YouAlberta
When I took summer classes, North Campus often felt empty. Due to a coincidence of schedules, I would go to class, and afterwards, my peers and I would go our separate ways. It felt isolating, and while I appreciated the academic aspects of spring/summer courses, I struggled to balance caring for myself and my coursework.
Accessing services early, building relationships and making self-care a part of my schedule really helped me once I finally got the hang of it. Campus isn’t empty during spring and summer – it’s just a little different!
The condensed format of spring and summer classes can impact how we access resources. Longer classes over a shorter period of time handle pacing very differently from the fall and winter.
Class connections
Reach out sooner rather than later! Particularly if this spring/summer is your first time, utilizing the services our campuses have to offer early in the term proactively addresses future stress. This looks like sending an email to your professor on the first day of class, or staying a few minutes afterwards to introduce yourself – something to ensure that your professor knows you are in their class.
If there are any TAs, or additional class-specific resources (such as a group forum for studying or a YouTube archive of past lectures), be sure to check them out as soon as you can. Know what help is available to you early.
It’s also a good idea to make connections with peers in spring and summer courses. The condensed format of many spring/summer classes makes missing a day a considerable amount of work to catch up on. Having some folks you can ask for notes can supplement your other course resources. Connecting through academics is a great way to build friendships, too!
A support network that’s ready to respond when you need
Ultimately, reaching out before you encounter any challenges in the term makes it easier to ask for help when you do need it.
Wellness Supports can help students navigate accessing mental health services on campus, as well as help you figure out what kind of supports you need to succeed. It’s a good idea to establish a point of contact as early as you feel ready, as that will build a stronger support structure for your academic term.
Accessibility & Accommodation: It’s best to apply over a month before your term begins, so if you don't have accommodations yet but find you are in need of these supports, get your documentation started as soon as possible.
For academic support, the Academic Success Centre is offering a number of recurring writing and learning strategies workshops over the spring and summer, so be sure to check those out in their online calendar! I find it helpful to pick workshops before the term starts, so I can include them in my schedule planning.
Taking care of you
When I get really stressed, I forget to take care of myself in the ways I need, so I like to figure out ways to eat, move my body and connect with others, then incorporate that into my routine. I find it helps me stay motivated in my work, and generally brings me joy. Taking care of yourself is important, so accessing services to support your mental, physical and social health will allow you to make the most of your spring and summer classes.
The Campus Food Bank (CFB) will have the same hours as they currently have (viewable on their website), but some of the CFB programs will be paused at the end of the Winter Term.
Their grocery model food support and the WECAN food basket program will continue. Members of the U of A community, including students, staff and recent alumni are able to access food through CFB’s grocery store services as often as every two weeks. They are located in SUB.
The University Health Centre (UHC) is also located in SUB. Summer hours begin May 1, and the UHC will be open Monday - Friday, 8:30 a.m.- 4 p.m. Learn more about their services here.
Campus & Community Recreation is offering a number of programs over the summer – a great way to incorporate movement and social interaction outside of the classroom, and a great way to take care of you. For more information about the services, check out fellow Ashley’s article about CCR, here.
Though North Campus may seem empty, it isn’t! There are many support services that want to help you make this spring and summer the best it can be – you just have to ask! It’s ok to feel overwhelmed, and it’s okay to ask for help. That's why these supports are here.