You will probably
have to pick up your timetable on a special registration day.
This confirms that you will be attending the univrsity. DO
NOT MISS THIS. Pick up your timetable; otherwise your file
will be removed from the computer. If you can't go, send
someone to get it for you or go at another possible time.
Your university
will probably offer an orientation session for a small fee.
Use it and ask questions.
You will probably
not have to go to labs for the first week of classes. Check
to be sure.
The first day of
classes is often an "orientation" day and you
probably won't do much. However, come prepared to write notes
and take home syllabi.
Many students do
not buy their textbooks until after their first day of
classes. Sometimes the professor has a book listed for that
course (there will be an official book list at several places
in the university) but another one will do or the book is
optional and can be borrowed from the library. Unfortunately,
that means that you have to hurry and get your books as soon
as you're sure of which ones you will need to buy. Although
it saves money, I don't reccomment sharing texts unless they
are used infrequently.
There is usually a
week after classes start where you can still change classes
(in case you really hate your class, professor, etc.).
Once you're sure
of your classes, buy your texts. If your can buy them used,
it might be a good idea to. (Just make sure that it's the
right edition.) Your university may have a used book store
and it may sell used books in its official book store. People
who have taken your course will also post ads for their
books. Make sure that you're getting a good deal and the
correct edition. If you have to buy a new edition, you'll
have to get it at the book store. Look out! You may not be
allowed to bring clipboards and backpacks into the store.
Don't get in touble for something you didn't mean to do. You
will have to pay GST on books. Bring two bags, you'll
probably have to carry a lot of books.
Go text shopping
on an evening when you don't have to do anything. Find out
what the extended book store hours are and get there early.
You may have to wait for an hour to pay for your books. Make
sure you buy the right books! Read the labels on the shelves
carefully and ask if you're not sure.
You will have
about a month to pay your tuition. If you are paying your
tuition with a scholarship or loan, let the regirstrar's
office know and find out what to do. For example, if your
scholarship doesn't come until November and you have to pay
by September 30, tell the university and show them proof of
your receiving the scholarship. If you pay late, you may have
to pay a fee, depending on your circumstances.
You may be able to
rent a locker for the semester/year. These may be offered by
the faculties or clubs, so keep your eyes open and ask. They
are very handy for storing lab coats!
Keep an eye out
for clubs during your first week at school. This period of
time is known as "rush" and its when they will be
recruiting new members.
Familiarize
yourself with the services offered on campus. Know where the
clinic is, know the phone number for safewalk, etc. You are
probably paying fees for these services so you may as well
use them.
Speaking of
fees...did you know that you may be able to opt out of paying
some? Check the rules. For example, if your university offers
a health plan you may not have to pay the fee if you can
demonstrate that you have another source of medical coverage.
Pay the fees unless you are allowed to opt out!
