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April 14, 2020In this issue: Maximizing online learning, virtual Earth Day conference, and more.
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Tips for Grads: Maximizing online learning
By the time you are a graduate student, you have had decades of schooling, and until now nearly all of it has probably been face-to-face instruction. Whether you have taken online classes or have not, switching to an entirely online curriculum in the middle of the semester can be a jarring transition, especially with the added distractions that accompany this global pandemic. While the move to online classes may not be perfectly smooth, you can still get the most out of your coursework this semester. The following tips for maximizing your remote learning are a good place to start:
Understand changes to your classes. Online classes take many forms, so make sure to thoroughly read your updated syllabus and any communications from your instructor about changes to your classes and pay close attention to information about the format of class meetings and assignments. Ask clarifying questions in class or via email if anything is unclear.
Set learning goals. Setting SMART goals for what you want to learn by the end of the semester will help you stay motivated and ensure that you benefit from your online classes. This is important to revisit now, as the current situation could lead you to shift your original goals for the semester.
Make a plan. Once you have determined your learning objectives, make a detailed but flexible plan for how you will achieve your goals. If you have an Individual Development Plan (IDP), you can incorporate your course-specific learning goals into your IDP. Make sure to schedule study time for specific tasks, preferably at the times when you know that you are most productive, and plan to take breaks.
Advocate for yourself. While professors and staff on campus may seem less accessible, they are available, and it’s important that you reach out for any help or advice that you need during this transition. Faculty and staff expect students to encounter challenges during this global crisis, and they want to help you succeed.
Participate in class. If you have a synchronous portion of your coursework, set a goal for your own participation to help yourself stay engaged and connected to classmates and instructors. If your class is entirely asynchronous, set up a weekly video meeting to study with classmates to help maintain the connection to your peers and the course materials.
GradConnections Weekly is looking for fresh perspectives on the graduate student experience.
If you have advice, counsel, or tips for UW grad students, you’re invited to write a guest column for “Tips for Grads.”
If you’re interested, check out our infographic for details and email gspd@grad.wisc.edu to let us know.
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DiscoverPD is an innovative tool for UW–Madison graduate students to advance their academic and professional goals. Review the nine facets of professional development, complete a self-assessment, and get a customized report and recommendations.
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Special Events & Symposia
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Income continuation for student hourly employees extended
Campus has announced additional income continuation options for student hourly employees, including federal work-study students, student hourly employees working remotely, and student hourly employees who are no longer able to work due to COVID-19. Students who qualify for these options should have received a direct email. Read more in the campus message on student hourly support.
Dean of Students Office, campus support services available virtually
The Dean of Students Office (DoSO) continues to assist students virtually during remote instruction. Dean of Students Christina Olstad will also hold virtual office hours over the next few weeks during which any student can schedule a meeting to chat. Graduate students can also call, email, or video chat with Elaine Goetz-Berman, the Graduate and Professional Student Assistance Specialist, egoetz2@wisc.edu. The DoSO website offers a round-up of virtual support services available from campus.
COVID-19 updates from the City of Madison
Madison residents can stay informed on the status of city services and resources during the response to COVID-19 by visiting www.cityofmadison.com/health-safety/coronavirus. On this webpage, you can subscribe to a weekly email newsletter or sign up to receive text updates about city services changes and public health recommendations.
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UHS services available remotely
University Health Services is committed to supporting you as we navigate the rest of the spring semester and summer term. Many medical, counseling, and wellness services are available by phone and accessible online. Find out more on the UHS Remote Health and Connection webpage.
Mental Health Resources for Grad Students
According to the 2019 Healthy Minds Survey, 93% of UW–Madison graduate students do not think any less of a peer who seeks mental health care, and 89% of UW–Madison graduate students who used mental health care found it helpful.
- UHS 24-hour Crisis Services. On-call crisis counselors can help address your most pressing concerns, address your safety, and help you connect with follow-up service needs. It’s available every day, including weekends, holidays, and semester breaks. Call the UHS crisis line at 608-265-5600. For situations that are immediately life-threatening, call 911.
- NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Health) has published an extensive COVID-19 Resource and Information Guide.
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or visit the National Suicide Prevention website for a chat option. Also see information on supporting your emotional well-being during the COVID-19 outbreak.
- Crisis Text Line is helpful for panic attacks and other emotionally intense moments. Text HOME to 741741; a bot will provide you with their terms of service and put you on a waitlist to text with a real person. Wait times may be long due to current anxiety/panic about COVID-19.
- SAMHSA Disaster Distress Hotline: Call 1-800-985-5990 or text TalkWithUs to 66746 to connect with a trained crisis counselor. Dedicated to providing immediate crisis counseling for people who are experiencing emotional distress related to any natural or human-caused disaster. This toll-free, multilingual, and confidential crisis support service is available to all residents in the U.S. and its territories.
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The Dean of Students Office provides resources to students struggling with a variety of issues, and can be your go-to spot for assistance as a graduate student. To contact the Graduate and Professional Student Assistance Specialist Elaine Goetz-Berman directly, email egoetz2@wisc.edu.
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Please note: Some graduate students may be ineligible to hold graduate assistantship appointments. Be sure to check with your graduate program coordinator about your eligibility before applying.
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The Fulbright U.S. Student Program (FUSP) is designed to give recent BS/BA graduates, master’s and doctoral candidates, and young professionals and artists opportunities for personal development and international experience. Most grantees plan their own programs.
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