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   from the issue of February 7, 2008

     
 
Event aids students' major search

 BY ANDY SCHADWINKEL AND JAKE JOHNSON, ADMISSIONS

Nearly 100 UNL students attended a Jan. 30 event designed to help them make sure they are in the right academic major.


MAJOR DISCUSSION - Whitney Hinshaw, a freshman, discusses a nutrition major with Linda Young, senior lecturer in Nutrition and Health Sciences...
 
MAJOR DISCUSSION - Whitney Hinshaw, a freshman, discusses a nutrition major with Linda Young, senior lecturer in Nutrition and Health Sciences. Photo by Jake Johnson/Admissions.

 
GPS for Your Future (Majors and more!) was hosted by the Office of Undergraduate Studies specifically to help undeclared students and new transfer students connect with academic advisers from departments across campus.

"As soon as I walked in, I was greeted by someone who directed me toward the online survey, where a list of my top 40 possible careers came up. After that I met with an adviser, and then they took me right to the colleges that I needed to talk to. It was a very personal experience," said freshman Zach Smith (undeclared).

Students attending were given a list of questions to consider asking faculty and staff representing departments across campus. Break-out sessions on academic success included: time management, effective study techniques, academic planning, and healthy lifestyles. These sessions were chosen based on the feedback from students who attended the Mid-Semester Check in September. However, the time with advisers was the most popular part of the event.

"I really enjoyed the GPS event because it gave me the chance to talk with advisers about my future. After this event I feel that I have a better idea of what the right major is for me, said freshman Andrea Hatten (News-Editorial).

The Office of Undergraduate Studies has found that it is important to provide undecided students regular opportunities to assess their interest and to explore those interests with faculty during their first year at college. Faculty and staff who worked the booths reported that their interactions with students were in-depth, productive sessions - due in large part to the students working with Career Services staff on their online interest survey as part of the program.



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