Pro Tips for New Students at UMass

The first year of college can be overwhelming, but not to worry because we are here to help. Check out some of our pro tips that will help you navigate your time at UMass like a boss!

The In-Person and Virtual College Classroom

Tip #1: Go to office hours! If going to the professor seems too stressful, there is usually a teaching assistant (TA) who holds office hours for larger lectures.

Tip #2: Attend discussions! Most large lecture classes have discussion sections where class is broken down into smaller units. Discussion sections are where TAs can clarify learning objectives and are an opportunity to ask questions and ask for extra help, especially if speaking up in a lecture hall seems overwhelming.

Tip #3: Be open to getting to know the people who sit next to you in class. Becoming acquainted with other incoming students going through similar experiences as you is a perfect way to ease into the college classroom learning experience.

Time Management

Tip #1: Get a UMass planner! They are the best planners to have because they already have things like breaks and days off written in. UMass planners are available at the campus bookstore. Use the discount code found on the last page to get a 15% discount.

Tip #2: Input your tests, quizzes, and big events into your digital calendar at the beginning of the semester, with notifications. That way, you will receive a reminder alert when something important is coming up.

Tip #3: Dedicate one hour at the beginning of each week to map out your responsibilities and create a to-do list for each day.

Tip #4: Remember to eat well! If you are in too much of a rush to sit down for a meal, there are many options such as Berkshire and Franklin Grab ‘n’ Gos or you can stop by the Campus Center for a quick meal.

Get Involved in a Registered Student Organization (RSO)

Tip #1: Attend the RSO Activities Expo at the beginning of every academic year.

Tip #2: Choose an RSO that speaks to you. Getting involved will help you make friends with people who have similar interests to you!

Tip #3: For more information on RSOs, look online! Even if you miss the Activities Expo, there are plenty of chances to get involved. For info on student organizations such as Greek life, religious organizations, academic organizations, cultural organizations, and athletic clubs, visit umass.edu/studentlife or https://umassamherst.campuslabs.com/engage/.

Tip #4: Take advantage of other on-campus opportunities you see to build skills, such as leadership, professionalism, team-building, and time management.

Stress Management

Tip #1: Recognize that emotions are valid! If you’re feeling stressed or overwhelmed, there are resources and professionals on campus that focus on your mental health and well-being. There are two locations right on campus where you can talk with a professional for free: The Center for Counseling and Psychological Health (CCPH) and the Center for Women and Community (CWC). The CCPH offer virtual appointments as well.

Tip #2: Blow off some steam at the gym! In addition to having extensive workout equipment, the recreation center has mind and body classes like Yoga and meditation classes. You can sign up for classes by creating an IMLeagues account online—they also have an app available for smartphones. The recreation center also provides nutrition assistance to ensure you are maintaining a healthy lifestyle and getting all the nutrients you need.

Tip #3: Take a break! Between exams, papers, meetings, and work, college life can easily become overwhelming. Give yourself time to disconnect and do something that helps you feel calm and relaxed.

Professional Development

Tip #1: Start building your resumé! For help applying to internships and for creating or updating your resumé and cover letter, stop by Career Services, located in the Goodell Building. Career Services are also taking virtual appointments if that is more convenient with your schedule.

Tip #2: Visit the Student Employment Office in Whitmore Administration Building to find work–study opportunities, as well as on- and off-campus jobs. They update their job postings daily online at umass.edu/financialaid.

Tip #3: Take advantage of the advising opportunities at your respective schools and colleges. They all have advisors you can meet with to discuss opportunities in your major, employment, and internship opportunities.

Tip #4: The Center for Multicultural Advancement and Student Success (CMASS) offers advising hours Monday–Thursday, when you can drop in and talk to someone about receiving support about anything.

Tip #5: Get to know your professors! Many of them know great opportunities for volunteering and internship within your major. It would be so cool to get involved with their research. Find out when you can meet with them during their weekly office hours.

Navigating Campus

Tip #1: Download the My UMass app. It gives you access to the campus map. You can type in your destination and will receive directions to help you arrive on time! For an accessible option please visit: https://www.umass.edu/visitorsctr/campusmaps.

Tip #2: Download the Transit app, which contains directions for the PVTA, or Pioneer Valley Transit Association. The app is a convenient way for you to catch the free bus around campus and among the Five Colleges, as well as to other places in the surrounding area.

Tip #3: Download the UMass Dining app. It will show you what the dining halls and the Grab ‘n’ Gos are serving so you can plan your meals ahead before you show up.