More About Academic Probation

New Hours of Operation for OASiS

Beginning May 28^th and ending July 27^th representatives of the Office of Retention and Academic Support will be operating under new service hours for the summer. Staff will be available to offer assistance from Monday through Thursday of each week. The University will be officially closed on Fridays during this period. If you have any concerns or issues that need to be addressed do not hesitate to contact our office by calling 256.372.5491.

Have a great summer!

Jasmine Davis, OASiS GSA

ATTN: Graduating Seniors!!!

Preparing for Graduate School

Graduation is quickly approaching and many of you plan to continue your journey of higher education by applying to graduate school. There are a few things that you must have in order to begin preparing for entrance into Graduate School.  For most graduate schools, depending on the program of study, usually there are a limited number of spots available in a program. In such cases, only the most highly qualified candidates are offered admissions. The decision to admit an applicant is based primarily on a combination of the following criteria:

1.     Quality of undergraduate and previous graduate work,

2.     GRE/GMAT Scores,

3.     Letters of Recommendation,

4.     Evidence of potential success for graduate studies, and

5.     Available space in the program

Application for admission into the Graduate School at Alabama A&M University includes the following:

1.     Completed official application for admission to Graduate Studies and a non-refundable application fee. 

2.     Two official transcripts from each collegiate institution you have attended which must be mailed directly to the School of Graduate Studies Office, Alabama A&M University, P.O. Box 998, Normal, AL 35762.

3.     Official test scores of the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) are required for all programs except for the MBA which requires the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) scores.

4.     Two letters of recommendation on official “Letter of Recommendation” forms as provided by the University.

5.     Details on any professional work experience.

6.     Applicants must demonstrate adequate academic preparation in their proposed area of study.

7.     Other requirements may be specified by the particular degree program to which you are applying.

To be admitted unconditionally, applicants must:

1.     Have a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university.

2.     Have a minimum grade point average of 2.5

3.     Submit a minimum score of 400 on the verbal and 400 on the quantitative portions of the GRE. MBA students are required to have a minimum GMAT score of 350.

4.     Meet all program-specific requirements.

The time to begin preparing for graduate school is NOW! Begin contacting the University Testing Center to inquire about signing up to take the GRE. Information concerning tests, dates, and procedures can be obtained from the Testing Services Office. To register for a test, please visit 200 Buchanan Hall or call 256.372.5645.

Jasmine, OASiS GSA

Jasmine’s Guidebook for Students on Academic Probation

Once the implications of probation are fully comprehended, most students find it quite sobering. However, all is not lost. The following steps were created to assist you in getting off of Academic Probation:

1.)  Meet with an academic adviser to receive strategies for a more successful semester. Talk with a Bulldog Academic Resource Connection Specialist (BARC) by calling Janet Jones at 256.372.8089 or by calling Dawn Miles at 256.372.5494. The University requires ALL students on academic probation to register with the Office of Retention and Academic Support (ORAS). Please call 256.372.5491 for more information on ways to get off probation.

2.)  Retake failed courses immediately with another instructor. This allows you to substitute your first attempt grades with second attempt grades. The Academic Specialists are trained professionals who will help you develop an Academic Success Plan. This plan encourages students to repeat courses you have failed. Although, you might not be excited about having to repeat classes, doing so is the quickest way to improve your GPA. As a result of being familiar with the material and using your notes, handouts, and tests from the previous semester you will be well prepared for the course the second time around.

3.)  Project this semester’s GPA and analyze what efforts will be required to attain those grades.  Some ways to ensure that you increase your grades is to make sure that you are attending all of your classes, completing assignments in a timely manner, and lessen your social activities. Attendance is key in grasping material! It is also an important factor that is related to receiving financial aid for the semester. Too many absences can result in loss of financial aid or a failed course. Completing assignments at the highest level possible and submitting them on time is a sure way to increase your grades as well. Although college is exciting and offers an endless list of fun extracurricular activities, reducing your social activities is necessary to increase and maintain a good GPA as well. Learn to manage your time. The negative consequences of not managing your time can be irreparable. Increase your study time! It is recommended that students spend at least 2 hours of study time for each hour they spend in class. Enrolling in fewer credit hours, if you work more than 20 hours per week, will help your GPA as well.

4.)  Develop a long-term academic plan, one that includes Summer school to replace the loss of units due to failed courses. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Bennett or an ORAS Academic Specialist to help you devise an effective strategy. The Specialist will thoroughly review your academic record, compute your semester needed GPA to achieve the GPA required for your classification, develop an Academic Success Plan that will help you to return to good academic standing, and provide continuous support throughout your journey to graduation.

5.)  Take advantage of advising, tutoring, SI and mentoring by visiting the Office of Academic Support Services (OASIS). Through a close relationship with your advisor and Academic Specialist, you will quickly get off probation. Call 256-372-5487 to receive more information on getting a tutor or visit the Tutorial Assistance Network (TAN) in 100C Buchanan Hall.

6.)  Meet with the specific faculty for each course to review the syllabus, course expectations, and assignment timeline. Ask for clarifications from the faculty in any area of the course that is problematic. Begin to develop a close relationship with your instructors. Be sure to ask for assistance during class. Not asking for assistance in the appropriate time can result in a downward spiral in your academic success.

Jasmine, OASiS GSA

ATTN: Students IMPORTANT!!

Want a Co-Op?

If you are thinking about completing a Co-op this summer, that is a good idea. Most companies require that you register with Career Development Services (CDS) before you can engage in a Co-op.  Co-ops are meaningful career-building experiences that help you gain relevant workplace experience and build professional networking contacts and mentoring relationships. They also help you to explore a variety of professional fields and increase the likelihood of job offers prior to graduation.

Make sure you sign up to receive information and also help for finding the best Co-op for you in Career Development Services (CDS). All students are encouraged to complete, at least, one internship or co-op before graduation. Do it today!! CDS staff is available to assist you with résumé development, interview skills, job searches, and other career related topics. To learn more, visit the CDS Office which is located in 101 Patton Hall or call 256.372.5692.

Jasmine, OASiS GSA

Academic Support Available for Students

The Office of Academic Support Services (OASiS), formerly known as the Office of Retention & Academic Support (ORAS),  is a multi-faceted, comprehensive department designed to facilitate and improve student success, retention, and graduation rates. Whether you need a tutor, a mentor, or academic advising, our office is available to any AAMU student who needs our help.

Don’t wait until your grades are irreparable, get help now! We take time to listen, learn about your goals and dreams, access your academic status, and develop a plan of success.

We are located on the first floor (Rooms 101 -109, 112) in Buchanan Hall. Individualized programs can be set up to help you achieve all of your academic goals at Alabama A&M University.

If you need help understanding your course material, sign up for tutoring.  Tutoring and SI are offered through the Tutorial Assistance Network, known around campus as TAN. Students can take advantage of being tutored in a one-on-one or group session. SI is proven academic approach that can help students increase their grade in the course by 20 points of more by attending the SI study sessions with an SI Leader. Ms. Linda Skeete McClellan is the TAN/SI Coordinator and can be reached at 256.372.5487.

First-Time Freshmen can also find support with advising and academic support in OASiS. The Academic Specialist/Adviser can help any first-time freshman with course registration, developing study skills strategies, choosing a major, understanding university policies and procedures, and connecting the student with appropriate campus resources.

ASAP was created specifically for conditionally admitted first-time freshman. Its mission is to help assist freshmen in their pursuit of achieving their highest potential by navigating them through an array of academic support services based on individual need such as academic advising and registration, first-year academic progress monitoring, tutoring, SI, mentoring, and major/career exploration. For more information, call Ms. Cynthia Benion at 256.372.8087.

Mentors can also be found in the Office of  Academic Support Services. The Changing Lanes Mentoring Program (CLMP) is a program that has been specifically designed to benefit you. CLMP is open to any first-time freshman who wants to increase his or her chances of being successful by developing a positive relationship with a trained mentor. Special events and activities scheduled during the academic year provide mentors and first-time freshmen opportunities to interact and get to know each other. Students are encouraged to initiate meetings with their mentors as often as necessary. To become a part of this program, please contact Dr. Howard Wright by calling 256.372.5493.

The Office of Academic Support Services also serves students on Probation. The University requires ALL students on academic probation to register with OASiS's Bulldog Academic Resource Connection (BARC) program. Please call Ms. Dawn Miles or Ms. Janet Jones at 256.372.5494 or 256.372.8089 for more information on ways to get off probation. The Academic Specialists will thoroughly review your academic record, compute your semester needed GPA to achieve the GPA required for your classification, work with you to develop an Academic Success Plan that will help you to return to good academic standing, and provide continuous support throughout your journey to graduation.

Dr. Leatha M. Bennett, the OASiS Director, provides leadership for OASiS. She can assist students with any academic issue or concern. She conducts Academic Record Checks which gives students a thorough understanding of their transcripts. She also offers advice to students on ways to clean up their transcripts, including advising students on the University’s Academic Bankruptcy policy. She also helps students to look for errors on their transcripts and works closely with the Registrar to correct the errors. She teaches them to take responsibility for their own records. Dr. Bennett feels that students can make more informed decisions when they have the essential information available to them. She can be reached at 256.372.5491. Her office is located in 105 Buchanan Hall and she encourages students to drop by anytime.

For more information about the academic support programs offered, please call 256.372.5491.

Jasmine, OASiS GSA

Get Involved!!

While academics is important and plays a key role in successfully finding employment, receiving scholarships, internships, and acceptance into graduate school, student involvement on campus is often desired.  Many employers and scholarship/internship committees value your commitment to the university through volunteerism and participation in student activities. Lack of involvement could be the determining factor of whether you receive that dream job or internship. Those students that do participate and are leaders of various organizations on campus are thought to be well rounded and disciplined, so get involved today!!

It is a very good idea for students to develop outside interests through participation in a wide range of activities, so long as academic performance is not sacrificed. If you are looking for the student organization that best fits you, visit the Office of Student Activities & Leadership Development (OSALD). With over 115 registered student organizations, the office serves as the nucleus for social, recreational, cultural and individualized interests. The Office of Student Activities provides the resources, guidance, and support to enhance student achievements and activities while serving the interests of the college community. For a list of departmental, scholastic, service, and other student groups at the University, please visit the Office of Student Activities or visit the office in 311 Patton Hall.

For more information, call 256.372.5615.

Jasmine OASiS, GSA

Thinking about Studying Abroad?

The Office of International Programs allows you the opportunity to expand your knowledge by expanding your experiences in the US and abroad. The University offers a number of international academic programs that can benefit students. Some of their programs offered are: the student exchange programs in the US and Canada, the Semester at Sea, and study abroad programs for language and intercultural training. Taking advantage of the Study Abroad programs will enhance your academic goals and provides you with more than an international tourist experience. Your financial aid at AAMU can help support your study at another participating university. Studying abroad is the optimal way to learn a language, expand your worldview, and enhance your employment opportunities.

If you are interested in participating in the Studying Abroad program, you should visit the Office of International Programs or stop by Office 104 in the Bonner Wing of Carver Complex. The staff will help you to create an online account to connect you with a Study Abroad advisor.  S/he will assist you in finding a program that is relevant to your academic goals and appropriate to your individual characteristics.

Start packing! For more information, call 256.372.5418.

Jasmine OASiS, GSA

Office of Financial Aid

The Office of Financial Aid is here to provide you with information on ways to finance your education. Financial Aid is offered in the form of scholarships, grants, work study, and loans. Many financial aid questions can be answered by simply visiting the Office of Financial Aid’s webpage or by calling 256.372.5400 including financial aid for Summer school, unclaimed scholarship funds, and instructions for how to complete the 2012-2013 FAFSA.

At the beginning of each semester the wait-time to visit an analyst in the Financial Aid Office can take from a few minutes to a few hours. However, there is good news!!! You are not required to visit the Office of Financial Aid to view your grant, scholarship, or loan award for that semester! All information can be viewed by simply logging into your Banner account on the University’s web page. A student does not have to visit the Office, unless a major problem occurs such as making an adjustment in your award.

If you have not completed your 2012-2012 FAFSA, you are already late! Students who submit their FAFSAs early will be given priority consideration.  For more information about completing your FAFSA can be found at FAFSA.gov. Remember, the sooner taxes are filed, the better.

The Director of the Office of Financial Aid, Mr. Darryl Jackson, is also helping you stay abreast of important financial aid information through his e-financial aid tips via your Bulldog email account. These tips are sent out weekly by the Director and offer relevant information regarding scholarships, President Obama’s Student Loan Debt Initiative, opting out of receiving a book voucher, and other important information. Don’t forget to complete the Customer Satisfaction Survey which gives the Office of Financial Aid information that will help to better serve students. It can be found under Quick Links on the Office of Financial Aid’s webpage.

The Office of Financial Aid is located in 211 Patton Hall. You will be met by a team of professionals who enjoy serving students.

Keeping you informed,

Jasmine, OASiS GSA

Office of the Registrar – It is More Than Just for Registration!

The Registrar’s Office holds every student’s record of academic performance and is located in 214 Patton Hall. It is of extreme importance that you make sure that this Office has your correct and current mailing address on file, since this is the address to which all mail from the University will be sent. Failure to update your current mailing address could result in delayed receipt of important, time-sensitive, University correspondence. The Registrar’s Office also maintains transcripts for all coursework completed by students enrolled at the University. You should routinely monitor your transcript for errors, incomplete grades (I), and other problems which can be identified and corrected well in advance of graduation.

If you need further assistance in understanding how to view your transcript and what errors to look for, please consider receiving an Academic Record Check from Dr. Bennett in the Office of Retention and Academic Support (ORAS). Academic Record Checks help students understand their transcript, identify changes which need to occur, learn how to calculate their GPA, and develop a plan to achieve their academic and professional goals. Throughout the semester Dr. Bennett can be spotted on campus visiting the various residential halls to work one-on-one with students. Take some time in between classes to sit down with her and discuss your transcript. This record holds valuable information that, if overlooked, can be the deciding factor for your future. Students should remember the only official record of a student’s academic progress at the University is a transcript. If you miss Dr. Bennett in the residential halls, drop by her office in 105 Buchanan Hall. She will welcome you with open arms and give you the tools to manage your own transcript.

The Registrar’s office hours are from 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. from Monday through Friday. The friendly and knowledgeable staff can help you to find answers to your questions. Take heed to ORAS’s slogan, “The Tassel is Worth the Hassle.”

Jasmine, OASiS GSA

When Should You Visit Career Development Services?

Career Development Services (CDS) is here to assist you in making the transition from the world of school to the world of work. CDS sponsors several services and activities to help you prepare for your future career including a one-hour Career Development Seminar, résumé development, career fairs, and teaching students the fine art of eating appropriately via etiquette dinners. CDS’s mission is to assist students and alumni in crystallizing their career objectives and preparing them for employment opportunities. You can also find additional information on the University’s webpage to stay abreast of events such as Career Week, Professional Employment Day, Graduate and Professional Schools’ Day, and Teacher Education Recruitment Day. Additional services include mock interviews, job announcements, Workforce Readiness workshops such as how to dress for success and goal setting, listings of part-time and summer employment for off-campus jobs, and a job referral service. Take time to visit the CDS office located in 101 Patton Hall. I think you will learn a lot!

Jasmine, OASiS GSA

Study Tips

Break Studying Up Into Small Chunks

A marathon of studying right before a test is the least effective way to prepare. Also, it is highly stressful and unhealthy. This translates into you having a low energy level and the inability to concentrate once you actually take the test. Instead, take 15 or 30 minutes here (before class) and there (after class) to study a few times a day, even when exams seem on the distant horizon. This will not only be easier to schedule study time but will also help you to better remember and actually learn the material when it is time to take the test.

Another effective way to study for simpler material is to write terms or questions on note cards, then carry those note cards around and glance at them throughout the day. Studying in chunks may mean that you only need to review the material the night before for about an hour.

Jasmine, OASiS GSA

Where Do I Go To Sign Up for Tutoring?

If you are struggling to maintain your grades, you might want to consider getting a tutor. The Tutorial Assistance Network (TAN) team is dedicated to retaining and graduating Alabama A & M University students. They provide tutoring, Supplemental Instruction (SI), Success Enhancement Workshops, and study skills assistance to help students:

• increase their understanding of course materials
• increase their performance in their courses
• improve their academic performance
• network with other students in their subject area

To apply for tutoring, SI or other assistance, please call Ms. Linda Skeete McClellan at 256.372.5487. She is located in 100C Buchanan Hall.

Jasmine, OASiS GSA

How Are You Classifed?

Classification of Students

Students are grouped in four classes according to total credits earned in semester hours and their cumulative GPA.

v You are considered a FRESHMAN if you have attempted 1 - 30 Credit Hours and have a 1.50 GPA.

v You are classified as a SOPHOMORE if you have attempted 31- 63 Credit Hours and have a 1.75 GPA.

v You are classified as a JUNIOR if you have attempted 64 – 94 Credit Hours and have a 2.00 GPA.

v You are considered a SENIOR if you have attempted 95+ Credit Hours and have a 2.00 GPA.

Jasmine, OASiS GSA

Jasmine’s Guidebook for Students on Probation

 

Once the implications of probation are fully comprehended, most students find it quite sobering. However, all is not lost. The following steps will assist you in getting off Academic Probation:

1.)  Meet with your academic adviser to receive strategies for a more successful semester or come by the Office of Academic Support Services, formerly ORAS, to talk with an Academic Specialist. The University requires ALL students on academic probation to register with the Office of Retention and Academic Support (ORAS). Please call 256.372.5491 for more information on ways to get off probation.

2.)  Retake failed courses immediately. This allows you to substitute your first attempted grade, especially if you failed the course, with the second attempted grade. Sometimes it may be a good idea to take the course with another instructor. Although, you might not be excited about having to repeat classes, doing so is the quickest way to improve your GPA. As a result of being familiar with the material and using your notes, handouts, and tests from the previous semester, you will be well prepared for the course the second time around.

3.)  Analyze what efforts will be required to attain higher grades.  Some ways to ensure that you will increase your grades is to make sure that you are attending all of your classes, completing assignments, and managing your time. Attendance is key in grasping material. It is also an important factor that is related to receiving financial aid for the semester. Too many absences can result in loss of financial aid. Completing assignments at the highest level possible and submitting them on time is a sure way to increase your grades as well. Although college is exciting and offers an endless list of fun extracurricular activities, reducing your social activities is necessary to increase and maintain a good GPA as well. Learn to manage your time. The negative consequences of not managing your time can be irreparable. Increase your study time! It is recommended that students should spend at least 2 hours of study time for each hour they spend in class. Enrolling in fewer credit hours, if you work more than 20 hours per week, will help your GPA as well.

4.)  Develop a long-term academic plan, one that includes Summer School to replace the loss of units due to failed courses. Schedule an appointment with your academic adviser and/or an ORAS Academic Specialist to help you devise an effective strategy. The Specialist will thoroughly review your academic record, teach you how to compute your semester needed GPA to achieve the GPA required for your classification, develop an Academic Success Plan that will help you to return to good academic standing, and provide continuous support throughout your journey to graduation.

5.)  Take advantage of academic advising, tutoring, SI and mentoring by visiting the Office of Academic Support Services (OASIS). Through a close relationship with your academic advisor you will quickly get off probation. Call 256-372-5487 to receive more information on getting a tutor or visit the Tutorial Assistance Network (TAN) in 100C Buchanan Hall.

6.)  Meet with your specific faculty in each course to review the syllabus, course expectations, and assignment time-line at the beginning of each semester. Ask for clarifications from the faculty about any area of the course that is problematic. Begin to develop a close relationship with your instructors. Be sure to ask for assistance during class. Not asking for help early in the semester can result in a downward spiral.

Jasmine, OASiS GSA

Probation – What is it?

The term probation may appear to be a taunting word. However, probation is a time when a student is given a trail period to redeem failing grades or bad study behavior.  A student is placed on probation when his or her GPA has fallen below the GPA required to remain in good academic standing at AAMU. Being placed on Academic Probation does not mean that you will be kicked out of the University. On the contrary, it is not something that should be taken lightly. Probation can only be taken off of your record once you improve your GPA to the required standard. Otherwise, you will be in danger of suspension. To learn more about how you can get off or avoid academic probation, visit us in the Office of Academic Support Services in Suite 100 Buchanan Hall.

Jasmine, OASiS GSA

Academic Record Checks: We are Waiting to Serve You

The Office of  Academic Support Services (OASiS) offers you the opportunity to have experienced Academic Specialists review your academic record to check for discrepancies. All discrepancies will be brought to the attention of the Registrar’s Office. You will learn skills to better manage your academic record and including calculating your GPA. For example, if you want to make a 3.00 GPA  this semester, you will learn how to calculate the GPA needed to achieve this goal. You can also come by to visit with us when we are scheduled in the Residential Halls throughout the semester. 

Your academic record will be reviewed to determine if:

1) all repeated courses have been zeroed out with the appropriate course(s) credited;

2) the appropriate academic status is posted on your record;
3) the deadline for Incomplete grades on your records have expired.

OASiS Academic Specialists have helped many students to move from their current GPAs to having higher GPAs and from Academic Warning/Probation to Good Academic Standing through our intrusive, detailed Academic Record Checks. The Checks will help to minimize problems that may interfere with Senior record checks or just help to clean up students' transcripts before graduation using the University's forgiveness policy, Academic Bankruptcy. Students will also learn about OASiS comprehensive academic support services which are helping hundreds of AAMU students to achieve higher levels of academic success.

Please do not miss the chance to learn how to effectively manage and check the accuracy of YOUR academic record! The OASiS team looks forward to working with you!

How to Apply for Academic Bankruptcy

1. You must obtain an application from the Office of Academic Affairs in 108 Patton Hall or from the Office of Academic Support Services in Suite 100 Buchanan Hall.
2. Meet with Dr. Leatha M. Bennett in the Office of Academic Support Services to review your academic record and discuss the pros and cons of the Academic Bankruptcy policy.  If Dr. Bennett is not available to meet with you, please visit Ms. Linda Skeete McClellan in her office in 100C Buchanan Hall.
3. After the review, if you wish to submit an application for Academic Bankruptcy, you will be given a copy of the completed and signed application for your records.  You will sign the OASiS office log to indicate your application was submitted.
4. The application will be submitted to the Office of Academic Affairs for processing by the Academic Appeals Committee at its next meeting.
5. If your application is approved, your transcript will be adjusted to reflect the bankrupted semester (s).

Improving Your GPA: Academic Bankruptcy /Repeating Courses

Academic Bankruptcy
Are of you aware of the University’s academic forgiveness policy, Academic Bankruptcy, which allows eligible undergraduate students the opportunity to replace earned grades with a WB for the approved semester(s) in which they performed poorly? Students can retake those courses if they are needed to fulfill requirements for their degree. Courses that are bankrupted will not be used in calculating the students’ GPA. One year must elapse between the time grades were earned and the Academic Bankruptcy request. Note that only students who are pursuing their first baccalaureate degree are eligible to apply for Academic Bankruptcy.

I am encouraging seniors, especially graduating seniors, to come by the Office of Academic Support Services now for a comprehensive Academic Record Check. The Check will help seniors to determine if submitting an Academic Bankruptcy application will positively benefit their GPA or help them to clean up the appearance of their transcript by removing failed courses that have been repeated. Academic Bankruptcy must be requested prior to the end of the student’s graduating semester and will be awarded only once in the student’s career at AAMU.

If you want to learn more about the University’s Academic Bankruptcy policy, please visit Dr. Leatha M. Bennett in 105 Buchanan Hall. She can be reached at 256.372.5491 or send her an email at leatha.bennett@aamu.edu.

Repeating Courses
Did you know that students can retake courses and have the second grade earned count (if it is a higher or the same grade) in your GPA calculation? To receive more information about repeating courses, please visit Dr. Bennett in the Office of Academic Support Services in 105 Buchanan Hall.