We get it. You’re busy. You have so much to do for classes, clubs, internships—who can keep track of everything? Don’t worry—we’ve got you. Here’s a short list of important dates, deadlines, and resources students sometimes overlook at this point in the semester:

1. MyUI is convenient for waitlists and prerequisite processing.
Early registration started Nov. 7, and some classes will fill up quick, but students might not realize they can conveniently join a waitlist on the Courses/Registration tab in MyUI (more info here). Prerequisites also can be a big concern during registration, but MyUI provides a no-fuss prerequisite check for students who are enrolled in their prerequisite courses now or are transferring from another institution. Remember: Students can still be dropped later if they don’t pass the prerequisite course or transfer the correct coursework. Find out more here.

2. Graduating is not the same as walking at the ceremony.
Students all set to graduate in December often forget that the graduation ceremony (called a commencement ceremony) isn’t required, and they are not automatically signed up to attend. If a student has applied for a degree and wants to walk across the stage while their family and friends applaud, they need to head to the Iowa Hawk Shop starting Nov. 28, where they can fill out a name card and purchase their cap and gown. Check out the complete graduation checklist here.

3. The University Counseling Service is here for you.
Some students may find it challenging to cope effectively with personal, academic, or social concerns and stresses. University Counseling Service (UCS) has kind, friendly, culturally sensitive, and confidential mental health counselors of different ages, genders, and ethnicities who are available to help. Call 319-335-7294 or click here for information on how to make an appointment. If you think you would benefit from speaking with a counselor, remember that services are offered at a variety of locations on the UI campus. 

4. Residence halls stay open for Thanksgiving Recess, but students should plan ahead for meals.
Unlike winter break, students can stay in the halls over Thanksgiving Recess for free. Students might not realize, however, that from Nov. 18 to Nov. 28, the dining options change. Burge and Hillcrest Market Places will close, and the hours at retail locations, such as Black’s Gold Grill and the Mayflower Market, will vary, so it’s best to keep  https://dining.uiowa.edu/locations handy.

5. Electronic transcripts are now available.
The University of Iowa is proud that so many of its undergraduates go on to graduate school, and fall is when many grad school applications are due. Assembling those applications is easier now that paper and electronic transcripts are free and easy to order online. Request them through MyUI or the Online Transcript Request Form and wait for those acceptance letters to pour in.