By Mary Leong
Are you finding it hard to keep up with your coursework? Remember, you are not alone! There are a lot of great resources and places at UBC that can help you succeed academically:
Chapman Learning Commons: Situated in the Irving K. Barber Learning Centre, the UBC Chapman Learning Commons is the one-stop shop for comfortable study spaces, computers, and information packages to set you on the path of academic success. They offer a variety of in person and online resources including workshops, tutoring, peer coaching, a Guide To Academic Integrity, and student toolkits.
UBC Libraries: Getting started on a research paper? The librarians at any of UBC’s many libraries are a valuable resource to get you started. The libraries also provide a wide range of workshops, and Askaway, an online chat service that connects you with a librarian – just click “Ask an Expert.”
Writing Centre: Feeling stumped by an essay? Need help formatting your paper in MLA or APA style? Though tutors at the UBC Writing Centre do not edit your paper, they can provide some assistance with the following:
- Getting started with an assignment
- Forming a thesis statement or developing an outline
- Formatting your essay in APA or MLA style
- Diagnose areas of weakness and help you improve your writing
- Preparing for the Language Proficiency Index (LPI)
AMS (Alma Mater Society) Tutoring Services: Are you a first or second year that is struggling with coursework? AMS Tutoring provides resources including free tutoring, appointment tutoring, and online tutoring. Examination Review Sessions are also offered during midterm and final exam seasons for select subjects.
Professors/Teaching Assistants’ (TAs) Office Hours: Office hours, generally run by professors or TAs, is one way for students to clarify material taught in class. Whether you simply don’t understand course material or want to ask more detailed questions, office hours are a great place to start. Making connections with professors and TAs earlier on in the term can be very beneficial. After building that initial rapport, it is much easier to ask questions later on in the term, especially if the course material is becoming more difficult. They are also great sources of information on potential research and job opportunities.
For more academic resources, visit: https://www.arts.ubc.ca/student-support/academic-support/