Heading off to WVU in the Fall ...
Start your journey here! http://welcometo.wvu.edu/
Also checkout the Facebook page dedicated to this class - click here!
We wish you all the best!
Sunday, December 21, 2008
Friday, December 19, 2008
(WVU PARENTS - SPECIAL EDITION) Economic Impact - Tips and Suggestions for WVU families
REPOST!
The state of the economy has been a topic of interest to virtually everyone across America in recent months. As parents of college students, you no doubt have been paying attention to these discussions as they relate to you and your family. As the economy has been trending in somewhat unstable ways, we know that many of you may have questions or concerns as to the status of your student's educational expenses, thus this Parent E-news Special Edition.
For many of us, these concerns are very real and impacts are already being felt. This is a nationwide concern, and we all know there is no one answer or quick solution for these trends. As an institution of higher education, we recognize that many more of our students and families will likely be impacted by this and while we also have no quick answers, we do want to be realistic and forward thinking as well as help educate you about options you may have as you plan ahead. Several suggestions follow in the E-news below.
At this time, it seems only fitting to include the following adage from my own mother... You know you have all heard it and likely said it yourselves: "It is the tough times in life that will make us stronger." And certainly this population knows that parents don't lie! With that said, these tough times can also help us to gain focus as we pare down to reveal what is most important as we move forward and plan ahead. During this holiday season, we hope you and your students are enjoying your time together with friends and family. Here's to a safe and happy holiday season - see you soon in 2009! In this special edition:
- WVU STATEMENT AND CURRENT STATUS
- FINANCIAL ACTION ITEMS
- UNIVERSITY HOLIDAY CALENDAR
- STUDENT ECONOMIC IMPACT SURVEY
WVU STATEMENT AND CURRENT STATUS
Colleges and universities across the country are not immune to the effects of the economic turbulence. Many institutions across the country are bracing for hits that have the potential of being felt in endowments and scholarships funds, through reductions in state and federal appropriations, and through tuition/fee and room/board revenue fluctuations as students and parents begin to make crucial decisions based on their current status. In an electronic release on December 8, 2008, WVU's Vice President for Administration and Finance, Narvel Weese,
made the following comments in response to recent press inquiries about WVU's
stance and status in these times:
"We recognize that the extraordinary turbulence in the world's financial markets and the current recession are having a serious impact on virtually every sector of the economy; WVU is not immune.
"At this point, we are in a monitoring mode. We're monitoring the Endowment, we're monitoring appropriations from the state, we're monitoring enrollment and the ability of students to pay tuition. At some point, we may need to take actions to ensure that our financial position remains stable. But right now, we're in a monitoring mode.
"What we are seeing is that enrollment is strong and state appropriations are strong. We will continue to be careful and prudent in our planning because, despite difficult economic times, WVU is committed to our role as a leading research university and the important outreach
work in support of communities across the state and region."
FINANCIAL ACTION ITEMS
As you, the parents of our students, move forward, we must be vigilant and prudent. We challenge you along with your student to work to look ahead whenever possible in your planning efforts with your student's education options. While home over winter break, we hope that you take this chance to discuss with your students the impacts of these times and what this may mean for your family situation and your student's education. The following action items or options are some you may wish to consider as you have these discussions:
1. Fall 2008 grades come out this week. Remember, your students can easily view/share these via their MIX Accounts. With this said, this may be a time for your student to REASSESS ACADEMIC PROGRESS or possibly look to take a FULLER COURSE LOAD in future terms to finish school on a more aggressive schedule than originally planned. While academic advisors may need to be consulted (see University Holiday calendar below), students can also do a majority of this legwork themselves over break by utilizing the catalog and other valuable online resources. Students should log onto the WVU Catalog at http://www.wvu.edu/Redirect/?id=984 to review major requirements and course work and work through MIX to map out what courses they’ve completed and what courses are still needed to complete a graduation
plan.
2. For some, this may mean students will look to pick up a PART-TIME JOB or two to help with the day-to-day expenses. WVU offers the Office of Student Employment to help students find part-time, flexible jobs that can help off set costs. For more on this option from the Office of
Student Employment, please check out the "Economic Impact - Tips and Suggestions for WVU families" link at: http://www.wvu.edu/Redirect/?id=985.
3. Still for others this may mean exploring monthly PAYMENT PLANS for tuition even if you have not previously used this method. WVU's Office of Student Accounts offers two options including a 60/40 plan and a monthly payment plan through Tuition Pay. For more on these options from the Office of Student Accounts, please check out the "Economic Impact - Tips and Suggestions for WVU families" at:
http://www.wvu.edu/Redirect/?id=985.
4. Some families who had not previously filed the FAFSA for this current 2008-2009 school year may wish to do so to see if they qualify for funds. While we are limited by federal guidelines as to the total amount of aid in certain categories students may receive and funding pools are limited, if there has been a change to a family’s financial situation, the Office of Financial Aid can help reassess a student's current condition to see if any additional eligibility for funds is
available. For more from the Office of Financial Aid, please check out the "Economic Impact - Tips and Suggestions for WVU families" link for further information from their office at:
http://www.wvu.edu/Redirect/?id=985.
5. It is not too early to LOOK AHEAD and begin to think about the 2009-2010 school year. 09-10 FAFSAs are available on January 1 and may be submitted anytime after the first of the year. WVU's deadline is March 1, 2009. Remember, it is ok to estimate your taxes for the purpose of FAFSA and make corrections if necessary.
6. Consider FUTURE HOUSING options for the upcoming terms as well. With the start of the spring term we will see the 09-10 housing processes - both on and off campus - fall into full swing. For more on on-campus housing options, go to: http://www.wvu.edu/Redirect/?id=959
and for off-campus options, http://www.wvu.edu/Redirect/?id=958. Also students may wish to get creative such as exploring the options of Resident Assistantships http://www.wvu.edu/Redirect/?id=960. Be sure students complete a budget to accurately plan for upcoming expenses to make the smartest choice for the upcoming school year.
7. Finally, the Office of Financial Aid puts out a newsletter, MONEY TALK$, on their website each term. This is a quick access point for a variety of important financial information. The Midterm Fall 08 edition can be found in the bottom left hand corner of their website:
http://www.wvu.edu/Redirect/?id=986. This is a great one to print off and read prior to having these conversations with your students.
UNIVERSITY HOLIDAY CALENDAR
Know that there are WVU offices available to help you navigate many of these issues and while we may not have an absolute fix for every situation, we do hope that you explore all of your options. We realize that we are reaching out over our students' winter break.
Officially, WVU will be closed for the holidays beginning on the afternoon of December 23-26, 2008 and January 1-2, 2009. Also, during this time when our students are away, many of our staff take vacation and some offices operate with limited staff so please be patient with inquiries.
STUDENT ECONOMIC IMPACT SURVEY
One final reminder - the Office of Financial Aid has recently asked students to complete an online Economic Impact Survey. Please encourage your student to log on through their MIX accounts to complete this survey if they have not already. We'd like to gain as much feedback as
possible as we all move forward.
The state of the economy has been a topic of interest to virtually everyone across America in recent months. As parents of college students, you no doubt have been paying attention to these discussions as they relate to you and your family. As the economy has been trending in somewhat unstable ways, we know that many of you may have questions or concerns as to the status of your student's educational expenses, thus this Parent E-news Special Edition.
For many of us, these concerns are very real and impacts are already being felt. This is a nationwide concern, and we all know there is no one answer or quick solution for these trends. As an institution of higher education, we recognize that many more of our students and families will likely be impacted by this and while we also have no quick answers, we do want to be realistic and forward thinking as well as help educate you about options you may have as you plan ahead. Several suggestions follow in the E-news below.
At this time, it seems only fitting to include the following adage from my own mother... You know you have all heard it and likely said it yourselves: "It is the tough times in life that will make us stronger." And certainly this population knows that parents don't lie! With that said, these tough times can also help us to gain focus as we pare down to reveal what is most important as we move forward and plan ahead. During this holiday season, we hope you and your students are enjoying your time together with friends and family. Here's to a safe and happy holiday season - see you soon in 2009! In this special edition:
- WVU STATEMENT AND CURRENT STATUS
- FINANCIAL ACTION ITEMS
- UNIVERSITY HOLIDAY CALENDAR
- STUDENT ECONOMIC IMPACT SURVEY
WVU STATEMENT AND CURRENT STATUS
Colleges and universities across the country are not immune to the effects of the economic turbulence. Many institutions across the country are bracing for hits that have the potential of being felt in endowments and scholarships funds, through reductions in state and federal appropriations, and through tuition/fee and room/board revenue fluctuations as students and parents begin to make crucial decisions based on their current status. In an electronic release on December 8, 2008, WVU's Vice President for Administration and Finance, Narvel Weese,
made the following comments in response to recent press inquiries about WVU's
stance and status in these times:
"We recognize that the extraordinary turbulence in the world's financial markets and the current recession are having a serious impact on virtually every sector of the economy; WVU is not immune.
"At this point, we are in a monitoring mode. We're monitoring the Endowment, we're monitoring appropriations from the state, we're monitoring enrollment and the ability of students to pay tuition. At some point, we may need to take actions to ensure that our financial position remains stable. But right now, we're in a monitoring mode.
"What we are seeing is that enrollment is strong and state appropriations are strong. We will continue to be careful and prudent in our planning because, despite difficult economic times, WVU is committed to our role as a leading research university and the important outreach
work in support of communities across the state and region."
FINANCIAL ACTION ITEMS
As you, the parents of our students, move forward, we must be vigilant and prudent. We challenge you along with your student to work to look ahead whenever possible in your planning efforts with your student's education options. While home over winter break, we hope that you take this chance to discuss with your students the impacts of these times and what this may mean for your family situation and your student's education. The following action items or options are some you may wish to consider as you have these discussions:
1. Fall 2008 grades come out this week. Remember, your students can easily view/share these via their MIX Accounts. With this said, this may be a time for your student to REASSESS ACADEMIC PROGRESS or possibly look to take a FULLER COURSE LOAD in future terms to finish school on a more aggressive schedule than originally planned. While academic advisors may need to be consulted (see University Holiday calendar below), students can also do a majority of this legwork themselves over break by utilizing the catalog and other valuable online resources. Students should log onto the WVU Catalog at http://www.wvu.edu/Redirect/?id=984 to review major requirements and course work and work through MIX to map out what courses they’ve completed and what courses are still needed to complete a graduation
plan.
2. For some, this may mean students will look to pick up a PART-TIME JOB or two to help with the day-to-day expenses. WVU offers the Office of Student Employment to help students find part-time, flexible jobs that can help off set costs. For more on this option from the Office of
Student Employment, please check out the "Economic Impact - Tips and Suggestions for WVU families" link at: http://www.wvu.edu/Redirect/?id=985.
3. Still for others this may mean exploring monthly PAYMENT PLANS for tuition even if you have not previously used this method. WVU's Office of Student Accounts offers two options including a 60/40 plan and a monthly payment plan through Tuition Pay. For more on these options from the Office of Student Accounts, please check out the "Economic Impact - Tips and Suggestions for WVU families" at:
http://www.wvu.edu/Redirect/?id=985.
4. Some families who had not previously filed the FAFSA for this current 2008-2009 school year may wish to do so to see if they qualify for funds. While we are limited by federal guidelines as to the total amount of aid in certain categories students may receive and funding pools are limited, if there has been a change to a family’s financial situation, the Office of Financial Aid can help reassess a student's current condition to see if any additional eligibility for funds is
available. For more from the Office of Financial Aid, please check out the "Economic Impact - Tips and Suggestions for WVU families" link for further information from their office at:
http://www.wvu.edu/Redirect/?id=985.
5. It is not too early to LOOK AHEAD and begin to think about the 2009-2010 school year. 09-10 FAFSAs are available on January 1 and may be submitted anytime after the first of the year. WVU's deadline is March 1, 2009. Remember, it is ok to estimate your taxes for the purpose of FAFSA and make corrections if necessary.
6. Consider FUTURE HOUSING options for the upcoming terms as well. With the start of the spring term we will see the 09-10 housing processes - both on and off campus - fall into full swing. For more on on-campus housing options, go to: http://www.wvu.edu/Redirect/?id=959
and for off-campus options, http://www.wvu.edu/Redirect/?id=958. Also students may wish to get creative such as exploring the options of Resident Assistantships http://www.wvu.edu/Redirect/?id=960. Be sure students complete a budget to accurately plan for upcoming expenses to make the smartest choice for the upcoming school year.
7. Finally, the Office of Financial Aid puts out a newsletter, MONEY TALK$, on their website each term. This is a quick access point for a variety of important financial information. The Midterm Fall 08 edition can be found in the bottom left hand corner of their website:
http://www.wvu.edu/Redirect/?id=986. This is a great one to print off and read prior to having these conversations with your students.
UNIVERSITY HOLIDAY CALENDAR
Know that there are WVU offices available to help you navigate many of these issues and while we may not have an absolute fix for every situation, we do hope that you explore all of your options. We realize that we are reaching out over our students' winter break.
Officially, WVU will be closed for the holidays beginning on the afternoon of December 23-26, 2008 and January 1-2, 2009. Also, during this time when our students are away, many of our staff take vacation and some offices operate with limited staff so please be patient with inquiries.
STUDENT ECONOMIC IMPACT SURVEY
One final reminder - the Office of Financial Aid has recently asked students to complete an online Economic Impact Survey. Please encourage your student to log on through their MIX accounts to complete this survey if they have not already. We'd like to gain as much feedback as
possible as we all move forward.
Saturday, December 13, 2008
UPCOMING DEADLINES AND OPPORTUNITIES:
NOW IS THE TIME TO APPLY TO LIVE IN WVU HOUSING FOR 2009 - 2010
If your student is a current WVU student interested in living on-campus next year, now is the time to complete a WVU housing application and submit the deposit. Remember, there is a limited number of housing applications from current students that will be accepted for the
2009-2010 academic year. As long as space is available, the deadline for current WVU students to submit the housing application and $225 deposit is Tuesday, January 20, 2009 at 11:59 p.m.
Applications and deposit payment can be made on-line through the STAR Information System accessible through MIX. Whether a student is currently living on-campus or off-campus, they are encouraged to go to this web site to for information about how to apply for University
housing: http://www.wvu.edu/Redirect/?id=970. Students should contact the Housing Assignments Office at 304-293-2811 if they have any questions.
COMMUTER DINING PLANS AVAILABLE FOR SPRING TERM
Looking for a holiday gift for your student? Give your commuting student one less thing to worry about by giving them a dining plan from WVU Dining Services. Benefits of most plans include:
- Access to our Staff Dietitian for advice and counsel
- Peace of mind: knowing you have set aside dollars specifically for
food and snacks.
- All-you-care-to-eat entrees (including vegan/vegetarian), vegetables,
fruit, salad, soup, dessert, hot dogs, hamburgers and pizza
- All-you-care-to-drink sodas, milk and juices
- Special Events featuring entrees such as Prime Rib and Grilled
Salmon
- Free samples of new products featured in our mini-food shows
- Convenient locations on three campuses
- Healthy "U": an award winning program designed to make eating
healthier both convenient and accessible
- Value-added (no charge) "Meals Plus Bonus Bucks" to spend at any
Dining Services location
Prior to the beginning of the spring semester, dining plans from WVU Dining Services are available by calling 304-293-2096 ext 4 or by visiting us on the Web at http://www.wvu.edu/Redirect/?id=971.
Commuting students may choose from both residential and commuter dining plan options. Just click on the contract link, print, complete, sign and mail the order form. For more details on billing, costs, and other details of these plans, please visit the web link above.
MOUNTAINEER ACADEMIC PROGRAM FOR STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS
After a successful first semester, the Office of Disability Services under the Presidents Office of Social Justice is pleased to announce the continuation of the Mountaineer Academic Program (MAP) to assist students with disabilities. Newly created this term, MAP provides supplemental academic services for students with disabilities. These services included academic tutoring and coaching. Academic tutoring is provided to students on a one-on-one basis and provides tutoring in both specific content areas and in basic study skills. Academic coaching provides students with one-on-one support with an academic coach to assist in acquiring academic and time mnagement skills needed to be successful in the college environment. In order to best serve your student’s needs the MAP program has varying options and levels of service.
MAP is currently accepting applications for both the spring 2009 and the fall 2009 semesters. Space in this program is limited and students are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. If you are interested in finding out about MAP services or how MAP services can help your
student please feel free to contact us at 304-293-7752 daily between 8:30 am and 4:30 pm.
REMINDER: IMMUNIZATION FORMS REQUIRED
Remember if your son/daughter has not submitted proof of immunization o the Office of Admissions and Records, he/she needs to do so as soon as possible. The immunization form can be found online at:
http://www.wvu.edu/Redirect/?id=972.
If your student is a current WVU student interested in living on-campus next year, now is the time to complete a WVU housing application and submit the deposit. Remember, there is a limited number of housing applications from current students that will be accepted for the
2009-2010 academic year. As long as space is available, the deadline for current WVU students to submit the housing application and $225 deposit is Tuesday, January 20, 2009 at 11:59 p.m.
Applications and deposit payment can be made on-line through the STAR Information System accessible through MIX. Whether a student is currently living on-campus or off-campus, they are encouraged to go to this web site to for information about how to apply for University
housing: http://www.wvu.edu/Redirect/?id=970. Students should contact the Housing Assignments Office at 304-293-2811 if they have any questions.
COMMUTER DINING PLANS AVAILABLE FOR SPRING TERM
Looking for a holiday gift for your student? Give your commuting student one less thing to worry about by giving them a dining plan from WVU Dining Services. Benefits of most plans include:
- Access to our Staff Dietitian for advice and counsel
- Peace of mind: knowing you have set aside dollars specifically for
food and snacks.
- All-you-care-to-eat entrees (including vegan/vegetarian), vegetables,
fruit, salad, soup, dessert, hot dogs, hamburgers and pizza
- All-you-care-to-drink sodas, milk and juices
- Special Events featuring entrees such as Prime Rib and Grilled
Salmon
- Free samples of new products featured in our mini-food shows
- Convenient locations on three campuses
- Healthy "U": an award winning program designed to make eating
healthier both convenient and accessible
- Value-added (no charge) "Meals Plus Bonus Bucks" to spend at any
Dining Services location
Prior to the beginning of the spring semester, dining plans from WVU Dining Services are available by calling 304-293-2096 ext 4 or by visiting us on the Web at http://www.wvu.edu/Redirect/?id=971.
Commuting students may choose from both residential and commuter dining plan options. Just click on the contract link, print, complete, sign and mail the order form. For more details on billing, costs, and other details of these plans, please visit the web link above.
MOUNTAINEER ACADEMIC PROGRAM FOR STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS
After a successful first semester, the Office of Disability Services under the Presidents Office of Social Justice is pleased to announce the continuation of the Mountaineer Academic Program (MAP) to assist students with disabilities. Newly created this term, MAP provides supplemental academic services for students with disabilities. These services included academic tutoring and coaching. Academic tutoring is provided to students on a one-on-one basis and provides tutoring in both specific content areas and in basic study skills. Academic coaching provides students with one-on-one support with an academic coach to assist in acquiring academic and time mnagement skills needed to be successful in the college environment. In order to best serve your student’s needs the MAP program has varying options and levels of service.
MAP is currently accepting applications for both the spring 2009 and the fall 2009 semesters. Space in this program is limited and students are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. If you are interested in finding out about MAP services or how MAP services can help your
student please feel free to contact us at 304-293-7752 daily between 8:30 am and 4:30 pm.
REMINDER: IMMUNIZATION FORMS REQUIRED
Remember if your son/daughter has not submitted proof of immunization o the Office of Admissions and Records, he/she needs to do so as soon as possible. The immunization form can be found online at:
http://www.wvu.edu/Redirect/?id=972.
Friday, December 12, 2008
It Must Be Finals Week! WVU Parent's Club Newsletter
Well it is the time of year again when libraries are packed with study groups, the computer labs are overflowing as last minute papers get written and students are anxiously studying as they anticipate the end of their fall classes. Ah yes, it must be final week! With Winter Break just around the corner, next week students will begin the journeys over the river and through the woods to their homes near and far. As some get ready to embark on their first week of finals, nearly 1,400 of graduating seniors will be celebrating as they take their very last exams and are then recognized during December Convocation to be held Sunday, December 14! For more all the details on this ceremony, go to: http://www.wvu.edu/Redirect/?id=964 and congratulations to all of our graduates as they join the ranks of the 170,000 plus Mountaineer Alumni!
This Parent E-Newsletter has a ton of information from across campus and various units so you, the parents, are aware of all the happenings, opportunities, and pertinent information to help you support your students. Details are included about residence hall closing and opening dates, job opportunities for graduates, meals plans for spring term, and what to expect after final grades come out - among other important items. So if you don't have time to peruse this article right now, hit print and read at your leisure! Also, as we wrap up one semester don't
forget to look ahead for important dates in the upcoming spring term at http://www.wvu.edu/Redirect/?id=965. As your students prepare to conclude their fall term on campus, here's to good luck on finals and wishes for a successful finish to the semester! In this edition:
CLOSING OUT '08:
- ONLINE JOB SEARCH RESOURCE NOW AVAILABLE FOR GRADUATING SENIORS
- HOLIDAY BUSSES FOR WINTER BREAK
- RESIDENCE HALL WINTER BREAK CLOSING/OPENING INFO
- OFF-CAMPUS HOUSING WINTER BREAK TIPS - BATTENING THE HATCHES
UPCOMING DEADLINES AND OPPORTUNITIES:
- NOW IS THE TIME TO APPLY TO LIVE IN WVU HOUSING FOR 2009 - 2010
- COMMUTER DINING PLANS AVAILABLE FOR SPRING TERM
- MOUNTAINEER ACADEMIC PROGRAM FOR STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES ACCEPTING
APPLICATIONS
- REMINDER: IMMUNIZATION FORMS REQUIRED
NOTICES:
- CREATIVE ARTS CENTER ANNUAL HOLIDAY POTTERY SALE - December 5-7
- *ONLY ONLINE* WINTER 2008 MOUNTAINEER PARENTS CLUB NEWSLETTER NOW
AVAILABLE
- ANOTHER GREEN INITIATIVE - MAGAZINE CONNECTS WITH WIND ENERGY
TIPS FROM THE TRENCHES:
- WRAPPING UP THE SEMESTER...ACADEMICALLY SPEAKING
by Regan Bruni - Assistant Dean for Retention and Research
CLOSING UP '08:
ONLINE JOB SEARCH RESOURCE NOW AVAILABLE FOR GRADUATING SENIORS
Do you know a senior who will be graduating soon? The WVU Career Services Center through the Office of Student Affairs is now offering free access to CareerShift to all graduating seniors. CareerShift is the most comprehensive online resource available to help students in their
job search. Its set of tools and applications provides a unique opportunity to job hunters. While other Web services offer bits and pieces of the job hunt process, only CareerShift provides an easy-to-use approach for bringing all these parts together to crack the hidden job market and for managing the job hunt all in one place. Please encourage seniors to use this job search tool in addition to the Career Services Center’s MountaineerTRAK. Details and registration instructions are available online at http://www.wvu.edu/Redirect/?id=966, by phone at 293-2221 or e-mail at careerservices@mail.wvu.edu.
HOLIDAY BUSSES FOR WINTER BREAK
The end of the semester is almost here so be sure your student has a ride home for the semester break! The WVU Mountaineer Parents Club Holiday Bus Schedules are available online. Spaces are still available to Secaucus, NJ; Allentown, PA; Hagerstown, MD and Philadelphia, PA. For
more information, please log on to http://www.wvu.edu/Redirect/?id=967.
Three individual Parents Clubs - Long Island, Northern Virginia and Central Maryland - have also planned busses home for the holiday break, and spaces are still available. For more information and details on how to make these reservations, visit http://www.wvu.edu/Redirect/?id=967.
As a reminder, the daily Grey Line shuttle to the Pittsburgh Airport and Pittsburgh Greyhound Station will be running the normal 10:00 a.m. run all week. NOTE: There is no 4 p.m. run for Winter Break. For information on the daily schedule and details, or to make a reservation,
call 304-296-3869 or visit: http://www.wvu.edu/Redirect/?id=968.
PLEASE NOTE: The deadline for refunds for Winter Break busses was December 3rd and has now passed. Also, students who may be on academic probation should check the time of the returning bus because the earliest probation workshops (information to be sent once final grades are posted) will begin at 5 p.m. on Sunday, January 11, 2009.
RESIDENCE HALL WINTER BREAK CLOSING/OPENING INFO
The residence halls will officially close at 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 13. All students must be out of their rooms by 5:00 p.m. This affects students in University-owned or supervised residence halls and apartments including parts of College Park - The Ridge. Students are
welcome to leave their belongings in their room over break. However, we encourage students to take any valuables home with them, along with items they will need over the break. During Winter Break, students will not be permitted in their rooms nor have access to their mailboxes. Be sure to remind your students to empty their trash cans, close windows, and lock their room doors as they leave.
University Housing will reopen at noon on Saturday, January 10. Dining Services for the Evansdale Residential Complex and Boreman Hall on the downtown campus will begin with dinner on Saturday, January 10, 2009. The rest of the dining facilities will begin service on the first day of classes, Monday, January 12, 2009. Again the complete list of all residence hall opening and closing dates and times for 2008-2009 can be found online at: http://www.wvu.edu/Redirect/?id=969.
OFF-CAMPUS HOUSING WINTER BREAK TIPS - BATTENING THE HATCHES
If your students live off campus, remind them to prepare their apartments for being away for this extended break. Unfortunately crime tends to increase around the holidays. Tips to pass along include putting lights on a timer, having their mail temporarily held by the US
Post Office to give their place the "someone's-home" look, or if they subscribe to a newspaper, contact their carrier to stop the delivery temporarily. It's a good idea to take out their trash and clean up before leaving as well as dirty apartments over a period of time can attract unwelcome visitors. They should also take valuable items with them when they leave town and because of the cold weather, although they may lower their heat they should not turn this off completely because pipes might freeze if temperatures drop. Of course the obvious reminder is to close and lock all windows and doors as they leave town. Here's to a safe and restful break!
UPCOMING DEADLINES AND OPPORTUNITIES:
NOW IS THE TIME TO APPLY TO LIVE IN WVU HOUSING FOR 2009 - 2010
If your student is a current WVU student interested in living on-campus next year, now is the time to complete a WVU housing application and submit the deposit. Remember, there is a limited number of housing applications from current students that will be accepted for the
2009-2010 academic year. As long as space is available, the deadline for current WVU students to submit the housing application and $225 deposit is Tuesday, January 20, 2009 at 11:59 p.m.
Applications and deposit payment can be made on-line through the STAR Information System accessible through MIX. Whether a student is currently living on-campus or off-campus, they are encouraged to go to this web site to for information about how to apply for University
housing: http://www.wvu.edu/Redirect/?id=970. Students should contact the Housing Assignments Office at 304-293-2811 if they have any questions.
COMMUTER DINING PLANS AVAILABLE FOR SPRING TERM
Looking for a holiday gift for your student? Give your commuting student one less thing to worry about by giving them a dining plan from WVU Dining Services. Benefits of most plans include:
- Access to our Staff Dietitian for advice and counsel
- Peace of mind: knowing you have set aside dollars specifically for
food and snacks.
- All-you-care-to-eat entrees (including vegan/vegetarian), vegetables,
fruit, salad, soup, dessert, hot dogs, hamburgers and pizza
- All-you-care-to-drink sodas, milk and juices
- Special Events featuring entrees such as Prime Rib and Grilled
Salmon
- Free samples of new products featured in our mini-food shows
- Convenient locations on three campuses
- Healthy "U": an award winning program designed to make eating
healthier both convenient and accessible
- Value-added (no charge) "Meals Plus Bonus Bucks" to spend at any
Dining Services location
Prior to the beginning of the spring semester, dining plans from WVU Dining Services are available by calling 304-293-2096 ext 4 or by visiting us on the Web at http://www.wvu.edu/Redirect/?id=971.
Commuting students may choose from both residential and commuter dining plan options. Just click on the contract link, print, complete, sign and mail the order form. For more details on billing, costs, and other details of these plans, please visit the web link above.
MOUNTAINEER ACADEMIC PROGRAM FOR STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS
After a successful first semester, the Office of Disability Services under the Presidents Office of Social Justice is pleased to announce the continuation of the Mountaineer Academic Program (MAP) to assist students with disabilities. Newly created this term, MAP provides supplemental academic services for students with disabilities. These services included academic tutoring and coaching. Academic tutoring is provided to students on a one-on-one basis and provides tutoring in both specific content areas and in basic study skills. Academic coaching provides students with one-on-one support with an academic coach to assist in acquiring academic and time mnagement skills needed to be successful in the college environment. In order to best serve your student’s needs the MAP program has varying options and levels of service.
MAP is currently accepting applications for both the spring 2009 and the fall 2009 semesters. Space in this program is limited and students are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. If you are interested in finding out about MAP services or how MAP services can help your
student please feel free to contact us at 304-293-7752 daily between 8:30 am and 4:30 pm.
REMINDER: IMMUNIZATION FORMS REQUIRED
Remember if your son/daughter has not submitted proof of immunization o the Office of Admissions and Records, he/she needs to do so as soon as possible. The immunization form can be found online at:
http://www.wvu.edu/Redirect/?id=972.
NOTICES:
CREATIVE ARTS CENTER ANNUAL HOLIDAY POTTERY SALE
The faculty, staff and students of the West Virginia University Ceramics Department cordially invite you and your students to the Annual Holiday Pottery Sale. This year’s sale will be held in the Douglas O. Blaney Lobby of the Creative Arts Center and will feature work from the
WVU-Jingdezhen Ceramics Institute in China. The remaining dates and times follow:
Saturday, Dec. 6, 2008 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Sunday, Dec. 7, 2008 12:00 pm - 4:00 pm
If you have any questions about the sale you may contact Christopher
Brown at 304-293-2140 Ext.3208
*ONLY ONLINE* WINTER 2008 MOUNTAINEER PARENTS CLUB NEWSLETTER NOW
AVAILABLE
The Mountaineer Parents Club is happy to announce that the Winter 2008 newsletter can be found online! As part of the University-wide effort to "Go Green", this issue of the Mountaineer Parents Club Newsletter will be available on our website ONLY. Also, on our web site go to the
Question of the Month and let us know what you think of the new format.
Please go to http://www.wvu.edu/Redirect/?id=956 to read the newsletter.
ANOTHER GREEN INITIATIVE - MAGAZINE CONNECTS WITH WIND ENERGY
Eberly, the magazine showcasing the people and programs of the Eberly College of Arts and Sciences has undergone a complete redesign. It is printed on Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) approved, recycled paper, using wind energy. It is the first fully FSC recycled publication at
WVU. Parents interested in receiving the biannual publication can send their names and addresses to rebecca.herod@mail.wvu.edu. The magazine is available online at http://www.wvu.edu/Redirect/?id=973. To learn more about the Forest Stewardship Council go to http://www.wvu.edu/Redirect/?id=974.
TIPS FROM THE TRENCHES:
WRAPPING UP THE SEMESTER...ACADEMICALLY SPEAKING
By: Regan Bruni - Assistant Dean of Retention and Research
As many of you know final exams are right around the corner. For many students the anticipation of grades will be the well-deserved reward for spending countless hours in the library, reviewing class notes on a nightly basis, or getting extra help from a tutor at the Academic Resource Center. For others it will be a reality check that study habits need to change or the realization of needing extra help. General information follows about the academic probation process if students feel this may be an impact. We know your students turn to you for
support, so we would like to share with you this information as well as some of WVU’s services and resources to help your students be even more academically successful:
Academic Resource Centers - These centers offer free, walk-in tutoring on many WVU subjects. The Academic Resource Centers will be open during Finals Week and we’re adding more days at our location in the Downtown Library. For more information about locations and hours visit:
http://www.wvu.edu/Redirect/?id=975.
Chemistry Learning Center - This Center offers free tutoring on general chemistry classes. This center is promoted during classes to all entry level Chemistry students. For more information visit http://www.wvu.edu/Redirect/?id=977.
Math Learning Center - Students can drop in for free help in a variety of math classes. For more information visit
http://www.wvu.edu/Redirect/?id=978 .
Term Paper Clinic - Need help with research papers? Check out this Clinic! For more information visit
http://www.wvu.edu/Redirect/?id=979.
Writing Center - The Writing Center focuses on helping students become better writers. For more information visit
http://www.wvu.edu/Redirect/?id=980.
Emotional Support - Carruth Center for Counseling and Psychological Services - Student can often feel overwhelmed or stressed when it comes to grades or other personal issues they may be encountering. The Carruth Center for Counseling offers individual counseling, group
sessions, and classes to support your student. They also offer daily walk-in hours. See the help your student can receive at http://www.wvu.edu/Redirect/?id=981 .
- Academic Probation
Students are placed on academic probation if their cumulative GPA falls below a 2.0. First-year students on academic probation will need to attend a workshop on Sunday, January 11th. During the workshop, students will learn more about WVU’s support services and classes to help get them back on track as well as the D/F Repeat Policy, Academic Suspension guidelines, and Financial Aid policies. If this applies to your student, more details will be mailed during the semester break. We encourage students on academic probation to take EDP 101 or MDS 293 to
help improve their study skills and repeat any courses in which a D or F was earned. For more information on WVU’s D/F Repeat Policy visit http://www.wvu.edu/Redirect/?id=982. The Office of Retention and Research also offers a workshop series throughout the spring semester on topics such as time management, study skills, career planning, and text anxiety.
**********************
UNSUBSCRIBE OR UPDATE:
If you wish to no longer be a member of the Mountaineer Parents Club
and not receive Parent Electronic Newsletter messages, please reply to
this e-mail noting this wish and your membership will be canceled.
If your e-mail has changed and you wish this to be updated for Parent
E-Newsletter distribution, please reply to this e-mail with the updated
address that you would like used with your name and this will be
completed.
This Parent E-Newsletter has a ton of information from across campus and various units so you, the parents, are aware of all the happenings, opportunities, and pertinent information to help you support your students. Details are included about residence hall closing and opening dates, job opportunities for graduates, meals plans for spring term, and what to expect after final grades come out - among other important items. So if you don't have time to peruse this article right now, hit print and read at your leisure! Also, as we wrap up one semester don't
forget to look ahead for important dates in the upcoming spring term at http://www.wvu.edu/Redirect/?id=965. As your students prepare to conclude their fall term on campus, here's to good luck on finals and wishes for a successful finish to the semester! In this edition:
CLOSING OUT '08:
- ONLINE JOB SEARCH RESOURCE NOW AVAILABLE FOR GRADUATING SENIORS
- HOLIDAY BUSSES FOR WINTER BREAK
- RESIDENCE HALL WINTER BREAK CLOSING/OPENING INFO
- OFF-CAMPUS HOUSING WINTER BREAK TIPS - BATTENING THE HATCHES
UPCOMING DEADLINES AND OPPORTUNITIES:
- NOW IS THE TIME TO APPLY TO LIVE IN WVU HOUSING FOR 2009 - 2010
- COMMUTER DINING PLANS AVAILABLE FOR SPRING TERM
- MOUNTAINEER ACADEMIC PROGRAM FOR STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES ACCEPTING
APPLICATIONS
- REMINDER: IMMUNIZATION FORMS REQUIRED
NOTICES:
- CREATIVE ARTS CENTER ANNUAL HOLIDAY POTTERY SALE - December 5-7
- *ONLY ONLINE* WINTER 2008 MOUNTAINEER PARENTS CLUB NEWSLETTER NOW
AVAILABLE
- ANOTHER GREEN INITIATIVE - MAGAZINE CONNECTS WITH WIND ENERGY
TIPS FROM THE TRENCHES:
- WRAPPING UP THE SEMESTER...ACADEMICALLY SPEAKING
by Regan Bruni - Assistant Dean for Retention and Research
CLOSING UP '08:
ONLINE JOB SEARCH RESOURCE NOW AVAILABLE FOR GRADUATING SENIORS
Do you know a senior who will be graduating soon? The WVU Career Services Center through the Office of Student Affairs is now offering free access to CareerShift to all graduating seniors. CareerShift is the most comprehensive online resource available to help students in their
job search. Its set of tools and applications provides a unique opportunity to job hunters. While other Web services offer bits and pieces of the job hunt process, only CareerShift provides an easy-to-use approach for bringing all these parts together to crack the hidden job market and for managing the job hunt all in one place. Please encourage seniors to use this job search tool in addition to the Career Services Center’s MountaineerTRAK. Details and registration instructions are available online at http://www.wvu.edu/Redirect/?id=966, by phone at 293-2221 or e-mail at careerservices@mail.wvu.edu.
HOLIDAY BUSSES FOR WINTER BREAK
The end of the semester is almost here so be sure your student has a ride home for the semester break! The WVU Mountaineer Parents Club Holiday Bus Schedules are available online. Spaces are still available to Secaucus, NJ; Allentown, PA; Hagerstown, MD and Philadelphia, PA. For
more information, please log on to http://www.wvu.edu/Redirect/?id=967.
Three individual Parents Clubs - Long Island, Northern Virginia and Central Maryland - have also planned busses home for the holiday break, and spaces are still available. For more information and details on how to make these reservations, visit http://www.wvu.edu/Redirect/?id=967.
As a reminder, the daily Grey Line shuttle to the Pittsburgh Airport and Pittsburgh Greyhound Station will be running the normal 10:00 a.m. run all week. NOTE: There is no 4 p.m. run for Winter Break. For information on the daily schedule and details, or to make a reservation,
call 304-296-3869 or visit: http://www.wvu.edu/Redirect/?id=968.
PLEASE NOTE: The deadline for refunds for Winter Break busses was December 3rd and has now passed. Also, students who may be on academic probation should check the time of the returning bus because the earliest probation workshops (information to be sent once final grades are posted) will begin at 5 p.m. on Sunday, January 11, 2009.
RESIDENCE HALL WINTER BREAK CLOSING/OPENING INFO
The residence halls will officially close at 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 13. All students must be out of their rooms by 5:00 p.m. This affects students in University-owned or supervised residence halls and apartments including parts of College Park - The Ridge. Students are
welcome to leave their belongings in their room over break. However, we encourage students to take any valuables home with them, along with items they will need over the break. During Winter Break, students will not be permitted in their rooms nor have access to their mailboxes. Be sure to remind your students to empty their trash cans, close windows, and lock their room doors as they leave.
University Housing will reopen at noon on Saturday, January 10. Dining Services for the Evansdale Residential Complex and Boreman Hall on the downtown campus will begin with dinner on Saturday, January 10, 2009. The rest of the dining facilities will begin service on the first day of classes, Monday, January 12, 2009. Again the complete list of all residence hall opening and closing dates and times for 2008-2009 can be found online at: http://www.wvu.edu/Redirect/?id=969.
OFF-CAMPUS HOUSING WINTER BREAK TIPS - BATTENING THE HATCHES
If your students live off campus, remind them to prepare their apartments for being away for this extended break. Unfortunately crime tends to increase around the holidays. Tips to pass along include putting lights on a timer, having their mail temporarily held by the US
Post Office to give their place the "someone's-home" look, or if they subscribe to a newspaper, contact their carrier to stop the delivery temporarily. It's a good idea to take out their trash and clean up before leaving as well as dirty apartments over a period of time can attract unwelcome visitors. They should also take valuable items with them when they leave town and because of the cold weather, although they may lower their heat they should not turn this off completely because pipes might freeze if temperatures drop. Of course the obvious reminder is to close and lock all windows and doors as they leave town. Here's to a safe and restful break!
UPCOMING DEADLINES AND OPPORTUNITIES:
NOW IS THE TIME TO APPLY TO LIVE IN WVU HOUSING FOR 2009 - 2010
If your student is a current WVU student interested in living on-campus next year, now is the time to complete a WVU housing application and submit the deposit. Remember, there is a limited number of housing applications from current students that will be accepted for the
2009-2010 academic year. As long as space is available, the deadline for current WVU students to submit the housing application and $225 deposit is Tuesday, January 20, 2009 at 11:59 p.m.
Applications and deposit payment can be made on-line through the STAR Information System accessible through MIX. Whether a student is currently living on-campus or off-campus, they are encouraged to go to this web site to for information about how to apply for University
housing: http://www.wvu.edu/Redirect/?id=970. Students should contact the Housing Assignments Office at 304-293-2811 if they have any questions.
COMMUTER DINING PLANS AVAILABLE FOR SPRING TERM
Looking for a holiday gift for your student? Give your commuting student one less thing to worry about by giving them a dining plan from WVU Dining Services. Benefits of most plans include:
- Access to our Staff Dietitian for advice and counsel
- Peace of mind: knowing you have set aside dollars specifically for
food and snacks.
- All-you-care-to-eat entrees (including vegan/vegetarian), vegetables,
fruit, salad, soup, dessert, hot dogs, hamburgers and pizza
- All-you-care-to-drink sodas, milk and juices
- Special Events featuring entrees such as Prime Rib and Grilled
Salmon
- Free samples of new products featured in our mini-food shows
- Convenient locations on three campuses
- Healthy "U": an award winning program designed to make eating
healthier both convenient and accessible
- Value-added (no charge) "Meals Plus Bonus Bucks" to spend at any
Dining Services location
Prior to the beginning of the spring semester, dining plans from WVU Dining Services are available by calling 304-293-2096 ext 4 or by visiting us on the Web at http://www.wvu.edu/Redirect/?id=971.
Commuting students may choose from both residential and commuter dining plan options. Just click on the contract link, print, complete, sign and mail the order form. For more details on billing, costs, and other details of these plans, please visit the web link above.
MOUNTAINEER ACADEMIC PROGRAM FOR STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS
After a successful first semester, the Office of Disability Services under the Presidents Office of Social Justice is pleased to announce the continuation of the Mountaineer Academic Program (MAP) to assist students with disabilities. Newly created this term, MAP provides supplemental academic services for students with disabilities. These services included academic tutoring and coaching. Academic tutoring is provided to students on a one-on-one basis and provides tutoring in both specific content areas and in basic study skills. Academic coaching provides students with one-on-one support with an academic coach to assist in acquiring academic and time mnagement skills needed to be successful in the college environment. In order to best serve your student’s needs the MAP program has varying options and levels of service.
MAP is currently accepting applications for both the spring 2009 and the fall 2009 semesters. Space in this program is limited and students are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. If you are interested in finding out about MAP services or how MAP services can help your
student please feel free to contact us at 304-293-7752 daily between 8:30 am and 4:30 pm.
REMINDER: IMMUNIZATION FORMS REQUIRED
Remember if your son/daughter has not submitted proof of immunization o the Office of Admissions and Records, he/she needs to do so as soon as possible. The immunization form can be found online at:
http://www.wvu.edu/Redirect/?id=972.
NOTICES:
CREATIVE ARTS CENTER ANNUAL HOLIDAY POTTERY SALE
The faculty, staff and students of the West Virginia University Ceramics Department cordially invite you and your students to the Annual Holiday Pottery Sale. This year’s sale will be held in the Douglas O. Blaney Lobby of the Creative Arts Center and will feature work from the
WVU-Jingdezhen Ceramics Institute in China. The remaining dates and times follow:
Saturday, Dec. 6, 2008 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Sunday, Dec. 7, 2008 12:00 pm - 4:00 pm
If you have any questions about the sale you may contact Christopher
Brown at 304-293-2140 Ext.3208
*ONLY ONLINE* WINTER 2008 MOUNTAINEER PARENTS CLUB NEWSLETTER NOW
AVAILABLE
The Mountaineer Parents Club is happy to announce that the Winter 2008 newsletter can be found online! As part of the University-wide effort to "Go Green", this issue of the Mountaineer Parents Club Newsletter will be available on our website ONLY. Also, on our web site go to the
Question of the Month and let us know what you think of the new format.
Please go to http://www.wvu.edu/Redirect/?id=956 to read the newsletter.
ANOTHER GREEN INITIATIVE - MAGAZINE CONNECTS WITH WIND ENERGY
Eberly, the magazine showcasing the people and programs of the Eberly College of Arts and Sciences has undergone a complete redesign. It is printed on Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) approved, recycled paper, using wind energy. It is the first fully FSC recycled publication at
WVU. Parents interested in receiving the biannual publication can send their names and addresses to rebecca.herod@mail.wvu.edu. The magazine is available online at http://www.wvu.edu/Redirect/?id=973. To learn more about the Forest Stewardship Council go to http://www.wvu.edu/Redirect/?id=974.
TIPS FROM THE TRENCHES:
WRAPPING UP THE SEMESTER...ACADEMICALLY SPEAKING
By: Regan Bruni - Assistant Dean of Retention and Research
As many of you know final exams are right around the corner. For many students the anticipation of grades will be the well-deserved reward for spending countless hours in the library, reviewing class notes on a nightly basis, or getting extra help from a tutor at the Academic Resource Center. For others it will be a reality check that study habits need to change or the realization of needing extra help. General information follows about the academic probation process if students feel this may be an impact. We know your students turn to you for
support, so we would like to share with you this information as well as some of WVU’s services and resources to help your students be even more academically successful:
Academic Resource Centers - These centers offer free, walk-in tutoring on many WVU subjects. The Academic Resource Centers will be open during Finals Week and we’re adding more days at our location in the Downtown Library. For more information about locations and hours visit:
http://www.wvu.edu/Redirect/?id=975.
Chemistry Learning Center - This Center offers free tutoring on general chemistry classes. This center is promoted during classes to all entry level Chemistry students. For more information visit http://www.wvu.edu/Redirect/?id=977.
Math Learning Center - Students can drop in for free help in a variety of math classes. For more information visit
http://www.wvu.edu/Redirect/?id=978 .
Term Paper Clinic - Need help with research papers? Check out this Clinic! For more information visit
http://www.wvu.edu/Redirect/?id=979.
Writing Center - The Writing Center focuses on helping students become better writers. For more information visit
http://www.wvu.edu/Redirect/?id=980.
Emotional Support - Carruth Center for Counseling and Psychological Services - Student can often feel overwhelmed or stressed when it comes to grades or other personal issues they may be encountering. The Carruth Center for Counseling offers individual counseling, group
sessions, and classes to support your student. They also offer daily walk-in hours. See the help your student can receive at http://www.wvu.edu/Redirect/?id=981 .
- Academic Probation
Students are placed on academic probation if their cumulative GPA falls below a 2.0. First-year students on academic probation will need to attend a workshop on Sunday, January 11th. During the workshop, students will learn more about WVU’s support services and classes to help get them back on track as well as the D/F Repeat Policy, Academic Suspension guidelines, and Financial Aid policies. If this applies to your student, more details will be mailed during the semester break. We encourage students on academic probation to take EDP 101 or MDS 293 to
help improve their study skills and repeat any courses in which a D or F was earned. For more information on WVU’s D/F Repeat Policy visit http://www.wvu.edu/Redirect/?id=982. The Office of Retention and Research also offers a workshop series throughout the spring semester on topics such as time management, study skills, career planning, and text anxiety.
**********************
UNSUBSCRIBE OR UPDATE:
If you wish to no longer be a member of the Mountaineer Parents Club
and not receive Parent Electronic Newsletter messages, please reply to
this e-mail noting this wish and your membership will be canceled.
If your e-mail has changed and you wish this to be updated for Parent
E-Newsletter distribution, please reply to this e-mail with the updated
address that you would like used with your name and this will be
completed.
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