Building your academic toolkit

Summary

This video guide is designed to help new students at the University of Victoria (UVic) build their academic toolkit. It covers essential topics like understanding full-time and part-time student status, the importance of academic advising, and navigating university resources. The video also highlights tips for managing coursework, using UVic's learning platforms, and utilizing academic support services such as the library, writing assistance, and math help. It emphasizes the importance of community, well-being, and self-care in the university experience, encouraging students to make use of the resources available to them for academic and personal success.

Takeaways

• 😀 Takeaway 1: Understand UVic's academic structure, including Winter and Summer sessions, and how terms are divided within those sessions.
• 😀 Takeaway 2: Full-time undergrad status is defined as being registered in at least 12 units or 4 courses per term, while part-time status is fewer than 12 units.
• 😀 Takeaway 3: For grad students, full-time status means being registered in 3 or more units per term.
• 😀 Takeaway 4: Know your program’s course requirements and use program planning worksheets to track required courses for graduation.
• 😀 Takeaway 5: Academic advising is a key resource; meet with your advisor at least once a year, especially if you make changes to your course load.
• 😀 Takeaway 6: Brightspace is the main platform for accessing course materials, assignments, and class discussions at UVic.
• 😀 Takeaway 7: Attend your first class to learn about your professor's teaching style and receive important course information, like the syllabus.
• 😀 Takeaway 8: Office hours are a great opportunity to connect with professors—no appointment needed, just drop by during their designated hours.
• 😀 Takeaway 9: UVic Libraries provide access to textbooks, e-books, study spaces, and subject librarians who can help with research.
• 😀 Takeaway 10: The Centre for Accessible Learning offers academic accommodations for students with disabilities, ensuring they have the support needed for success.
• 😀 Takeaway 11: Taking care of your well-being is crucial—incorporate breaks, movement, and sufficient rest into your study routine to avoid burnout.
• 😀 Takeaway 12: Build a supportive community by studying with classmates and taking advantage of group study spaces across campus.

Q & A

What are the two main academic sessions at UVic, and how are they divided?

UVic divides its academic year into two main sessions: the Winter session (September to April) and the Summer session (May to August). Within these sessions, there are terms—September to December is one term, and January to April is another.

What does full-time status mean for undergraduate students at UVic?

An undergraduate student is considered full-time if they are registered in at least 12 units in the Winter session, which usually translates to four courses per term. Some courses may be worth more, such as 3-unit courses.

How can undergraduate students adjust their course load at UVic?

Students can adjust their course load throughout the term, but they need to be mindful of the add and drop deadlines to avoid additional costs. If they reduce their course load, it may extend the time needed to complete their degree.

What should a student do if they have questions about their program or course requirements?

Students should meet with an academic advisor, especially if they are changing or dropping courses. It's recommended to meet with an advisor at least once a year to ensure they are on track with their program's requirements.

What does full-time status mean for graduate students at UVic?

For graduate students, full-time status is defined as being registered in three or more units per term. It's important to connect with a Graduate Advisor in the department to understand specific program requirements.

What types of classes might students take at UVic?

Most UVic students take lecture-style classes, but there may also be studio classes, labs, or seminars, which typically have smaller class sizes and are more discussion-based.

What platform does UVic use for course information and assignments?

UVic uses a platform called Brightspace for housing course materials, class discussions, assignment submissions, and online quizzes. Students must have a UVic login, called a Netlink ID, to access these sites.

Why is attending the first class important?

Attending the first class is important because it helps students learn about the professor's teaching style and receive the course syllabus, which contains crucial information such as the professor's contact details, office hours, and required materials.

What is the role of office hours, and why should students utilize them?

Office hours are designated times when students can meet with their professor without needing an appointment. It's a valuable opportunity for students to ask questions, clarify doubts, and receive support, especially if they are struggling with their coursework.

What academic support resources are available at UVic?

UVic offers a variety of academic support resources, including the Learning Commons, Centre for Academic Communication, Math and Stats Assistance Centre, and the Centre for Accessible Learning. These resources provide workshops, one-on-one appointments, and specialized help in areas like reading, writing, public speaking, math, and accommodations for students with disabilities.

How can UVic students take care of their wellbeing while managing their academics?

Students are encouraged to incorporate breaks, movement, sufficient rest, and nourishment into their study routine. Additionally, engaging with campus community spaces, such as taking a walk in the Mystic Vale or relaxing with a warm drink at the BiblioCafé, can help balance academic stress and improve overall wellbeing.

How can students make use of the UVic Libraries?

The UVic Libraries offer various academic resources, such as textbooks available for short-term borrowing, ebooks, subject librarians for research assistance, and silent or group study areas to suit different learning preferences.