Adult Learner Services

Tips & Tools for Success

Be an engaged and proactive student

Attend the Adult Learner Orientation, take a campus tour, and go to a Ready-set-go Library workshop.
Introduce yourself to each of your professors/instructors.
Form study groups with other classmates.
Join the Mature/Part-time Students’ Association or one of the other student groups.� See UWSA student groups.
Access the full range of student services, including study skills workshops, tutoring and academic advising.

Communicate and be honest

Communicate with your professors and fellow classmates about your experience or unique circumstance.
If you’ are having some difficulties, express your concern about your challenges to your professor.� Be honest.

Organize your time and environment

Use a calendar (paper or electronic) to chart your goals, both short term and long term.� Include due dates for daily, weekly and monthly assignments, as well as dates of tests and exams.
Take advantage of “pockets” of time - before/after lectures or on the bus – to read material or review notes.
Find a study space that will be conducive to success, whether that means an isolated spot in the library or a couch in a busy student lounge. You know what kind of space you work best in, so find and use that spot on campus and/or at home.

Stay informed

Know all your professors’ contact information, availability and office hours.
Keep each of your course outlines handy.
Be well aware of deadlines, university withdrawal dates, tuition deadlines and other policies and procedures that may effect you as a student (see the Course Calendar).

Be realistic and flexible