Carolina Advice

Month

June 2013

87 posts

For Geneds, do we have to take an equal amount of each type, like VP, LA, PH, or can we take like a lot of say VP and no LA or PH classes.

you must take one of each

Jun 19, 2013
I noticed while looking at the General Education requirements that I have to take a lot of history-related courses. History is not my favorite or best subject, so are there any courses you can recommend that are interesting and/or not terribly difficult that satisfy these requirements?

Try searching using ConnectCarolina. There are hundreds of classes that fulfill the HS requirements, and some of them are really cool. I have no specific recommendations (I like history, so I don’t know how helpful I’d be), but just know that there are many options to choose from.

Rachel

Jun 17, 2013
What if I didn't turn the health form in on time?

I would suggest filling it out ASAP and perhaps contacting the people in charge of that.

Jun 16, 2013
I'm arriving to orientation one day early and need internet access; I won't have a laptop until they are distributed. Are there computer labs I can use on campus in the meantime? Thanks.

I would suggest going to Davis or Wilson-you should be able to access the computers there.

If you go the front desk, they should be able to help you.  it is a public library so there is public access.

Jun 16, 20131 note
Hey, this is a silly question and it won't make me want to change my schedule but I wanna know: Is it weird/uncommon to eat in the dining halls alone? Like do people usually go in groups or is it fine to just sit there with your laptop and eat?

Great question, actually. Tons of people eat in the dining halls alone. It’s definitely not a big deal. No one is going to judge people for eating alone, because everyone has a different schedule and different times that they can eat. Actually, I eat in the dining halls by myself almost all the time, because I use that time to just relax and do my homework. Definitely don’t worry about that. Eating alone in college is perfectly fine, and very common!

Derek

Jun 16, 20131 note
How many days are there in a semester, including weekends? I am trying to figure out the best meal plan to get.

Each semester varies a little bit, but for the Fall 2013 semester, classes run from August 20-December 4, which is about 16 weeks. If you have a Block or Weekly plan, you can definitely make it last as long as you budget your meals wisely. This past year, I had the Weekly 14 plan, so I ate about 2 meals in the dining halls per day, and that worked really well for me. I would say that you definitely don’t need to worry about running out of meals as long as you plan it out a little bit! Also, you can change your meal plan after the fall semester with no penalty, so if you don’t like your meal plan for the fall semester, you can change it. 

Derek

Jun 16, 20131 note
Hi! If I placed into German 301 does that mean I just have to take one semester of German?

Actually, if you place over GERM 203, you don’t have to take any foreign language in college, unless you want to! You only need 3 levels of a foreign language for the General Education Requirements, which would be 101, 102, and 203. So, you don’t have to take GERM 301 unless you want to! However, if you’re an incoming freshman, I would recommend waiting at least a semester before taking GERM 301, since it’s a 300 level class and will be pretty advanced. But in the end, only you can decide what’s right for you. But the bottom line is that you don’t have to take any foreign language at UNC unless you want to!

Derek

Jun 16, 2013
What does the optional correspondence session that shows up when we register for classes entail?

I think the correspondence sections only apply if you’re taking an online or part-time class, so that doesn’t apply to full-time students. I’ve never had to do anything involving a correspondence section.

Derek

Jun 16, 2013
Do you have any tips for getting a job on or around campus if we're not on work-study?

Franklin Street is a great place to look for jobs, as there are plenty of restaurants and little stores there, and usually, at least a few places are looking to hire people at any given time. So Franklin Street is a great option. The housing department is a great option, as well. I’m working for them this summer and next year, as well. They have lots of jobs just for students. Campus Rec is also a big employer for students. Just try checking all of those places and I’m sure you’ll find something!

Derek

Jun 16, 20132 notes
I'm flying down down to UNC for orientation next week and need to check-in to Cob community for early arrival. How do I get from RDU to Cob Community via Triangle Transit? What terminal can I find it in the airport?

I never took the bus to and from the airport, but if you use: http://www.triangletransit.org/ you should be able to figure it out!  I used it quite a few times to go from place to place!

Jun 16, 2013
How do Freshman run for class president?

I’m not 100% sure.  I’m actually not sure if there is a “class president” so much.  i know there is a senior advisor or president and student body president, but I’m not very involved in that.  I would suggest looking at this website: http://execbranch.web.unc.edu/class-of-2016/getting-involved/ for more information or emailing some of the people listed on the page

Jun 16, 2013
To the student mentioning block - Block plans are sweet, but ensure you have some flex / expense money too. The largest block plan only delivers ~10 meals/week, so that extra cash will be really great to have! :)

Thanks!

Jun 16, 2013
Are there microwaves included in Ram 2? And do we need to bring our own cooking utensils etc for there?

None of us have lived there, so I’m not sure.  If anybody knows the answer to this, feel free to comment.

I looked at the housing website, and it doesn’t look like Ram Village 2 comes with microwaves; however, the housing department does supply a stove, oven, and refrigerator. Here’s the link so you can check it out: http://housing.unc.edu/residence-halls/ram-village-2

Derek

Jun 16, 2013
Which language is better/easier to take? German or French?

I’ve heard good things about both programs.  You’re learning a new language, so either way it is going to be a little bit difficult.  It just matters which one you’re more interested in.

Jun 16, 2013
I'm going to be a freshman next year and I'm trying to pick out which science class to take.. Which would you suggest?

It depends on your major and what’s required.  If you’re majoring in biology or chemistry, take chem 101 or biol 101.

If you’re majoring in something non-science related, I would suggest astronomy if you’re good at math or take geology.

Jun 16, 2013
would you recommend getting a block meal plan?

Yes, absolutely. That is by far the best deal.

Rachel

Jun 15, 20131 note
Hey, firstly, thank you so much for creating this tumblr, it's so helpful! I was wondering if there was a way to check if certain classes will be available in the spring or summer? Thank you!

They will not become available for a few months. 

Jun 14, 2013
I got placed in Ehringhaus for next year. Pros/cons?

Pros- recently renovated, smaller than Hojo, closer than Hojo, mostly first years

Cons- still on South Campus, bathrooms are a little old

Still a great dorm, though!

Jun 13, 2013
To the Immunization records procrastinator: No worries. June 15th is a general deadline, with a hard deadline set for 30 days after classes begin (or else you get kicked out). Try to get it done sometime this summer to be safe - you can call your medical office to get a printout, have them sign it, and before mailing it in just enter the data on the form. Took me 7 minutes.

Yes, it’s very simple. I also missed the June 15th deadline because I was a procrastinator too (still am). Just get it in as soon as you can!

Rachel

Jun 13, 2013
To the person who asked about SAT scores, I don't usually tell people this but I only had a 1670 on my SAT and got into UNC. I am a rising Freshman and was very well rounded. I did tons of extracurricular, worked, played a sport, worked hard on my essays, and was class secretary. I means if you really show you work hard, SATs aren't everything.

Great point! Thank you!

Rachel

Jun 13, 2013
What kind of school supplies do you recommend buying?

Honestly, just simple spiral notebooks should suffice. College is not like high school; you don’t need dividers or binders unless you want them, and professors (for the most part) will not care what you use.

Rachel

Jun 13, 2013
How much is a good amount to put into our OneCard?

It depends on whether or not you’ll have a meal plan or how much fast food you’ll eat. If you have a meal plan, I’d say around 50-100 dollars. If not, probably significantly more. You can always reload it if you run low!

Rachel

Jun 13, 2013
Do girls usually wear backpacks on campus? I have a tote bag big enough for my laptop and books ect but I'm wondering if I should get a backpack too

I started using a tote bag for a little bit, but I liked a backpack so much better.  I think a majority of people use backpacks, some may use others but that’s just what i’ve noticed. To me, a backpack just held more and was so much more convenient.  But, different things work for everybody so just try each out and see what you like better!

Jun 13, 2013
On ConnectCarolina, some recitation sections have the TA handling them listed. Some just have 'staff.' Will this be updated over summer or as it gets closer to the start of term?

It’ll be updated as we get closer or you’ll be assigned one when class starts.

Jun 13, 2013
What did you do that really set you apart from other people applying to UNC?

I’m not really sure. I’m not entirely sure anyone can actually answer this because no one knows what it was about them that interested UNC. However, being well-rounded will set you apart from others. Don’t just be great at school, be great at community service, at extracurriculars, at writing, etc. Show UNC why they should accept you by making the most of your time in high school by doing meaningful things that matter to you and better you as a person and as an applicant.

Rachel

Jun 12, 2013
Are only the classes that have a CTOPS class flag released in equal proportions during orientation? In other words, if a class does not have a CTOPS flag, would one be disadvantaged by attending a later orientation date?

As far as I know, yes. But most classes that a first-year will take will have a CTOPS flag, so no worries.

Rachel

Jun 12, 2013
I don't know if this is too personal or not, and if it is - just don't answer (lol) but what was your SAT score? I have taken the test 3 times since I was a sophomore and I'm taking it one more time. I am determined to get into UNC and I know SAT scores are important.

One thing I’ll tell you is that SAT scores don’t matter much here. UNC is not a score school. I did fairly well on my SAT, but I don’t think that was the main factor of my acceptance. I’ve met people here who scored 1700s on their SATs and those who have scored in the 2300s. There is a wide range, so don’t focus too much on the number. UNC cares more about well-rounded students than about a simple number, I promise. However, do your very best to get a great score!

Rachel

Jun 12, 2013
Do you know of any full ride scholarships?

I believe the Morehead-Cain is a full-ride one and there may be a few others.

Rachel

Jun 12, 2013
If you place at level 2 or higher in your high school language, are you only required to complete through level 3 or complete three semesters' worth (which would be greater than level 3)?

You’re only required to complete through level 3, so it means less FL for you. Congrats!

Rachel

Jun 12, 2013
to take the lab of a course, do you have to be enrolled in that course?

No, but you had to have taken it before. For example, if you take Chem 101 first semester but can’t get into a lab, you can take the lab second semester (though this is not advisable), but not vice versa.

Rachel

Jun 12, 2013
what are all the geneds that we have to fulfill?

There are many. When you go to orientation they’ll give you a spiral notebook that outlines the whole deal! It’s essentially some histories, maths, sciences, foreign languages, etc. Google “UNC academic worksheets” to find out more.

Rachel

Jun 12, 2013
What's the easiest language to take?

I’ve heard Portuguese is easy, but I strongly advise you to take something that you’re interested in. I’m taking Italian and have ended up loving it, despite the fact that I’m not one for foreign languages. UNC has many to offer, so pick wisely!

Rachel

Jun 12, 2013
Should I bring a laptop to orientation? I didn't get a CCI laptop and I'm not sure whether I should bring mine or not...

i didn’t bring mine and I was fine.  It’s your choice-if you already have stuff in your shopping cart, you should be fine.

Jun 12, 20131 note
How many credit hours are we expected to take each semester?

at least 12 each semester, 18 max unless you get special permission.

Jun 12, 2013
I am not 100% sure on what items to start buying for my dorm. What items would you suggest? And I'm staying at Granville if that makes any difference.

Things I would recommend:

  • Basics: fridge, microwave, tv, keurig, etc.
  • Talk to your roommate/suitemates and find out how they want to do the shower situation.  I had a plastic caddy that i put everything in.  Some people at granville just leave all their stuff in the shower-your choice.
  • A bin to put the stuff underneath your sink in.
  • Some kind of laundry basket.
  • I have a rod with a curtain to hang over my closet.  My closet can get a little bit messy so it’s nice to cover up with.  Plus, it’s a nice decorating touch :P 
  • If you plan on having a tv, I would recommend getting a carpet of some sort unless you are going to put it on the side of the room with the desks.  The cable outlet is on the wall closest to the door and the closest electric outlet is on the wall with the desks.  I put my tv next to the bathroom door.  If I didn’t have a carpet, there would be cords everywhere.  The carpet covers them up.  It’s also nice to have something comfy to walk on, or if friends come over they can sit on the carpet instead of the hard floor.  (sorry if that was confusing..hard to describe:P)
  • For any girls, I would recommend getting an extension cord with a few outlets (and surge protector) for next to the sink.  My roommate and I had one and it’s nice to leave our straighteners and blow dryer plugged in.  Saves time in the morning:P
  • GET SOME KIND OF PLUG IN AIR FRESHENER.  Because of the way the ventilation is, you’re able to smell everything from rooms above, below, next to you.  And sometimes it can stink..alot.  We got a wall flower from Bath and Body Works and they work really well. 
  • Get a lamp for you desk.  The light is over the bed, so at night the desk can get dark. 
  • Some kind of organization for underneath the bed.  I have 3 big rubbermaid containers to put my towels, sweatshirts, cardigans, etc in.  And then I have two small rubbermaids to put my shoes in.  One of my friends has storage containers with drawers that are really nice.  It helps keep things a little bit more organized!
  • I bought plastic crates from walmart to put on the shelves in the closet.  I put my food and bowls and stuff in them.  Again, helps to keep stuff organized.
  • XL bed stuff-i would suggest getting an extra layer or foam pad for the beds. 
  • I would bring a swiffer or broom of some sort.  The floors can get a tad bit nasty:P  
  • This isn’t a dorm item-but one thing I would recommend getting is a wristlet.  I put my granville card, room keys, student one card, credit card, money, etc.  Carrying a wallet around can get a little bulky.  It’s easy and convenient to carry a wristlet, especially to just grab and walk down to the agora with.  It’s nice to have something in one place without having to carry around a big wallet. ((( something like —-> http://www.verabradley.com/product/Category/Wallets-and-Wristlets/All-in-One-Wristlet/154832/defaultColorVariantId/176676/c/638/sc/890/p/154832.uts?fromSearch=1   )))
Jun 12, 20131 note
How are the on campus gyms? I am really big on working out and def don't want to gain the Freshmen 15!

I loved them!  They have tons of equipment.  I loved going to classes as well like zumba.  Lots of fun!

Jun 11, 2013
I'm a sophomore (upcoming junior) and I have done pretty well in my math classes. I took a high school math in 8th grade and have taken a math each semester now since I started high school. I took a senior math class (pre cal honors) and just found out my final grade was an 80. I am FREAKING out. Did this just ruin my chances of admission?

no-they’re looking for a well rounded student.  An 80 is not going to ruin your chances of getting into UNC.  They will look at all your grades and your course load, as well as the activities you were involved in.  Work hard in all your classes, keep your grades up, and be involved in extracurriculars.   

Jun 11, 2013
I am interested in applying for the Robertson Scholarship as a first year student at UNC. Could I ask a faculty member to write one of the two required letters of recommendation by December if I haven't even known him/her for a whole semester? Any thoughts? Thanks.

I would suggest really trying to get to know the professor through office hours.  I got to know a few of my professors well enough by the end of first semester I would have been comfortable asking them. 

Jun 11, 2013
How competitive are the UNC Symphony Orchestra auditions? I'm a violinist who has been playing for 10 years, but I'm really nervous....

If anybody knows the answer to this, feel free to comment! thanks!

I would suggest just contacting somebody within the orchestra and asking them through email.

Jun 11, 2013
How difficult is French 203?

If anybody has taken French 203, feel free to comment! thanks!

I would suggest looking at myedu.com or blinkness.com as they should have more information.  I didn’t take french, and i’m not sure if any of the other carolinaadvice writers have. 

Jun 11, 2013
Where do R.A's live in the dorms?

They live on the floor their assigned-really just depends on the dorm you’re in.  Mine lived in the very center of the floor. 

Jun 11, 2013
How do I appeal my financial aid package? I was awarded Covenant Scholar status last year, and took a gap year (so I'm starting as a freshman now). My financial aid package this year is no longer loan-free ($9,000 in loans) because my family ''made too much money this year'' according to our FAFSA (I think there's a mistake on it), and I'm worried now because I am an out-of-state student, and the guarantee of graduating debt-free was one of the biggest reasons I decided to come to Carolina.

I’m not sure myself and I couldn’t find it online.  I would contact the Financial Aid office.  They should have more information.  If anybody knows the answer to this, feel free to answer!

Jun 11, 2013
Is UNC a big bike school? Do a lot of people bike around campus?

There are a few people who bike.  I feel like within campus alot of people walk, just because it’s easier (it can get a little bit hectic in between classes and alot of people or crossing paths).  But there are alot of bike racks around campus.  It’s probably more helpful if you live on south campus, but there are also buses and stuff.

Jun 11, 2013
I am interested in majoring in both business and public health. Is it possible to be enrolled in both professional schools simultaneously, and if so, how can I best prepare myself freshmen year to apply sophomore year?

For public health, you have to get permission through the school in order to double major.  I believe you also have to get permission through the business school.  I would contact the schools for more information.  To prepare yourself, just take all the prereqs you need to and do as good as you can in them.  Get involved on campus as I know that is an important part of the Busi School app.

Jun 11, 2013
What if I don't submit the Immunization and medical history form before June 15th deadline? I've been procrastinating.

I would just suggest filling the form out before June 15th.  It’s a really easy form to fill out-it’s a few pages I think?  It should only take you 30 minutes or an hour max.

Jun 11, 2013
Do you have any idea of what time the hall/dorm information is released, assuming you completed the survey after the May deadline? I completed the survey May 4th, but the data seems missing/lost and I had to fill out the survey again. Thank you!

I would contact admissions for more information on this-I’m not 100% sure myself.

Jun 11, 2013
Where can I learn guitar and piano as a non-music major? I played trumpet in high school and want to take up a new instrument(s). I know private instruction is offered, but I cannot afford the $400 fee for one, one-hour lesson per week. Are there any classes I can sign up for as electives (and would these cover the Visual and Performing Arts requirement as well?)? Thank you for your help!

If anybody knows, feel free to comment!

Jun 11, 2013
Hey! For the dorms that don't have a closet with doors, what size curtain/rod should I get to cover the closet? Thanks!

I just brought a large shower rod that could expand. I think it really depends on the dorm you’re in as well. 

Jun 11, 20131 note
It seems like everyone at Chapel Hill is caught up in the whole college sports rivalry. I'm really turned off by this. I would like to be able to go to sports games without feeling like my classmates are blatantly disrespectful/unsportsmanlike toward other teams. I want to be able to have pride in my school, but I don't want to be a part of the stupid hate culture. So my question is: how pervasive is this issue and is it possible to get away from it or ignore it?

I wouldn’t say there is so much of a “hate” culture.  However, there is alot of school pride.  You will not go anywhere on campus and not see one person at least who is wearing a carolina shirt.  I’ve never been in the stands of a game and felt we were being “blatantly disrespectful.”  However, as any Carolina student knows, UNC is not the biggest fan of Duke.  People will joke about how they don’t like duke or other schools, but stuff like that is going to be a part of any school where the athletic programs are large. 

Jun 11, 2013
Could you please tell me the pros and cons of living in Craige?

If anybody who lived in craige can comment, we would appreciate it!

Jun 11, 20131 note
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