Start of Semester Checklist

The start of the semester is upon us! It’s officially back-to-school time! Whether this is your first semester with us or you’re almost to the graduation finish line, you might need a refresher on what your first steps should be.

To make sure you have everything you need, we’ve created a printable Semester Checklist for you! We hope the checklist will show you how to get ahead this semester.

1. Log into Canvas. You’ll need to log in to our online learning management system, Canvas, on your first day of class! This is where you’ll find all of your course information. Your Canvas username and password are the same as your SOAR username and password (e.g., w0123456).
2. Become familiar with Canvas. Since Canvas serves as the central hub of your online learning experience, you’ll want to become familiar with it. We offer plenty of online resources for Canvas if you need help!
3. Find and order your class materials. You can easily find and order your course textbooks and materials online through our campus Barnes & Noble store. Just follow these simple steps:
   SELECT A CAMPUS – Your course will have a section number, i.e., H002 or G003. H indicates the Hattiesburg Campus, while G indicates the Gulf Park Campus. Choose your campus accordingly.
   SELECT A TERM – This should automatically populate to Fall 2025.
   DEPARTMENT – Use the dropdown box to locate the initials of your course, i.e., MAT, ENG, IET, or CD.
   COURSE – Choose from the dropdown box the course number of your course, i.e., 492, 100, or 100L.
   SECTION – Choose from the dropdown box the section number of your course, i.e., G014 or H002.
4. View important dates on the Academic Calendar. To stay up to date on important dates like the last day to drop/add a class without financial penalty, view advisement periods, and note when classes aren’t in session for holidays, you can refer to the Academic Calendar from the Registrar’s Office.
5. Read your class syllabus. This might seem like a no-brainer, but reading your class syllabus (which some faculty post even before classes officially begin) can help you stay ahead and prepared. You’ll feel ready to take on the semester!
6. Create a study calendar. Learning time management is a very important part of being an online student (just ask our other students)! Planning time in your busy schedule, specifically for studying, is crucial. We’ve created a blank calendar below that you can print and use to block off study time.
7. Take a deep breath and have fun! Just remember to take everything one step at a time, and enjoy the journey!

Print Our Calendar

We hope the free, printable checklist and study calendar help you rise to the top this semester! 🦅