2. What to expect on the first day of classes.

3. Academics Buffalo State College has five academic schools. – School of Arts & Humanities – School of Education – School of Natural & Social Sciences – School of the Professions – The Graduate School University College – Undeclared students.

4. At first, college might seem a lot like high school…

5. Some Truths About College Unlike high school, nobody will be monitoring your studying and preparation You must take responsibility for your own learning With freedom comes temptation – and there might not be anybody to tell you that you’re screwing up.

6. Professors Professors can be VERY different from each other in their methods and in their expectations. – An important skill of the college student is to figure out what your professor is expecting from you.

7. Get to Know the Professor Know your professor’s names and learn what each prefers to be called. Communicate professionally, both in person and in email -- no slang – Introduce yourself – Use good manners. Say “please” and “thank you.” Ask the professor before using a laptop or recording device. Don’t wait for your professor to seek you out. Use office hours. Ask for help. See each instructor as more than just a professor Accommodations for a disability are based on assessment of your current individual needs as supported by appropriate documentation. Because your needs may change while enrolled at Buffalo State, you may be requested to provide a current evaluation of eligibility as a student with a disability and the need for accommodations.

8. Differences between college professors and high school teachers High school teachers have been trained to teach and respond to adolescent behavior. College professors are experts in their disciplines and the learning largely is up to the students. It is a high school teacher’s job to nurture you through to graduation. College professors are here to help, your education is ultimately your responsibility.

9. College classrooms You may be in large or small classes. The skills you need in different settings will differ.

10. College Classrooms One difference between high school and college is this: you are here because you applied. Therefore, if you are unhappy you can leave, and if you prove unworthy, you can be asked to leave. You are expected to be an adult. Everything you do in class has an impact on everyone else in the learning environment. Not every class will interest you equally; you are still expected to apply yourself and excel. (“The subject didn’t interest me,” is a high school excuse).

11. Respectful Classroom Behavior Be on time. You are expected to stay for the entire class time. Cell phones SILENT. Vibrate is still disrupting. Participate in class – answer questions and ask questions Let other people talk, and listen when they do. Bring books, notebooks, pen, and pencil to class Read and prepare for class

12. Being Successful Manage your time wisely Keep your syllabus for the ENTIRE semester Make friends in class Choose a seat to participate (not to disappear). Dress up the first day – And dress appropriately every day Be respectful about what you say Be open-minded. Never leave class early. Arrive early for a test.

13. Tips for Surviving a Lecture Hall Go to every class. Know where you are going ahead of time. Find the actual classrooms. Get there early. Know your own strengths and weaknesses – If you’re not a morning person, avoid morning classes Obtain and read the books! Prepare for class Take notes Speak up. Participate. – Don’t assume you’re just a number

14. Academic Support Writing Help Center – First floor of E.H. Butler Library – Partners with College Writing Program to assist throughout all stages of writing. Academic Skills Center – The Academic Skills Center (ASC) provides free tutoring and workshops for all students – Workshops are presented to enhance study skills, computer skills, writing, research, APA & MLA documentation and more.

15. Growth Mindset In a growth mindset, people believe that their most basic abilities can be developed through dedication and hard work—brains and talent are just the starting point. This view creates a love of learning and a resilience that is essential for great accomplishment. Virtually all great people have had these qualities.

16. You can learn anything! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LUtcigWSBsw

17. Compare

18. I Wish I Would’ve Known… Find a mentor on campus- the faculty and staff are here for you and want you to succeed! Office Hours- all faculty are required to host office hour where you can drop in, ask questions, and get help with class work. Get involved!!!- With over 80 clubs and organizations on campus there's bound to be one for you. Buffalo is the Queen City, get out and explore all that Buffalo has to offer.

19. Student Engagement More than 80 student organizations on campus. 176 Undergraduate degree programs. Office of Student Life offers numerous services to student organizations through publications, workshops, and organizational support.

20. College Experience Your college experience will be what YOU make of it! Can be among the best years of your life Expand your horizons! Go out of your comfort zone Get involved outside of the classroom Have fun!

21. What if you experience problems? There is a great deal of help available on this campus. Ask for it. You have professors; an advisor, a department chair; a dean’s office; the dean of students; the financial aid office; Weigel Health Center; the counseling center. All will help you!