Managing Stress

Stress can be combated, especially during midterms and finals, with preparation and sleep. Properly eating and exercising mixed in with some fun and relaxation can help with stress on a daily basis. Having a commuter meal plan, using the Student Recreation Center, and relaxing in the Seahawk Perch lounge can assist with these techniques. Often, just talking to someone is immensely helpful; the Seahawk Perch staff, another non-trad, a family member or a University Counselor can be of tremendous assistance. Sickness can also be draining; so, don't forget you are also entitled to all Crossroads, Student Health and Wellness Center services.

 Managing Time

Prioritizing tasks and learning to say "no" is paramount. Other tactics are: making to-do lists, avoiding procrastination by breaking a big task into smaller ones, trying to do things right the first time, setting aside time for yourself to live and dream, celebrating your successes, padding your schedule to accommodate interruptions, working when you are most alert and utilizing time between classes or pockets of time in life to study, clarify goals or just breathe! Also, keep an eye out for time management workshops.

 Forming a Support System

Other people can help you get through just about anything. Take a moment to speak with other non-trads as well as traditional-age students, spend time with friends and attend Seahawk Perch non-trad functions and support groups. Hanging out in the Commuter & Non-traditional Student Lounge and joining the Alpha Sigma Lambda honor society and/or the Non-trad Network, are also great ways to stay connected to other students.

 Making Time for Family

Involve your family in your student life when you are able. Take them to many of the free University events and ask them to help you study. During Children's Story Adventures we will read to your child in the library while you study/research! Keep your family informed about your schedule; often, families want to support you, they just depend on you to let then know how to best do it! When scheduling for school and work, don't forget to schedule time for your family as well.

 Things Every Non-Trad Should Know

• The Dean of Students' Seahawk Perch Coordinator has been specifically designated as your advocate, and will address any questions and concerns you have.
• You are assigned a campus e-mail account; check it daily.
• The University Information Center in the Fisher Student Center is the UNCW's central lost-and-found location. You can also ask questions, use the courtesy phone, or check out magazines there!
• You can buy tickets for athletic events or ACE movies & get change for a dollar at the Lumina Theatre box office in the Fisher Student Center.
• The Office of Scholarships & Financial Aid can assist you in locating money for childcare.
• You can earn course credit for what you already know through the College Level Examination Program (CLEP)
• The Career Center can list your advertisement for a baby-sitter, and has an Employment Security Commission representative who specializes in giving advice to non-trad students (instead of your having to go downtown).
• The University Learning Center provides free tutoring for basic studies classes, as well as select upper-level classes.
• The University Learning Center provides tutoring to UNCW students enrolled in 100-level mathematics and basic statistics courses.
• SGA provides free legal services, and a lawyer is available twice a week to advise you on child support, speeding tickets, marriage, divorce, landlord issues, etc.
• There are ATMs (BB&T, Wachovia, CA$Hpoints) at the Warwick Center (the side entrance across from the bookstore).
• The University Post Office is an U.S. Post Office with priority mail, money orders, etc.
• Keep a hard copy of the Undergraduate Catalogue, Code of Student Life and Student Handbook for your future reference throughout your time at UNCW.
• There is a 24 hour computer lab in the Randall Library. The Library also offers drop-in clinics for students who are unfamiliar with their services.
• Most University events are free or very inexpensive and are open to your family. Visit @UNCW for more information.
• UNCW students can purchase up to 2 student-priced tickets for any uncwpresents performance or event by presenting their student ID card at the box office. Student tickets can also be purchased for children, grades K-12. For more information, visit the uncwpresents website.
• Almost all university offices post their information and forms are on the Web.