College Success Checklist

Before Your First Class Begins

Set up your Whitworth Outlook email and check it regularly as this is Whitworth's primary means of communication.
The first time you log into a Whitworth system using your student credentials when you are located off campus, you will be prompted to enroll in DUO Security, Whitworth's two-factor authentication security system. Setup instructions are outlined in your Computer User Guide.
Use the Self-Service platform, found through Pirate Port, to access your schedule.
If you need child care while you're in class, have a babysitter lined up. It would be good to have a backup babysitter as well should you need one. This applies to remote + in-person learners.
If you will be attending classes remotely, identify a quiet, private, distraction-free environment with reliable internet from which to attend class.

Read the syllabus closely, identify questions you have, and ask your instructor.
Look at the syllabus for assignment and project due dates, test dates and any other important information. Add these to your planner or calendar.
Get to know your classmates' names and backgrounds; getting to know your classmates early on will help you form study groups and increase your learning power. Your classmates are a great resource for you in situations like if your car breaks down and you need a ride to class.

Make every effort to attend all your classes. If you have to miss an upcoming class, let your instructor know ahead of time.
Set aside designated study and reading times during the week. It's common that for every hour in class, you can expect to spend two hours outside of class on assignments and preparation for the following class.
Come prepared to class having read the assigned readings so that you can participate fully in class discussions.
Look ahead in the syllabus. Life circumstances may come up that interrupt your time for homework, so starting assignments early can help keep you on track.
Reach out to your instructors and your advisor if you are struggling in class. They can point you toward services like the Composition Commons and other resources or help you navigate options such as dropping a class.
Check your Whitworth Outlook email regularly!

Meet with your advisor if you need to make changes to your schedule in the upcoming semester.
Look at your program evaluation in Self-Service to track your progress in your program and check your upcoming class schedule.