Academic Resources

Did you know that...

82% of residents report that they have strengthened their study skills as a result of living on campus?

The Office of Residential Life recognizes that a student’s primary responsibility in college is to achieve their academic goals. As a student-centered department within the residential community, ORL is in a unique position to support university strategies to carry out the academic mission. We partner with academic departments and faculty to provide spaces for classes, programs, and services that enhances students’ academic success and supports interactive intellectual exchange. Resident Assistants (RAs) are also invaluable resources for your student to use when learning to navigate UCLA. We invite you to learn more about the academic programs and services we are offering to your student.

Students often find that the academic demands placed on UCLA students are much more rigorous than their previous institution. It is quite normal for successful high school students to see their grades drop a little once at college. This may come as a shock to both you and your student, given that s/he was always one of the best students in high school. While you were able to monitor your student in high school, remember that this is an important time for your student to take responsibility for the new freedoms of college life.

It is also important for you to remember that your student is experiencing a significant life transition and that s/he will need some time to adjust. You can support your student’s academic transition using the following tips:

Promote his/her participation in Welcome Week, which is a great introduction to the resources available to support student success.
Encourage your student to meet his/her professors at the beginning of each quarter, and schedule appointments during their office hours to ensure they have an understanding of the material.
Educate your student about the importance of attending classes and do not be his/her alarm clock!
Create mutually agreed upon goals for each quarter and check-in regularly on your student’s progress. Ask specific questions to elicit a more honest and thorough response.
Encourage your student to use a calendar or planner to transpose important dates from course syllabi.
Support their use of campus support resources such as tutoring and counseling to help them stay on track.
Let your student know that you want him/her to enjoy the college experience and that you are there to help him/her succeed socially and academically.