FYS for Science Students (PSU 008; S14) Academic Survival Communication Research Critical Thinking & Problem Solving Computer Skills

Who’s Dr. Matt Hoch? Aquatic Environmental Microbiology Pretty new to PSU (2 nd semester) Came from 6 years teaching Malaspina-U, B.C., Canada Grew-up in Berwyn, Pennsylvania! Undergraduate: UColorado, Biology (BA 1986) Graduate: UDelaware,Marine Biology (PhD 1991) “Postdoc”: EPA, Gulf Ecology Branch, P’cola, FL Research: microbial community structure and function in aquatic habitats (marine & freshwater); water quality Family: Marie (wife), Connor (10y) and Tara (6y). Hobbies: Fishing, canoeing, nature, hiking, brewing, Lego & Barbie

Goal 1: Develop skills and behaviors to assist you in becoming an independent learner, which will greatly contribute to both short-term and long-term academic success at university. – Time-management – Academic options – Learning style(s) – Study strategies – Campus resources

Goal 2: Establish realistic expectations for critical thinking, problem solving, laboratory proficiency, and computer skills needed to reach your potential in an undergraduate science curriculum. – Science news – Laboratory safety – Equipment / Instrumentation – Computer Technology

Goal 3: Learn about science research, science careers, career development activities and job opportunities. – “Scientific Method” – Science Faculty Careers – Undergraduate research & internships – Getting a Job!

Overall Goal: Your overall goal as an undergraduate university student is to become engaged in your academic pursuits, scholarly and professional development, and service activities on and/or off campus. YOU MUST TAKE FULL RESPONSIBILITY AND CONTROL STARTING NOW!

How will I evaluate your achievement? Participation40 % Assignments (5 x 8% each)40 % – Analyzing Academic Requirements (individual) – Faculty Interviews (group) – Job Posting Scrap Book (individual) – Science News Presentations (group) – Final Academic Self-Evaluation (individual) Narrative (4-5 pages) 10 % Final portfolio & exit interview10 %

Self-Evaluate Participation During class time (applies to all courses): – Know what’s up (syllabus check) – Involve yourself in discussion (ask, answer & share) – Take notes (instructor, invited guests, and peers) – Muster your best attitude (mental well-being rules) Outside of class every week: – Read science news – Find job postings Outside of class when applicable: – Read or did assignment ahead of time – Worked with your group (in-person or via ) – Worked for you group independently

Where to read science news? Newspaper – (New York Times, Science; Tuesday edition) Professional News Bulletins / Magazines Institutional Websites Scientific Journals

Where to look for jobs? Newspaper Classifieds Professional News Bulletins / Magazines Scientific Journals Institutional Websites Career Search Websites

Assignment 1: (due Sept 6 th ) Analyzing Academic Requirements Get deadlines for all courses in a calendar: – Dates (for those unscheduled; keep a list). – Percent of Grade (place next to each deadline). Perform a comparative analysis of your courses: – Grade scale – Assignment types – Time versus credit balance – Priorities to keep in mind Academic Integrity (question; brief, or compare) Academic Integrity Your degree audit from eLion:eLion – Current major review or BS Science at York. – Pick two other science majors to compare.

Please Read the Contract More specific objectives Evaluation criteria details Scheduled activities Course Requirements Class Guidelines Academic Integrity Disability Statement