The switch to semesters is supposed to be relatively painless for all involved. Unfortunately, many students will encounter problems. Altered program requirements might force students to take unplanned classes, while changed class options might require an additional semester of attendance. Students who take the University’s suggestion to take more classes per semester may feel overwhelmed by professors who decide to increase the amount of work because the term is longer. Although there are a number of resources available for students who face these problems, it is up to the individual to actively seek help.
The University administration has stated repeatedly that it is committed to the idea that the switch should not adversely affect the time it takes to graduate. That means if a change in requirements forces someone to attend school for another semester or take additional classes, it is possible to petition the school and make arrangements to circumvent a requirement. The University does not want students to feel cheated by the switch and is inclined to view petitions with a friendly eye. The goal is not to trick students into another year of school.
The University has also made it clear that semesters should not create a larger work load for students. Professors are not supposed to add huge amounts of work just because the term is longer, because under semesters students are expected to take one or two more classes per term. This is another area where students who feel semesters are making college much more difficult have recourse. Students should, of course, first talk to their instructor. But if that fails, the Student Dispute Resolution Center might be able to help. The center can help a student prepare an acceptable arrangement by having trained mediators discuss the situation with all parties involved.
The key to all of these options is the student taking the first step. Too frequently, students moan and complain about how the University is screwing them over, but never do any work to fix the problem. The result is students feeling displeased with their education, and the University not discovering the flaws in their system. Not taking the trouble to find out if there is a solution does not just hurt the individual, it also hurts the University and other students who will be affected by the continuing problem.
All of the options listed here involve some work on the part of the student. The student will have to make an appointment or two and probably will need to fill out some paperwork. That investment of a few hours is definitely worth it. Rather than resenting the University for years, or spending another six months and thousands of dollars on their education, students should take advantage of the available resources and ask for help. Many students will face problems from the switch to semesters, but the problems will be much worse if students just resign themselves to suffering.