Orientation Week
Short-term housing options in Seattle:
- The iConnect message board is a place where iSchoolers who need somewhere to stay for residency can connect with those who live in Seattle.
- Hotels near campus
Travel methods:
To Do List:
- Get your student ID.
- Prearrange a face-to-face meeting with your advisor if possible.
- If you're from the Seattle area, consider purchasing a UPASS for public transit.
Tips:
- You will need to know your student number for various things, so carry it around with you or memorize it. It will be on your student ID once you have one, but you'll need the number to get the ID in the first place.
- Websites for courses are almost always available before the start of the term. Usually the professor will email you when they go up, but it's good to check for them on the iSchool course schedules website.
- Don't forget to have some fun and meet new people! Don't stress out if you can't absorb everything that is thrown at you. The Online MLIS Discussion Board is always there for questions and advice from your peers.
Technology
Make sure you have a UW Net ID.
The Online MLIS Discussion Board is only accessible to current online students. It's a great place to ask questions, get support, and meet people in your area!
ALISS also has an Open Discussion Board that is only open to current MLIS students. It is open to both online and residential students. To access the board, you will need to fill out a quick form.
Look through the UWICK programs and download programs before residency if you can.
Take a look at the iPrep website which offers information on various technologies htat may be helpful in your coursework.
Courses
First quarter: The first quarter is more intense than most, especially the first two weeks. It will get easier and less hectic!
Course delivery: Course delivery is asynchronous and Internet-based. However, in some instances, you may want to participate in a web chat at a designated time with your course instructor or with group members to coordinate group projects.
Discussion boards: Try not to be obsessive; you only need to check them once a day! Also, it helps everyone if you change your profile so that your real name and a picture of yourself show when you post.
Textbooks and required course readings:
- Check MyUW for your list of required textbooks. There's a link right above your tuition account balance.
- Check the MLIS Textbook Exchange forum for used textbooks.
- If you need to order your books, you can do it through the UW bookstore or through your favorite bookstore or book rental service.
The Program
The average student course load is 6-9 credits as the program is designed for completion in three calendar years (with summers optional).
Many electives are not offered each year, so consider taking those you're interested in when they are offered. You can plan ahead by examining projected course schedules.
Registration comes earlier than you might expect. You will receive an email from UWEO that has the registration forms and instructions on how to submit them.
Financial Aid:
- You will not be able to receive financial aid for a quarter if you register for fewer than 5 credits.
- Many other financial aid problems can be resolved by reminding them that you are in a part-time, fee-based program.
- Also, don't be afraid to ask for more money; your financial aid award is not the final say.
- For more information, see the Office of Student Financial Aid and the iSchool's information on financial aid.
You will have to complete one of four culminating experiences to earn your degree.
Portfolio: If you write a really good paper or do an excellent project, go ahead and save it in a folder for your portfolio. If it was a group project, it helps to get the permission of your peers now.
Directed Fieldwork is a great way to get some hands-on experience. You must complete 30 credits and view a presentation before you can enroll in a DFW.
Communications with the iSchool
Mailing lists (You must be signed up for iAnnounce, iMLIS, and iOnlineMLIS.)
On-campus lecture and presentation archive
Silverfish (Student newsletter)
Other Helpful Links
- UW Career Center
- iCareer Week Archive
- iSchool list of Online MLIS resources
- More iSchool travel tips and student resources
- Catalyst Webtools (These tools will be frequently used in your courses by both instructors and students.)