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UVM Student Success Badge

Finding and utilizing academic support is essential for your time at UVM. From connecting with your advisor to meeting with peer tutors or managing your accommodations-- there are endless options, but a lot to figure out. The Center for Academic Success (CFAS) is here to introduce you to your comprehensive support network at UVM, and to shed light on the ways to access those services. Academic support is only a call or click away.

For even more information, visit this page to check out UVM resources for student success in and beyond the classroom.

 

CFAS is here to help you make connections across the university.

With so much to learn, we do our best to help you connect the dots. This page offers guidance for remote and in-person learning and provides clear pathways to student support services. As you scroll down you'll find links and other resources to help you thrive in your learning environment.

Your Academic Resources

The following are just a few of the campus resources and support services to help you succeed here as a UVM student.

 

CFAS Guide to Online Academic Success

From Blackboard discussions, independent research, career exploration and the occasional online class, there is a lot to consider when working online. Review these tips for online academic success:

Prepare your workspace

  • Do your best to find or create a workspace that aligns with the ways you learn best. An ideal space for many is quiet, organized, distraction-free, technologically ready, and available for use when you need it.
  • Put your devices on "do not disturb" and unplug from social media while doing class work.
  • While on breaks, try to do so in a different space in order to maintain a “work-only zone.”

Make a plan, and stick to a schedule

  • Don't know where to start? Connect with your advisor (or a staff member in your College / School Dean’s Offices and Student Support Services) and map out your academic journey.
  • Use a calendar to keep track of your classes, when you plan to do homework, when assignments are due -- and everything in between.
  • Don’t know where to begin? Sign up for a Study Skills session to learn how to effectively manage your time.
  • Pro Tip: Color coordinate your classes on your calendar to keep track of class time, when assignments are due, and when you plan to study with peers. You can also create to-do lists with your peers to establish accountability and stay connected with classmates.

Stay focused

  • Going to class is one thing, but being present is another! Stay engaged in class by reading your textbooks in advance of class time, asking questions, and taking notes.
  • Explore techniques for note-taking, or get tips for organizing your readings here.
  • It’s also good to explore online test-taking strategies to ensure you’re ready for what’s in store.

Access support

  • From academic advising or tutoring to accommodations and writing support, there are many resources available to you.
  • Schedule a meeting with your academic advisor (via UVM Navigate) to create your academic plan, and connect with a specialist from Student Accessibility Services if you’re seeking academic accommodations.
  • From there, meet with a tutor to better understand and explore your course materials, or connect with peers in the Writing Center to review assignments, brainstorm ideas, and get organized.
  • It’s important to build academic supports into your schedule -- and there is always someone available to help.

Tend to your wellbeing

  • You can’t succeed without you! From physical and mental health to self-care, it’s important to listen to yourself and honor what you need to succeed.
  • Take some time to consider your needs and goals as a learner. For wellness tips and resources, explore the many offerings of Living Well and the Center for Health and Wellbeing.

Consider community

  • Stay motivated and engaged by reaching out to your classmates and peer supports.
  • Try to connect with others who share similar interests, and establish a group study routine and opportunities for community-building. You are part of  collaborative, co-generative, and engaged community -- enjoy and rely on each other!