WMU Academic Life and Expectations

Here are specific suggestions to talk with your student about to ensure academic success.

Go to class!

Skipping class is the #1 reason why students fail. It doesn’t matter if attendance is required or not. Instructors will share and discuss lecture materials during the class that may not be in the textbook…but for sure will be on the final exam!

Study at least 2-3 hours outside of the classroom for every credit hour in the classroom.

College is your student’s new full-time job. 12 credit hours in the classroom should equate to 24-36 hours of outside homework and review. Some classes will require more work than others, but this is a sound general rule for guidance.

Review the course material on a weekly basis.

Many final exams are comprehensive and cover the entire semester. Reviewing the material on a weekly basis will make studying for finals SO much less over-whelming.

Schedule social and “play” time.

Does your student love video games, soccer, or playing Frisbee? Schedule time to enjoy these things and spend time with friends. And also be mindful of when it’s time to get back to the books!

Know when the last day to withdraw from a course is for each semester.

Sometimes no matter how hard a student works, it may be the prudent choice to withdraw from a specific course and take it at another time. WMU allows ample time during the semester to make a thoughtful decision about withdrawals.

Start assignments early and break major projects into smaller manageable chunks.

You never know when you are going to get sick or mysterious computer problems might cause you fits. Planning and working ahead will allow ample time to finish assignments without undue stress.

Meet with an academic advisor every semester.

The academic advisors are the best resource to ensure that students are staying on track with their coursework and moving smoothly toward graduation. We encourage students to get to know and develop relationships with their advisors. They are a great source of advice and encouragement!

Get to know the course instructors.

Every instructor has weekly office hours which are listed on the syllabus. We encourage students to visit their instructors, ask questions, and seek clarification on the course material. Many times, instructors know of research, internship, and/or job opportunities that students might be interested in. Don’t lose out on these valuable relationships.

Seek out tutoring if/when needed…before it’s too late.

WMU offers many support services to students to ensure success in the classroom. Tutoring may be offered through the individual department, as well as through the Center for Academic Success. Encourage your student to take advantage of these free resources to get through those tough classes.

Form study groups.

Many of the residence hall communities and the Center for Academic Success host study groups. Encourage your student to take advantage of these groups or form a new study group. Working with others can make studying more effective and enjoyable.

Find the Library and visit it frequently.

The resources found in University Libraries are essential to student success. The library staff is knowledgeable, friendly, and well-equipped to assist students in finding the materials needed for any sort of project. It’s also a great place to study