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Dear student,
We know that at this time of year, some students may be feeling apprehension about the upcoming exam season. This may be especially true this year with the return of in-person exams that many students have not experienced in a while.
It is completely normal to feel a measure of stress about exams, so if that is your experience, know that you are not alone. Also know that in addition to your professors and friends, we have many services and resources in place to support you through this process.
Exam Preparation
One way to ease exam nerves is to identify effective strategies to study and prepare. The Centre for Student Academic Support (CSAS) offers Peer Assisted Study Sessions (PASS) mock exams, one-on-one Learning Support Sessions and Learning and Writing Support workshops on a variety of topics, including exam preparation and the in-person “Take Home Exam: The Essay” workshop. You can contact CSAS to learn more about how they can support you in having a more positive experience this exam season. In addition, if you need a quiet place to study, you can drop-in to select rooms on campus, or book a group study room.
Exam Support
Scheduling and Examination Services is also here to support you during exams, whether writing on a computer or on paper, they can answer your questions and provide assistance should any issues arise. In conjunction with the ITS Service Desk, they provide an exam support network seven days a week until 10:00 p.m. daily. They can be reached in-person, via a ticketing system, chat and toll-free numbers. All questions are welcome, including what items to bring to your exam, what to do if you have forgotten your campus card, become sick or experience intermittent Wi-Fi during an online exam. As end-of-term exams approach, we will also release a series of videos on the Scheduling and Examination Services website about how to prepare for examinations, what to expect on exam day and wellness suggestions as we head into a busy academic period.
Mental Health Support
Exam season can be stressful and it is important that we care for ourselves and our mental health while pursuing our academic goals. Our Wellness Website has information and resources to help understand, manage and improve your mental health and wellness while at university. If you are not sure where to start, try our Wellness Services Navigator, which is designed to help you curate a list of mental health and wellness resources based on your unique circumstances.
New Academic Continuation Evaluation
This fall we introduced a new method of assessing a student’s status in their degree. The new process is called the Academic Continuation Evaluation (ACE), which allows leniency in the first year of studies and encourages incremental progress toward your degree requirements. ACE is designed to help ensure all undergraduate students are supported in their progression toward graduation by allowing for more frequent proactive outreach and assessment of students.
New First Year Grading Policy
This year, Carleton introduced a new First Year Grading Policy designed to be more compassionate over the first year of university studies after high school. All eligible students were sent a direct email explaining the policy and how to participate. Further communication will be sent out by the Registrar’s Office to help guide students through the policy. As you prepare for your exams, know that there are policies and practices being put in place to support your success. Please contact the Registrar’s Office with any questions.
The past few years have been challenging, and as we return to pre-pandemic experiences like in-person exams, it is normal to experience stress. Know that as a community we are here to support you. Please use the resources available and also make sure to reach out to your friends and Carleton network for support.
Wishing you a successful fall term!
Suzanne Blanchard
Vice-President (Students and Enrolment) and University Registrar
vpstudents@carleton.ca
carleton.ca/studentsupport
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