Adjusting to the Quarter System
As a transfer student, the speed of the quarter system and the transition into a new academic and social enviornment can feel overwhelming. Some of us may experience transfer shock which is a phenomenon of a dip in grade point average during the first few quarters for transfer students due to the transition into a new higher education stystem. Adjusting to UCSD and the quarter system might feel isolating and stressful- this is totally normal and you are not alone! Check out the tips and resources below to help you become more acclimated to UCSD.
Quarter vs. Semester System
The quarter system is divided into three quarters that each consist of a 10 week term.The semester system is divided into two semesters that each consist of a 15 week term.
Quarter System at a Glance
There are three quarters per academic year at UCSD: Fall, Winter, and Spring, with optional Summer Sessions. Each quarter is 10 weeks long with final exams being Week 11. One of the main differences between the quarter vs. semester system is that your exams can begin as early as Week 3. Here are some examples of how your quarter may be structured:
Tips on Adjusting to the Quarter System
Check out the following tips on adjusting to the quarter system!
Set Goals
Set time aside at the beginning of the quarter to reflect on what you hope to achieve by the end of the quarter. Here are some tips on setting effective goals using the SMART goals strategy:
What are SMART goals?
What are SMART goals?
1. Review this How to Guide on setting SMART goals.
2. Dowload and fill out the Goal Setting Handout.
3. If you need support in setting goals or want to review them with Sam, make an appointment with her here!
Time Management
Managing your time is incredibly important when it comes to adjusting to the quarter system! Here are some things to consider when building out your schedule:
Put your quarter schedule together:
Download a copy of the Quarter at a Glance schedule sheet as a guide to keep track of your most pertinent deadlines throughout the quarter.
- What are your non-negotiables?
- What is needed for your physcial health?
- What is needed for your mental health?
- What are your class deadlines?
- What are the time requirements of your classes?
Put your quarter schedule together:
Download a copy of the Quarter at a Glance schedule sheet as a guide to keep track of your most pertinent deadlines throughout the quarter.
Learning & Study Skills
Be an advocate for your own learning! OASIS and the Teaching and Learning Commons at UCSD are two great campus resources that are here to faciliate a successful transition into the university through academic support. Here is what they offer:
OASIS:
LATS
OASIS:
LATS
- One-on-one writing tutoring
- Writing, reading, and study skills workshops
- Support in preparing for academic writing at UCSD
- STEM hands-on workshops
- Support in lower division STEM courses
- Drop-in tutoring
