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INTERNATIONAL STUDENT ORIENTATION NEWS — ISSUE 3

Hello Again! This newsletter includes information to academically support new international students at the Univeristy of Portland.

Don't forget to add sandford@up.edu to your safe senders so we'll be sure to land in your inbox! (If you no longer plan to attend UP use the Orientation Enrollment Form to cancel your admission. That will stop all UP emails.)

Academic Success

International students generally do well academically at UP. During orientation, we will discuss the US educational system and how you can prepare to succeed within it. The following are tips for learning the educational system and minimizing difficulties.

UP Students and Professor discussing coursework

Get to know your professors. Make appointments to meet with your professors early in the semester. Ask questions and demonstrate that you are a serious student. Professors have weekly office hours and are very happy to meet with students. This is a great time to chat with your professor one-on-one.

UP Students using white board for group project

Participate in class. In most UP classes, participation in class is very important for academic success. Part of your grade may even depend on participation in discussions. Staying on top of your reading and noting your thoughts or questions before class can help nervous students feel more comfortable speaking out in class.

Students utilizing the Clark Library Digital Lab

Take advantage of the on-campus Clark Library resources such as group study rooms, computers, printers, individual study spaces, and the Digital Lab.

Make sure you understand the requirements for each class. Review your syllabus carefully and if you have questions, be sure to ask your professor. It is a good idea to note the grade value, components and due date of big projects before starting your work.

Don't overload your schedule. Select courses wisely and give yourself time to adjust to a new educational system. You can visit the American Academic System & Common Phrases webpage to learn more. ISS can help students with an authorized reduced courseload for one semester per degree program due to academic difficulties.

Ask classmates for help. Many students are happy to be study partners or to answer questions if you ask. This is also a great way to make new friends!

Have realistic expectations. Remember that it may take some time for you to perform to the best of your ability.

Use the Learning Commons for help with writing papers, preparing speeches and tutoring.

Shepard Academic Resource Center Advising

Visit the Shepard Academic Resource Center and ask for support.

Br. Thomas Giumenta, CSC, Learning Assistance Counselor

Schedule an appintment with the Learning Assistance Counselor to learn more about note taking skills, study skills, test taking strategies, stress management and test anxiety management.

English Placement Exam (undergraduates only)

First year students and some transfer students whose first language is not English may be required to sit for the English Placement Exam (EPE). If you need to take the EPE, you will be enrolled in the ENG 101 course by your academic advisor.

This exam will take place in class during the first week of the fall semester (August 27-31).

The exam will determine if you will take the ENG 101 course in the fall semester. If you pass the exam, you will not need to take ENG 101 and you may remove it from your schedule. If the exam determines that you must stay in ENG 101, then you may choose to drop a different course from your schedule so that you are only registered for a total of 12 or more credits.

The exam will consist of two short-answer essay questions.

If you have specific questions about the EPE, please email Gwen Sandford at sandford@up.edu.

Questions?
If you have any questions, please let us know. We look forward to seeing you in August!

Michael and Gwen

International Student Services

iss@up.edu | 503.943.7367

INTERNATIONAL STUDENT SERVICES

admissions@up.edu | 503.943.71475000 N. Willamette Blvd., Portland, OR 97203

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5000 N Willamette Blvd
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