10 To-dos for the Start of the Semester
Are you ready? Follow this guide to prepare for online college courses and ensure a smooth start to the fall semester.
Start with the basics. Log in to Miami’s Learning Management System (LMS), Canvas. Order your books and course materials online, check your university email daily, pay your semester bill, and make sure your technology is in good working order. Taking care of these tasks before the semester starts will free up more time for you to focus on academics and other priorities you may have. Read on for more resources and links to check off your list.
How to prepare for a new online semester
Online student to-do list
- Find Canvas and get familiar with the program — find support here.
- Know how to access Miami University libraries. Graduate students will find resources via the King Library. Most online undergrad students will use the Miami Regionals library system. Check their websites BEFORE buying materials and textbooks. You may be able to borrow course materials without paying for them.
- Order your books! You don’t have to wait for the first day of classes — just search by course or schedule in the Miami online bookstore.
- If you’d like, give your family members access to your student records (e.g., grades, bills, etc.). To do this, log in to myMiami and click the “Student” tab. By clicking on the link provided in the “Sharing Access to My Personal Records” section, you can add people to have access to your personal records at Miami.
- If you wish to report a disability need for testing/academic accommodations, or an IEP/504 plan, visit the Miami University Student Disability Services webpage.
- Know your financial aid deadlines. Learn more about important financial aid, FAFSA, and scholarship deadlines.
- Pay your bill for the semester. If you have questions about bill payment, contact the One Stop.
- Register for RedHawk Refunds: RedHawk Refunds is a direct deposit option that is fast, free, secure, and convenient. RedHawk Refunds gives you access to financial aid refunds, student account refunds, or other funds owed to you by Miami. Look for a registration email from redhawkrefunds@afford.com to your Miami email account.
- Check your tech and software. Run updates (if needed) on your system and apps. If you’re using a laptop, charge it. For optimal performance, empty your browser cache. Archive old files.
- Follow us on social media. We share tips, online events, and encouragement here. Join the conversation.
Additional reminders for first-time and transfer students
- Check your email. Start getting in the habit of checking your Miami University email each day. Access your email through myMiami if you’re unsure where to find it.
- Wellness modules. You may be required to complete two wellness modules: Sexual Assault Prevention for Undergraduates (SAPU) and AlcoholEdu for College. Learn more about SAPU.
- Get familiar with your schedule. If you have an in-person or hybrid schedule and need to come to campus, check your schedule for the building and room number — the best place to find this information. Take a screenshot on your phone to access it quickly. Faculty often include their office location in their email signature, but this is not where you will attend class. During the first week of classes, staff and faculty are happy to help guide you to your destination. Please ask!
How can I find connection with other online students?
- Log in to MyMiami and look through The Hub, Miami’s student organization website, to see which student organizations interest you. There are groups for all types of students.
- Browse the Miami University events calendar. Check out concerts, lectures, and other events around campus and in Greater Cincinnati. Some events are virtual.
- If you’re a graduate student, attend online development sessions each semester. Learn about topics relevant to your journey, and meet others on a similar path.
Set up for success
By following these guidelines, you’ll have an easier time navigating new routines in college or graduate school. We are excited for you to learn and accomplish your goals. Find information and FAQs on our Student Resources page.
If you have more questions about your online classes, please contact us at MiamiOnline@MiamiOH.edu.
Content written by Miami Online staff.