There are few things as wonderful as autumn in Vermont and the energy, curiosity, and optimism you bring to campus. I hope your semester got off to a strong start. Now that its midpoint is approaching, I’m writing to share some food for thought.  

Academics
The faculty and staff at UVM are fully committed to your academic success; we are here for you! Don’t hesitate to go to your professors’ office hours or to reach out to the Center for Academic Success, the Undergraduate Tutoring Center, the Graduate Writing Center, or the Undergraduate Writing Center, your academic advisor, and your dean’s office. It is never too early, or too late, to engage more deeply with your academics.

New this year: Ask UVM—in 301 Davis Center, across from the Bookstore—is a one-stop shop where you can find answers and get connected. If you have a question or a problem, if you don’t know who to ask, Ask UVM! No appointment necessary.

Get Involved
You have opportunities to build lifelong skills at every turn; be intentional as you craft your Catamount experience. Joining undergraduate and graduate student clubs, conducting undergraduate research, participating in or supporting our intramural and NCAA teams, participating in the creative arts, exploring global opportunities, joining a career interest group, and connecting with an intercultural center are excellent ways to find friends and build your networking, academic, and leadership skills. 

Take Care of Yourself
Make sure you don’t overdo it! Finding a balance among your academics, co-curriculars, and social life is key. Don’t forget to include healthy behaviors in your routine: hydrate, eat right, get good sleep, exercise, express gratitude, find ways to manage stress, and take a social media break every now and then. If you need support, reach out to the Center for Health and Wellbeing.

Build Our Community
We all share responsibility for building and sustaining a safe and vibrant campus community. Looking out for each other, living our Our Common Ground values, and accessing programs and resources that promote care, safety, positive engagement, and productive dialogue are important ways that we protect our treasured community. If you have a safety, security, or community well-being concern, please don’t hesitate to report it.

Whether your first few months of the semester have been smooth or a bit bumpy, I want to assure you that you belong here. This is a great time of year to reflect on how you’re doing, what you need, and to reach out for support or a new challenge. Our doors are open, and we’re here to help you succeed.

All the best for a wonderful rest of your semester,

Linda Schadler
Interim Provost and Senior Vice President