When it comes to college, the freedom of choice and exploration can often come with confusion. Not everything is laid out in front of you, and the knowledge learned from high school can only take you so far. Sometimes, everyone could use some advice, and we at the UVU Review are more than willing to provide some. Here are 10 tips that every student should know:
1. CARE Hub food bank
Utah Valley University, in addition to providing a wide array of resources for students, also runs a food bank. The food bank assists students dealing with food insecurities and difficulties obtaining basic needs.
Students who take at least three credit hours per semester are able to receive food from the pantry once a week. In addition, Wolverines who are raising a family may be qualified to receive benefits to help alleviate costs. While academics are important, it’s even more important to take care of yourself, something that the CARE Hub is happy to help with.
2. TimelyCare
Financial alleviation isn’t the only thing UVU can help with. TimelyCare is UVU’s mental health hotline for health emergencies, counseling and even health coaching. Wolverines do not need insurance to access the services provided by TimelyCare, and students can get started by sending their UVID number and email to: [email protected].
TimelyCare’s hotline is available 24/7 and can be used by students to talk about the things that they’re struggling with. In addition, Wolverines can receive up to nine free counseling sessions a year, and can sign up for coaching lessons, where they can learn to manage their nutrition and other aspects of their health. Utah Valley University knows that every aspect of your health is important, and TimelyCare is proof of that.
3. Talking to professors before classes start
While the course syllabus is a valuable tool, the course’s professor is the best source of knowledge when it comes to passing classes. Reaching out to your professor before classes start is a great way to prepare for the semester and establish goodwill with them. Early communication with professors is also a great way to ensure that you have everything you need before the start of class. Professors are there to help, and the best way Wolverines can receive it is by simply asking for it.
4. Wolverine Access “Selective Access” feature
With the release of Wolverine Access at the start of the year, it’s vital that every Wolverine knows how to properly navigate it and what all its features do. The “Select Access” option allows you to pick and choose what textbooks you purchase, preventing you from having to pay the flat fee if the cost of books doesn’t exceed it.
This tool is exceptionally useful for less textbook-heavy majors, such as English or art majors. Additionally, there may be alternatives to Wolverine Access which hold better deals on said textbooks. Regardless of what choice a Wolverine makes, it’s important to make those decisions sooner rather than later.
5. Deciding on transportation
While this question is a no-brainer for many students, for some it can be particularly vexing. While there is a wide array of parking lots across campus, driving a vehicle may not be the best option for everyone, as parking lots can easily fill up at certain times of the day. Having a reliable vehicle may also prove to be an issue for some Wolverines, and they may not live in housing that is within walking distance from campus such as the Green or Wolverine Crossing.
Fortunately, UVU students can utilize their student ID to use UTA public transportation instead via Frontrunner, UVX, bus, and more, at absolutely no cost to them. Some students may live in Utah Valley and decide to ride a bicycle or electric scooter to campus, while others may choose to carpool. Transportation is not a one-size-fits-all solution; thankfully, there are many options, and UVU is more than willing to provide them to those in need.
6. Billboards and bulletins across campus
Struggling to find out when events are taking place? Having difficulty finding the right page on UVU’s website? Fortunately, there are dozens of boards, posters and bulletins spread throughout multiple buildings and halls across campus to solve that very issue. From personal training to the latest trips hosted by the UVU Outdoor Center, these bulletin boards tell all.
Bulletins and banners give students the opportunity to be informed on future dates or to advertise their own UVU event, ensuring that no Wolverine feels left behind. Pamphlets and other documents can also be found across campus, informing students of important details and resources, such as Equity and Title IX, the Ombuds, and the services provided by Campus Police.
7. Explore campus resources early
Perhaps a more unheard-of tip, generously suggested by Alexis Palmer, the Dean of Students, exploring resources early will give Wolverines an edge when they find themselves stuck. School life can get busier when preparing for exams and projects later in the semester, so it’s helpful to know early where to find these resources if a student needs help. UVU’s website has an index containing every resource available on campus. Finding the resources you need has never been easier and finding them sooner than later can drastically improve your academic experience.
8. Utilize the Student Success Center
An essential resource available to all students, the Student Success Center is a nexus point for all the questions a Wolverine might have. Jeremy Jorgensen, a professor in the Computer Science department, recommends that students browse through their website as well as the events page in order to stay more informed throughout the semester.
The website allows you to schedule appointments with success specialists as well as learn more about what the Student Success Center has to offer, such as completion programs: programs that assist students finish their degree. This essential program is available to all students, and the center is here to assist with countless other inquiries.
9. There’s a space for anything!
UVU isn’t just about getting an education; it’s also about finding yourself and finding friends along the way. There are many spaces all across campus where Wolverines can sit down, socialize and study as they navigate through the rigors of college life.
The Sorensen Center (SC) and Student Life (SL) buildings provides many spaces for Wolverines to unwind and have a little fun in between classes. The Fulton library has many spaces catered specifically for studying. Wolverines can even reserve private study spaces so they can engage in group work or individual study without being disturbed. While the school has many places to help you throughout your academic journey, there’s also areas that allow you to take care of yourself or spend time with others.
10. Free massage chair sessions and other deals
The last tip on the list isn’t just about massage chairs, which are free during finals week and the first Friday of every month. Many places on campus have deals and promotions going on for students, whether it be on Wolverine Wednesday or Fresh Food Fridays. Be sure to check up on these potential promotions by visiting the food court and other locations on campus, so you can take full advantage of the deals being offered to students here at UVU.
While college can be difficult at times, it doesn’t always need to feel that way. The advice listed here can help you throughout each semester, There are many people and places all across campus who are there to help you and ensure that you have the best academic experience possible while you are here at Utah Valley University.
