Adult learner guide rev2 by Off Campus Connections

University of Arkansas Adult Learner Guide

Off Campus Connections occ.uark.edu ARKU 632 575-7351

PREPARE Deciding to Enroll Visiting the Campus Locating Off Campus Housing Locating Childcare Understanding Academic Competition Understanding Technology Expectations Catalog Information Types of Admission New freshman Transfer student Returning student Non-degree seeking Senior citizen Veterans Resource and Information Center Veterans Upward Bound Razorback Student Veterans Academic Bankruptcy Opportunities for Additional Credit Credit by Examination Academic Alternatives Human Resources Development Global Campus Paying for College Financial Assistance Grants and Loans Independent Student Status Scholarships Part-time Employment

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TAKE ACTION Admissions Checklist Being Admitted Advising/Orientation Students with Disabilities Enrollment and Class Registration Campus ID/Student Calendar Book

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SUCCEED Attending Class Faculty Academic Tips/Study Skills Tutoring Time Management Tips Peer Assistance Leader Program You and Your Family Taking Care of Yourself University of Arkansas Police Dept. Commuter Meal Plans University of Arkansas Student Union Off Campus Connections

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A non-traditional/adult learner is defined as an undergraduate student who meets one or more of the following criteria: 25 years or older, single parent, returning to school after a period of time, married, without traditional high school diploma (GED), has dependents, works full-time, financially independent, part-time student. 3

PREPARE Deciding to Enroll Adults attend the University of Arkansas for a variety of reasons; not everyone has a definite career goal. Some want to take a course or two; others decide they want a degree. If you are unsure about your career direction, consider enrolling as "non-degree seeking" while you explore your opportunities and think things over. Another option is to enroll as a degree seeking "undecided major" and begin taking core requirements as you consider a major. You can also access the Career Development Center website and take the Focus2 online career assessment tool. This may help you in deciding your career path. Your decision about what to study determines the college, (i.e. Fulbright Arts and Sciences, Walton College of Business, etc.) in which you will be enrolled. Undecided and non-degree seeking students are assigned to the Fulbright College of Arts and Sciences. However, being enrolled in a specific college does not limit you to taking only the courses within that college. Even if you are unsure of your major field of study, do not let this keep you from beginning college. Many students enroll before they have made this decision, and many change majors once

Visiting the Campus Contact the Admissions Office or visit their website for detailed information, including schools, colleges, majors, classes, financial aid, scholarships, and more.

Register with Admissions and schedule a visit, which will likely include a meeting with a counselor and a walking tour of campus. When possible, you may meet with a representative from the college of your choice. 5

Locating Off Campus Housing

Current and prospective students, faculty, and staff can access this free website to search for Off Campus Housing. This website offers customized search fields with options for photos and links to maps, property manager e-mails, and application/lease documents. Our roommate profile and message board features offer information for other related topics.

http://offcampushousing.uark.edu

Locating Childcare On Campus Jean Tyson Child Development Center Tel: (479) 575 - 4306 Ages: 8 weeks to five years old Hours of Operation: Monday through Friday, 7:30am - 5:30pm Off Campus Please access the following link to The Arkansas Department of Health and Human Resources, Division of Child Care & Early Childhood Education for helpful information related to childcare services in our area. https://dhs.arkansas.gov/dccece/ cclas/FacilitySearch.aspx

The University of Arkansas does not endorse any off campus childcare facility. Students should make their own inquiries as to suitability and certifications.

Licensing Most states regulate childcare centers by licensing. Licensing includes an on-site visit to assure that basic minimum requirements (for health, safety, and child/staff ratios) have been met and periodic inspections to monitor continued compliance. This may include inspections by the local health department, the fire department, and the licensing agency. Accreditation The National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), through its National Academy of Early Childhood Programs, accredits early childhood programs, childcare centers, pre-schools, kindergartens, and before and after school programs. Licensing indicates that minimum standards have been met, whereas accreditation means that the childcare provider has gone beyond the minimum standards and is voluntarily striving to achieve high quality care.

Understanding Academic Competition Most adult students are successful students; whether it is the maturity, the commitment, the life experiences that adult students bring to their studies, most "returning" students improve their grades from their earlier college performance. In some classes the adult student may be the only person 25 or older, including the instructor! In other classes adult students are more prevalent. Currently, over 3000 undergraduate students are age 25 or older. Your own attitude is important. If you consider yourself a student, in class to learn, you will be accepted. Occasionally an 18-year old is uneasy with older students. You can actually reassure the younger student of your academic commitment and possibly find a study partner when you make a friendly gesture. Never underestimate the value of your experience! Understanding Todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Technology Expectations Love it or hate it, technology is here to stay. As a student, you should be capable of using a computer and the Internet. Blackboard is an example of a web-based tool used by UA instructors. In addition, frequent email usage and monitoring is required.

If you need a general refresher course or instruction before you begin your college experience, check out the following free or low-cost community resources. Adult & Community Education 612 S. College Avenue Fayetteville, AR 72703 (479)444-3041 http://schoolcenter.fayar.net/education/dept/dept.php? sectiondetailid=17905 Community Enrichment Opportunities The Jones Center for Families 922 East Emma Avenue Springdale, AR 72765 (479) 756-8090 http://www.jonescenter.org/?page_id=19 Basic Computer Literacy Adult Education Center Northwest Arkansas Community College One College Drive Bentonville, AR 72712 (479) 636-9222 / 800-995-6922 https://www.nwacc.edu/web/asc/asc-lab Computer Literacy/Adult Education Northwest Technical Institute 709 S. Old Missouri Road Springdale, AR 72764 http://www.nwti.edu/adulted/default.htm

Catalog The University of Arkansas Undergraduate Catalog of Studies is the most comprehensive reference for academic programs, policies and procedures. Rarely printed, it includes degree requirements, course descriptions and an academic calendar. To access the catalog, visit http://catalogofstudies.uark.edu Types of Admission New freshmen: No college credit or has earned college credit while in high school or the summer immediately after high school graduation. Transfer freshmen: High school graduate, with fewer than 24 transferable college credits earned after high school. Transfer students: High school graduate, with more than 24 transferable college credits earned after high school. Transfer students who possess a 2 year degree can enter the U of A as a Junior provided they meet the guideline requirements of Arkansas Act 182. For more information visit the U of A website for transfer credit. For information on transferring your credit hours or AA degrees, visit the U of A website for the complete application process. 11

Returning students: Previously attended the University of Arkansas, but has earned no college credits since last attending. Non-degree, visiting & concurrent enrollment students: Seeking no degree from the University of Arkansas, OR enrolled in a degree program at another institution and taking classes to transfer to the other institution. *Non-traditional students applying three or more years after high school graduation or earning their GED have the option of submitting the ACT or COMPASS test to satisfy testing requirements. The University will not accept test scores taken more than five years prior to enrollment. Test scores should be sent directly to the University by the testing agency. The COMPASS exam is offered to non-traditional students who have been out of high school at least three years and are seeking admission to the University. This exam is used to meet entrance requirements to the University and waive placement in remedial (0003) courses. Please contact the Office of Admissions if you have any questions. Refer to: http://www.uark.edu/testing

Senior Citizens Arkansas residents who are 60 years of age or older are encouraged to enroll in credit courses, tuition free, on a space-available basis. Senior citizens wishing to participate in the program will need to provide age verification, complete the Senior Citizen Tuition and Fee Waiver form, and apply for admission prior to the special registration period.

1) Apply for Admission to the University of Arkansas:  

Undergraduate admissions: apply.uark.edu Graduate admissions: call 479-575-6246

2) Complete the Senior Citizen Tuition & Fee Waiver Form. 3) Submit transcripts if necessary (once you have been evaluated you will receive admission notification in the mail). 4) Register for class/classes during the senior citizen registration period. 5) Be sure to read the Senior Citizen Program Checklist for more information! For more details about becoming a senior Razorback, call the Office of Admissions at 1-800-377-UofA (8632).

“The beautiful thing about learning is nobody can take it away from you.” —B.B. King

Veterans Resource and Information Center (VRIC) The central point of contact for student veterans and dependents needing assistance with the admissions process, applying for military educational benefits and scholarships, and referrals to various academic departments around campus. VRIC assists veterans of the United States Armed Forces and their dependents in utilizing their education benefits. Additionally, the VRIC maintains a large network within the community to refer students to organizations specializing in veteransâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; services. Please check in with the Front Desk for assistance. If the office staff is not able to answer your questions, they can assist you with scheduling an appointment to discuss your needs. Extreme emergencies can be seen on a walk-in basis, but you must still check in with the Front Desk. Arkansas Union 632, 6th floor West (479) 575-8742 vric@uark.edu

Veterans Upward Bound (VUB) A federally funded program designed to help U.S. military veterans enter and succeed in postsecondary education. VUB provides regular academic classes and remedial assistance to help men and women veterans of all ages gain the skills required for higher education. The veteran staff also provides advising services to help military members understand their options to attend, pay for, and obtain a college degree. All services provided are free of charge. Uptown Campus, 1001 E. Sain Avenue (479) 575-2442 http://vub.uark.edu/

Razorback Student Veterans is a registered student organization. Students who are veterans or supporters of veterans can become a member. The organization typically meets one day a week. Their mission is to be a voice for military/veterans on campus. If you are interested in joining Razorback Student Veterans, please contact President Taylor Weeks, at tlw006@uark.edu.

Academic Bankruptcy Students returning to the University after an absence of five or more years may be eligible to declare academic bankruptcy if they meet the following criteria: 

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Must have been enrolled previously at the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, as an undergraduate student and returning as an undergraduate student. Must not have been enrolled at the University during the previous five years. Students who have attended another institution since their last attendance at the University must meet requirements for transfer students (2.00 GPA on all course work attempted more than five years after last enrollment at the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville) to be eligible for readmission. Must submit an application for readmission and official transcripts of all college work attempted since last attendance at the University of Arkansas by application deadlines and submit a "Declaration of Academic Bankruptcy" form (available from the Office of Admission or academic dean's office).

The following are the conditions of academic bankruptcy: 

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Students will forfeit all credit hours previously awarded by the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville. This includes course work completed at the University (regardless of grades earned), courses accepted in transfer, credit by examination, and any correspondence course work awarded. A new calculation of grade-point average and credit hours will begin when the student returns to the University. The transcript will reflect the student's complete record (including all previous college work) with an added notation of "Academic Bankruptcy Declared." Courses taken at another institution within five years of the last UA enrollment will not be accepted in transfer. Course work completed more than five years after last UA enrollment may be accepted in transfer, subject to UA transfer credit policies. For purposes of this policy, UA correspondence course work will be treated in the same manner as transfer work.

OPPORTUNITIES FOR ADDITIONAL CREDIT Credit by Examination The College-Level Examination Program速 or CLEP provides students of any age with the opportunity to demonstrate college-level achievement through a program of exams in undergraduate college courses. The University of Arkansas provides this avenue through which above average students may seek advanced standing. Those interested in CLEP should consult their college advisor regarding degree requirements and CLEP credit. For more information, visit Testing Services. ACADEMIC ALTERNATIVES Human Resources Development The Bachelor of Science in Education (B.S.E.) degree with a major in Human Resource Development (HRD) is more affordable than most highly-advertised private or Internet-based universities. Online classes allow academics to be balanced with the demands of family and work life. Credit earned by job-knowledge assessments and credit awarded for professional certifications can shorten the time to complete a marketable bachelor's degree from the flagship campus of higher education in Arkansas.

Global Campus extends the arm of the University of Arkansas to areas beyond the Fayetteville campus. It is comprised of Distance Education, Study Abroad, Special Programs & Professional Studies and more! Expand your education--if you are seeking academic credit, you may choose from graduate or undergraduate programs through interactive video, online delivery, or traditional class meetings. In addition, you may select from a wide variety of individual Independent Study courses offered via correspondence or online.

PAYING FOR COLLEGE Cost Estimated costs of taking classes depends on the number of hours you take and is based on tuition, student's classification and campus services and privilege fees. Consult the Financial Aid Office website for information on the estimated cost of Attendance. Other Costs Most adult, nontraditional students must consider the cost of college in terms of money, time, and physical and emotional energy. The majority of courses at University of Arkansas are offered for three credit hours. Generally this means the class will be held for three 50-minute periods or two 75-minute periods each week for 16 weeks. Evening courses might meet two nights a week for 90 minutes. Going to college takes effort and requires plenty of physical and emotional stamina. If you have been out of school for a while, or have never attended college, you may want to begin with only one or two courses. You can add more courses the next semester/term as you become more academically proficient and comfortable.

Financial Assistance As you make plans for attending college, consider all options for meeting college costs, such as personal earnings or savings, grants and scholarships, federal loan programs, and campus employment. All prospective students are encouraged to apply for financial aid to determine eligibility. Student Financial Assistance opens the door for many who could not otherwise afford the costs of higher education. The four general kinds of financial aid that are available include: 1) Award grants based on financial need 2) Campus and non-campus scholarships based on academic merit and/or financial need 3) Student loans based on financial need 4) On-campus employment, which may be tied to financial need

Grants and Loans The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is available online. The Financial Aid Office website contains several videos to help you understand the different types of grants and loans. A video tutorial is also available. The FAFSA is available every year beginning January 1st. Apply early! The latest date a student can apply for financial aid is June 30th of the following year. Eligibility for federal financial aid:  Have a high school diploma, a GED, or have completed secondary school in a home school setting  Be enrolled in an eligible program of study  Be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen  Submit all required forms  Have not been convicted of possession or selling illegal drugs while enrolled/receiving financial aid  Meet and maintain satisfactory academic progress  Have financial need  In compliance with Selective Service (males)  Not owe a refund or repayment on federal grant  Not in default on federal educational loan  Have a valid Social Security number For more details, consult the Financial Aid Office.

Independent Student Status You're an independent student if at least one of the following applies to you:      

You will be at least 24 before January 1, of the school year for which you will receive aid; You are married at time of application; You are enrolled in a graduate or professional educational program; You have a legal dependent other than a spouse, for which you provide over one half of his/her support; You are an orphan or ward of the court (or were a ward of the court until age 18); or You are a veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces.

If you claim to be an independent student, you may be asked to submit proof before you can receive any federal student aid. If you think you have unusual circumstances that would make you independent even though none of the above criteria apply to you, talk to your financial aid counselor. Your counselor may be able to change your status if appropriate documentation can be provided and you have circumstances that warrant a change. The decision to override a student's dependency status is based on the judgment of the counselor in the Financial Aid Office.

Scholarships The Academic Scholarship Office, located in 114 Silas H. Hunt Hall, is a resource for prospective and current undergraduate students seeking scholarship funding. The final scholarship deadline is February. The admissions application, transcripts, and test scores should be submitted by November 1 and the scholarship application should be submitted by November 15 for priority consideration. This office also has information about other scholarship opportunities, including those outside of the U of A system. You are encouraged to use free online scholarship searches. Go to University of Arkansas's home page and then go to the Student Financial Assistance home page. You can click on several Internet scholarship searches from there. National companies and organizations often make funds available specifically to the adult student. This type of scholarship requires some independent perseverance to locate and complete the application process, but the results can be financially rewarding. Some adult students have been successful in getting assistance in their home community or from their current employer. Please refer to additional sections of the Off Campus Connections website (occ.uark.edu) for more scholarship resources! 25

Part-Time Employment OCC encourages students to work on campus whenever possible. Doing so will save time and gasoline expense, increase the sense of belonging as well as knowledge of the U of A. Campus and community part-time jobs are listed on the following websites: Human Resources - This on-line listing shows all positions for which applications are currently being accepted (On Campus Part Time/Temporary and Off Campus Part Time/Temporary). Financial Aid provides information about available Work-Study positions. All prospective students are encouraged to apply for financial aid in order to determine eligibility for work-study awards. Wages earned from a work-study job are not considered income when applying for financial aid in subsequent years. If you qualify for work-study, talk with your financial aid counselor about how to seek a work-study position. Razorback Career Link is the UA's online electronic job management system that allows students and alumni to search for and apply for part-time jobs, full-time jobs, internships and co-op positions. 26

TAKE ACTION ADMISSION CHECKLIST Follow these easy steps to complete your application to the University of Arkansas: Pay the $40 application fee which can either be paid by credit card when using the online application form or by forwarding a check or money order to the Office of Admissions. Have your high school transcript sent to the Office of Admissions (new and transfer freshmen only). We can evaluate from sixth or seventh semester transcripts. Transfer students - College transcripts must be provided from each college or university attended. Have ACT, SAT, or COMPASS scores sent directly to the University by the testing agency (new and transfer freshmen only). Request final transcripts (high school and/or college) be sent to the Office of Admissions. Notify the U of A of your decision to accept or decline admission by May 1. 27

BEING ADMITTED 

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Log into isis.uark.edu with your e-mail account (without @uark.edu), and click on the Student Center link. Under the Admissions tab near the bottom of the screen, you will see a box containing information about your admissions status. Click on “View Application Details,” which will bring up the option for you to accept your admission. After accepting your admissions by clicking the appropriate button, you will be asked to confirm your decision on the next screen. Finally, you may provide details regarding the three main reasons you have decided to attend the U of A by using the drop down menus and clicking “Save.” You may then return to your Student Center using the link under the welcome message that confirms your intent to enroll.

Advising You will be assigned an academic advisor or use the college's advising center. If you have a specific academic advisor, check on your advisor's office hours, preference for appointments, e-mails, or walk-in scheduling, etc. If you wish to discuss long-range plans or explore career options, see your advisor at times other than during enrollment, as that can be a very busy time. New Student Orientation Schedule http://fye.uark.edu/ All students who are admitted to the University of Arkansas will receive a New Student Orientation insert in their Admissions Packet. This insert describes the elements of the Orientation program and encourages students to register to attend. Transfer and nontraditional students have the option of a one-day session or an online orientation. Students with Disabilities Students with any type of physical or learning disability are strongly encouraged to contact the Center for Educational Access (CEA) in Room 104 in the Arkansas Union or call (479) 575 - 3014 (TDD/Voice) to learn more about the specific nature of their services and the overall accessibility of the University.

Enrollment and Class Registration Access a listing of current and future semester course offerings at the U of A, by visiting the course schedule webpage. Develop your proposed schedule. Make an appointment to confer with your academic advisor (see Advising Periods). If you have not been assigned an advisor, ask help in your dean's office or your academic department. Non-degree seeking students are affiliated with the Fulbright College of Arts and Sciences. After consultation with your advisor, make any necessary revisions to your schedule.

Registration will be easier if you: 

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Include correct and complete number and Class ID information (course prefix, course number, suffix and section number) for each class. Include all co-requisite classes (classes that must be taken at the same time). Be sure to check the Catalog of Studies for co-requisite and prerequisite classes required for the classes chosen. Indicate the number of credit hours for variable credit hour classes (variable credit hour classes have only three digits in the course number). Make sure that you have prepared a list of alternative classes, in case some of the classes you have chosen are closed or conflict with other classes on your schedule. This is very important for students whose classification is that of junior, sophomore, or freshman. Classes taught during prime time (9:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.) fill quickly during registration. For the most up-to-date listing of classes, visit to the ISIS website as a guest, locate "Self Service," click on "Class Search/Browse Catalog."

After You Have Registered: 

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Get a copy of your schedule, please log in to ISIS then select Student Center to view your schedule. Always check your schedule for accuracy after you register or make changes. You may also pick up a copy of your schedule by taking a photo ID to your Dean's Office or to the Office of the Registrar and requesting a copy. Pay fees. See Payment Information for details. Check Academic Calendar for important deadlines for changing your schedule.

*TIP! Once you obtained your class schedule and before classes start, take some time to come to campus and find where your classes are located. Make a “dry-run” and figure out exactly how long it will take you to trek from one class to the next. This will not only help you manage your time but you will feel more confident and comfortable on that first day of class!

Campus Identification Card The Campus ID Card is the official identification card of the University of Arkansas and is a necessity. The Campus Card office is located on the 4th floor of the Arkansas Union. The Campus Card is used for many things on campus, including: Personal Identification Access to Campus Buildings Access to Campus Events (athletics, concerts, etc.) Meal Plan Access Razorbuck$ Debit Account HPER Access Ticket Purchasing For a new Student ID, the cost is $22.00. For a replacement ID for a lost or stolen card, the cost is $18.00. Student Calendar Book The calendar book lists academic, athletic and cultural activities at the University. It also has places to pencil in your schedule, list important campus phone numbers and includes discount coupons. It is available at the University of Arkansas Union Bookstore. 33

SUCCEED Attending Class During the first few class meetings, the instructor outlines the work required for the entire semester, including test dates, any projects, reports or papers, and due dates. Many instructors provide a course syllabus or course outline. Jot down the instructor's name, office location, and office hours. Make it a point to talk to your professor either before or after class, or make an appointment for a meeting in the office. Get acquainted. This applies to students in the self-paced classes as well as those with scheduled class meetings. Studies show that students who attend class regularly make higher grades than those who do not. The instructor determines class attendance requirements. Faculty The University of Arkansas faculty is a diverse group with a variety of instructional styles ranging from casual to formal. Most professors prefer to have students address them formally (i.e., Dr. Smith); others, however, prefer first name usage. You will

never be wrong if you address your professor as Doctor or Professor, at least until they ask you to be more informal. Your instructors' teaching methods vary. They may address questions and/or announcements during the first (or last) few minutes of class. Some instructors read their lectures, others deliver them from closely followed notes, others develop their material from student asked questions, and some seem to have no definite pattern. Some instructors like discussion classes, some stress self-paced learning, others require student group presentations. Talk to the professor about an assignment or project if you are uncertain about the specific requirements. Remember, whenever the instructor refers to an article or book that relates to the current topic, it is wise to make a note of the title. If your time allows, find the reference and review the material; it will help you understand the topic better.

Academic Tips/Study Skills 

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Plan a schedule of balanced activities, both fixed and flexible. University life has many aspects, which are very important to success. The Commuter Student Lounge is available for students' use. It is located on the 6th floor-West in the Arkansas Union. Study at a regular time and in a regular place. Establishing habits of study is extremely important. Knowing what you are going to study and when saves a lot of time in making decisions and retracing your steps to get necessary materials, etc. Avoid generalizations in your schedule such as "study". Commit yourself more definitively to "study Math" or "study Chemistry" at certain, regular hours. Remember to include any ELC (Enhanced Learning Center) tutoring you receive on this schedule. Study as soon after classes as possible. One hour spent soon after class will do as much for you as several hours of study a few days later. Review lecture notes while they are still fresh in your mind. Start assignments while your memory of the assignment is still accurate. 36

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Use odd hours during the day for studying. Scattered 1-2 hour free periods between classes are easily wasted. Planning and establishing habits of using them for studying for the class just finished will result in better use of your time. Limit blocks of study time to no more than 2 hours on any one course at a time. After 1 1/2 to 2 hours of study you begin to tire rapidly and your ability to concentrate decreases. Taking a break (consider splashing some water on your face, doing a few stretching exercises, drinking a glass of water, etc.) and then begin studying another course will provide the change necessary to keep up your efficiency. Provide for spaced review. That is, a regular weekly period when you will review the work in each of your courses and be sure you are up to date. This review should be cumulative, covering briefly all the work done thus far in the semester. List according to priorities. By putting first things first, you are sure to get the most important things done on time! Eat well-balanced meals and get regular exercise. Healthy eating and exercise can dramatically improve your concentration, mood, and increase your energy level. 37

Double your time estimates. Most people tend to under estimate how much time a particular activity/ assignment will take. A good rule of thumb is to estimate how much time you realistically think something will take and then double it. More often than not, this doubled estimate is accurate. Parts adapted from Guidelines for Creating a Study Schedule, Cornell University Center for Learning and Teaching

See your advisor Plan to vary your schedule so that you do not take all of the most difficult courses in the same semester. Set an appointment with your instructor Arrange an appointment as soon as possible for tips and suggestions. Have specific questions ready. Tutoring The Enhanced Learning Center is located in Gregson Hall. Gregson Hall is located two buildings south of the Student Union on the south side. The entry to the ELC is located on the south side of Gregson Hall. All students enrolled at the University of Arkansas are welcome to use ELC tutoring services for FREE. 38

The Quality Writing Center also offers writing services at the Enhanced Learning Center. Appointments are required to work with the Quality Writing Center tutors. Visit the ELC website to schedule a tutoring appointment. Student Support Services is a federally funded program and limited to the number of participants that can be served. All participants must have an Academic Need and meet at least one of the following criteria: 

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First-Generation College Student-Parent(s)/Guardian(s) did not graduate with a 4-year degree Meet Federal Income eligibility requirements and/or Have a documented disability on file with the Center for Educational Access.

General Advice Sometime during the semester, you may encounter frustration and difficulties. This is normal. Keep going and keep in mind these principles: 1. If you don't know, ask. Keep asking until you understand the situation. 2. Start with the Off Campus Connections staff and return from time to time for help or redirection. 3. Know your academic advisor and be sure he/she has an opportunity to get to know you. 4. Attend classes regularly. 5. Keep up with assignments. If you need help, get a tutor. 6. College is more than books and classes. It is a whole experience that comes from being with people, having cultural experiences, and learning more about yourself. 39

Time management tips

Set priorities including learning to say "no" so that you have study time. Use small blocks of time to study. Make a daily or weekly schedule. Use a planner!

Plan when you will study for each class and write this into your schedule. Be specific. For example, from 7:30-8:30 write "read psychology" instead of the more generic “study time.” PAL Program (Off Campus Connections) Peer Assistance Leaders (PALS) provide a valuable connection for undergraduates who live off campus. They provide:  Ideas and insight on how to adjust to a new, larger, more complex environment.  Advice and tips on student success issues such as parking, registration, where to eat, how and where to meet other students, etc.  Knowledge of campus opportunities and University resources.  Increased awareness of student life, clubs, organizations and activities. 40

You and your family If your spouse, family, parents, or friends are not supportive of your returning to school, try to understand that theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re afraid you will change and that will mean change for them. Do not forget to schedule some special time for your family as you design your schedule. It may help to find another adult student who can offer support and understanding. Talk to someone. Most likely, when you are happy with yourself and your accomplishments, this pleasure will spread to others, and they will become more supportive of your efforts. Let your family participate as much as possible in your new endeavor. Keep them informed of your busy times and enlist their help. Usually, they are proud of you and want you to succeed. Taking care of yourself If pressure starts to build, where can you turn? Often, just talking to someone will help. You can talk to your advisor, the Off Campus Connections staff or other students. In addition, there are professional counselors at the Pat Walker Health Center located on the corner of Maple and Garland Streets. Accept the fact that, at certain times during the semester (usually around midterm and a few weeks before finals), there will be a lot of deadlines. Every class has projects, papers and tests. Your stress level may be high. This is common among all students, including returning adult students. If you expect and prepare for them, coping will become easier. 41

Warn your family or friends of anticipated stress periods. Posting your exam schedule on the refrigerator and delegating additional responsibility to others at these times may help your family. Make a plan to relax once the semester is over. The Pat Walker Health Center provides professional and comprehensive medical care, mental health care, health education, and health promotion for a diverse community of students, faculty, and staff.       

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Medical Clinic CAPS (Counseling and Psychological Services) Women's Clinic Health Promotion and Education Pharmacy Allergy and Immunizations STAR Central (Support, Training, Advocacy, & Resources on Sexual Assault and Relationship Violence) Student Health Insurance Information

University of Arkansas Police Department Razorback Patrol 575 - 2222 You Don't Have to Walk Alone Walking Escorts to and from anywhere on campus Sunday - Thursday 6:00P.M. - Midnight (walking escorts provided at other times by UAPD officers as shift activity allows) 42

Commuter Meal Plans Save time, money, and your parking space! Don't leave campus just because you're hungry or have a break between classes. Instead, access your own meal plan on campus when you need it. Staying ON campus means staying connected TO campus! Plan I: Includes 80 meals per semester & 40 Flex$ Plan II: Includes 25 meals per semester & 55 Flex$ Plan III: Includes 50 meals per semester & 500 Flex$ Sign up at: http://housing.uark.edu/Contracting/ Commuter_Meals.php The University of Arkansas Student Union As the center of the college community life, the Arkansas Union compliments the academic experience through an extensive variety of cultural, educational, social, and recreational programs. These programs provide the opportunity to balance course work and free time as cooperative factors in education. Also referred to as the "living room" of the campus, the union is a warm and welcoming center for students, faculty, staff, alumni, and other members of the campus and community. The Union offers the ability to come together in an inviting atmosphere to dine, relax, study, spend time with friends, attend events, get involved, and much more. 43

OFF CAMPUS CONNECTIONS There’s a great Commuter Lounge available next to our office (Room 632) on the 6th floor-West of the Arkansas Union. It’s a great place to study, relax, or watch TV. Our staff may be able to assist you with referrals or resources. Call 479-575-7351 or email occ@uark.edu to set up an appointment.

Visit occ.uark.edu! “Like” the University of Arkansas Adult Learner Facebook page and connect with other students like you! 44

Our staff hopes that this resource guide is a useful tool in pursuing your educational goals. We strongly encourage you to be proactive and utilize the University's website for information related to the entire institution. The A-Z index on the U of A Homepage can be your best friend!

Your success is our success!

“Develop a passion for learning. If you do, you will never cease to grow.”

—Anthony J. D’Angelo