As students prepare for final class projects and exams, the Office of the Ombudsman offers advice and reminders that may help to bring the semester to a more successful end.

-If you have more than two final examinations scheduled for the same day, or if you have two finals scheduled at the same time, review the exam policies on page F25 of the Schedule of Classes booklet to learn how final exams can be rescheduled.

-Faculty members often give special announcements near the end of the semester that can impact your successful completion of the course.

You will find it important to attend class daily to make special note of any changes in assignment due dates or changes of exam times and locations.

It also can be to your advantage to attend review sessions that are made available by your instructor or department.

-Save all graded materials returned to you by faculty. Should an error result in the posting of an incorrect grade, your saved materials will allow for easier correction.

-If a faculty member has agreed to award you an incomplete grade for the course, it is advisable to generate a written record of the course work that is expected and the date it is due.

-Take the time to complete fully the course evaluation forms administered in your classes. Most faculty members and department chairs want to make their classes more effective and your input is essential to this process.

-If vacating your residence over the semester break, be sure to take any valuable possessions with you. If you are leaving university housing, follow guidelines from your CA prior to leaving.

-Stress levels tend to increase as the end of the semester approaches, so take a deep breath and think before allowing stress to cause you to respond quickly with some verbal retort or e-mail that you might later regret.

The Office of the Ombudsman is a neutral and confidential resource available free of charge to all students, staff and faculty to assist in addressing any type of university-related concern. Call us at 753-1414 or visit our Web site, www.niu.edu/ombud. Our office is located on the sixth floor of Holmes Student Center.