Senior Wisdom for Freshmen
Advising isn’t that difficult if you come into it prepared. A couple things you need are your Advising Report and Course Checklists. These two documents spell out everything you need to take and can both be found on the UW-W website. Also, once you find the classes you want to take, check if they have pre-requisites. Another good idea is to come up with questions to ask before you actually get into advising. Don’t wait until the last second for advising either. There are classes that fill up quickly that you can sign up for so you are guaranteed a spot in that class.
Getting involved with the Communication Department
An easy way to get involved is by taking practicum classes. Not only are you doing things for the department, you are also getting credits! One class you can take involves working with WSUW 91.7 and being on-air. Another class is working with the Cable 19 program.
Jobs with the Communication Department
Along with the practicum classes, you can also apply to get a job at either one of those stations. Instead of getting credit towards graduating, it is a paid position. Some opportunities available with the Royal Purple are news editor, sports editor, and graphics editor. Some opportunities available at WSUW 91.7 are on-air DJ’s and equipment technicians.
Take advantage of student organization opportunities
The Communication Department has a handful of student organizations. They are good because you get real life experience that will help not only with classes, but your career as well. Royal Purple, WSUW 91.7, Forensics, PRSSA, and Whitewater Advertising Association are all good ways to set yourself up for success in the communication department and beyond!
Begin building your resume right away
Student organizations and jobs within the Communication Department are both good things to list on a resume. Employers like seeing that you have already had experience in the field before you actually enter the real world.
Save your work
It is a good idea to hang onto things you have done in your classes. When you start looking for a job, employers like to see things you have already done instead of you trying to tell them about it. Keeping everything in some kind of portfolio works really well! (See “Portfolio Recipes: How to make the perfect portfolio” in this issue.)
Manage your time wisely
During your college career, there are many things you need to accomplish in a timely fashion. To avoid getting overwhelmed, here are a few pointers: plan ahead and avoid procrastination, set goals for yourself, prioritize your time accordingly, and set up some sort of schedule to keep track of everything.
Don’t stress if you are undecided with your major
This is one area not to get over-stressed with. One way to handle this is by taking classes that could apply to multiple majors. This way, once you decide what your major will be, you will have already completed some courses that apply toward it.
Dealing with stress
College can be stressful and difficult at times, especially for freshmen. Taking in everything and just trying to keep up can be difficult, but don’t despair! Lots of other students are going through the exact same thing you are. Some helpful techniques are: stay physically active and be sure to eat well, talk to someone about your stress and last but not least, take time to relax and have some fun!
Having fun but not getting carried away
The Communication Department can be a lot of fun! Just make sure you aren’t having so much fun that you are falling behind with your studies.