November 2, 2020 at 10:18 am

Advising Tip | What You Need to Know about Scheduling Spring Classes

By Eileen Schulz
College of Arts & Sciences Academic Advisor

I can hardly believe it is time to start planning for spring. It always takes me by surprise just how fast the term moves, even in a pandemic. This academic year is and will be filled with challenges and added decision making due to COVID19.

In addition to creating your spring course schedule, you may be planning for a spring semester on campus or at home. Last week President Nellis shared a spring update announcing plans to accommodate all residential students who want to return to the Athens campus. This is very exciting for some students but can leave others feeling uncertain. Your adviser can help.

Academic advising begins Monday, Nov. 9, in preparation for the opening of spring priority registration on Monday, Nov. 16.

Understanding Course Modality

Understanding course modality can help guide your planning for how you attend this spring semester. Be sure to review the notes section in Course Offerings when selecting your spring classes. The notes section is where you will find critical information on how your class will be delivered. For example, “on site fully synchronous,” “online fully asynchronous” or “on-site hybrid rotation,” to name a few.

Meeting with your adviser each semester is critical to completing a successful and impactful undergraduate experience. Your adviser is your guide to building an undergraduate career with sound educational plans consistent with your academic, career and personal goals.

What should you know and how should you prepare to make the most of your individual planning meeting with your adviser? Below is a guide to help you get the most out of your advising session and maximize this important opportunity to discuss your undergraduate career.

Student Responsibilities

Schedule your advising appointment for spring registration NOW.
Be prompt for your appointments and ready to take notes.
Review your DARS and understand how to read it.
Check major, college, and university requirements.
Come prepared with a list of classes, concerns, questions, etc.
After each advising session follow through with the appropriate actions suggested.
Consult back with your adviser if critical decisions cannot be accomplished.

Adviser Responsibilities

Communicate university, college and major requirements.
Teach students to read the DARS.
Assist students in exploring courses, programs and career choices.
Help students understand university grading policies, including probation and academic suspension.
Refer students to campus resources when needed.
Collaborate on academic plans and schedules based on aptitudes, life goals, career interests, academic performances and the frequency and sequencing of course offerings.
Make suggestions that will support academic success.
Share information about opportunities in majors and intended career fields.
Listen to questions and concerns.

Remember – you are required to meet with your adviser prior to registration each semester for planning and to lift your Advising Hold.

How to find your academic adviser – Your adviser is listed in My OHIO Student Center in the adviser box. Your adviser is also listed on the first page of your DARS report.

When can you register for spring classes – Your enrollment appointment (registration access) date and time is available after Nov. 6 in My OHIO Student Center prior to your enrollment appointment time.

Where can you find Spring Courses – Spring courses will be available Nov. 6 on the Ohio University Course Offerings Page.

Tutorials

Drop-in Advising via Microsoft Teams

The College of Arts & Sciences Office of Undergraduate Student Affairs can also help you plan and answer questions by appointment or during our drop-in advising hours.

Use this form to sign in during drop-in hours for a 15 to 20-minute Microsoft Teams advising session.