FERPA
Like most colleges and universities, USC Aiken faculty and staff must abide by the Family Educational Rights to Privacy Act (FERPA) regarding the release of student records and activities. View more details about our policies and procedures.
Tutoring
We know that you want your student to reach their full academic potential and excel in the classroom. We want that as well and know that even the most scholarly learner can use some extra help. USC Aiken has several free tutoring opportunities in math, writing, and several other subjects. Please encourage your student to check out these resources.
Also remind students that professors list their office hours on the course syllabus and students should not hesitate to go meet with their professor(s).
Finals Week Preparation
There is no doubt that finals are some of the most stressful times in students’ college journey. Students are balancing class time with study time, social time, and work schedules. In addition, students don't want to disappoint loved ones by getting poor grades.
Sometimes it's hard for parents to support students leading up to and through finals week without verging on micromanagement. Below are suggestions on how to support students from one student's perspective:
- If they are studying at home, try to have dedicated space for them. Residential and commuter students can study in the library, Student Activities Center, or several other locations throughout campus.
- Encourage your student to begin studying well in advance instead of cramming the night before an exam.
- Encourage more sleep. Studies show that the brains' ability to retain information is diminished without proper sleep.
- Encourage them to get help when needed. Students should take advantage of professor's office hours, peer study groups, and free tutoring. Remind your student that he/she is not alone and that these resources exist for a reason.
- Remind students that the library will extend hours of operation during finals week, so they can study when it is convenient for them. Campus police will escort students to parking lots or to residence halls late at night upon request.
- Encourage your student. It is so important to let students know that you believe in them!
- If your student is a commuter, suggest times to leave so they get to their exam in plenty of time. The last thing they need is to stress about being late!
- Consider sending your residential student a care package. View mailing instructions.
Students should check their syllabi for specific dates and times of their finals. Final exam times can also be found on the university's academic calendar.