Enroll for summer courses!

     Are you staying in Tyler for the summer? Do you want to go ahead and get some credits done? Why not take summer courses!! The University of Texas at Tyler offers students the opportunity to take courses over the summer to satisfy core, degree or minor requirements!

How to not procrastinate at UT Tyler

The great Walt Disney once said that “the way to get started is to quit talking and start doing.”

Procrastination is something that every college student has to deal with. I know that it affects me every day.  For example, I would much rather watch Game of Thrones, play video games, read, swim, watch grass grow, and pretty much anything else than write my 20 page research paper that’s due in less than a week now.  Ironically, as I continue to put off my paper, I am writing this very blog about how to stop procrastinating. 

This is an extremely popular topic – one that both Dallas and Emmy wrote on.  However, that does that not mean that occasional reminders do not help.  Hopefully, with this post I can help bring to light some old and new ideas on how to stop putting things off and starting getting things done. Let's stop talking and start doing!

Putting a Spring into Your Step at UT Tyler!

Now that we have been in school for a few weeks and we students are getting back into our normal, “oh good God, this paper is due! We have a quiz!” routine, it’s time to find a way to cope with this transient, fleeting time of the year. In the past few posts of mine, we’ve discussed how to handle not always excelling at things the first time around and the complications of Texas weather on fashion. However, this semester is going to fly by! I know it seems like it just started, but it is already February: the shortest month of the year with only 28 days. At the risk of sounding like that obstreperous Rebecca Black song, March comes after that! That means if you start now, that only leaves about a little over a month to plan the perfect spring break! It sounds like a really long time, but we all know how time flies when you’re taking quizzes, having perfect attendance in that 8 am class (am I right?), and studying late into the night for all those exams.

This bunny is in your home, studying your notes!

Here is a spring board of fun ideas to do over Spring Break and why they’re awesome! Check it out:

-We Will Rock You the Musical: this musical based on the works of Queen will be happening in scenic Dallas, Texas! They will be doing theatrical renditions of Queen’s biggest hits. This ‘killer queen’ is super excited and looking at ticket prices right now. Ticket prices start at $32! Come see We Will Rock You the Musical in Fair Park!

Hockey: Only thing manly when put on ice

-Ottawa Senators vs. Dallas Stars- come get your cheer on and watch a really great hockey game at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas! :D Okay, so truth be told: I love hockey and really get into it, so bring earplugs because there are others like this. But seriously! Ticket prices start at $28. Face off, March 22 at 2 p.m.!

-Sci-Port: Louisiana’s Science Center- Okay, anything that promises both liquid nitrogen ice cream and an IMAX theatre sounds really awesome in my book! For non-members, the combo fee to enjoy both the exhibits and the IMAX theatre is only $18! It’s fun, educational, there’s ice cream, there’s science… what more could you want?

I want all the brightly colored things!

-Jasper Azalea Festival- this sounds like a blast. On March 15, 2014, there’s going to be arts and crafts and a butterfly release, garden tours, live music, and vendors! When I checked the website, they said there was going to be a petting zoo. I know where I am going to be! Seriously, I am hoping there’s an alpaca. They are such mysterious creatures! The fun starts at the Jasper County Courthouse Square at 9 a.m. sharp! Be there or be square J

So, I know there’s quite a bit of time between now and spring break, but you don’t want to be stuck buying tickets at the last minute! (These can get expensive!) Happy planning and may the odds forever be in your favor.

Carver's Guide to: Dealing With Stress

The end of the first semester is right around the corner, which means papers, projects, and tests are coming all at once.  Unfortunately, with the substantial increase in work comes a substantial amount of stress.  Some people have methods of coping with stress, but others just let it build up until they cannot handle it anymore.   According to Harvard, many people do not handle stress correctly.  My goal with this blog is to help you maintain your health, both physically and mentally, during highly stressful periods of time.

UT Tyler Spring 2014 Classes

Registration for classes for next semester began on November 1st. Registration is open to everyone and if you haven't already made your schedule, please do!

As of today, registration is open for EVERYONE for spring 2014! Talk to your advisors! Get your top classes! #myuttyler #patricia #spring14
— UT Tyler Admissions (@ApplyUTT) November 6, 2013

 If you need help navigating myUTTyler, Emmy made a blog post about it to guide you. If you haven't spoken to your advisor about your schedule and your degree plan, make an appointment.

Some students self-advise after their freshman year when they're required to go to a freshman advisor, but it's in your best interest to go see your advisor to make sure that you're on track. Your advisor can also give you the schedule of classes that your department is going to be teaching the following semester.

For our students that have applied for next spring, get an appointment with an advisor as soon as possible. The quicker you can get registered, the better chance you have at getting a schedule with the times you want and having to change your schedule around because some classes are closed.

The less classes you have left to finish your degree plan, the more registering is like The Hunger Games.

REGISTER FOR YOUR  SENIOR REQUIREMENTS

I had to take a research methods class last year as a senior requirement and as soon as I was able to register, I enrolled into it. Those are the kinds of classes that fill up quickly; I asked a classmate that was a year below me and he couldn't register the day after because the class was already closed. 

Get the hang of enrolling in classes and learn how to navigate myUTTyler like the back of your hand. You are going to need that skill when you're almost done with your undergrad career. 

Life as a Music Major

Studying music is pretty much what I've always wanted to do in college. Pretty much. And now that I'm finally doing it, I can actually tell you guys what life as a music major is all about!

Taking notes at UT Tyler: Technology vs. Paper

                   VS.

Technology has exponentially increased the ability to learn in the classroom.  Information can be dispersed by teachers easier via the internet, and students can access information faster than ever before.   It has now become common practice, even, for students to take notes during class on some form of mobile technology, mainly iPads and laptop computers. Even here at UT Tyler we have been doing studies on the effects of the use of iPad as assistive learning devices.

Specifically with this post, I hope to lay out some positive and negative aspects of taking notes in class on some form of technology to give you a good idea of what you’ll be in for if you decide that you would rather take notes on your laptop than in your notebook.

Pros:

·         Weight:

o   Your back will thank you for only carrying around an ipad or Laptop, which will weigh less than 2 pounds, instead of notebooks and textbooks. Rather than packing your bag full of note-taking materials, all you need is your handy dandy ipad or lightweight laptop and you can be on your way.

·         Speed

o   Keyboards are usually much faster than pens when it comes to writing what the professor says.  Whereas it would take me a minute or two to copy down a slide from one of my professor’s Power Points in class while writing, I could churn out the entire slide in about 30 seconds while typing it.  This means that you could have more time to just listen to the professor talk and get any additional information that may not be included in the slide, instead of focusing solely on what was in the slide.  The odds are that your professor will not be just reading the slides to you and will be including extra things about the topic, which means that speed is of huge advantage.

·         Ease of Accessibility

o   Another major advantage to using tech for notes would be the ease with which you can see everything relating to your class with just a couple of clicks and a stable access to the internet.  Additionally, if you're waiting for class one day, but need to be studying for a test in another class, having your laptop or tablet means that you could study even you don’t have the class that same day.

·         Study Easier

o   With a computer or tablet, you can organize your notes in a way that makes sense to you if the professor teaches in a strange order.  You can also color code your notes if that helps you, or even put them into tables to help remember terms and key points.  It is also extremely helpful to be able to copy and paste large sums of information onto other word documents for the creation of flash cards and things of that nature.

·         Cheap textbooks

o   Textbooks are expensive.  However, if you use some form of technology for class readings then you will pay much less for your textbook, as eBooks cost much less to produce and sell.  The textbooks are also much more accessible while on your computer or tablet, so you can read them wherever you have your tablet.

·         Note-editing

o   It’s much easier to just backspace over a typo than it is to mark out an entire word or even a sentence and re-write it.  With technology, all it takes is a quick movement of your cursor, and then a push of the backspace button, and you can immediately fix mistakes in your note taking. 

Cons:

·         Can be harder to study with

o   Unlike a notebook, your computer or tablet will have easy access to other forms of entertainment like Netflix, or Facebook.  For this reason, it can also be harder to study with technology because of the distractions.  If you get distracted easily and don’t have much discipline, then paper is your best bet to passing your classes.

·         Technology snafus

o   Technology is awesome, but it does have its issues.  The internet won’t always work, sometimes your tablet will not have enough battery, or will encounter software issues.  This is especially problematic when you have a test the next day that you really need to study for.  For that reason, some just prefer to play it safe with pen and paper.

·         Cost barriers

o   This one pretty much speaks for itself.  College kids can’t afford technology most of the time.  A good laptop that won’t die in a year will cost about $500, and a tablet will cost about 300-400 dollars.  Compare this to a package of pens that costs a few dollars, and a 97 cent notebook.  The math speaks for itself.

Personally, I have taken notes with both forms, and they both have their good and bad sides.  However, I have chosen the IPad as my primary medium of note taking because of its light weight, and easy accessibility outside of the classroom.  Not to mention the fact that there are TONS of apps to write and organize notes with.  Keep in mind, though, that not everyone is the same.  If you prefer pen and paper, then by all means stick to it.  Which do you prefer? Let me know in the comments!

First week of classes at UT Tyler

Here, at the call center, we've been counting down for the fall semester on Twitter.

We're counting down to the start of Fall 2013!

I know a lot of our incoming freshmen are nervous about the upcoming fall semester. You went to orientation, you've downloaded the campus map, you've got your parking permit paid for, you have your student ID and you've gone over what you need for the first day of class.

However, the first week of class (you're trying to get used to your schedule for the day) is pretty odd compared to the rest of the semester. There's a few things you should know before you begin to freak out about college.

Online Classes at UT Tyler

Students entering their first year of the college lifestyle at UT Tyler will find quickly that core level courses can be a little overwhelming.  Whether it is the change in pace from their high school class experiences, or if they are brave enough to take a full class load in their first semester (generally 15 hours), it can be highly stressful for the first-time college student. 

A solution often suggested by the freshman advising staff is for incoming students to take at least one online course through UT Tyler.  This is a great educational opportunity, as it allows you to work at your own pace within certain parameters, and you can finish all of your assignments and tests from the leisure of your own computer.  Most often for freshman at UT Tyler, the recommended online courses are for topics such as humanities, core history courses, and sometimes even science classes through another university.  This blog post will serve as a primer for new students with online classes, as there are often situations where these classes are more than we originally expect.

 

1) Different format, same principle  

First, keep in mind that just because the class is in an online format, it is no less as important as a class that requires you to meet in person with the professor.  An online course has all of the same expectations as a regular course: due dates for assignments, a textbook for you to study, the student should prepare adequately for tests and projects, etc.  Avoid the temptation of thinking less of the class because it is online.  This will result in a grade you will not expect or appreciate on your transcript.

2) PROCRASTINATION IS THE BANE OF ONLINE CLASSES  

I know this from experience.  The student will put off the work that is required from an online class because the class does not actually meet.  AVOID THIS.  Try to have your assignments and tests finished as soon as possible.  Not only do they pile up quickly, but also they accumulate along with the assignments given from in-person classes, making them seem like a lesser priority.  Treat this class like any other; otherwise, it will not be a cheery experience.

3) The professor is not imaginary  

More often than not, the professor for your online course is a UT Tyler faculty member.  Meaning, the person has a pulse, an office, and an opinion about your work, and is paid and lives to assist you with you studies.  Utilize his privilege, as it is possible for you to get overwhelmed with your class and require assistance or guidance.  You will quickly find that this visit could be the deciding factor between getting a B and earning a well-deserved A for the course.

Visit an advisor today for more info!

If you feel like I am missing something, or there is some other concern, I refer you to my third suggestion.  While you are signing on for your online course, see who is leading/teaching the course and go visit them during their office hours!  They will give clarification to anything that you feel is unclear, or answer any other questions that you might have about the course.  Also, feel free to call the UT Tyler Advising Office on campus if you need any suggestions for what online classes are best for you.  Do not hesitate to make an appointment with a freshman advisor; they want to help you!

If you want to see if one of your core classes is available in an online format, remember to check the core curriculum first for UT Tyler entry students, then reference that list to your advisor to set up your schedule. Online classes are convenient, but they still merit the same responsibility as any other college level course.  Remember this when your advisor recommends that you take one during your next semester of classes!

Back to Reality (UT Tyler)!!

So now that the spring break is over, it's hard to get back on track with the classes at UT Tyler. But as a student we have to keep in mind that finals are just few weeks away, and as for me, all of my major projects, assignments, and exams are coming up next week.

My spring break went by extremely fast, so its getting hard for me to get back with my classes. But on the positive side, we have less than 2 months till the summer and I am looking forward to that because fall 2013 will be my last semester here at UT Tyler.

Here are some things you can do to keep you on track to end this semester smoothly:
- create an agenda for yourself for upcoming due dates.
- keep in touch with your professors to make sure you are on track before the finals week.
- DO NOT wait till last minute to complete a major project or an assignment.
- And always make sure to have fun and make this semester a good experience for you.

Make sure to leave a comment and let us know about your spring break experience! Let's make this a great semester and get ready for summer 2013!!

Christmas Present? Register for UT Tyler Classes!

It's the most wonderful time of the year:

The time where you still have time to register for you Spring 2013 classes at The University of Texas at Tyler! Classes begin on January 10, 2013, and that's also the day for Late Registration from 9am-6:30pm!

You can register online with you MyUTTyler site. For detailed instructions, use the second page of this document. Also, there's a POOL of helpful information below the registration information.

Get ready, Patriots! Spring semester is coming!

Flu Season, Patriots… Stay Healthy!

My state as I write this blog: blocked nose, sore throat, voice like that of a man, nauseated.

 I always get sick at this time of the year, when the weather is in the process of changing. And so is everyone around me!

As the weather continues to power on to Fall Season, we experience a fluctuation of cold and hot weather. I think that confuses my body and eventually, my immune system fails me.

I cannot believe my luck that I would get sick this week; a week full of exams and quizzes. I’ve already missed three classes because my fever reached 103°F yesterday. And now I’m in a state of worry on how I’m going to catch up on missed school work. I blame Murphy’s Law.

I went to the University Health Clinic yesterday and got a note. They also prescribed me some medicine that helped break my fever. But I’m still pretty sick and I’m still very behind on work.

So if you’re one of those that’s already infected, here’s are some things that’s helping me get better:

•  Go to the clinic. That’s the first step because they will know what’s going on in your body and prescribe you some medicine. (Also, there’s the chance that it’s not flu, so it’s better safe than sorry)
•  If you don’t have the time or energy to go to the clinic, over the counter medication could be your best bet.
•  VITAMIN C. Cannot express how much Vitamin C will help. It boosts your immune system and helps you get better faster and prevents any other sickness. Oranges/Vitamin C supplements are good.
•  Fluids. Being sick gets you dehydrated and your body will always need more fluids than normal.
•  Lots of rest, staying warm (but not too warm, because that elevates your body temperature if you have a fever) and avoiding extra physical work.

Also, if you’re not sick yet (lucky you), here are some preventative measures you might want to take:

• Again, VITAMIC C. A strong immune system is key.
• Get your flu shot :) The University Health Clinic provides this shot and you can set up an appointment and get one.
• Stay away from sick people (for obvious reasons)
• Keep pocket hand sanitizer with you at all times, and use it as necessary. Kill ‘em germs.
• Keep your apartment/living space clean. Bacteria and germs LOVE mess and dirty places and you wouldn’t want your space to be a breeding ground for that.

You should also read my co-blogger Gabby’s blog on more tips about staying healthy and germ-free. 
I hope everyone else is had a great week and looking forward to Homecoming! :)

The Power of Supplemental Instruction

I owe a lot of my A's on exams to S.I. sessions. I don't know about anyone else but S.I. is seriously my academic hero.

Supplemental Instruction is basically a study session lead by fellow UT Tyler students (most of them upperclassmen). The best part? You don't have to pay for it directly, because it's already including in our tuition! Even more reasons to take advantage of it.

S.I. sessions are held twice a week for every class that has S.I. Unfortunately, not every class at UT Tyler come with S.I. but that would be really really great! Go here for a list of classes that have S.I. sessions.

Personally, S.I. sessions help me a lot because the S.I. leaders would go through anything that you might need help in. Also, we go over a lot of problems that we don't normally have time for in class, because lectures mostly focus on theory and concept. This way, I am pretty much prepared for the exam because I not only understand the material, I also know how to answer exam questions.

I remember freshman year, for my first ever Calculus exam, I was very distraught because I got a D. I decided to get some help and attended all of the S.I. session and believe it or not, my next Calculus exam was an A! 

So even though I am pretty swamped and busy this semester, I always, always find time to go to at least one S.I. session a week.

There's no harm in trying, so if you find yourself struggling with a class, plan to attend an S.I. session (if it has one). It may or may not be for everyone but you don't really lose anything by giving it a shot! :)

The SI website has a daily calendar that's very useful with planning your time, if you ever want to go. They also update it everyday, in case any sessions get cancelled!

The Quest for the "Perfect Schedule"

Don't run from your fall schedule... REGISTER NOW!

      It is again that time of year where I am finally trying to figure out the ‘perfect schedule’ for the Fall semester registration. Because I don’t have very many hours left to take, my next two semesters of my undergraduate career will be a seemingly lighter load. The desire to accomplish the elusive ‘perfect schedule’ is still very much present. Only Tuesday/Thursday classes or only Monday/Wednesday/Friday classes? Early morning and get it over or later classes and sleep in? So many questions in the quest for MY perfect schedule.

         In my experience there is a few things which will help you in your future scheduling conflicts you will encounter.

11.       Register EARLY. If you are in a bigger department, all of the ‘good’ classes (or the classes everyone HAS to take) will be full if you do not get there in time.

Don't wait until the last minute

            Hey gang, registration is upon us and I cannot stress it enough, do NOT wait until the last minute to register.... pleeaaaaaseeeeee. You have no idea how much it can throw off all of your plans when you're too slow on the draw. You could end up with either a lot of morning classes, evening classes, or worst yet...
no classes at all.
           At this stage in the game, I have a very shallow pool of classes to take so if I'm not quick on the draw I could be in a very tough spot. I could lose an entire semester or be forced to make it up in the summer. I have been lucky so far as I haven't had a class close on me, but I do know the pains of trying to get into a closed class.

Yeesh schoolwork

        It feels like I'm being bombarded with so many assignments. It’s starting to get to me. I didn't do too hot on my tests and all of my assignments are really difficult. I have a bad feeling that this semester is going to be really bad for me. We'll see what happens though.
        I'll try to stay positive, but it's kind of tough when you feel like the dumbest person in your classes. But yeah, not sure what to do, I went from doing amazing in my classes to bottoming out. it may be too early to tell, but I better not fail any of these suckers. I hope it doesn't come to that, because I'll definitely have to take them in the summer so I can stay on track to graduate in December. But yeah, it’s going to be a close one folks.

The First Day of School

         Well, I don't know about you, but I am excited about starting this semester! I am in my final semester here at the University and only need to take 9 hours.
I've never felt more motivated to finish. I am taking my last few upper division courses for my major, plus a senior seminar.
       I'm supposedly taking a class with this hard core professor, so I'm a bit uneasy about that. But hey, I'm a senior!
       I've only gone to one class thus far, so I'm not exactly sure what all I can really say about my classes. The one I attended only lasted about 15 minutes! Syllabus days...
      I am also enrolled in a drawing class at the junior college that should be a great outlet for some creativity. Also, in March I am taking a belly dancing class. ^_^