UTP students and their advisors are typically very busy people with many responsibilities beyond their advisor-advisee relationship. However, one of the greatest contributors to student success in the UTP over the years has been the strength the relationship and regularity of communication between students and their advisors. Whether by email, phone or in person-to-person meetings, it is important to stay in communication.

 

All UTP students are expected to consult with their advisors about plans for completing coursework from semester to semester in addition to many other things, including UTP Progress Check #1 and #2, reviewing and approving your application to student teach, and conducting your graduation review.  The process of completing program and state requirements for graduation and licensure can be challenging and complicated so it is important to plan well. Your advisor’s role is to help guide you towards successfully completing the UTP. See and use the UTP Advising Log for a list of common topics for discussion with your advisor.
 

Managing your Time and Money Needed to Successfully Complete the UTP

Going to college full-time or part-time can be very challenging in itself, and it can be even more challenging for you if you have a full-time job and/or a family that depends upon you. Too often, unexpected and unfortunate life events get in the way of students’ success in college and completing the UTP. However, most often, many adult learners over-extend themselves.

While it can be tempting to want to “just finish as fast as you can,” too often students take more classes that they can manage in a given semester given other time-demanding responsibilities at home and work and in the community. Consequently, students too often end up not doing their best work because of competing priorities on their time and energy. The time you devote to your studies and fieldwork is important because it is an investment in your success as an urban educator.

 

UTP courses and field experiences during the day, especially student teaching full-time for 12-15 weeks, can be very demanding on your time.   The program has high expectations of excellence for all urban teacher candidates. So, you are advised to think carefully how you are going to manage your expectations, academic workload, work, family and personal responsibilities each semester.

 

Besides the challenge of having limited time, managing limited financial resources to attend college and pay bills can also test your challenge your plans of successfully completing the UTP. You should consider applying for financial aid including grants, scholarships and loans; information is below on how to access various forms of financial aid.  As a tool to help manage your financial obligations associated with school and life, consider using the worksheet "My Financial Plan for Completing the UTP including Student Teaching" located in the Forms section of this Advising section.