Advice for UF Online Students as the Semester Begins
As the spring semester begins, the drop/add period is a critical time to assess your course selections. “Use the drop/add period to evaluate if you are both prepared for and interested in the courses you have selected,” Lee said. “This is your ‘free trial period,’ make the most of it and make changes before you are academically and financially responsible for those courses.” Consider meeting with your advisor during this pivotal time to ensure your schedule aligns with your goals.
During the start of the new semester, UF Online advisors encourage you to focus on organization and proactive planning. “The more advanced planning you do at the start of the term, the easier it will be to keep up,” Alvarez said. Using a calendar app is one of the simplest yet most effective tools for staying on track. Block off study times, set reminders for assignments, and plan ahead to avoid relying solely on Canvas or professors for due date notifications. Planning ahead will make your workload more manageable as the semester progresses.
New UF Online students should approach their studies with seriousness and dedication, recognizing that academic rigor at UF may require more effort than expected. “I encourage developing a regular habit of reaching out to your advisor, instructors, and classmates,” Shattuck said. “Being connected—and feeling connected—is very important!” These connections foster a sense of community and provide valuable support throughout your academic journey. Advisors also recommend setting career goals early to tailor coursework and experiences toward building a strong resume for your chosen field.
How to Make the Most of Your Academic Support and Resources
UF Online advisors suggest several ways for you to make the most of the academic advising and support available to you. Take the time to connect with your advisors on a personal level. Not sure who your advisor is? Use UF Online’s handy Find Your Advisor Tool to look up your advisor.
“We know our students have diverse backgrounds and varying needs and preferences,” Shattuck said. “Talk with us about your goals, responsibilities, strengths, and challenges so we can specifically tailor our guidance to your unique situation.”
Proactive communication is one of the best ways to stay on track. Advisors recommend scheduling appointments, sending emails, or making phone calls as early as possible, even if you feel confident about your plans. Ask for help whenever needed, using whichever communication method feels most comfortable. “If you talk with your academic advisor about a problem you are trying to solve before it becomes an emergency, you can likely avoid the stress and anxiety that come with it,” Alvarez said. “We’re here to help you navigate this complex system and to empower you to be successful.”
To make the most out of your academic journey as a UF Online student, explore the many resources available. Start with the newly revamped UF Online Plaza, which is a dedicated space to connect with peers and ask questions. Students can share experiences about courses, professors, majors, and more.
UF Online students can also explore a variety of enriching experiences. Study abroad programs, internships, and research opportunities are all open to online students. In the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, the Beyond 120 program is a standout resource, offering support for experiential learning and career planning.
The UF Career Connections Center website is packed with tools to explore career options, while business majors also have access to specialized guidance through Business Career Services and HireWarrington.
Connection tools like the UF Online Plaza and Yellowdig (for business majors) provide more avenues to build networks, exchange ideas, and enhance the online learning experience.
Best Study Practices for Online Students to Be Successful
Effective and efficient study habits are crucial for academic success, particularly in an online learning environment. “It takes a high level of self-awareness to be successful in online learning as it requires extensive time management and independent work,” Lee said. Identifying and implementing the study tactics that work best for you from the very beginning is key.
One essential tip is to make consistent use of a calendar. By blocking off specific times for studying, reading, or assignments, you are more likely to follow through. Treat this time as non-negotiable—decline other commitments during study blocks or ask to reschedule if needed. If you are juggling family responsibilities, finding support from friends, family, or coworkers is essential. Often, they are eager to help and may know of additional resources to support your success.
Properly studying for exams is important to your overall academic performance. UF exams often test the application of concepts to new scenarios, rather than rote memorization. To prepare, you should prioritize working through practice problems. This approach builds mental flexibility and helps you become familiar with the variety of ways exam questions may be presented.
“Reinforce good study habits by rewarding yourself for your daily accomplishments,” Shattuck suggests. After completing a study task, take a short break—call a friend, go for a walk, or watch a favorite show—before moving on to the next assignment. This balance helps maintain focus and motivation throughout the day.
Your academic and career goals can provide inspiration to propel you through long study periods. “I keep mentioning career matters because many students seek an education because they want a good job,” Shattuck said. “The personal reward and financial payoff for that is huge and can serve as a major source of motivation during those endless hours of studying. Establishing long-term career goals will help you keep your eye on the prize.”
Final Advice for Graduates
If you are planning to graduate at the end of the semester, this is the time to finish strong and celebrate your academic progress. “For the students who are graduating in the Spring, be proud of your accomplishment,” Alvarez said. “Graduating college is no small feat. You have worked so hard, and you did what you set out to do.” Earning your degree from UF is a significant achievement that reflects years of hard work and dedication, so you should embrace this milestone with pride and confidence.
As you near graduation, make sure all your degree requirements are met. “It is a great idea to meet with your advisor one last time before the end of the drop/add period to make sure you are all set to graduate,” Lee said. Spring graduates should also make the most of career development opportunities, such as attending the UF Career Showcase. You should prepare early by refining your resume, practicing interviews, and leveraging UF’s Career Connections Center.
Remember, graduation is not the end of the journey—it’s the beginning of a new one. “Apply for that job that you’re only sort of qualified for or apply for that graduate school program to pursue your passion,” Alvarez said. Remember that every step you take now sets the foundation for a successful future. Staying organized, connected, and motivated will put you on the path to achieving remarkable things.
If you have any questions regarding the New Year and academic term, reach out to your dedicated advisor at any time using UF Online’s Find Your Advisor Tool.
