2. UNIVERSITY TOP 10 Understanding What to Expect as a Future University Student

3. Education After High School
Heading Off to University…
Selecting a Program/Major
Independence
Greater Accountability
Leadership, Sports, Recreation, Clubs
Moving Away from Home
Financial Decisions
It’s Different!

4. What to Expect as a Future University Student…

5. #10 – Work Load: How Does it Compare?
Time management is important - use an agenda!
Much more independent
Fewer daily reminders
More out of class work expected
Less leniency regarding deadlines
Higher expectations
Readings should be completed before class
They often supplement (not mimic) lectures
As a rule: You should be doing 1 hour “out of class,” for every hour in class (reading, assignments, review, etc.)

6. #9 – Class Time: How Much is There?
Full-time students typically take 5 courses per term
Fall: September - December
Winter: January – April
Classes range from 3-6 hours of scheduled time per week
Lectures
Labs or Tutorials
On average, you will spend hours per week in class.

7. #8 – How Much Will it Cost?
Tuition fees vary by school, program, and year level
e.g fees at Lakehead ranged from $ $8500
Other costs such as Books, Parking, Supplies & Materials, Residence, etc. should be considered
Example: Lakehead University
On-Campus Residence + Meal Plan = $10,495 - $11,819/year
Tuition & Ancillary Fees = $ $8500/year
Books = ~ $1500/year
Transportation ~$400 - $1000/year
Entertainment & Personal Expenses - ~$1500/year
*TOTAL COST (ON CAMPUS) ~ $20,000/year
* Actual cost varies by student based on personal choices and needs

8. #7 – Are there Financial Aid Options to Help Fund My Education?
YES!
Government Loans/Grants:
Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP)
Ontario Student Grant
University Awards & Financial Aid Offers:
Bursaries (demonstrate financial need)
Scholarships (based on academic merit/performance)
On-Campus Employment Opportunities (Work Study)

9. #7 – Financial Aid options, continued
Let’s Take A Look At an Example:
Academic Average
Scholarship Total (value per year)
Scholarships Available
95.0%  & Over =
FREE TUITION1 (Free Tuition x 4 years)
UNLIMITED
90.0% % =
$10,0002 (2,500 X 4 Years)
85.0% % =
$5,0002 ($1,250 x 4 Years)
80.0% % =
$3,0002 ($750 x 4 Years)
Bursaries: up to $2000/year available!
Other Awards & Scholarships

10. #6 – How Will I Have to Adjust to University?
High School
University
Tips
Class Time
Monday-Friday 8:45am-2:30pm
15-25 hours / week, variable schedule
More free time – use it wisely!
Course Load
4 courses per term, in most schools
5 courses per term
Students may find a reduced course load to be helpful but using time management techniques is vital to staying on track.
Class size 30
Varies by universities. Range between less than 30 to over 1000 students.
In large classes it’s tougher to make connections with faculty/other students.
Learning Environment
Very structured.
Less structured.
Attendance is often not taken but missing class is detrimental to your academic success.
Expectation of Independence
Medium
High
Meet with Professors and pay close attention to your workload.  Reach out when you need help!
Assessment/ Evaluation
Lots of evaluation Projects, tests, assignments, etc.
Based on tests, exams and 1 or 2 larger assignments.
It is not uncommon to have a test/project worth 25-40% of your final grade.

11. #5 - How Can I Prepare for University Now?
Start your research early so you can make an educated decision
Identify your strengths and weaknesses as a student and develop a plan to tackle areas of difficulty
Do you wait until the last minute to complete assignments?
Are certain subjects more challenging for you?
Set your own goals
Be resourceful – take advantage of supports available before and after applying
Treat school like a full-time job
The more effort you give, the better the end result will be!

12. #4 – How Do I Select My Courses?
You design your own timetable!
Most programs have specific courses you are required to take
Aside from required courses, there will be opportunities to explore a wider variety of elective courses
Academic Advisors are available on campus to help you ensure you are taking the right courses to fulfill degree requirements
At Lakehead, online registration begins in June
FAST PASS

13. #3 - What Is Residence Life Like?
Residence is like a small community within the University
Research shows students living in residence perform better academically!
Lots of programming, support and ways to get involved
There is always someone to talk to, commons rooms to hang out, and there are quiet spaces throughout
Close to campus, convenient, food plans often included
Often there will be a senior student acting as a Resident Advisor (RA) or Don for the floor
Security is on-campus 24/7

14. #2 – Who Can Help Me If I’m Struggling?
Every post secondary institution has options and help available for students that need it and want it.  Students need to take the first step to seek help.
Some resources will include:
Academic advisors
Personal counsellors
Accessibility and Academic Skills advisors
Course instructors
Financial aid advisors
Library staff

15. #1 - How Do I Know What University is Right for Me?
It’s all about the best fit!
Campus size and feel
City in which the campus is located
Program of your choice
Opportunities to succeed
Faculty interaction opportunities
It just feels like home!
Tip: Visit the campus for a Campus Tour!!

16. Let Us Help You Along the Way
Join Us for a Campus Tour
Enrolment Services - Undergraduate Recruitment

17. WALK AWAY FROM ORDINARY