Options to Explore

Almost three weeks have gone by since the start of the Spring Semester. Hopefully that means that you are establishing a routine for yourself that includes being successful in the courses that you are taking.

Here are some things to keep in mind as the semester continues:

• February 20 is the first day to register for summer classes online or on campus at BSU.


• Spring Break begins March 5. University administrative office will remain open (that means I'm around!), but classes will not be in session.


• The Course Withdrawal Period ends on Tuesday, March 20. Up until that day you can withdraw (ie: "remove") a class from your schedule by completing the appropriate form through the Registrar's Office in Lucina Hall B43.


• Course Registration for Fall Semester begins in April. Over the next several months you will get more information about when to register for classes, how to register for classes, and when to make an appointment with me (to choose those classes).

Grades Out! Questions?

Did you know that Fall Semester 2010 grades are now available online at www.bsu.edu/studenservices by clicking on the link for "My Education Gateway." You will need to log in with your BSU username and password but are welcome to do it anywhere that you have internet access.

If you have questions or concerns about individual grades that you received, you need to contact the professor for those particular classes to get more information. The University does have a formal grade appeal process, in writing, that you can read at http://cms.bsu.edu/About/AdministrativeOffices/StudentRights/PoliciesandProcedures/StudentCode/67GradeAppeals.aspx. Basically, if you are wanting to appeal a final grade you must first inform the instructor or, in his or her absence, the department chairperson, within ten (10) school days after the final grade is posted by the Registrar’s Office. The request for review of the grade must be submitted in writing (via letter or email) to the faculty member. The faculty member or, in his or her absence, the department chairperson, must respond via letter or email with a decision regarding the student’s grade within five (5) school days after receipt of the request.

Finals on the Horizon

I'm sure that you've noticed that Finals Week is just around the corner which means that the preparation period for your Final Exams should be right now!

As you plan out your strategy for preparing for exams, here are some general tips:

• Give yourself sufficient time to prepare for the exam. For example, if you have a test on Thursday, you will want to begin studying now (as opposed to the night before).


• Imagine the test as one step in a process. Actually it is the last step in the process! Lay out the steps: attending class, taking notes, creating a study guide, completing practice quizzes, etc.)


• Schedule an appointment with your instructor (or drop by office hours!) if you have questions about the exam or any material that may confuse you.


• Participate in study groups, SI sessions, or prepare with another student. But avoid studying with other students who seem intensely anxious.