Check the week as a route
The calendar is workable only when the physical and mental transitions fit.
- BuildingsMap every back-to-back pair and include elevators, shuttle timing, accessibility routes and weather.
- MealsIdentify at least one realistic lunch window and the location where food is accessible.
- FocusNotice clusters of demanding classes and whether there is time to reset before a lab, studio or discussion.
- CommuteAdd parking, transit frequency and the last safe trip home instead of counting only class time.
Know what is fixed and what can move
Use the add/drop window on the problems that affect completion, not cosmetic preferences.
- Resolve immediatelyMissing prerequisites, overlapping meetings, an inaccessible route or a waitlist that leaves you below required enrollment.
- Ask before changingMajor sequencing, financial-aid credit load, athletic eligibility, visa status and accommodation effects.
- Observe firstTeaching style, reading load and whether an open block actually works as study time.
Ask for assignment-level AI rules
A general campus statement does not replace the instruction for a specific course or task.
- Is any use allowed?Clarify whether brainstorming, outlining, translation, coding help, feedback or generated text are treated differently.
- What must be disclosed?Record the required citation, process note, prompt log or declaration before starting the assignment.
- What data is off-limits?Do not upload private student data, unpublished research, clinical information or copyrighted course materials without permission.
- Which instruction wins?If the syllabus, assignment and verbal guidance conflict, ask the instructor in writing and keep the response.
Make a first-week correction plan
Decide in advance how you will evaluate a possible schedule change.
- Attend the enrolled classDo not abandon a confirmed seat while waiting for another course unless the registrar explains the consequence.
- Collect the syllabusCompare major deadlines, attendance rules and required materials rather than judging only the first lecture.
- Check downstream effectsConfirm degree progress, aid, housing or immigration requirements before submitting a change.
- Save the confirmationAfter a change, verify the new schedule and learning-platform access in the official system.
