Six Steps to Ensure Success Before Starting Your First Day as an Adult Undergraduate.

Congraulations! You’ve taken the leap—submitted applications, written essays, and ordered transcripts. Now you’re ready to start or finish your college degree. So, what’s next?

As you prepare to return to school, the thought of balancing classes with your busy life may seem daunting. But don’t worry! At University of Northwestern – St. Paul (UNW), our Admissions and Advising teams are here to guide and support you through every step of the enrollment process in order to  ensure confidence and success in your academic pursuits.

Here are six steps to ensure success before you start your degree as an adult undergraduate student:

Connect with Your Advisor

Your academic advisor will be your go-to resource throughout your educational journey.

You will be notified when it is time to schedule a meeting with your advisor before the start of the semester. During this meeting, they will help you map out your academic plan, answer questions, and provide any necessary forms or documents to complete before the semester begins.

Advisors are here to assist you, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions. At UNW, we are committed to your success and want to ensure you feel supported from day one.

Familiarize Yourself with Your School’s Student Portal and Online Platforms

Once you’re officially admitted, you will receive access to your school’s student portal. At UNW, this platform is called myUNW. It’s your central hub for everything related to your student experience. Here, you will be able to access your student email and various online student platforms, such as your Degree Audit and Academic Achievement. Your myUNW login credentials can be found on your application portal.

Make sure to log into myUNW and explore the features available to you. Knowing how to navigate these platforms will make it easier to manage assignments, communicate with instructors, and track your academic progress.

Explore Your Financial Aid Options

Funding your education is a big part of the process, and it’s important to explore all your options. Start by contacting UNW’s Student Accounts team to review your financial aid eligibility. Be sure to fill out your FAFSA if you plan to pursue financial aid.

You can also visit our website for UNW’s financial aid information. Our financial aid team is here to help you understand your options and make a plan that works for you.

Register for Classes

During your meeting with your academic advisor, you’ll discuss which courses to take in your first semester. At UNW, our academic advisors will also help you navigate through the registration process, ensuring you’re on the right track for your degree program.

Keep an eye on your student email for important registration dates and deadlines. Your advisor will help you navigate course selection and ensure that your schedule fits with your personal and professional commitments.

Order Your Textbooks

Once you’ve registed for classes, visit our campus store to order your textbooks. Students have the opportunity to buy textbooks on-campus or online. You can easily search for textbooks by course through the myUNW portal to ensure you’re getting the correct materials. Consider cost-effective options like renting textbooks or purchasing used copies when available. Being prepared with the right materials from the start will set you up for a successful semester.

Attend an Information/Orientation Event

At UNW, we encourage adult undergraduate and graduate students to attend our on-campus orientation event, Envison. This session is designed to welcome you to the Northwestern community, provide important information, and connect you with fellow students, faculty, and staff.

During Envision, you’ll have the chance to meet with financial aid representatives, hear from current students, and get a feel for campus life. If you’re interested in attending, look for an invitation in your email, or ask your admissions counselor for more details.

As you prepare to start your first semester, remember that you’re not alone in this journey. The UNW community is here to support and pray for you during your transition into this exciting new chapter of your life. If you have any questions regarding the enrollment process, don’t hesitate to reach out to your admissions counselor. We’re here to ensure you feel confident and prepared as you embark on your academic pursuits.