The Student Government Association will host an Academic Scavenger Hunt with a number of prizes available to encourage students to take advantage of academic resources available on campus.

“This is a great opportunity for students to get to know their teachers and what resources they have on campus,” Allison Montgomery, SGA vice president of academic affairs, said.

The scavenger hunt will also provide an opportunity for students to be entered to win one of two iPad minis, an Alabama spirit pack or a $250 scholarship.

Students interested in participating can pick up an Academic Scavenger Hunt passport in the SGA Office, the Writing Center or any of the libraries on campus.

The tasks outlined on the passports include meeting with two professors outside of class, meeting with an academic advisor, scheduling an appointment with an academic resource professional and making a DegreeWorks plan.

Although these activities can help students improve their chances for academic success, they may lack the proper motivation to complete them. William Hart, a professor of psychology, said procrastination could be the culprit.

“Students may see the relation and care about academics but procrastinate because the tasks are not very fun,” Hart said. “The prize may be [a] sufficient incentive to motivate these folks to action.”

Each task is designed to encourage students to take advantages of opportunities to boost their grades and build better relationships.

Professors on campus, especially in large classes, face difficulties getting to know their students. Meeting with them outside of class can help develop solid relationships, which can eventually help when trying to find a career.

“If you have taken the time to get to know a few of us, then it will be a lot easier for you to ask and for us to write a good letter that speaks to your character as well as your grades,” Eric Giannini, a professor in the College of Engineering, said.

Each task requires a signature from University of Alabama faculty or staff, except for the DegreeWorks plan stamp, which requires the participant’s signature after making a class outline for the two upcoming semesters. Allison Montgomery then validates the signatures.

“[We are] essentially working on an honor system, but if she found anything suspicious, she can contact those teachers,” Leela Foley, director of media relations for the SGA, said. “But we are trusting students to be honest.”

By completing the scavenger hunt, students can become better acquainted with academic life at the University.

“We wanted all students, and especially freshmen, to be more aware of resources on campus.” Montgomery said. “We also wanted to encourage students to forge relationships with their professors and advisors.”

Passports are due back to the SGA Office by Friday in order to be entered in the drawing to win one of the three prizes.