My First Year > FAQs

First Year | Transition | FAQs | Educational Planning

FAQs

What should I do if I am sick and unable to attend class?

You should go to class. But when you are too ill, or an event keeps you from class, e-mail your professor to explain your absence. If you miss more than two consecutive classes due to illness, you can contact the Office of Student Affairs to notify all your professors. Seek medical attention from Health Services.

How do I get help in a class?

There are many different resources at Wilkes to help you succeed academically. Make an appointment to visit with your professor during office hours or come get some help at the University College Learning Center. Click on Academic Resources and see how you can get some help.

When should I consider dropping a course?

There are a number of reasons to consider withdrawing, including medical and other personal obstacles, to the successful completion of a class. The most common reason for seeking a withdrawal is poor performance in a number of graded assignments, projects or examinations. The decision is not always clear, so you should seek assistance when considering a withdrawal.

Is a withdrawal from a course seen as a “failure”?

Not at all, since a “W” on a transcript can be assigned for many reasons. There are times when dropping a class is the most intelligent course of action.

Who should I see to drop a course?

Since this is not always an easy decision, you should first speak with your professor. Only she understands the quality of your performance compared to others, the level of difficulty of future examinations, and the performance needed to pass the course. To learn the impact of dropping a course on your educational plan, you should see your advisor as well. You must also contact the Financial Aid Office to see if there is an impact on your financial aid if you drop.

What happens if I stop going to class, but do not “officially” withdraw?

You get a “zero” for the course. This will hurt your GPA a great deal.

What should I do if I am unable to find my advisor and I need assistance?

You should contact the advising coordinator of your college. Click on My Coordinator. Contacts are:

What should I do if I think I am in the wrong major?August 27, 2006dvising coordinator of your college.

Where should I go if I want to change my major?

You should begin the process by seeing the advising coordinator of your college.

What should I do if I don’t think I can do college-level work?

Remain calm and seek professional guidance. Transitions to new environments with new expectations can be difficult. But don’t make any critical decisions when you are under duress. You should speak with your advisor, advising coordinator, or the professor with whom you are most comfortable. All can refer you to the University College Learning Center for academic support and to learn to make the most of your abilities.

 

First Year | Transition | FAQs | Educational Planning