Tips for Problem Avoidance

- Read the catalog and handbook; become familiar with policies and procedures.
- Save a copy of the catalog/handbook from the year you initially enrolled.
- Familiarize yourself with the FSE&SCJ website and resources available to students to aid in the successful completion of your degree program.
- Be aware of and adhere to due dates, time frames, and deadlines.
- Keep track of your progress (i.e., courses/requirements completed and courses/requirements still to be completed).
  - Maintain files for copies of forms submitted, e-mails, program literature, general communications, etc.
- Get to know your professors and applied dissertation chair; maintain open lines of communication.
- Keep copies of all course assignments and feedback, communications with instructors, etc., through graduation.
- Maintain individual files for each course, for practicums/field work, and for the dissertation.
- Get to know your academic advisor; maintain open lines of communication.
- Learn APA style. Cite and reference properly with attention to detail; avoid plagiarism.
- Follow-up on forms submitted to verify receipt; save confirmations. Don’t assume requests (e.g., drops, withdrawals, etc.) have been processed; follow up and verify.
- When problems arise that inhibit your studies (i.e., work, personal, family, illness/medical), inform your professor and/or advisor. Don’t wait until the end of the course or until after the course/term has ended.
  - Withdraw from the course if necessary to avoid a failing grade (be cognizant of drop/withdrawal deadlines).*
  - Request grades of incomplete prior to the end of the course by completing and submitting an Incomplete Grade Agreement Form (available on the FCE&SCJ website).*
    - Review the policy on Incomplete Grades in the student handbook section of the FCE&SCJ Catalog and Student Handbook
- * Prior to withdrawing from classes or requesting an incomplete, students receiving financial aid are strongly advised to consult a financial aid advisor in the Office of Enrollment and Student Services (ESS) regarding any possible ramifications to the disbursement of funds and eligibility relative to Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP).