New Students

Myths:

• UB has more than 140 programs to choose from. I should know what I want to do right now!
• When I choose my degree, it will determine what I do for the rest of my life.
• An academic major ties you to a specific career path.

Realities:

• Feeling uncertain about what you might major in is very normal. Staying open minded and following your curiosities is a great mindset for moving forward.
• Learning about all the wonderful things I can do with my major and trying things out is an important part of being a college student. My major serves as a gateway to many opportunities and options!
• Many majors provide you with the skills necessary to prepare for similar work environments or graduate programs. When choosing a major, it is best to consider what knowledge and skills your undergraduate education will help you to develop. 

How can I make the most of my time before entering UB?

Take the opportunity to make some professional friends by conducting informational interviews, volunteering, shadowing or gaining work experience to explore possible areas of interest. Stay up-to-date on helpful information and resources on our Exploring Majors Resources UBlearns space (requires UB login). 

What are the benefits of scheduling as an exploratory student?

Your advisor will help you develop a plan to complete UB Curriculum requirements while also exploring majors of interest in a variety of fields and disciplines.   

When do I need to declare/apply to a major?

While it's normal for students to start college exploratory or change their major, you will need to be accepted into a major by the time you have 60 credits completed (45 credits recommended). This is typically the end of a student's second year. It is also important to know that changing your major or declaring your major after 60 credits completed can influence time to degree and financial aid eligibility.

1. Check your schedule for any last-minute changes (e.g., time, location) before classes begin and remember to attend every class! Attending your first day of classes ensures you get the syllabus for each of your classes, you are able to meet your instructors, and you gain an understanding of what you learn for the semester.
2. Approach faculty early and often during office hours. Use office hours to ask questions about course content, get study ideas, prepare for an upcoming assignment or to review an exam or paper.
3. Use your Navigate app to connect to student success campus wide! Utilize Navigate to make an appointment, set alerts and reminders, locate campus resources, find Study Buddies and explore majors.
4. Check the UB Academic Calendar frequently. Stay informed of start and end of semester dates, official holidays, final exams, course registration, drop/add and course resignation deadlines.
   
5. Stay organized in college. Use a planner or sync your Navigate app to your phone calendar, make note of each instructor's contact information and office hours in your phone, and check your UB email frequently. 
6. Establish good time management skills. For each class syllabus, record all due dates for quizzes, tests, papers and projects. Plan to study at least 4-5 hours a day.
7. Practice academic integrity. Honestly and ethically complete and submit all of your academic work, regardless of whether instruction is in-person or remote.
8. Get involved beyond the classroom. Join clubs and organizations of majors of interest or just for fun. It's a great way to experience UB and make new friends.