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Sept. 5, 2023
Welcome to Week 2!
The first week is already gone and this week is a short one. Before you know it, we’ll
be diving into week three of the semester!
Now is a good time to take a moment for self-reflection. Consider whether your current
habits align with your goals for the remainder of the term – the next 15 weeks. Are you dedicating enough time to your studies to stay on track?
Be honest with yourself. If your routine feels overwhelming, now is the ideal time
for adjustments. Perhaps you need to rethink your study environment or daily schedule.
Discovering a consistent and productive study spot, even when motivation is low, can
pave the way to success. This spot could be a table at home, a quiet library cubicle,
a spot in the Usibelli Building, or the Murie Building. A local coffee shop might
offer the environment you prefer. The key is finding a place and routine that will
foster the success you desire. Remember, there are no shortcuts to putting in the
necessary time. Establishing effective habits early is a proven strategy for success.
I have one more suggestion that's hard to resist: spend some time outdoors. In the
Interior of Alaska, this season offers stunning natural beauty and is easily accessible.
The air is filled with birds, the landscape is adorned with changing colors, mosquitoes
are scarce, the weather is mild, and for many, this is the most delightful time of
year for many.
If you're on the Troth Yeddha’ campus or attend there, take advantage of the UAF Boreal Arboretum and the extensive trail network right at your doorstep. Grab a friend or a small
group and enjoy a leisurely walk. It's worth noting that no other university in the
world boasts a trail system like this at its doorstep. As a student, you have a unique
opportunity to explore and savor this special place. The 'T-Field' attracts sandhill
cranes during this season, and Smith Lake is a temporary home to various migrating
waterfowl. Every day, the forest undergoes captivating transformations. It can serve
as a rejuvenating escape whether shared with a companion or enjoyed in peaceful solitude.
Sometimes, taking a break from your books can be as crucial as diving into them.
For those in Fairbanks, take a moment to appreciate the changing seasons. Regardless
of your location, whether Alaska or Afghanistan, set aside time to step away from
your computer, connect with friends, and discover a source of lasting energy. It is
a great time to cultivate this as a personal habit.
More things to do:
Get a student job! This can be one of the best ways to meet people, find community, gain career experience
- and get paid to do it! The Student Employee Job Fair is happening this Thursday, Sept. 7, from noon to 3
p.m. in the Wood Center! This is an incredible opportunity to explore various on-campus
job openings. Check it out!
Food Truck Rally: The Alaska Nanooks volleyball team is hosting a food truck rally this Saturday, Sept.
9, starting at noon. The food truck rally will feature up to a dozen local food trucks and run through the final game of the
Denali State Bank Ice Block Classic at 7:30 p.m.
Forest Frenzy Community Run: This Saturday at 10 a.m. at the UAF Ski Hut on West Ridge there is a 3K community fun run to support Nanook Athletics.
It is only fair that if I offer you unsolicited advice, you should also have the opportunity
to do so as well. What would you like to hear about? How can we improve your experience?
Please send your suggestions to me at obguthrie@alaska.edu.
Enjoy the rest of your second week at UAF!
— Owen Guthrie, vice chancellor for student affairs and enrollment management
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