Academic
• What can I do with my major?
There are a variety of things waiting for you in your major! Be sure to check out
the Career Center's "What can I do with a major in…" article (http://www.wcu.edu/6679.asp), which provides some insight as to what's waiting for you when you graduate. We'll
also be providing some experiential learning opportunities for you to learn more about
what you can do with your major, so keep checking back for details. Keep in mind that,
just because you have declared a major in a certain field, doesn't necessarily mean
you can only look for jobs in that field. Contact the Career Center for more information.
• I don't like my current major. Can I change it to a new one?
With proper planning, it is possible to change your major. Though you should be majoring
in something you enjoy doing, realistic expectations are key. Proper planning is essential
to insure you can meet all the requirements of your new major, and still graduate
on time. Talk to your advisor for more information.
• How can I find out who my advisor is?
You can find the name of your advisor in MyCat under Personal Services > Student >
Student Records > View Student Status. In the list of information you will find the
name of your primary advisor. This is the advisor you will see during advising to
obtain your Alt PIN.
• How often should I be meeting with my advisor?
In addition to Advising Day each Fall and Spring, you should meet with your advisor
whenever you have questions about a class to take, your major, or even your academic
progress. A good relationship with your advisor is key in order to graduate on time.
• How do I know if I am on the right track to graduate on time?
To begin with, meet with your advisor on a regular basis. He/She will make sure you
are on the correct path to graduation. Make sure you look at the academic catalog
as well. It lists the courses you need to take in your major in order to graduate.
Your department's website may have some information as well. Finally, run a degree
audit in MyCat (under Personal Services > Student > Student Records > View Student
Status) before you register for the upcoming semester. It will let you know what courses
you have taken so far, and what is left in order to graduate.
• I'm having trouble in my class(es). Who can I go to for help?
If you need writing assistance or tutoring with any of your classes, be sure to visit
the Writing and Learning Commons (http://www.wcu.edu/29229.asp), located in the Belk Building. For lower-level math classes, the Math Tutoring Center
(http://www.wcu.edu/8473.asp) is available to help you. Some other departments may offer tutoring services as
well. Be sure to talk to your professor too; they have office hours for a reason,
and are here to help you!
Career
• I need help creating a resume, or need my current one critiqued. Who can I talk
to?
The Career Center (http://www.wcu.edu/6661.asp) is here to help you with that. Drop off your resume at their office, or e-mail it
to them. However, the best way to get feedback/help is to make an appointment with
them. They will gladly assist you with their needs. Before visiting them, however,
be sure to check out their resume page (http://www.wcu.edu/6685.asp).
• How can I find a job on-campus?
WCU's JobCat site (http://www.wcu.edu/27421.asp) has a listing of all on-campus jobs.
• I noticed there aren't a lot of jobs being offered on campus right now. Is there
a good time to start searching?
Typically, the end of each semester is when departments are aware of hiring needs,
and typically post available positions. However, jobs do open up at any time throughout
the year. If you have a specific department in mind that you want to work for, talk
to them to let them know your interest. They will be happy to give you an idea as
to when specific positions might be available.
• What about part-time jobs while I'm in school?
In addition to JobCat, be sure to look at various job sites around the internet. If
you have a specific company in mind, their website usually lists available positions.
Or, stop by the specific company you have in mind… most are always accepting applications.
• How can I get an internship?
Your department usually has information concerning where you can find internships.
Several websites also exist with available internship opportunities. If you have a
specific company in mind that you want to work for, go to their website or contact
them; they are almost always looking for interns. Check out the internship page http://www.wcu.edu/6684.asp
Personal
• How can I get involved on campus?
The Office of Leadership and Student Involvement (http://olsi.wcu.edu) is here for you! Stop by our office on the 3rd floor of the Hinds University Center.
We can connect you to close to 200 clubs and organizations on campus. Stop by and
let us match your interests with an organization here.
• What other opportunities exist for involvement on campus?
Consider studying abroad (http://www.wcu.edu/9245.asp). It's a great way to learn more about potential opportunities that can exist with
your major. Plus, it allows you to broaden your experience on a whole new level! Also,
the Center for Service Learning (http://www.wcu.edu/9815.asp) can connect you with community service and volunteer opportunities.
• I have a question about Financial Aid. Who can I talk to?
The Financial Aid office (http://www.wcu.edu/11344.asp) is here to help you out with any questions you may have. Call, visit, or come by.
Keep in mind the following: If you are planning on returning next Fall, you will want
to renew your FAFSA (http://www.fafsa.ed.gov/) by March 1st. This gives the office time to determine your need, and gives you plenty
of opportunity to submit additional paperwork, if required.
• I want to live off-campus next year. Where can I start searching for housing?
The Off-Campus Housing website (http://offcampushousing.wcu.edu/) is a great place to start. Make sure you can commit to living off-campus, though!
While there are great benefits, considerations such as paying a monthly rent, a year-round
mandated lease, and having to commute to campus, all should be taken into consideration
before you decide to live off-campus.
• But what if I still have questions?
That's what we're here for! Stop by and see us in the Office of Leadership and Student
Involvement on the third floor of the University Center.