Academic Advising

How do I get assigned an advisor and when will I know the name? Assignment of incoming students to an academic advisor is made by mid June. Over the course of the summer students who have questions or concerns may contact their advisor regarding course selection and other academic issues by calling (574-631-7421) or fax (574-631-8141). Students can expect to receive the name of the assigned academic advisor in an August mailing.

How often will I see my advisor?

First-year students are encouraged to initiate meetings with their academic advisor whenever a concern arises. During the Orientation weekend in August, academic advisors are introduced to students and their parents, and they hold group meetings with their advisees. Additionally, time is provided during the weekend for parents and/or students to meet individually with the academic advisors. Schedule adjustments will be addressed beginning the Monday following Orientation. Throughout the year, meetings may be arranged at any time at the initiative of either the student or the advisor. First-year students are required to meet with their academic advisor at least once during the fall semester; all students are scheduled for an initial appointment within the first eight weeks of classes.

What does an academic advisor do?

Academic advising is the centerpiece of the First Year of Studies Program. Twelve full time professional advisors are available to meet with first-year students throughout the academic year. The advisors spend most of the month of June reviewing the application file of each student, including high school records, test scores, and other background information compiled in the process of admission to the University. This information is then used during the month of July in conjunction with the course selections requested by the student to build an appropriate class schedule for the fall semester. During this time advisors may contact the student from time to time by phone, e-mail, or surface mail.

Advisors meet with each first-year student at least once during the fall semester. The purpose of these initial meetings is to discuss the student’s overall adjustment to life on the Notre Dame campus and to provide information about resources available to assist students with academic or other concerns as appropriate. Advisors follow closely the academic progress of first year students and schedule follow-up appointments as warranted.

Throughout the year, advisors are available to assist students with academic concerns. These include awareness of support systems and other resources available on campus and in the surrounding area, as well as ongoing guidance regarding academic goals and eventual choice of college programs.

For more information link to Academic Advising.

back

Academic Support

What type of academic assistance is available? Is there ever a cost?

The First Year of Studies offers a variety of academic support systems, including collaborative study groups, learning strategies, small group tutoring and writing assistances. There is never a cost for any of these services; rather, your tuition entitles you to make use of them as needed. Over 80% of first-year students participate in one or more of these programs each year. Be sure to check our Learning Resource Center web page for additional information. Our Resources for Success page also provides links to other campus academic support programs.

What should I expect to experience in the academic adjustment from high school to college?

Probably the biggest difference you will experience is the need to manage your own time effectively. During the first week some of your classes, perhaps a beginning calculus course, may seem like a repeat of material covered in high school. Beware! Students who assume that they know enough not to do the homework usually fall behind very quickly and discover that the professor moves much more rapidly than their high school teachers. In humanities courses you will find that, although you may have studied the material before, the professor is bringing it to a new level of sophistication and, while you may have succeeded in high school without reading the assigned material, you cannot do that at Notre Dame. Another difference regarding time management is that your courses are spread throughout the day with blocks of "free" time in between. These "free" times can be used up in many ways. The successful student takes advantage of them to review notes from previous classes and/or prepare for the next class. It is of utmost importance to develop an effective time management plan during the first week of classes and to adhere to it throughout the semester.

You can expect a heavy reading load in most of your courses, particularly those in the humanities or social sciences and heavy assignments in the math and science courses. It is also important to locate a good and productive place to study. Do not expect to find uninterrupted study time in your room.

It is also important to allow time for study breaks, for exercise, and for socializing with friends. Contact Dr. Sandra Harmatiuk for Time Management and assistance with Learning Strategies. [link]

back

Advanced Placement

What must I do to receive credit through the Advanced Placement Program?

For students who submit results of Advanced Placement examinations, credit is awarded according to the attached table. [click here] Be certain to request that your scores be sent to Notre Dame.

Can I use credit for AP tests I took junior year?

Yes, according to the attached table. [click here] You may need to contact College Board to be certain that these scores from junior year are forwarded to Notre Dame.

How will AP credit affect my schedule?

You will be asked to list on a course selection form (received in a June mailing) the courses for which you have (or hope to have) AP credit. Your academic advisor will take into consideration your course credit when building your schedule for fall semester. You will not be required to repeat courses for which you have credit and, in many cases, the advisor will contact you regarding this over the summer. However, all first-year students are expected to register for five courses in addition to Physical Education or ROTC, regardless of AP credit. All AP credit awarded by the dean of the First Year of Studies is entered on the student’s transcript; this credit may be applied toward required or elective courses in so far as the student’s particular college program will permit.

Should I return my course selection form by the due date even if I do not have my AP scores at that time?

Yes! It is important that we receive your course selections by the due date. You will be asked to list near the top of the form the subjects in which you have taken the AP tests.

When choosing courses for which AP scores are unknown, select the courses required for your intended program as if you will not be awarded any credit; you may add a note beside particular course selections stating: "AWAITING AP SCORES."

If you have requested that a copy of your scores be sent to Notre Dame, we should receive them at approximately the same time you do. Changes will be made by your advisor after we receive your scores. If there are questions, the advisor will contact you.

back

Books When should I buy books? Many students agree that the best time to buy books is as soon as possible after you have attended the first class.  (Professors sometimes decide to make changes after information is posted in the bookstore or on the web). See the next question for more.

Should I order my books through the Internet?

You may be able to find books from a retailer on the Internet at several dollars cheaper than the bookstore. Just make sure you get the right edition (know the ISBN #). However, should you need to return books to an Internet retailer you may incur additional costs. 

Books can be purchased through the Notre Dame Book Store click here. either on the web or on campus.  The Notre Dame bookstore allows return of new books provided there are no marks in them. 

Second hand books can often be purchased either through the bookstore or from upper class students who advertise in the residence halls.

back

Computers

Do I need to bring a computer with me in August?

Notre Dame has a high-speed network built into all dorms and most classrooms; all students are issued an e-mail account and space to establish a home page or store personal files. Although many classes will include assignments requiring computers, and although it is always possible to use the campus computer clusters (see below), most students find it preferable to have a machine of their own. There are a number of local options for purchasing, including the Notre Dame Solutions Center.  Should the computer need repair, it will be easier to use the services of the local store where it was purchased.

Is a lap top computer recommended?

A growing number of students recommend the portability and space-saving features of a laptop. Many public areas, including the Coleman-Morse Center, Hesburgh Library, LaFortune (the student center) and Reckers (the 24-hour diner), have network jacks to enable you to connect your laptop to the Internet and campus network. Either way, computers play a vital role in students' academic lives.

How available and helpful are the campus computer clusters?

The campus clusters are readily available and they support a variety of needs and preferences (type of computer, printers, scanners, multimedia tools, etc.). The clusters are easy to use and the staff is helpful; some clusters are open 24 hours. All students are issued a unique ID and password which they use to log on to the system from anywhere on campus. There may be a short wait, but there is rarely a time when all clusters on campus are completely filled. 

For more computer FAQ click here.

back

Course Scheduling

How and when do I register for classes?

In early June you will receive the second of four summer mailings from the First Year of Studies. This second mailing will provide information about programs and courses available and will require a response regarding your selection of courses for the fall semester. It is very important that we receive your course selection form by the date listed in the mailing. The academic advisors spend most of the months of June and July reading the application information, including high school records, which you sent to Admissions. We also review all Advanced Placement credit which you have forwarded to Notre Dame. This information is then used in conjunction with the course selections you send us to build an appropriate class schedule for the fall semester. During this time advisors may contact you by phone, e-mail, or surface mail.

What is the average academic load for a semester?

Students in the First Year of Studies are expected to register for five courses in addition to Physical Education or ROTC. For most students this amounts to a minimum of 15 credit hours. For those who have a lab science, a higher lever math course, or certain language courses, the load may be 17 or 18 credit hours. [link to FY Curriculum]

Are all First Year students at Notre Dame required to take calculus?

To complete the requirements of the First Year of Studies, all students are required to take two semesters of mathematics. Programs in the Colleges of Business, Engineering, and Science, and the School of Architecture require calculus. Students intending to continue in those colleges should complete two semesters of calculus during the first year. Students intending a program in the College of Arts and Letters may satisfy the mathematics requirement with non-calculus options, including logic and finite mathematics.

back

Dates

When is First Year Orientation?

Orientation takes place the weekend preceding the opening of classes. For the summer 2005, the dates are August 20-21. The official Academic Orientation takes place on Saturday afternoon. All First Year students are required and parents are encouraged to attend. Information will be mailed in early June.

When will I know the name of my academic advisor?

The names of advisors are mailed to students in August. They are also available in the residence halls when students arrive for Orientation. Those who wish to contact their advisor during the summer may do so by calling the First Year of Studies (574-631-7421) after mid June.

Is there an opportunity for language placement testing during the summer?

Yes. An opportunity is offered on the Friday of Orientation weekend and also during the month of July. Details will be mailed in May.

When do classes begin?

Classes begin Tuesday, August 23.

When is fall break?

Fall break begins on Saturday, October 15, 2005; classes resume on Monday, October 24.

When does fall semester end? When can I leave for Christmas break?

For the fall semester 2005, the last class day is Wednesday, December 7; December 8 - 11 are reading days; December 12 - 16 are exam days. Please note: All first-year students are scheduled to take an exam on Friday, December 16. Permission will not be given for early examinations to accommodate travel arrangements.

When is the Parents' Football Game? When are order forms sent out?

This information will be mailed by the Athletic Department in May.

When will we receive information about university bands?

Information with a response form is sent to each student in late May. Auditions for the marching band are held in August before the start of classes.

When will we receive room and roommate assignments?

This information is sent from the Office of Residence Life and Housing, usually in the latter part of July. (phone: 574-631-5878; e-mail: orlh@nd.edu)

back

First Year Curriculum

What is the First Year Curriculum? What courses are required?

Click here

How many courses should I take?

All First-year students are expected to register for five courses in addition to Physical Education or ROTC. For many students this amounts to 15 credit hours (the minimum required). For those who have a lab science, a higher level math course, or certain language courses, the load may be 17 or 18 credit hours.

What is a University Seminar and what requirement does the course fulfill?

University Seminars are designed to foster intense interaction between first-year students and faculty in small settings. These courses are offered by departments within the College of Arts and Letters and will satisfy the relevant University requirement in history, literature, fine arts, social science or the first course of the philosophy or theology requirement. Each first-year student will be required to complete one University Seminar.

back

Orientation

When is First Year Orientation? Is it required for students? For parents?

First Year Orientation begins on Saturday of the weekend immediately preceding the start of classes. The weekend portion is for both parents and students; various activities continue for the students throughout the first week of classes. The Saturday afternoon session is required for first-year students; parents are encouraged to attend. This includes a general advising session for students and a special session for parents.

back

Professors

Are most professors approachable? Receptive to requests for assistance?

To answer this question we contacted four students with various academic programs. Their responses are captured below.

Absolutely! Get to know your professors. They are here to help you - but you have to put in the effort to succeed. In addition, if you plan to attend graduate or professional school you will need some good recommendations; make sure your professors get to know you on a personal basis. - Pre-Med Student

My professors have all been incredibly nice and willing to meet me for extra help or just for discussion. I was more intimidated when I was in a big lecture to talk to them, but eventually I realized that they were happy to help. They actually really like it when I asked questions. - English

Most professors encourage students to contact them and take note of the effort made by the student to either introduce themselves or obtain help. More often than not, the professor can also direct students where to obtain help if they do not have the time or the means to fill their needs. On a side note, it is also important to meet your professors because they can help you achieve your future goals, be it law school, medical school, service, or any connections they might have with the corporate world. - Political Science

ABSOLUTELY. Even in the largest of classes, the professor will always welcome your questions and comments. If not immediately before or after class, professors usually have well-established and posted office hours or allow students to schedule appointments. They can also be reached via voice mail or e-mail. - Computer Applications

back

Programs/Majors

At what point in my education do I need to decide my major?

Students are encouraged to use the first year as a time of exploration and discovery. Experience in a broad range of courses will enable students to compare areas of study before choosing the program they wish to pursue. Those interested in a specific area will be able to take courses during the first year to affirm that interest and to focus study toward that program. During the spring semester of the first year, students are asked to choose an intended College in preparation for course selection for the fall semester of sophomore year. Students selecting the College of Science or Engineering will be asked also to choose a major at this time. Those selecting the College of Arts & Letters or Business will not be expected to declare a major before the end of sophomore year.

However, first-year students who are undecided between the Colleges of Arts & Letters and Business on the one hand or Science and and Engineering on the other are advised to take the science and math courses recommended for the Science or Engineering College. It is easier to change from Science or Engineering to Arts & Letters or Business than to change in the opposite direction.

How easy will it be for me to change my major?

One of the features of the First Year program is that a student can, with guidance, change plans with little administrative difficulty and without prolonging the time to graduation. This becomes more difficult after the first year in the Colleges of Science and Engineering and after the sophomore year in the College of Business. Some Arts & Letters students do not declare a major until junior year.

Can I graduate early?

It is possible in some cases, especially for students who enter with an abundance of AP credit, to complete the requirements for graduation in fewer than four years. However, since a quality education involves much more than a set of required courses, this is not generally recommended.

back

Summer School

Do you recommend taking summer school courses?

In some cases, it may be advisable to take courses during the Notre Dame summer session. However, Notre Dame does not accept credits toward a major or toward some university requirements from outside institutions. Consult your academic advisor and get departmental approval beforehand for any course to be taken from another institution.

back

Student Athletes

Do student-athletes receive any special scheduling considerations?

First Year of Studies advisors assist student-athletes in putting together an academic schedule that does not conflict with their required practice periods.

May a student-athlete schedule a reduced course load at certain times?

Student-athletes begin, and are encouraged to retain, a full schedule of five courses and physical education. Although dropping a course is possible for any student when necessary, it is not encouraged.

Are there student-athletes studying science and technical majors?

Student-athletes are pursuing majors in all of the University's colleges. It takes serious commitment and focus to balance the demands of the more technical majors and their many required laboratory courses with the commitment necessary to participate in a varsity sport, but it is possible.

back

Back to First Year of Studies Home Page

Text Version 219 Coleman-Morse Center --- Notre Dame, IN 46556-4617 Phone 574-631-7421 --- Fax 574-631-8141 --- E-mail - fys.1@nd.edu Copyright © 2002 University of Notre Dame