title-hidden ucb-box-alignment-none ucb-box-style-fill ucb-box-theme-lightgray"><div class="ucb-box-inner"><div class="ucb-box-title">&nbsp;</div><div class="ucb-box-content"><div><h2><i class="fa-solid fa-landmark">&nbsp;</i>&nbsp;<span lang="EN-US">Find support&nbsp;</span><span>&nbsp;</span></h2></div><div><p><span lang="EN-US">If you ever feel stuck or overwhelmed, remember you don’t have to go it alone. Drop by your professors’ office hours for advice and support, and take advantage of the campus resources available to you:</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p></div><div><ul><li><a href="/living/asap" rel="nofollow"><span lang="EN-US"><strong>Academic Success and Achievement Program (ASAP Tutoring)</strong></span></a><span lang="EN-US">: Free peer tutoring for first-year students and those living on campus.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></li></ul></div><div><ul><li><a href="/oue/tutoring" rel="nofollow"><span lang="EN-US"><strong>Tutoring resources</strong></span></a><span lang="EN-US">: Various free and fee-based tutoring options.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></li></ul></div><div><ul><li><a href="/program/writingcenter/" rel="nofollow"><span lang="EN-US"><strong>Writing Center</strong></span></a><span lang="EN-US">: One-on-one sessions with writing consultants.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></li></ul></div><div><ul><li><a href="https://libraries.colorado.edu/" rel="nofollow"><span lang="EN-US"><strong>University Libraries</strong></span></a><span lang="EN-US">: Offers academic resources and "Ask a Librarian" service.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></li></ul></div><div><ul><li><a href="/health/pwc" rel="nofollow"><span lang="EN-US"><strong>Peer Wellness Coaching</strong></span></a><span lang="EN-US">: Free coaching for study plans, self-care and goal setting.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></li></ul></div><div><ul><li><a href="/sccr/students/honor-code-and-student-code-conduct" rel="nofollow"><span lang="EN-US"><strong>Honor Code</strong></span></a><span lang="EN-US">: Follow guidelines to avoid academic dishonesty.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></li></ul></div></div></div></div></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div>This semester brings new opportunities to learn, connect and grow. By embracing a few simple strategies, you can lay a foundation for academic success and personal well-being right from the start. </div> <h2> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--ucb-related-articles-block paragraph--view-mode--default"> <div>Related Articles</div> </div> </h2> <div>Traditional</div> <div>0</div> <div>On</div> <div>White</div> Thu, 28 Aug 2025 06:00:00 +0000 Emily Sampl 1951 at /studentlife The secret benefits of faculty office hours /studentlife/tips-for-office-hours <span>The secret benefits of faculty office hours</span> <span><span>Anonymous (not verified)</span></span> <span><time datetime="2025-08-15T00:00:00-06:00" title="Friday, August 15, 2025 - 00:00">Fri, 08/15/2025 - 00:00</time> </span> <div> <div class="imageMediaStyle focal_image_wide"> <img loading="lazy" src="/studentlife/sites/default/files/styles/focal_image_wide/public/2025-08/office%20hours%20tips%20thumbnail.JPG?h=f03d1f75&amp;itok=IgIASTbN" width="1200" height="800" alt="A professor writing on a chalk board"> </div> </div> <div role="contentinfo" class="container ucb-article-tags" itemprop="keywords"> <span class="visually-hidden">Tags:</span> <div class="ucb-article-tag-icon" aria-hidden="true"> <i class="fa-solid fa-tags"></i> </div> <a href="/studentlife/taxonomy/term/134" hreflang="en">Academic Help</a> <a href="/studentlife/taxonomy/term/129" hreflang="en">Find Support</a> </div> <span>ASAP</span> <div class="ucb-article-content ucb-striped-content"> <div class="container"> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--article-content paragraph--view-mode--default 3"> <div class="ucb-article-text" itemprop="articleBody"> <div><p><a class="ucb-link-button ucb-link-button-blue ucb-link-button-default ucb-link-button-regular" href="/studentlife/tips-for-office-hours-audio" rel="nofollow"><span class="ucb-link-button-contents"><i class="fa-solid fa-play">&nbsp;</i>&nbsp;Listen to this article</span></a></p> <div class="imageMediaStyle large_image_style"> <img loading="lazy" src="/studentlife/sites/default/files/styles/large_image_style/public/2025-08/office%20hours%20tips%20crop.jpg?itok=rJDdFyGg" width="1500" height="375" alt="A professor writing on a chalk board"> </div> <div><div><p><br><span lang="EN-US">Attending your professors’ office hours is a great way to set yourself up for success this semester. Office hours allow you to interact with your professor one-on-one, ask questions and get clarification about course information.&nbsp;</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p></div><div><p><span lang="EN-US">Faculty members often appreciate when students take the time to attend their office hours, and they want you to do well in their class. It’s a great opportunity for you to get to know your professors as people and not just academic experts.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p></div><div><p><span lang="EN-US">Visiting office hours early in the semester and working with your professors can build confidence as the semester progresses. Here are a few ways to make the most of meetings with your professors.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p><hr></div><div><h2><i class="fa-solid fa-handshake-simple">&nbsp;</i>&nbsp;<span lang="EN-US">Introduce yourself&nbsp;</span><span>&nbsp;</span></h2></div><div><p><span lang="EN-US">Even if you don’t have questions about the class yet, attend office hours to introduce yourself to your professor early on. This helps make future conversations easier. There can be plenty of other reasons to visit office hours later, like:</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p></div><div><ul><li><span lang="EN-US">Clarifying assignments or grades</span><span>&nbsp;</span></li></ul></div><div><ul><li><span lang="EN-US">Catching up after missing class</span><span>&nbsp;</span></li></ul></div><div><ul><li><span lang="EN-US">Exploring topics in more depth</span><span>&nbsp;</span></li></ul></div><div><ul><li><span lang="EN-US">Getting career advice or mentorship</span><span>&nbsp;</span></li></ul></div><div><ul><li><span lang="EN-US">Discussing class issues or questions directly</span><span>&nbsp;</span></li></ul><hr></div></div><div><div><h2><i class="fa-solid fa-square-check">&nbsp;</i>&nbsp;<span lang="EN-US">Be prepared&nbsp;</span><span>&nbsp;</span></h2></div><div><p><span lang="EN-US">Find out when your professor’s office hours are by checking your syllabus. If you have time conflicts with office hours and other classes, contact your professor directly to request a meeting at a different time. Be sure to provide times you are available and ask what works best for them.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p></div><div><p><span lang="EN-US">Office hours are helpful for a variety of reasons, and early on, you can ask questions and learn about their teaching style to get to know them better:</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p></div><div><ul><li><span lang="EN-US">Do you have any tips on the best ways to study or understand the material?</span><span>&nbsp;</span></li></ul></div><div><ul><li><span lang="EN-US">Are there any major concepts I should prioritize learning?</span><span>&nbsp;</span></li></ul></div><div><ul><li><span lang="EN-US">Will you review a draft of papers before students turn in the final product?</span><span>&nbsp;</span></li></ul></div><div><ul><li><span lang="EN-US">How does a concept we discussed in class relate to the reading material?</span><span>&nbsp;</span></li></ul><hr></div><div><h2><i class="fa-solid fa-clock">&nbsp;</i>&nbsp;<span lang="EN-US">Maximize your time&nbsp;</span><span>&nbsp;</span></h2></div><div><p><span lang="EN-US">During your meeting, stay present mentally to get the most out of your professor’s time. Here are some things to try during your meeting:&nbsp;</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p></div><div><ul><li><span lang="EN-US">Ask the most important questions first.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></li></ul></div><div><ul><li><span lang="EN-US">Bring any assignments with you that you plan to discuss.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></li></ul></div><div><ul><li><span lang="EN-US">Take notes that help you better understand your questions.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></li></ul></div><div><ul><li><span lang="EN-US">Be respectful and stay engaged.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></li></ul></div><div><ul><li><span lang="EN-US">Set up a follow-up meeting with your professor if you need additional help.&nbsp;</span><span>&nbsp;</span></li></ul></div><div><hr><h2><i class="fa-solid fa-envelope-circle-check">&nbsp;</i>&nbsp;<span lang="EN-US">Follow up&nbsp;</span><span>&nbsp;</span></h2></div><div><p><span lang="EN-US">After attending office hours, follow up via email and thank your professor for answering your questions. If you have unanswered questions from your meeting, include them in your follow-up email.&nbsp;</span></p><div class="ucb-box ucb-box-title-hidden ucb-box-alignment-none ucb-box-style-fill ucb-box-theme-lightgray"><div class="ucb-box-inner"><div class="ucb-box-title">&nbsp;</div><div class="ucb-box-content"><div><h2><span lang="EN-US">Find support</span><span>&nbsp;</span></h2></div><div><p><span lang="EN-US"> provides students with a range of academic support programs to help them thrive:</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p></div><div><p><a href="/living/asap" rel="nofollow"><span lang="EN-US"><strong>Academic Success and Achievement Program (ASAP)</strong></span></a><span><strong>&nbsp;</strong></span></p></div><div><p><span lang="EN-US">ASAP links all first-year students and students living on campus to study resources and free peer tutoring. ASAP also offers the </span><a href="/orientation/asap/lending-library" rel="nofollow"><span lang="EN-US">Lending Library</span></a><span lang="EN-US">, allowing students to check out textbooks for many general education and lower division classes.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p></div><div><p><a href="/oue/tutoring" rel="nofollow"><span lang="EN-US"><strong>Tutoring resources</strong></span></a><span><strong>&nbsp;</strong></span></p></div><div><p><span lang="EN-US"> offers various tutoring and learning resources to support you and your academic success. Some are specific to certain classes, departments or groups of students. Most are free, while some require a fee.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p></div></div></div></div></div></div></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div>Office hours allow you to interact with your professor one-on-one, ask questions and get clarification about course information. Here are a few ways to make the most of meeting with your professors.</div> <h2> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--ucb-related-articles-block paragraph--view-mode--default"> <div>Related Articles</div> </div> </h2> <div>Traditional</div> <div>0</div> <div>On</div> <div>White</div> Fri, 15 Aug 2025 06:00:00 +0000 Anonymous 1711 at /studentlife How to make your mark and discover your path /studentlife/discover-your-path <span>How to make your mark and discover your path</span> <span><span>Kyra Raye Loch</span></span> <span><time datetime="2025-08-08T10:34:40-06:00" title="Friday, August 8, 2025 - 10:34">Fri, 08/08/2025 - 10:34</time> </span> <div> <div class="imageMediaStyle focal_image_wide"> <img loading="lazy" src="/studentlife/sites/default/files/styles/focal_image_wide/public/2025-08/Students%20on%20Campus_20210823_071.jpg?h=a1e1a043&amp;itok=7rrr54OX" width="1200" height="800" alt="Students studying on campus"> </div> </div> <div role="contentinfo" class="container ucb-article-tags" itemprop="keywords"> <span class="visually-hidden">Tags:</span> <div class="ucb-article-tag-icon" aria-hidden="true"> <i class="fa-solid fa-tags"></i> </div> <a href="/studentlife/taxonomy/term/134" hreflang="en">Academic Help</a> <a href="/studentlife/taxonomy/term/149" hreflang="en">CU Beyond 1</a> <a href="/studentlife/taxonomy/term/133" hreflang="en">Career Help</a> </div> <span>Career Services</span> <div class="ucb-article-content ucb-striped-content"> <div class="container"> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--article-content paragraph--view-mode--default"> <div class="ucb-article-text" itemprop="articleBody"> <div><p><a class="ucb-link-button ucb-link-button-blue ucb-link-button-default ucb-link-button-regular" href="/studentlife/discover-your-path-audio" rel="nofollow"><span class="ucb-link-button-contents"><i class="fa-solid fa-play">&nbsp;</i>&nbsp;Listen to this article</span></a></p> <div class="imageMediaStyle large_image_style"> <img loading="lazy" src="/studentlife/sites/default/files/styles/large_image_style/public/2025-08/Students%20on%20Campus_20210823_071_crop.jpg?itok=qH2Cl67j" width="1500" height="375" alt="Students studying on campus"> </div> <div><p><br><span lang="EN-US">After your first year of college, you’re in an exciting position to shape what comes next. This is your moment to explore what truly sparks your interest, whether that’s through campus involvement, service, research or stepping up as a leader. Every hobby, club or class you dive into can be a steppingstone to discovering your purpose and connecting your passions to meaningful plans after graduation.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p></div><div><p><span lang="EN-US">Whether you’re considering joining a new student organization, delving into a research project or taking on a leadership role, there are plenty of ways to start charting a course that feels right for you. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your time on campus and guide you as you turn your interests and experiences into a fulfilling post-graduation path.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p></div><div><h2><i class="fa-solid fa-lightbulb">&nbsp;</i>&nbsp;<span lang="EN-US">Reflect on your experiences</span><span>&nbsp;</span></h2></div><div><p><span lang="EN-US">Take a moment to appreciate your progress so far—you’ve already gained valuable experiences in your journey. Grab a notebook and reflect on the classes you’ve enjoyed most and the moments that energized you in your academic program. Perhaps collaborating on group projects or tackling challenges stood out as especially rewarding.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p></div><div><p><span lang="EN-US">Now, think about your involvement beyond the classroom. Joining student organizations, participating in athletics, attending events or working a part-time job or internship all help shape your story. Which activities sparked your excitement? Which roles made you feel confident or inspired? Did you try something new or step into a leadership role that surprised you with what you could accomplish?</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p></div><div><p><span lang="EN-US">Remember, your values and strengths can also help guide your next steps. If you want support, Career Services offers appointments to help turn your interests into future adventures.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p></div><div><h2><i class="fa-solid fa-map">&nbsp;</i>&nbsp;<span lang="EN-US">Explore different paths</span><span>&nbsp;</span></h2></div><div><p><span lang="EN-US">Once you’ve reflected on your experiences and interests, explore your options for the new academic year:</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p></div><div><div><ul><li><span lang="EN-US">Research possible careers using tools like “</span><a href="/career/what-can-i-do-major" rel="nofollow"><span lang="EN-US">What Can I Do With This Major?</span></a><span lang="EN-US">” Read through the skills and tasks to get a sense of different roles and if you could see yourself in them.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></li></ul></div><div><ul><li><span lang="EN-US">Attend the </span><a href="https://calendar.colorado.edu/event/be-involved-fair" rel="nofollow"><span lang="EN-US">Be Involved Fair</span></a><span lang="EN-US"> on Aug. 27 to explore and join student organizations.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></li></ul></div><div><ul><li><span lang="EN-US">Visit your </span><a href="/studentaffairs/make-most-office-hours-semester" rel="nofollow"><span lang="EN-US">professor’s office hours</span></a><span lang="EN-US"> to ask about research opportunities.&nbsp;</span><span>&nbsp;</span></li></ul></div><div><ul><li><span lang="EN-US">Consider </span><a href="/volunteer/volunteer-opportunities" rel="nofollow"><span lang="EN-US">volunteering</span></a><span lang="EN-US"> or learning about </span><a href="/studentlife/leadership-and-development" rel="nofollow"><span lang="EN-US">leadership</span></a><span lang="EN-US"> this semester.&nbsp;</span><span>&nbsp;</span></li></ul></div><div><ul><li><a href="/career/job-searching/networking/informational-interviewing" rel="nofollow"><span lang="EN-US">Conduct informational interviews</span></a><span lang="EN-US"> with people who are working in the same jobs or industries that you’re considering. This can help you get a better idea of what it's like to actually work in the field.&nbsp;</span><span>&nbsp;</span></li></ul></div><div><ul><li><span lang="EN-US">Look for </span><a href="/career/handshake" rel="nofollow"><span lang="EN-US">internships or part-time jobs</span></a><span lang="EN-US"> that are relevant to a career you’re considering in order to experience it yourself.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></li></ul></div><div><ul><li><span lang="EN-US">Participate in </span><a href="/career/fairs-events" rel="nofollow"><span lang="EN-US">career fairs, events and workshops</span></a><span lang="EN-US"> to network, learn about industry trends and get more tips for making decisions about your future.&nbsp;</span><span>&nbsp;</span></li></ul></div><div><h2><i class="fa-solid fa-comments">&nbsp;</i>&nbsp;<span lang="EN-US">Talk it out&nbsp;</span><span>&nbsp;</span></h2></div><div><p><span lang="EN-US">As you consider different paths, it can help to talk about your next steps with someone. This could be an advisor, faculty member, supervisor, family member, mentor or friend. They may be able to share a different perspective or insight that can help you figure out what you’d like to do after college.&nbsp;</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p><p><span lang="EN-US">Career advisors and coaches in Career Services can also help you explore options and share additional resources during an appointment. Learn more about </span><a href="/career/get-started" rel="nofollow"><span lang="EN-US">getting started with Career Services</span></a><span lang="EN-US">.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p></div></div></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div>After your first year of college, you’re in an exciting position to shape what comes next. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your time on campus and guide you as you turn your interests and experiences into a fulfilling post-graduation path. </div> <h2> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--ucb-related-articles-block paragraph--view-mode--default"> <div>Related Articles</div> </div> </h2> <div>Traditional</div> <div>0</div> <div>On</div> <div>White</div> Fri, 08 Aug 2025 16:34:40 +0000 Kyra Raye Loch 2484 at /studentlife Finals prep: Tips to finish strong /studentlife/finals-prep <span>Finals prep: Tips to finish strong</span> <span><span>Anonymous (not verified)</span></span> <span><time datetime="2025-03-13T00:00:00-06:00" title="Thursday, March 13, 2025 - 00:00">Thu, 03/13/2025 - 00:00</time> </span> <div> <div class="imageMediaStyle focal_image_wide"> <img loading="lazy" src="/studentlife/sites/default/files/styles/focal_image_wide/public/article-thumbnail/campus_landscapes_dec_20211201_fm_021.jpg?h=e5aec6c8&amp;itok=uH62A6Cg" width="1200" height="800" alt="student working on computer outside"> </div> </div> <div role="contentinfo" class="container ucb-article-tags" itemprop="keywords"> <span class="visually-hidden">Tags:</span> <div class="ucb-article-tag-icon" aria-hidden="true"> <i class="fa-solid fa-tags"></i> </div> <a href="/studentlife/taxonomy/term/134" hreflang="en">Academic Help</a> <a href="/studentlife/taxonomy/term/130" hreflang="en">Student Life</a> </div> <span>ASAP</span> <div class="ucb-article-content ucb-striped-content"> <div class="container"> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--article-content paragraph--view-mode--default 3"> <div class="ucb-article-text" itemprop="articleBody"> <div><p><span>Finals will be here before you know it! It's never too early to get organized and ensure you’re on track to finish the semester strong.&nbsp;</span></p> <div class="align-right image_style-medium_750px_50_display_size_"> <div class="imageMediaStyle medium_750px_50_display_size_"> <img loading="lazy" src="/studentlife/sites/default/files/styles/medium_750px_50_display_size_/public/article-image/campus_landscapes_dec_20211201_fm_021.jpg?itok=OZEwevNK" width="750" height="500" alt="student working on computer outside"> </div> </div> <h2>1. Review your materials</h2><p><span lang="EN-US">Now is a great time to revisit your syllabus for each class and take note of remaining tests, final projects and key concepts that might be important. You can </span><a href="/studentaffairs/make-most-office-hours-semester" rel="nofollow"><span lang="EN-US">attend faculty office hours</span></a><span lang="EN-US"> to ask questions, clarify expectations and make sure you are set up to succeed.&nbsp;</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p><h2>2. Know that it's ok to ask for help</h2><div><p><span lang="EN-US">Many Buffs are balancing work, activities, relationships and other commitments alongside academics this time of year. There are many academic and non-academic resources available to help you feel your best both in and out of the classroom.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p></div><div><ul><li><a href="/living/asap" rel="nofollow"><span lang="EN-US">Academic Success and Achievement Program (ASAP)</span></a><span lang="EN-US">: ASAP offers free peer to peer tutoring to all first-year students, new transfer students and students living on campus.</span><span> </span></li><li><a href="/oue/tutoring" rel="nofollow"><span lang="EN-US">Tutoring and learning resources</span></a><span lang="EN-US">: offers a wide variety of other tutoring and learning resources to support you and your academic success.</span><span> </span></li><li><a href="/counseling" rel="nofollow"><span lang="EN-US">Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS)</span></a><span lang="EN-US">: Meet with a CAPS provider, attend interactive workshops or therapy groups, get community referrals and more.</span><span> </span></li><li><a href="/support/sscm" rel="nofollow"><span lang="EN-US">Student Support and Case Management (SSCM)</span></a><span lang="EN-US">: Provides support for mental health concerns, family emergencies, food or housing insecurity and more.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></li></ul></div><h2>3. Make a schedule to stay on top of your assignments</h2><p><span lang="EN-US">At this point in the semester, it can help to make a daily schedule of what you will study, or what projects you will work on, and when. Breaking up your work into smaller increments can make the workload feel more manageable. Schedule breaks and allow time for non-academic related activities that you enjoy, as well. </span><a href="/studentaffairs/2024/01/20/tips-manage-your-time-better" rel="nofollow"><span lang="EN-US">Learning how to manage your time</span></a><span lang="EN-US"> can help you now and in the long run.&nbsp;</span></p><h2>4. Prioritize self-care</h2><p><span>Your body needs adequate sleep, proper nutrition and more to perform at its best. Aim to get seven to nine hours of sleep each night and eat nutritious meals to get the most out of your study efforts. Take care of yourself by making wellness a priority, including your relationships and connecting with friends, family and others.</span></p><h2>5. Take breaks and have fun!</h2><div><p><span lang="EN-US">Make sure to build in breaks and fun time into your schedule as you finish the semester. It’s ok to still spend time with friends, </span><a href="/studentaffairs/student-events" rel="nofollow"><span lang="EN-US">go to events</span></a><span lang="EN-US"> and still be focused on academics. Decide how much time each week you can devote to non-academic activities and stick to that plan.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p></div><div><p><a href="/finals" rel="nofollow"><span lang="EN-US">Check out more resources and tips</span></a><span lang="EN-US"> to finish the semester strong.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p></div></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div>Finals will be here before you know it! It's never too early to get organized and ensure you’re on track to finish the semester strong.</div> <h2> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--ucb-related-articles-block paragraph--view-mode--default"> <div>Related Articles</div> </div> </h2> <div>Traditional</div> <div>0</div> <div>On</div> <div>White</div> Thu, 13 Mar 2025 06:00:00 +0000 Anonymous 2192 at /studentlife 4 ways to avoid cheating, plagiarism and other forms of academic dishonesty /studentlife/academic-dishonesty <span>4 ways to avoid cheating, plagiarism and other forms of academic dishonesty</span> <span><span>Emily Sampl</span></span> <span><time datetime="2025-02-12T00:00:00-07:00" title="Wednesday, February 12, 2025 - 00:00">Wed, 02/12/2025 - 00:00</time> </span> <div> <div class="imageMediaStyle focal_image_wide"> <img loading="lazy" src="/studentlife/sites/default/files/styles/focal_image_wide/public/article-thumbnail/students_studying_20190905_011_bac.jpg?h=f530c1d7&amp;itok=H3PPxTNd" width="1200" height="800" alt="students studying outside at Kittredge"> </div> </div> <div role="contentinfo" class="container ucb-article-tags" itemprop="keywords"> <span class="visually-hidden">Tags:</span> <div class="ucb-article-tag-icon" aria-hidden="true"> <i class="fa-solid fa-tags"></i> </div> <a href="/studentlife/taxonomy/term/134" hreflang="en">Academic Help</a> <a href="/studentlife/taxonomy/term/129" hreflang="en">Find Support</a> </div> <div class="ucb-article-content ucb-striped-content"> <div class="container"> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--article-content paragraph--view-mode--default 3"> <div class="ucb-article-text" itemprop="articleBody"> <div> <div class="align-right image_style-medium_750px_50_display_size_"> <div class="imageMediaStyle medium_750px_50_display_size_"> <img loading="lazy" src="/studentlife/sites/default/files/styles/medium_750px_50_display_size_/public/article-image/students_studying_20190905_011_bac.jpg?itok=4tLpw3fv" width="750" height="500" alt="students studying outside at Kittredge"> </div> </div> <div><p><span lang="EN-US">Rushing to finish assignments or study for tests can sometimes lead to academic dishonesty—where students engage in plagiarism, cheating or helping another student gain an unfair advantage. Whatever the intention, these actions violate the </span><a href="/sccr/students/honor-code-and-student-code-conduct" rel="nofollow"><span lang="EN-US">Honor Code</span></a><span lang="EN-US"> and have consequences.&nbsp;</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p></div><div><p><span lang="EN-US">Here are four strategies to help avoid these issues.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p></div><h2>Review your syllabus&nbsp;</h2><div><p><span lang="EN-US">Faculty include expectations for their course that you must follow in their syllabus. This information will likely be different for each class.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p></div><div><p><span lang="EN-US">Check each of your class syllabi for specific course expectations. For example, some professors don't allow collaboration or use of AI for assignments. Ask your instructor for clarification if you have any questions about the expectations stated in the syllabus.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p></div><div><p><span lang="EN-US">There are also campus-wide Honor Code expectations that apply to every class. For instance, resubmitting your own work without faculty permission is a violation of the Honor Code. You also cannot self-plagiarize your work⁠—meaning you must cite any previously written work you use while completing a new assignment. You cannot reuse your own work without that citation. Review the </span><a href="/sccr/media/229" rel="nofollow"><span lang="EN-US">Student Honor Code &amp; Procedures</span></a><span lang="EN-US"> and ask your instructor questions.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p></div><h2>Start coursework early&nbsp;</h2><p><span lang="EN-US">Avoid procrastination by starting assignments and studying early. Use a calendar or planner to track important dates and deadlines. This gives you time to ask for help if needed.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p><h2>Complete work on your own&nbsp;</h2><div><p><span lang="EN-US">Academic dishonesty is any act in which a student gains or attempts to gain an unfair academic advantage over other students regardless of intention. Helping another student gain an unfair academic advantage is also considered academic dishonesty.&nbsp;</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p></div><div><p><span lang="EN-US">With every test, paper, project, lab and assignment, be sure to complete your own work unless the written directions specifically allow you to work with others.&nbsp; &nbsp;</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p></div><div><ul><li><span lang="EN-US">You may be able to talk through your work with another student or a study group but don’t share your work. Once you send it to another person, you don’t have control over how it’s shared or used.&nbsp; &nbsp;</span></li><li><span lang="EN-US">Don’t search for answers on the internet unless expressly permitted. Especially with online learning, be careful to use resources authorized by your instructors for help. If specific online resources are allowed, write your researched answers in your own words instead of copying and pasting what you found online.&nbsp; </span></li><li><span lang="EN-US">Don’t use AI to write papers or answer questions on assignments unless you have permission from your professor. Talk with your professor if you have questions about if and how you can use AI. Learn more about </span><a href="/studentaffairs/2024/09/16/ai-and-honor-code-3-things-know" rel="nofollow"><span lang="EN-US">AI and the Honor Code</span></a><span lang="EN-US">.&nbsp; </span></li><li><span lang="EN-US">Nearly any assignment you submit online could be analyzed for similarity to other sources, so cite your sources when appropriate.&nbsp; </span></li><li><span lang="EN-US">Exams, including online and take-home exams, should be completed independently unless your instructor states otherwise in the syllabus or exam instructions.&nbsp;</span></li></ul></div><h2>Find support&nbsp;</h2><div><p><span lang="EN-US">Whether you’re looking for help citing sources or struggling with a concept discussed in class, asking for help is okay. Attend your instructor’s office hours listed on their syllabus, or use </span><a href="/oue/tutoring" rel="nofollow"><span lang="EN-US">academic and tutoring resources</span></a><span lang="EN-US">.&nbsp;</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p></div><div><p><a href="/sccr/students/honor-code-and-student-code-conduct" rel="nofollow"><span lang="EN-US">Learn more about the Honor Code</span></a><span lang="EN-US">.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p></div><div class="ucb-box ucb-box-title-hidden ucb-box-alignment-none ucb-box-style-fill ucb-box-theme-lightgray"><div class="ucb-box-inner"><div class="ucb-box-title">&nbsp;</div><div class="ucb-box-content"><p><a href="https://cuboulder.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_3gV1CNwpA7K8K0u" rel="nofollow"><strong>Quiz: Is it cheating? Test your knowledge of the Honor Code</strong></a></p><p>Did you know using someone else’s clicker in class is a violation? Or do you know what to do if you want to use a project from another course? Test your Honor Code knowledge with this quiz.&nbsp;</p><p><a class="ucb-link-button ucb-link-button-gold ucb-link-button-default ucb-link-button-regular" href="https://cuboulder.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_3gV1CNwpA7K8K0u" rel="nofollow"><span class="ucb-link-button-contents">Take the quiz&nbsp;</span></a></p></div></div></div></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div>Rushing to finish assignments or study for tests can sometimes lead to academic dishonesty—where students engage in plagiarism, cheating or helping another student gain an unfair advantage. Whatever the intention, these actions violate the Honor Code and have consequences.</div> <h2> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--ucb-related-articles-block paragraph--view-mode--default"> <div>Related Articles</div> </div> </h2> <div>Traditional</div> <div>0</div> <div>On</div> <div>White</div> Wed, 12 Feb 2025 07:00:00 +0000 Emily Sampl 1803 at /studentlife Study hacks to help you ace your midterms /studentlife/midterm-study-tips <span>Study hacks to help you ace your midterms</span> <span><span>Anonymous (not verified)</span></span> <span><time datetime="2025-02-07T08:13:09-07:00" title="Friday, February 7, 2025 - 08:13">Fri, 02/07/2025 - 08:13</time> </span> <div> <div class="imageMediaStyle focal_image_wide"> <img loading="lazy" src="/studentlife/sites/default/files/styles/focal_image_wide/public/article-thumbnail/studentstudy-summer3.jpg?h=c96055cc&amp;itok=snSCIacc" width="1200" height="800" alt="Students studying on campus"> </div> </div> <div role="contentinfo" class="container ucb-article-tags" itemprop="keywords"> <span class="visually-hidden">Tags:</span> <div class="ucb-article-tag-icon" aria-hidden="true"> <i class="fa-solid fa-tags"></i> </div> <a href="/studentlife/taxonomy/term/134" hreflang="en">Academic Help</a> <a href="/studentlife/taxonomy/term/129" hreflang="en">Find Support</a> </div> <div class="ucb-article-content ucb-striped-content"> <div class="container"> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--article-content paragraph--view-mode--default 3"> <div class="ucb-article-text" itemprop="articleBody"> <div> <div class="align-right image_style-medium_750px_50_display_size_"> <div class="imageMediaStyle medium_750px_50_display_size_"> <img loading="lazy" src="/studentlife/sites/default/files/styles/medium_750px_50_display_size_/public/article-image/studentstudy-summer3.jpg?itok=zzTVR_HA" width="750" height="500" alt="Students studying on campus"> </div> </div> <p>For many students, midterms are just around the corner. Here are some underrated study hacks to help you ace your midterms.&nbsp;</p><h2>Practice the study cycle&nbsp;</h2><p>The “study cycle” is an effective strategy that can help you be more efficient with your time. There are four steps to the cycle:&nbsp;</p><ul><li>Before class, preview the material you’ll cover. Skim the chapter, note headings and bold words, review chapter summaries and have questions prepared for the lecture. </li><li>Attend class—take notes and ask questions. </li><li>Review your notes as soon as possible after class. </li><li>Schedule time in your week to study the material again. Review your notes, handouts or other readings.&nbsp;</li></ul><h2>Know your learning style&nbsp;</h2><p>Are you a visual learner? Do you remember things more when you hear them? This<a href="https://vark-learn.com/the-vark-questionnaire/" rel="nofollow"> learning style quiz lets you</a> find the methods that work best for you to learn and study. Here are some strategies that may work for your learning style.&nbsp;</p><ul><li>Visual: Underline or highlight your notes. Look for videos, graphs or charts to review information further. Create graphs or charts to organize information. </li><li>Aural: Read your notes out loud and record them on your phone to listen to later. Talk over concepts with a classmate or study group. </li><li>Read/write: Rewrite your notes. Look for other books or resources on the same subject to read. </li><li>Kinesthetic: Think of real-world examples when reviewing your notes. Try to use as many senses as possible when studying. For example, try taking a walk while reviewing your notecards.&nbsp;</li></ul><h2>Take breaks&nbsp;</h2><p>Taking short breaks during study sessions can help you stay focused and retain information better. Try the Pomodoro Technique to build short breaks into your study sessions:&nbsp;</p><ul><li>Choose a task to work on—maybe reading a chapter, writing the intro for a paper or solving math problems. </li><li>Set a timer for 25 minutes. Put your phone away and eliminate as many distractions as possible. </li><li>Focus on the task until the timer goes off. </li><li>Set your timer for five minutes and do whatever you’d like during this time. Check your phone, get a snack, stretch—whatever gives your brain a break! </li><li>Reset your timer for 25 minutes and repeat.&nbsp;</li></ul><h2>Get creative and try a new approach&nbsp;</h2><p>Here are some other study hacks to try:&nbsp;</p><ul><li>Pretend you're preparing to teach a class on the subject. Think of how you could explain the material to fellow students. </li><li>Think about concepts more critically and try to create examples or practice problems from the material to test your knowledge. </li><li>Rather than studying one subject for a long time, try switching between subjects to allow your brain to form connections and understand the content more deeply. </li><li>Study in testing conditions. Learning the content in a similar setting and with similar conditions to your testing environment can help you form associations between those conditions and the course content.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</li></ul><h2>Ask for help&nbsp;</h2><p>If you’re stuck on a problem or a concept discussed in class, ask for help and use your resources.&nbsp;</p><ul><li>Talk to a classmate.&nbsp; </li><li>Visit <a href="/studentaffairs/2022/08/29/make-most-office-hours-semester" rel="nofollow">office hours</a> or a help lab. </li><li>Consider joining or starting a study group. </li><li>If you live on campus or are a first-year student, check out the<a href="/living/housing/academic-support" rel="nofollow"> </a><a href="/living/asap" rel="nofollow">Academic Success &amp; Achievement Program</a> for free tutoring support. </li><li>If you need help writing a paper, visit<a href="/pwr/writing-center" rel="nofollow"> The Writing Center</a>. </li><li>If you have a large research project,<a href="/libraries/" rel="nofollow"> University</a><a href="https://libraries.colorado.edu/" rel="nofollow"> Libraries</a> offers consultations to help you get started. </li><li>Review more <a href="/oue/tutoring" rel="nofollow">academic resources</a> for students.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li></ul><p>Sometimes, the hardest part is just getting started. Schedule time in your week to study and do your best to stay on track. Find a favorite place to study, like a coffee shop, library or community room in your residence hall. Establishing study routines and finding the <a href="/students/find-your-study-spot" rel="nofollow">right study spot</a> can help you feel prepared for midterms.&nbsp;</p><div class="ucb-box ucb-box-title-hidden ucb-box-alignment-none ucb-box-style-fill ucb-box-theme-lightgray"><div class="ucb-box-inner"><div class="ucb-box-title">&nbsp;</div><div class="ucb-box-content"><h2>Resources</h2><div class="row ucb-column-container"><div class="col ucb-column"><p><a href="/living/asap" rel="nofollow"><strong>Academic Success and Achievement Program (ASAP)</strong></a><br>ASAP links all first-year students and students living on campus to study resources and free peer tutoring.&nbsp;ASAP also offers the Lending Library, allowing students to check out books for many general education and lower division classes.</p><p><a href="/health/pwc" rel="nofollow"><strong>Peer Wellness Coaching</strong></a><br>Need help managing stress, creating a study routine or preparing for exams? Meet one-on-one with a trained peer wellness coach to learn effective strategies and connect with campus resources.</p></div><div class="col ucb-column"><p><a href="/counseling/lets-talk" rel="nofollow"><strong>Let's Talk</strong></a><br>Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS) provides free drop-in services around campus during Let's Talk hours. Stop by to talk with a counselor about stress, anxiety, self-care, academics or other topics you need support with.&nbsp;</p><p><a href="/disabilityservices/" rel="nofollow"><strong>Center for Disability and Access</strong></a><br>If you’re planning to use testing accommodations through Disability Services, make sure you’re on the same page as your instructors about how they’ll be administered. Your dedicated access coordinator can help answer any additional questions or concerns.</p></div><div class="col ucb-column"><p><a href="/recreation/fitness-and-wellness/free-friday-power-hour" rel="nofollow"><strong>Free Friday Power Hour</strong></a><br>Take a break from studying and blow off some steam at the Rec Center. They offer free fitness classes every Friday during Free Friday Power Hour.</p></div></div></div></div></div></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div>Midterms are just around the corner. Here are some underrated study hacks to help you ace your midterms. </div> <h2> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--ucb-related-articles-block paragraph--view-mode--default"> <div>Related Articles</div> </div> </h2> <div>Traditional</div> <div>0</div> <div>On</div> <div>White</div> Fri, 07 Feb 2025 15:13:09 +0000 Anonymous 1761 at /studentlife