While many students will be on break from classes this summer, UP offices are still open for business, even if virtually! Most offices are “open” all summer and staff are happy to speak with students via phone, email, and even Microsoft Teams regarding academic planning, career planning, or other topics. In fact, it may be smart to tackle some questions or conversations over the summer while these offices are quieter, rather than waiting until the first week of the fall semester.
Below are a few items to consider!
Career Exploration
- The Career Education Center is here to help if your student needs assistance searching for a job, networking or navigating LinkedIn, preparing for an interview, or negotiating a job offer. The Career Center serves both students and alumni! It’s never too early or too late to connect to the multitude of resources they offer. They are available virtually by phone or video chat and more information about making an appointment with their staff is available online.
Class Schedule or Major Discussions
- Is your student wanting to speak to someone about their schedule or major? They can always contact their school or college directly with questions.
- Fall class registration will be open through the first week of classes! Schedules change and certain classes may open up over the summer. Every year, the University needs to plan for the incoming first-year class, and one of the requirements is that there are spaces saved for new students arriving in the fall. Last year, there were over 4000 spaces reserved in several subjects for the class of 2024. After registration for the incoming first-year students is complete, those first-year restrictions are “removed” – usually on August 1. After this date, class spaces may open up due to students needing to rearrange their Fall Semester classes.
- For students who want a class that is currently unavailable, it is recommended that they store their PIN for registration somewhere that is easily accessible. That way if a spot opens up in August, students don’t have to track down their advisor to get their PIN in order to access the registration portal and make changes to their schedule. Waitlists may also be available online through Self-Serve for certain classes that have filled. Encourage your student to explore these options.
- In general, if students have questions regarding classes, it is best that they go through their school or college and speak with their program counselor or academic advisor. If a student has bigger questions or doesn’t know where to go, they can always start with the Shepard Academic Resource Center.
Accommodations
- Accessible Education Services (AES) works in partnership with students to facilitate individually-tailored accommodations, according to student need. The types of disabilities represented among our student population include learning disabilities, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, psychiatric disabilities, vision and hearing impairments, and chronic health and mobility impairments. AES also provides accommodations for temporary disabilities. Summer is a great time to put an accommodation plan in place or have your student review the efficacy of their existing plan. Students can contact AES for further discussions around accommodations.
Tutoring
- Some tutoring will be offered during the summer, so please visit the Shepard Center’s Learning Commons website for up-to-date schedules and offerings.
Connecting with the Pilot Network
- Summer is the perfect time for utilizing Switchboard! No matter where students live, they can connect to Pilots through UP’s online community. Many students reach out to alumni for advice on graduate school, finding a place to live, or advice in a particular field of work.
Do you have further questions about UP during the summer months? Contact the Office of Alumni & Parent Relations, and we would be happy to direct you to the appropriate office or resource on campus!