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10 Things to Do Before the Semester Begins

 

Below you will find a help list of "things to do" to prepare you for the start of your USM experience.
 

For more information or questions please call the Office of Early Student Success at 207-780-5470 or email pdexter@usm.maine.edu.

 

 

                                                  

  1. Technology

    1. USM Card: Your USM Card is used at the library, campus dining, parking garage, residence halls, bookstore, fitness center and more.  You can get your USM Card when you attend Orientation.  If you have any questions please contact the Card Office at (207) 780-5600 or www.usm.maine.edu/usmcard

 

    1. E-mail: Before a University of Maine System account can be used, you must activate your account at http://mail.maine.edu. To learn more on how to activate your account you can watch a video by clicking here or for written instructions click here.

 

    1. Library Usage: USM has a library on each of its three campuses: Gorham, Portland, and Lewiston/Auburn.  You will need to activate your card at any one of the Circulation Desks in order to access library resources.

 

    1. ResNet: You will need to register your computer with the USM prior to utilizing your machine on campus.  For specific instructions please visit http://www.usm.maine.edu/resnet/activate.htm        

 

    1. Computer lab locations: There are computer labs on each of our three campuses.  For a complete list of computer lab locations and hours of operation please visit: http://usm.maine.edu/computing/labs/labs.jsp

 

  1. Finances

    1. Financial Aid:  It is very important that all of your financial aid paperwork is complete and received in a timely manner.  If you have questions regarding your financial aid package please contact them directly at (207) 780-5250 or 1-800-800-4USM.  Financial aid has additional information and resource on their webpage: http://www.usm.maine.edu/fin/.

 

    1. Budgeting:  The summer is a good time to start budgeting for the upcoming academic year.  For example, the cost of books and supplies are not part of your tuition and fees. For helpful tips and tools on personal finances check out www.students.gov and www.mymoney.gov

 

    1. Work Study jobs: If you have been granted work study through financial aid you are eligible for any work study job.  For a listing of jobs visit: http://www.usm.maine.edu/fin/fwslist.htm 

 

 

  1. Basic Needs

    1. Dining Options:  USM Dining Services offers great value, variety and convenience.  For a complete list of services and dinning locations visit http://www.campusdish.com/en-us/CSNE/SouthernMaine/

 

    1. Health Insurance:  The USM Student Health Insurance Plan has been developed especially for students and their eligible dependents. To learn more visit: http://www.usm.maine.edu/health/insurance.htm

 

    1. Support Services:  USM has a variety of services to assist you as you pursue your college education.   A few examples are: The Learning Center, and The Office of Support for Students with Disabilities, University Health and Counseling Services.  It is suggested that you make an initial contact with these offices prior to the 1st week of classes.  If you need assistance connecting with the above services please contact the Office of Early Student Success at 207-780-5470. 

 

  1. Transportation

    1. Bus schedule:  USM offers a shuttle bus between the Portland and Gorham campuses.  To view the bus schedule visit http://www.usm.maine.edu/police/shuttlesched.htm

 

    1. Parking:  To park on campus you will need to obtain a parking permit.  To download an application from the USM Parking Office, please go to http://www.usm.maine.edu/police/pdf/parking_student.pdf.  You can register for parking during your first week of classes.

 

  1. Placement Exams: If required you should take the English and/or math placement exam prior to attending orientation.  NOTE: Your score on your placement test will determine your proficiency level.  Scores below proficiency level will require students to register for developmental classes to meet proficiency.  It is also required that you activate your university account prior to taking the exam. If you were unable to take a placement exam prior to orientation, you can still sign up for an exam by going to: http://www.usm.maine.edu/testing/testing/placement.html

 

  1. Goal Setting: Taking the time to set goals for your first year at USM will provide you with clarity, direction and focus. Be realistic about how much time you will devote to studying and how much time should be dedicated to other activities. The first few weeks are often a time to reassess how your semester schedule is meeting your needs and you can readjust as needed. Support and guidance for setting and reaching your goals is available from your academic advisor, RA, RD, your professors or the Office of Early Student Success.

 

  1. Personal Wellness: Creating a foundation of regular exercise, proper nutrition and good sleeping habits is one of the best ways to combat stress.  Personal wellness also includes your mental health and spirituality.   Fitness and wellness programs are offered on Portland and Gorham campuses.  Other key support services are University Health and Counseling Services and USM Interfaith Chaplain.

 

  1. Family & Friends Support:  Begin to think of a plan as to how you are going to remain connected to your family and friends while you are taking courses.  As you are aware, things get busy and having a plan to stay connected with friends and family is very important to maintaining healthy relationships.

 

  1. WebDSIS:  Web DSIS is a quick, easy way to access your student files.  You can check your financial aid status, check your student bill, view your course schedule, register for classes and see the name of your academic advisor.  For log-in instructions go to: https://www.usm.maine.edu/advising/ess/webdsisflyer.doc

 

 

  1. Enjoy Your Summer: You are about to embark on a new life journey.  While there are many things to do to prepare for this journey, part of the preparation is taking time to relax before it begins.