American University
On Campus
Back to School Tips for Undergraduates

The Undergraduate Advising Office shares words of wisdom for the year ahead:
- Get to Know your Professors. Go to office hours and talk, even when you don't have a specific question. These relationships will help you grow, and also will help when you need a recommendation for graduate school.
- Schedule Accordingly. Not a morning person? Do not register for classes before 10:10 a.m. Can't stop yawning after 7 p.m.? Then steer clear of any classes starting at 8:10 p.m.
- Get Involved. Being active on campus will not only help you perform better academically, but also allow you to expand your social circle.
- Take Advantage of Academic Support. The Academic Support and Access Center offers free tutoring for certain classes; the Writing Center will help you shape your research paper; and the Math/Stats Lab will help you hone your skills.
- Learn How to Retain Information. Either type or handwrite your class notes over again within a day after class. Information retention is higher when the information is reviewed within 24 hours of hearing it.
- Go to the Career Center often. Workshops, networking events, and individual appointments will help you figure out what options you have for your future.
- Be Open to Exploring. If you don't know what you want to major in, that is okay! We offer a ton of resources to help you narrow down your options.
- Take Care of Yourself. Getting enough sleep, eating right, and exercising will all help you stay healthy and do well academically. We want you at your best!
- Study Abroad. When else can you study and explore another country?
- Visit your Academic Counselor. Not only are they knowledgeable about the university, they are awesome people and want to get to know you!