Fall Semester Tips 2014
Fall 2014 Semester Tips
By Gloria Saldivar
As we prepare ourselves for a new semester here at Taft College we take on the challenges of difficult experiences that are yet to come. College is not easy but with motivation and dedication any student has the power to get through it. Along with difficult classes comes a new role of responsibility. Students are now expected to do everything on their own. That means we are each in charge of filling out the FAFSA every single year, getting important paperwork turned into the office, creating our own schedules, etc. These situations are unavoidable they have to be taken head on without hesitation. There is however no need to dread these situations. We have prepared a list of tips to make them easier to handle.
• Drop Dates: Starting on 9/08/14 students will be able to drop a class with a W (withdrawal). That means that a “W” will appear on the students transcript as a sign that they attempted the class. The last day to drop with a “W” will be on 10/29/14 after that deadline students will be given an actual grade.
• Class Cancellations: many of us returning students have at least once driven to Taft only to find out that our class was cancelled. No big deal right? It’s not like gas is expensive or anything #commuterproblems. There is an easy way to prevent this tragedy from happening. Follow your classes on twitter and facebook. Professors will usually post class cancellations there. Not a big fan of social media? No problem. Check your email regularly. Most professors also send out email notifications.
• Office hours: take advantage of the posted office hours that professors offer. This is a great time to speak to your professor one on one. Office hours are intended to help students out with any class related problems they may be having. That being said, if there are any questions boggling your mind just pop right in to your professors office during the posted hours to find your answers.
• Student Union: do you have long gaps in between classes? The Student Union is a great place to pass the time, and meet other students on campus. It is located right before you get to the G-buildings on campus.
• Deadlines: Everything will normally be posted here on the Taft College website, but if you’re on campus and feel like talking to an actual person instead of dealing with technology; you can always pop into the office filled with friendly faces and simply ask.