Take your Praxis content tests or missing pre-req courses sooner rather than later (like the summer before the MAT or during breaks) so you can have less on your plates and have time to study as well as retake them if needed
For Elementary Candidates: Language Acquisition (from UNDG) and Literacy Methods (EDEL 660) have essential content for the TREE test
Use the Praxis practice tests and website info about tests (This helps with getting familiar with the test format and possible test content)
Start thinking about your MRP topic ideas as soon as possible (Thinking about favorite education course, personal passions, previous MRPs, and placement experiences can really help with that)
Apply for your local delegate’s scholarship! I got money from the St. Mary’s County delegate for the MAT. Google your delegate and their website usually has information about it. I applied and wrote a short essay for it.
Take it one day at a time and get to know your cohort. You’ll need them! Keeping the end goal of graduation in sight is helpful, but focusing on the assignments and day in front of you makes it much more manageable. This mindset also helps you stay flexible when unexpected things (like an appendectomy 😅 or last minute MAT changes) happen.
Camp and teaching in your anchor placement are great! Use sales and gift cards to buy your teacher wardrobe for placement.
The poster presentation prep is more stressful than the actual day of presenting.
Thrift store shopping can be a great and cheap way to find unique professional pieces for your "teacher closet". (Vintage Values and the Go Green Thrift Store are both relatively close to campus).
The Maryland Higher Education Commission has a workforce shortage grant program that includes grants for teachers! (Make sure your content area is on the list first!)
If you're looking for a good way to be prepared for placement or class and lower your grocery bill a little bit, you can meal plan and prep for the week--the campus center also has a food pantry that is free, and you can take whatever you need (this is mostly dry goods, canned goods, and a few odds and ends, but still helpful)!
Don't panic! The department has done this program for many years and they are willing to be flexible if you are--keep professors informed and don't let work fall by the wayside, and you'll be just fine :) Good luck!
Remember that not everyone has to be your BFF in the cohort. But always show respect and keep it professional and positive!
Take everything one step at a time. Focus on this week's priorities this week. Do things in the order the professors present them to you.
If you're a perfectionist, drop it or you will run yourself into the ground. Do what you're being asked; the things you're doing won't be perfect but the faculty will accommodate you.
Believe in yourself. You got yourself here; you can handle this program.
Make time to take care of yourself.
Kids are disgusting. Emergen-C and hand-sanitizer.