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Center for Student Success CENTER FOR STUDENT SUCCESS Student Success Newsletter Volume 6 Issue 1, December 2017 Newsletter Editor: Jacinthe Proctor Newsletter Co-Editor: Julie Cruz In This Issue  CSS Message  CSS Testimonials  CSS Learning Assistant Spotlight  Post Irrmaria events  Fall 2017 Workshops Recap  Student Article  EAB-SSC Information  Contact Us UVI - Specializing in Futures - Historically American. Uniquely Caribbean. Globally Interactive. Center for Student Success CSS Message The Center for Student Success (CSS) made sure that students, faculty, staff, and administrators had a heartfelt welcome back for the Fall 2017 semester after Hurricanes Irma and Maria struck. All UVI persons that attended the “Hump Day White T- Shirt Wednesday” event was met by music, free food, deans, and various UVI departments. UVI and CSS wanted to welcome students back to campus with a bang, showing that they are val- ued and appreciated at the University of the Virgin Islands. Perhaps there is no better way to describe the many heartfelt stories that have come out of the experiences from Hurricanes Irmaria. Each story that was told at the event serves as a re- minder that even when faced with challenges, our students and employees have proven that they are survivors. We have learned vital lessons personally and as a community about our humanity and faith. We also learned of our ability to stretch and assist each other. UVI has shown that “Students are First”. Rain or shine, light or darkness, building or no building, UVI was available to serve stu- dents. Students persevered academically. Professors, staff, and administrators showed unwavering strength and support in a time of student challenges and island crises. Through all that has happened and all that continues to happen…UVI remains re- silient, outgoing, and dedicated in serving our students. #UVIThriving, #UVISurviving, #UVIMakingThingsHappen, #UVIPride, #UVIStrong Happy Holidays! Regards, CSS Team “Success consists of going from failure to failure without loss of enthusiasm.” - Winston Churchill Center for Student Success Going through my first two and a half years at college, I always wondered how I would become more prepared for the real world after college. After visiting the Center for Student Success, it became clear on how I was going to prepare myself for life after college. It helped me learned a lot about myself such as my value and career goals and how I will eventually achieve those goals. I also learned a lot of useful information through many one on one interviews, career events, and advice that was given to me to prepare me for life after college. The three most important things I learned after visiting the Center for Student Success, were time management skills, responsibility, and a positive attitude which takes you beyond the horizon. All of these are extremely important in getting me into a good job and sustaining a great career for a long time. I am really glad I had the opportunity to visit the Center for Student Success at the University of the Virgin Islands. It helped me to move forward, even when the road felt like it ended. CSS Student Testimonials Ms. Magualie Titre shares about her Center of Student Success (CSS) Learning Center experi- ence and how she over- came her fear of math. Magualie Titre, Social Work major, Senior Center for Student Success CSS CSS recognizes outstanding performance of Learning Assistants During the Fall 2017 semester, the CSS Learning Center was staffed by a dedicated group of students who must all be recognized for their commitment in helping students to achieve their fullest potential. In this issue of the CSS Newsletter, special recognition will be bestowed upon Joseph Williams for his efforts and dedication in promoting and aiding in student success. Joseph Williams Learning Assistant Most of the Fall 2017 semester is already behind you. UVI students tend to worry excessively about final exams. Often times, this is due to the fact that final exams are worth considerably more than a regular test taken during the semester. Remember, put grades into perspective!!! Final Exam Tips! Follow this list as finals week approaches (the earlier you prep, the better) so you can ace your exams from start to finish.  Create your own study guide  Ask questions  Attend the review session (if any)  Start early  Organize a group study session  Study information not on study guide  Take breaks  Stay well-rested Joseph Willliiam is a third year student at the University of the Virgin Islands, Albert A. Sheen Campus, pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in Applied Mathematics. Currently, he tutors Math 23, 24, 140, 143, trigonometry, calculus and chemistry. After completing his degree, Joseph plans on becoming an Aerospace Engineer. He loves his university and encourages other students to attend and to excel at their studies. Joseph said, “math is my passion; therefore, I love helping others fall in love with it too.” Center for Student Success CSS Welcome Back— Post Hurricanes Activities Hump Day White T-Shirt event Natural disasters like Hurricanes Irma and Maria changed our students, staff, faculty and administrators forever but we are overcoming this hurdle together. We are UVi strong!!! Hump Day White T-Shirt event Center for Student Success UVI students studying...in the dark UVI students getting tutoring … in the dark University Bound students and parents first day back after Hurricanes Irmaria...ready, set, study CSS Back in Action — Post Hurricanes Studies In Session Center for Student Success Talking to a professor–out of genuine curiosity, a genuine interest in learning, a genuine de- sire to improve–is one of the smartest things a college student can do. While some professors are genuinely unapproachable, many are happy to talk to students. Here are five points to consider when you’re talking to a professor. 1. Be mannerly. Before asking “What are your office hours?”, check your syllabus. If hours aren’t listed or won’t work, ask your professor when he or she can meet with you. A reasona- ble professor will understand that office hours cannot accommodate every student’s schedule. When you arrive, knock on the door, even if it’s open, and greet your professor by name. I’m always slightly amazed when a student walks into my office without saying a word and waits for me to say something. If my back is to the door, it’s downright weird. 2. If you’re coming in to talk because you’re having difficulty in a course, there are a few famil- iar sentences to avoid: “Will this affect my grade?” Whatever “this” is, it will play a part in your grade. How much or how little depends upon the rest of your work. “Can I still get a B?” This question will usually lead a professor to think that your grade-point average, not learning, is your priority. “I’m an A student.” Grade inflation is widespread, and some of those As may not be the most accurate evaluations of your work. Even if they are, your professor won’t grade you on the ba- sis of your reputation. How to talk to a professor? By: Guest Author Center for Student Success The Center for Student Success expresses good luck to all students during Final Exam week. (December 7—11). The Center for Student Success Fall 2017 workshop series has concluded. CSS would like to say thank you to the students, staff, faculty, and departments who participated and supported this successful workshop series. EPE workshop—Dr. Vincent Cooper and participants CSS Workshop Topics  Study Skills (In collaboration with Student Affairs)  English Proficiency Examination Preparation (In collaboration with Humanities)  Opportunities and Rewards at UVI  Academic Advising CSS Fall 2017 Workshops Summary _______________________________________ The University of the Virgin Islands (UVI) has partnered with the Educational Advisory Board (EAB) to roll out a new tutoring / advising platform, Student Success Collaborative Campus (SSC Campus). SSC Campus is now known as BucsConnect. Why is BucsConnect better? It is more user friendly…easier to access needed information…and a great tool to communicate with students and advisees. Faculty can use BucsConnect for submitting early alerts, taking attendance, and connecting with their students and advisees. Students can use BucsConnect to make appointments with learning assistants, professors, and advisors. How can BucsConnect be accessed??? By logging in to UVI myCampus and clicking on the BucsConnect icon, students, faculty, and advisors have access to SSC Campus. Who should I contact if I need help??? The Center for Student Success staff can assist with your how to processes and Q&A. Call or email Ms. Julie Cruz (693-1338 or jcruz2@uvi.edu) or Mrs. Wendy Fedler (692-4274 or wendy.fedler@uvi.edu) for your BucsConnect needs. Center for Student Success Contact Us Give us a call or send an email for more information about our services and products Center for Student Success #2 John Brewer’s Bay St. Thomas, USVI 00802-9990 (340) 693-1583 ijames@live.uvi.edu RR1 Box 10000 Kingshill, St. Croix, USVI 00850-9990 (340) 692-4140 mflemin@live.uvi.edu Visit us on the web at www.css.uvi.edu  Registration for Spring 2018 is ongoing  Last day of classes - 12/22  Final exams - 1/8-12  Certification of December Graduates 1/17 q UVI Reminders Question of the Issue “How do you prepare for final exams?” Email your answer to the CSS newsletter editor at jprocto@uvi.edu with the subject line “How I pre- pare for my final exams” for a chance to see your response in our next CSS newsletter.