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Transition Tips

This page is designed to make your first year at BU a little easier.

Library Tips

  • Don’t know where to start?  Try using the Ebsco Discovery feature on the Library Home page.  Type in a keyword, and you’re on your way!  Click here:  http://www2.brandonu.ca/library/
  • Did you know that the Library is wi-fi equipped?
  • Did you know that you can search the Library’s catalogues and databases from home?
  • Need more help?  The Library has highly trained staff who are here to help.  Feel free to ask for help at the reference or main desks.

Tips for a Successful Transition

  • Use your BU email account and check it regularly.  Important information and opportunities are circulated through this account.  You can always delete messages that do not interest you.
  • Visit the BU gymnasium.  There are many campus recreation opportunities for students and they are FREE.
  • If you don’t understand, always ask for help.  You chose a university that prides itself on being small and personal.  The staff and faculty are here to help.
  • Visit the library.  Learn how to search for journals, books, and other research material.
  • Speak to your instructors and tutors as much as possible as they are your first call for academic help.  Remember, every faculty member was once a first-year student.
  • Make use of the resources available in Student Services.
  • Get organized.  Buy an academic calendar.
  • Learn time management skills.  Keep a balance between university work, social life, sports, family, job etc.
  • Get involved in BU life by joining a club or society.

Classroom Tips

Attend all classes:

  • Arrive on time
  • Turn your cell phone off
  • Do not leave early

Be prepared:

  • Read and process text before class – create a list of questions to have clarified
  • Review previous notes
  • Do problems, brainstorming, outlines

Sit close to the front:

  • Listen actively
  • Take notes – yes, even with PowerPoint slides
  • Ask questions

Seek help:

  • Visit instructor during office hours with questions or concerns
  • Get a study buddy
  • Go to the class tutorial or ask your professor to set up a tutorial (they don’t bite)
  • Go to the Academic Skills Centre (102 McKenzie Building) for learning skills, writing or math assistance

Hand in work on time and do not miss exams:

  • Have work ready to hand in on due date
  • Do not use excuses to rationalize lack of preparation
  • Follow the standard format regulations for written assignments

Be realistic, use a calendar, and follow course syllabi:

  • Schedule assignments, tests, projects (big wall calendars are very useful)
  • Schedule study time – 2 to 3 hours of study for each hour of class
  • Honestly account for family, social life, work, class, study, and transportation
  • A 15 credit hour load = a full time job