Welcome!

Transitions is the sophomore year component of our award winning HAWK Link program. It is designed to provide academic support and guidance as sophomores matriculate through the college experience.  Transitions will provide components that are similar to the resources you received in HAWK Link, but will also provide you with the opportunity to mentor incoming freshman and give back to the KU Community. This program will feature more focused academic seminars, working with various faculty members, career exploration, free tutoring, and other outreach efforts that will lead to your success here at KU. 

Major Exploration

If you have not yet chosen a major, you are not alone.  Many sophomores are still undecided or weighing whether to apply to one major or school or another.  If you are having a hard time deciding the best fit for you, begin by reflecting on your likes, dislikes, hobbies or interests.  In addition, you should attend our monthly seminars to learn more about different options and visit the University Career Center (UCC).  UCC has advisors on hand who can provide you the tools to make the best decision for you. 

The following websites contain great information and advice on choosing a major and what types of careers those majors may lead you to.  
 
Is this Major for Me?

• http://www.psu.edu/dus/md/mdfiveq.htm
• http://www.psu.edu/dus/md/mdmisper.htm
• http://www.advising.ku.edu/choosemajor/tips.shtml

What Can I do with this Major?

• http://www2.ku.edu/~ucc/cgi-bin/careersforyou.php

Academic Success

Academic success is the most important goal that Transitions has for you.  There are many resources within the offices and departments of Student Success as well as in your major’s departments, to improve or enhance your academic achievements.  One of the most important keys to your academic success is the academic advising you receive.  Make sure you visit with your academic advisor often!

The following websites contain helpful tools to help you with your academic success. 

Advising Tips

• http://www.advising.ku.edu/maximize/

GPA Calculator

• http://www.artsform.ku.edu/gpa/

Study Tips

• http://www.utexas.edu/student/utlc/lrnres/handouts/stutips.html

Writing Guides

• http://www.writing.ku.edu/students/guides.shtml#5

Career Builder

Once you have been admitted to your major or school it is time to begin thinking about life after KU. First, you need to fine tune your resume.  Second, you should learn the art of interviewing third; find internships, research opportunities and other activities that will leave an impression on future employers.

The following websites contain helpful tools to help you with resumes, interviews and other activities that will enhance your career opportunities.

Resume Corner

• http://www2.ku.edu/~ucc/cgi-bin/correspondence_1.php

Interviewing Tips

• http://www2.ku.edu/~ucc/cgi-bin/interviewing_1.php

Study Abroad

• http://www.studyabroad.ku.edu/

Internships

• http://www2.ku.edu/~ucc/cgi-bin/intern.php

Money Matters

By trying to qualify for grants and scholarships, you can help minimize the amount of student loans you will need to afford college.  Student loans are an investment however one of the worst traps that students fall into during their college years is debt, especially credit card debt. It is important to create a budget for your self and learn different ways in which you can save money while still having fun.

The following websites contain helpful tools to help you learn the dos and don’ts of managing money.

Top Ten Student Money Mistakes

• http://www.youngmoney.com/money_management/spending/020809_02

Smart Money Moves

• http://www.youngmoney.com/money_management/spending/070316

Money Saving Tips

• http://www.youngmoney.com/money_management/budgeting/040305_01