Department of Psychology

What I would do if I were you...

... advice from graduating seniors

If you are or plan to transfer make sure you talk to an advisor about all of your credits. Check the course descriptions of the classes you transferred and compare them to the classes offered at UAF. If the classes are the same, be sure to "petition" them, that they be put in the Psychology required area rather than the general Humanities area.


Once you have declared your major and have accumulated 85 credits, it's a good idea to go to the Graduation Office and fill out a form to have an Undergraduate Degree Requirement Audit done. You can do this as many times as you'd like and the advantage is that it will confirm whether you're on the right track for getting all the necessary credits towards graduation. Even though you may be a year or more away from graduation, doing several audits may save you a nasty surprise when it actually does come time to do the final audit.

Seek a psychology advisor as soon as you decide that psychology is going to be your major or even minor.

Finding out what classes the psychology department offers is important. Some of the classes that are offered are only alternate fall or spring classes, basically only offered once every other year. If you wish to take one of those classes, plan your schedule far in advance with the other required classes.

Make the writing center your new best friend. It will help to organize and strengthen your papers or writing assignments.

If you plan on applying for a scholarship be sure to know when the deadlines are.

While you are studying to obtain your degree, get involved in any type of research that is available to you as a student that interests you.

Talk to other students to get opinions on classes that are worthwhile to take.

During the summer, get involved in any internship dealing with the field of psychology.

Get involved in community services, it will give you an edge on job opportunities, and looks great on your resume.

Don't be afraid to ask questions of upperclassmen or graduate students; they are always willing to help and have great advice to offer.

Surf the net for new topics in psychology, and let this further guide your ability to ask questions in those classes that just aren't addressing those hot topics.... it will spice up class, as well as guide you closer to a future career in psychology.

If you plan to continue your education, attempt to take classes in the area you are interested in. Then talk to your advisor or a professor who is familiar with that area of interest. A professor can help you decide which courses to take that will help you get into a desired graduate study program.

Always strive for at least a 3.0 or better each semester. This will help you get in honor societies and will also enhance your resume quality.