Up for Discussion: Keeping the degree on track

So much to do, so little time — how can college students stay on pace to graduate in a timely manner? After all, college isn't meant to be a career.

Pat Turner, vice provost of undergraduate studies, offers some helpful tips to keep your student moving forward.

Students should think in terms of one major, Turner says. One of the biggest mistakes students make, she says, is going after a double or even triple major. Having more than one major doesn't appear to give students much of an advantage and can take significantly longer to complete. If students have a strong interest in a second specialization, they may be better off considering a minor.

"Two similar majors really don't get a student anything in the long run," Turner says.

Of course, a lot depends on the student's interests. A second major may be helpful if it is distinct from the first and yet complementary to that field, she said.

Make the most of the schedule

Use the entire calendar. That may mean signing up for a 7:30 a.m. course or taking a class that meets on Fridays. The university years may take a little sacrifice to get things done in a timely fashion.

Register for 15 to 16 units a quarter, and stick with them. If a student is struggling in a course, rather than dropping it, Turner encourages them to seek help by visiting faculty during office hours, finding a tutor, using the services of the Learning Skills Center or joining a study group.

Take advantage of Summer Sessions. UC Davis will offer about 700 courses during the two Summer Sessions: the first running June 22 through Aug.1, the second from Aug. 4 to Sept. 12. Students who complete Chemistry 118 (A, B, C) or Physics 7 (A, B, C) will get half the course fee back as a credit to their student accounts, and other incentives may become available.

"Students can ratchet ahead, especially if they know a particular subject may be difficult in conjunction with a full course load," Turner says. "By taking a difficult course over the summer, they can give it more time and attention."

And finally, students should take care of themselves, Turner says. Get enough exercise and sleep, and eat well. Maintaining a balanced lifestyle and general well-being helps with academics.

"By taking care of yourself and making academics your number one focus, you can graduate within four years," Turner says.