Start your year right

The first few days of term are always a whirlwind. There’s your reduced-fare transit pass to pick up — and, if you don’t already have one, your student ID card. Then it’s off to the bookstore for your textbooks. And, of course, there’ll always be a class or two to attend…

Here are our tips for how to stay on top of it all.

1. Don’t miss these dates

Keeping track of key university deadlines is crucial. In the winter term, the last day to add and drop courses is Tuesday, January 20, 2015; after this date, you’ll be billed for every class in which you’re enrolled.

But if you find you do need to leave after this point, don't despair. The absolute final cut-off is Sunday, March 8, 2015 — though you’ll still have to pay for any courses you quit, and the notation "DISC" for "discontinued" will appear on your transcript.

For graduate and undergraduate students, the payment of tuition and fees is due on Saturday, January 31, 2015. You can confirm your balance owing on the MyConcordia portal, under Student Account Services.

For more important dates, check out this comprehensive list and the Current Students hub.

2. Get (re)acquainted

If you're new to Concordia, there are plenty of exciting activities and events planned for Winter Orientation 2015.

The main event is the Discover Concordia Fair on Tuesday, January 13, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., in the atrium of the J. W. McConnell Building (LB). Even if you’re a veteran of this place, Discover Concordia is a chance to find out about all the services and resources at your fingertips. Staff will be on hand to answer questions.

Newcomers can stop by the Welcome Reception for New Students on Wednesday, January 7, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. in Room H-763 in the Henry F. Hall Building. There, you’ll meet first-time and returning students, chat with members of Concordia’s staff and administration — including Dean of Students Andrew Woodall and Deputy Provost Lisa Ostiguy — and potentially win prizes.

3. Get strategic

Open to all students who are new to Concordia, the Start Right Orientation is a two-day primer that will equip you with a whole range of tools for academic success.

The workshop takes place on Monday, January 5 and Tuesday, January 6, from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., in Room 1.210 of the John Molson School of Business Building (MB).

It includes strategies for taking good notes, reading to remember, studying in a smart way, and tips for improving your writing. You’ll also get acquainted with the Webster and Vanier Libraries. Finally, the organizers will help you figure out your personality type and how to use your strengths to achieve university success and career planning.

4. Get your study on

Start the term with a few reasonable academic objectives. According to Dale Robinson, manager of Counselling and Psychological Services, “A key element in achieving your goals is that they have to be realistic.”

Set aside a specific amount of time each day for studying, or read a certain number of pages per week. If your goals are quantifiable, it’s easy to track your progress.

5. Get involved

One of the best ways to make friends while maximizing your experience at Concordia is to join a student club. There’s a comprehensive list of registered student groups on the Dean of Students’ web page and information on getting recognition for your on-campus involvement with the Co-curricular record. If you’re interested in lending a helping hand where it’s most needed, check out volunteering opportunities available through the LIVE Centre. Also, save the date for the Engagement Fair on February 18 in the atrium of the J.W. McConnell Building (LB).

If you’re keen to gain some real-world experience, apply for a position in one of the programs available through Concordia’s Institute for Co-operative Education, or sign up for a student exchange.

6. Get healthy

Bounce back from the holiday break by signing up for a membership at one of Concordia’s two fitness centres: Le Gym on the Sir George Williams Campus, or the PERFORM Conditioning Floor at Loyola. Student memberships cost $65 per term at Le Gym ($70 for new student members) and $60 at Le Centre.

If pumping iron isn’t your thing, there are plenty of ways to stay active. Check out our expert advice on how to get fit in 2015.

A new year is also a great time to clean out the fridge and stock it with new and nutritious food. Follow Health Promotion Specialist Gabriella Szabo’s tips on how to step up your diet without killing your appetite — or your wallet.