ParentsCalendar 2008

Published on January 2017 | Categories: Documents | Downloads: 42 | Comments: 0 | Views: 189
of 36
Download PDF   Embed   Report

Comments

Content

2008–2009 Calendar for Parents & Families

Richmond & VcU at a glance
Richmond has been the state capital since 1779. Now, with a population in the metropolitan area of 1.2 million, the Richmond region offers a wealth of opportunities for recreation, entertainment and business. The James River runs through the heart of Richmond, tying together many of the area’s attractions in the James River Park System: the Pony Pasture Rapids, the Canal Walk and Belle Isle. Along with its natural beauty the Richmond area has a number of professional sports teams and theater companies, along with a rich selection of museums, art galleries and historical sites. Virginia Commonwealth University, in downtown Richmond, contributes to the lively and diverse culture of the region. Collegiate athletics and performances by students studying music, dance and theater in VCU’s School of the Arts play a part in the city’s cultural life. VCU’s School of Medicine is one of the largest medical schools in the United States. With students enrolled from approximately 100 countries, VCU is widely recognized for its diverse student body.

DiD you know...
◽ Metro Richmond is home to 11 institutions of higher learning. ◽ VCU is now the state’s largest four-year institution of higher learning. ◽ With almost 2 million print volumes, VCU has one of the largest research libraries in Virginia. ◽ Information-technology and major semiconductor-manufacturing firms have been attracted to Richmond in the past seven to 10 years. ◽ The Richmond area is headquarters to Fortune 500 companies including Altria/Philip Morris, CarMax, Circuit City Stores, Genworth Financial and MeadWestvaco; other major Richmond-area firms include Anthem, Markel and LandAmerica Financial Group. ◽ Forbes recently ranked the Richmond area as one of the best places in the country for business and careers.

welcome to VCu!
Dear Parents, On behalf of the faculty and staff of Virginia Commonwealth University, I am pleased to welcome you and your student to our campus. As the parent of an entering freshman or transfer student, this calendar has been designed for you. This is an exciting time for families and students as you both enter a new phase of life. For many students, this will be the first extended time away from home, and they will take important first steps toward a more independent lifestyle. Yet it is important that parents continue their support and maintain contact with their students. We want every student’s educational experiences here, both in and out of the classroom, to be enriching and productive so that they will be prepared for the challenges ahead in life. This calendar provides you with many of the important dates in academic and social life at VCU. The latter half provides basic information about the university and addresses many of the questions asked by parents. If you have additional questions or concerns during the year, we encourage you to contact the departments within the Division of Student Affairs & Enrollment Services and the University College. We also look forward to seeing you in October at the VCU Fall Fest. Sincerely, Dr. Henry G. Rhone Vice Provost for Student Affairs & Enrollment Services

The transition to college life is as much a change for parents and families, as it is for your students.

Dear New VCU Parents and Families, Welcome to VCU’s University College and the Freshman Parent Association. You are now part of the Ram Family and we welcome you to VCU. Whether this is the first child you have launched into the world of higher education or the last, the VCU Freshman Parent Association is a valuable resource. Entering into our third full year, the Freshman Parent Association can help you find the answers to a myriad of questions about academic advising, student accounts, financial aid, student housing, campus security, offcampus housing, health services, student activities and much more. Please take a moment and register at www.vcu.edu/uc/parents. By joining the Freshman Parent Association, you will receive timely information on programs and services for you and your freshman student. At major events throughout the academic year there will be opportunities to network with other Freshman Parents. Most of all, put this calendar someplace where you will see it frequently and can benefit from its valuable information. Month by month, it will tell you what your son or daughter may be experiencing in this year of transition. You’ll also know when to expect them home at the end of the semester so you can stock the refrigerator! Good luck and again welcome. VCU is not only the biggest school in Virginia, we believe it’s the best. We’re glad you’re here. Annie Magnant Chair of Freshman Parent Association

The College Adjustment

University life is a continual process of change, growth and decision-making for students. A college student is faced with many issues and opportunities that may challenge present values or beliefs. As your student enters this stage, you as parents and family members may find the adjustment challenging and difficult. Students often need a greater degree of autonomy, yet at the same time expect just as much guidance and support from you as before. It may be difficult to accept the fact that you are not hearing as much as you’d like about your son or daughter’s progress at VCU. To narrow the information gap, some parents and family members impose qualifications on support: “Sure we can send you some money if you tell us more about your classes and the organization you just joined.” Such qualifications, however, rarely have the desired effect and may result in a lack of information from your son or daughter. Instead of imposing qualifications, now is the time to sharpen your listening skills and ask questions to clarify and enhance what you already know. You will no longer find yourself being as involved in the day-to-day affairs of your student; however, you will learn to

appreciate being asked for advice on larger personal decisions. Your moral support, active listening and willingness to share in important decisions are essential to your student’s progress. It is important to demonstrate your openness to changes regardless of whether you agree with those changes. The college years and accompanying experiences can be valuable for the entire family. Maintaining open channels of communication as your son or daughter develops into a mature, self-reliant adult can make these years and experiences even more enjoyable and rewarding.

Just Like Clockwork The Rhythm of College Life
Certain times in the academic year tend to be universally challenging to students. Parents who understand the ups and downs of the first college year are better able to help their students negotiate the challenges of transitions. Over the coming pages, we have highlighted some of the things you may encounter.

Change is challenging.

Adapted from Mullendore, R.H. and Hatch, C. (2000). Helping your first-year college student succeed: A guide for parents. Columbia, SC: OCM and Texas A & M University. (2000).

AugusT 2008
SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY
1

FRIDAY
2

SATURDAY

Beginnings...
Over the next year, your student will have many exciting and challenging experiences. As students begin their university careers, many are focused on adjusting to a new environment and developing new relationships. What families can do…

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

◽ Discuss family and student

expectations including your student’s personal and academic goals. student’s decision to attend VCU. to a new setting is a normal—and sometimes difficult—process. to protect you from their problems. to know their RAs.

◽ Communicate confidence in your ◽ Reassure them that adjustment

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

◽ Let your student know they don’t have ◽ Encourage on-campus students to get ◽ Be informed about campus resources
for crises and difficult times. Week events.

Move-In weekend Welcome Week Orientation/Registration for new students

17

18

19
Freshman Convocation

20

21
Fall classes begin

22

23

◽ Encourage attendance at Welcome ◽ Look for RamFam Newsletter for
freshmen parents.

Move-In weekend

Featured office
University college www.vcu.edu/uc

Welcome Week Add/Drop & late registration

24 31

25

26

27

28

29

30

Add/Drop & late registration
USC&A STUDENT EVENTS 8/19 Welcome Week Block Party (Monroe Park), 4 p.m. – 7 p.m. 8/20 Welcome Week All Hall Basketball 8/21 Salsa on the Plaza (Commons Plaza), 4 p.m. 8/22 Student Organization and Volunteer Opportunities (SOVO) Fair (Siegel Center), 3 p.m. – 7 p.m. 8/22 First RAM Friday (Student Commons), 7 p.m. – 1 a.m. 8/23 Back to School Jam, TBA STUDENT ACCOUNTING DATES 8/21 Payment due date for the fall 2008 semester for all advance registered students 8/27 Last day to drop classes and receive a 100% reduction of tuition and fees for the fall 2008 semester

sePTemBer 2008
SUNDAY
1

MONDAY
2

TUESDAY
3

WEDNESDAY
4

THURSDAY
5

FRIDAY
6

SATURDAY

getting started...
Classes have started and you may find your student is

University Closed

Incoming multicultural students have an opportunity to meet multicultural faculty and upper-class students. Plenty of information about the Office of Multicultural Student Affairs and other university services and organizations is available at events this week. Mosaic Week

◽ more comfortable with their living

situation or feels more homesickness and insecurity.

Labor Day

◽ adjusting to living with roommates. ◽ adapting to a more demanding, faster
paced academic environment.

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

◽ dealing with time management issues. ◽ nervous about upcoming papers,
projects and first exams.

What families can do…

◽ Ask them about their favorite class
or professor.

14

15
Hispanic Heritage Month (Sept. 15–Oct 15)

16

17

18

19

20

◽ Encourage them to take advantage
of their professors’ office hours. including time for relaxation.

◽ Encourage time management planning, ◽ Encourage involvement in campus ◽ Get information gently—“Tell me
organizations or part-time on-campus job for increased social support. about your friends” can be a good conversation starter. good problem-solving skills.

Fall Block Week Constitution Day

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

◽ Resist the urge to offer solutions! Build ◽ Make plans to attend Fall Fest.
Autumn begins

Featured office

Residential life & housing www.housing.vcu.edu

28

29

30

USC&A STUDENT EVENTS
9/3 Office of Student Organizations Open House (Lower Level of the Commons), 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. 9/6 Student Organization Leadership Conference (Student Commons), 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. 9/7 Jazz on the Green (MCV Campus Green), 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. 9/11–14 College Panhellenic Council Sorority Recruitment 9/20 Fall Block Step Show (Siegel Center), 6 p.m. 9/27 VCU Into the Streets Service Plunge (Student Commons), 9 a.m.

STUDENT ACCOUNTING DATES
9/3 9/10 917 9/23 Last day to withdraw from classes and receive an 80% reduction of tuition and the university fee for the fall 2008 semester Last day to withdraw from classes and receive a 60% reduction of tuition and the university fee for the fall 2008 semester Last day to withdraw from classes and receive a 40% reduction of tuition and the university fee for the fall 2008 semester Deadline to enroll in the Installment Payment Plan for the fall 2008 semester

STUDENT HEALTH DATES
September is National Recovery Month

oCToBer 2008
SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY
1

WEDNESDAY
2

THURSDAY
3

FRIDAY
4

SATURDAY

midterms are here
Midterms may cause anxiety and some late night cramming. Students discover which study habits work and which do not. Social pressures related to drinking, dating and sexual activity may confront your student. Exam results may bring increased confidence or feelings of failure and self-doubt. Students explore the balance of school demands with maintaining a satisfying social life. What families can do…

5

6

7

8
Fall Career Fair 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

9

10

11

◽ Send a care package. Food items and

spare change are always appreciated! frustrations as s/he continues to adjust. campus by reading the Commonwealth Times online. her academic advisor to evaluate his/her academic performance. and adherence to personal values. experience is not failing out.

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

◽ Listen to your student’s successes and ◽ Encourage your student’s interest in

◽ Encourage your student to contact his/

Reading Days—No Classes

◽ Express confidence in personal choices ◽ Don’t lose the big picture. A failing ◽ Attend Fall Fest.

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

Annual Friends of the Library Book Sale (Cabell Library) www.library.vcu.edu/development/fol/special_events.html Advising for spring Fall Fest

Featured office

University counseling Services www.students.vcu.edu/counseling

26
Fall Fest Family Pic Nic

27

28

29

30

31
Last day to withdraw with a “W” pg. 7

Fall Fest
USC&A STUDENT EVENTS 10/24 RAMMadness Basketball Season Kick-Off (Siegel Center), 7 p.m. STUDENT ACCOUNTING DATES 10/20 Second Installment Payment Plan due date for the fall 2008 semester STUDENT HEALTH DATES 10/20–24 National Collegiate Alcohol Awareness Week October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month

noVemBer 2008
SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY
1

SATURDAY

Lots to do...
November is often a stressful month for students socially, emotionally, academically and physically.

◽ Students experience increased academic
demands with projects that are due.

2

3
Spring registration

4

5

6

7

8

◽ Students express concerns about grades. ◽ Procrastinators may feel overwhelmed. ◽ Conflicts with roommates or friends may
increase as stress increases.

◽ Stress may be alleviated by exercise,

spiritual practice and social support, or exacerbated by drinking alcohol, poor eating habits and sleep deprivation.

Daylight Savings Ends

Election Day

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

◽ Financial worries or concerns may emerge. ◽ The novelty and excitement from school’s
start may seem very distant.

◽ Stress and fatigue may increase illness.
What families can do…

◽ Provide encouragement and support. ◽ Help alleviate unrealistic self-expectations
and clarify parental expectations.

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

◽ Reflect on your own past, when you were
your student’s age. What did you need?

◽ Encourage students to ask for help.

Featured office

University Student health Services www.students.vcu.edu/health

23 30

24

25

26

27

28

29

Thanksgiving Break
USC&A STUDENT EVENTS 11/4 Election Night Watch Party 11/8 Challenge Discovery Leadership Trip, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. 11/20 Winter Lights Celebration (Student Commons and Hunton Student Center), 7 p.m. – 8 p.m. STUDENT ACCOUNTING DATES 11/3 Advance Registration for spring semester begins 11/12 Third Installment Payment Plan due date for the fall 2008 semester

DeCemBer 2008
SUNDAY
1

MONDAY
2

TUESDAY
3

WEDNESDAY
4

THURSDAY
5

FRIDAY
6

SATURDAY

stress & Vacation
Final exams and projects can cause more anxiety for first year students who haven’t faced these challenges before. Students may express concerns about:

Last day of class

◽ finishing strong amidst the stress. ◽ how winter break may impact newly
established peer relationships.

7

8

9

10

11

12

13
December Commencement

◽ how changes made will be accepted
by family and friends back home. will be evaluated.

◽ how one’s first semester performance
What families can do…

Final Exams

◽ Encourage students to dig in for the end. ◽ Encourage exercise and participation in
Stress Relief Week.

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

◽ Send a care package or an encouraging

card. And don’t be offended if your student forgets to thank you! holiday plans.

◽ Include students and their friends in family ◽ Prepare to negotiate expectations around
your student’s return home when students’ burgeoning independence may conflict with family rules and expectations.

Final Exams

21

22

23

24

25

26

27
Holiday intersession classes begin

home sweet home. thanks for sharing your student with us this semester, we hope you enjoy them over break! See you in 2009.

Winter begins

University Closed

28

29

30

31

University Closed
STUDENT ACCOUNTING DATES 12/8 Fourth Installment Payment Plan due date for the fall 2008 semester STUDENT HEALTH DATES 12/1–5 Stress Relief Week

JAnuAry 2009
SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY
1

THURSDAY
2

FRIDAY
3

SATURDAY

more beginnings...
Winter break may influence how students return to school. Students may:

◽ worry about motivation based on past

University Closed

performance and academic confidence.

◽ question major and career choices based ◽ worry about maintaining fall semester
friendships while expanding their friendship circles.

4

5

6

7

8

9
Holiday intersession classes end

10

on first semester experiences and grades.

What families can do…

◽ Encourage your student to capitalize on
a new semester while learning from fall semester mistakes. activities and programs including Homecoming. affairs support services to hone academic and social skills.

University Closed

Orientation/Registration for new students

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

◽ Encourage new involvement in campus ◽ Encourage use of academic and student ◽ Encourage your student to explore
possible majors through course selection, volunteer experience and internships.

Add/drop and late registration

18

19
University closed Martin Luther King, Jr. Birthday

20

21

22

23

24

Featured offices

University Student commons & activities www.usca.vcu.edu University career center www.students.vcu.edu/careers University college www.vcu.edu/uc
Add/Drop & late registration

25

26

27

28

29

30

31
VCU Homecoming Game

Homecoming
USC&A STUDENT EVENTS 1/14 Spring Student Organization and Volunteer Opportunities (SOVO) Fair (Commonwealth Ballroom), 1 p.m. – 2 p.m. 1/24 Student Organization Leadership Conference (Student Commons), 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. 1/25 – Feb. 1 VCU Homecoming Celebration 2009 1/31 Chill & Grill STUDENT ACCOUNTING DATES 1/12 Payment due date for the spring 2009 semester for all advance registered students 1/18 Last day to drop classes and receive a 100% reduction of tuition and fees for the spring 2009 semester 1/25 Last day to withdraw from classes and receive an 80% reduction of tuition and fees for the spring 2009 semester

FeBruAry 2009
SUNDAY
1 2

MONDAY
3

TUESDAY
4

WEDNESDAY
5

THURSDAY
6

FRIDAY
7

SATURDAY

no winter blues...
With the semester well underway now, your student can expect:
Black History Month Homecoming

◽ Pressure to keep up with assignments. ◽ Using time management skills to beat
procrastination.

8

9

10

11
Spring Career Fair 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

12

13

14

◽ Balancing academic responsibilities with
extracurricular activities.

◽ Relationships beginning and ending as
Valentine’s Day approaches. the sunniest dispositions. and pains.

◽ Dreary winter weather challenging even ◽ Cold and flu season bringing aches ◽ Spring break planning continuing in earnest.
What families can do…

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

◽ Surprise your student(s). ◽ Support balancing and approaching
tasks rather than avoiding them.

◽ Invite your student(s) to share stories
Month programs.

about their friends and acquaintances.

◽ Encourage exploration of Black History ◽ Discuss Spring Break plans. Support
good choices and values.

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

◽ Ask about summer plans.

Featured office

office of multicultural Student affairs www.omsa.vcu.edu

February is full of events celebrating Black hiStoRy month. There’s something going on almost every day. For more information, check out the calendar at

www.omsa.vcu.edu.

STUDENT HEALTH DATES 2/23–27 Healthy Relationships Week

STUDENT ACCOUNTING DATES 2/1 Last day to withdraw from classes and receive a 60% reduction of tuition and fees for the spring 2009 semester 2/8 Last day to withdraw from classes and receive a 40% reduction of tuition and fees for the spring 2009 semester 2/9 Deadline to enroll in the Installment Payment Plan for the spring 2009 semester

mArCh 2009
SUNDAY
1 2

MONDAY
3

TUESDAY
4

WEDNESDAY
5

THURSDAY
6

FRIDAY
7

SATURDAY

spring is coming...
Though midterms are around the corner, this is also the point when many plans are being made. Your student may:
Women’s History Month

◽ be planning for the fall semester, ◽ be considering new roommates. ◽ be finalizing Spring Break plans, ◽ begin planning for the summer. ◽ be enjoying warmer weather and
addressing winter weight gain.

including thinking about classes and financial aid.

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

including vacations, Alternative Spring Break, returning home or working.

Daylight savings begins

Spring Break

15

16

17

18

19

20
Last day to withdraw a “W” pg. 7

21

What families can do…

◽ Discuss next year’s living options. Listen

to your student’s ideas and encourage them to gather information about options.

◽ Encourage advice from academic advisors. ◽ Encourage balance and stress relief.

22

23
Summer registration begins

24

25

26

27

28

Featured office

University college, advising www.vcu.edu/uc

Weekend with Habitat Advising for fall semester

29

30
Fall registration begins

31

Intercultural Festival Week
USC&A STUDENT EVENTS 3/2 Moving On, Moving Out, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. 3/17 Moving On, Moving Out, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. 3/22–28 STRUT Fashion Week 3/24 & 25 Monroe Park Campus Grad Finale, 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. 3/28 STRUT Fashion Show (Siegel Center), 6 p.m. STUDENT ACCOUNTING DATES 3/5 Second Installment Payment Plan due date for the spring 2009 semester

APriL 2009
SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY
1

WEDNESDAY
2

THURSDAY
3

FRIDAY
4

SATURDAY

Finals are coming...
This can be a taxing month with project deadlines and class presentations, not to mention other considerations.
Intercultural Festival Week

◽ Spring fever may infect some students,
leading to more play and less work. choosing a career may linger.

5
Intercultural Festival

6

7

8

9

10

11

◽ Concerns about selecting a major and ◽ End of the semester social and
What families can do…
extracurricular activities are picking up.
Intercultural Festival Week

◽ Encourage approaching the end of the ◽ Promote outdoor physical activity. ◽ Attend the Intercultural Festival and
get a taste of VCU’s diversity.

semester with hard work, optimism and an attitude of doing one’s best.

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

Featured office

Recreational Sports www.recsports.vcu.edu

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

28
Last day of classes

29
Reading day

30

Final exams
USC&A STUDENT EVENTS 4/1 Moving On, Moving Out, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. 4/2 Off Campus Living Fair, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. 4/5 Intercultural Festival, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. 4/16 Larry Brown Step Show (Landmark), 7 p.m. 4/18 4th Annual VCU Relay for Life (Cary Street Field), 11 a.m. 4/23 Leadership and Service Awards (Commonwealth Ballroom), 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. 4/24 Spring Ball sponsored by Activities Programming Board (Richmond Convention Center) STUDENT ACCOUNTING DATES 4/1 Third Installment Payment Plan due date for the spring 2009 semester 4/27 Fourth Installment Payment Plan due date for the spring 2009 semester STUDENT HEALTH DATES 4/20–24 Stress Relief Week April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month

mAy 2009
SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY
1

FRIDAY
2

SATURDAY

wrapping up...
In the midst of final exams, it’s also a time to:

◽ evaluate the last two semesters:

Final exams

personal and academic achievements; friendships; opportunities gained and lost; balance between academics, social life and extracurricular activities; and financial management. maintaining university friendships.

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

◽ reconnect with old friends while

◽ feel sadness over separation from friends
or romantic interests for the summer.

Final exams

What families can do…

10

11

12

13

14

15

16
Commencement

◽ Discuss summer living arrangements
and expectations.

◽ Assist in reviewing accomplishments,
challenges, growth points and adjustments for next year.

◽ Encourage attendance at graduation

to capture the excitement and envision the goal.

17

18
Summer Session begins

19

20

21

22

23

Featured office

Records and Registration www.vcu.edu/enroll

24 31

25
University Closed

26

27

28

29

30

Memorial Day

June 2009
SUNDAY
1

MONDAY
2

TUESDAY
3

WEDNESDAY
4

THURSDAY
5

FRIDAY
6

SATURDAY

what to expect...
Some tips from the National Orientation Directors Association about dealing with the first year.* Rule 1—Don’t ask if they are homesick. Some homesickness is normal. Avoid the power of association. Encourage involvement on campus. Rule 2—Write, e-mail, text message or call (even if they don’t write or call back) New students, despite new found independence, are still anxious to maintain family ties and the security those ties represent. Rule 3—Ask questions (but not too many) Convey your interest in your student’s life. Use communication to strengthen connection. Rule 4—Expect change (but not too much) You can’t stop change, you may not ever understand it, but it is within your power (and to your student’s advantage) to accept change. Maturation takes time, be patient.

7

8
Summer Session II begins

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22
Summer Session III begins

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

JuLy 2009
SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY
1

WEDNESDAY
2

THURSDAY
3

FRIDAY
4

SATURDAY

what to expect...
Rule 5—Don’t worry (too much) about emotional phone calls, e-mails or text messages. The first year has many hills and valleys. You provide a real service as a referral agent to resources on campus, supporter for help-seeking, sympathetic ear, and sometimes punching bag. It’s a service that may necessitate your call to some supportive other, but works wonders for a frustrated or overwhelmed student. When in doubt, consult a professional—University Counseling Services, the Associate Vice Provost for Student Affairs and Dean of Students or New Student Programs. Rule 6—Visit (but not too often) Visits accompanied by meals out and shopping sprees are often greatly appreciated while spur of the moment surprises can be dicey.
VCU Day

University Closed

Independence Day

5

6

7

8

9
Summer Session IV begins

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20
Summer Session V begins

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

31

AugusT 2009
SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY
1

SATURDAY

what to expect...
Rule 7—Do not tell your student that these are “the best years of their lives.” The first year of university life can be full of indecision, insecurities, disappointments and, most of all, mistakes. These years are also full of discovery, inspiration, good times and friendships. Accept and understand these highs and lows by providing support and encouragement consistently. Rule 8—Trust them Finding oneself is a difficult enough process without feeling that the people whose opinions matter most are second-guessing your own second-guessing.

2

3

4

5

6

7
Summer classes end

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

Move-In weekend

16

17

18

19

20
Fall classes begin

21

22

Move-In weekend Welcome Week

23 30

24 31

25

26

27

28

29

The College Adjustment
the differences Between high School & college
high School
Teacher/Student Contact Competition/Grades Status Counseling/Dependence Contact closer and more frequent (five days a week). Academic competition is not as strong; good grades often can be obtained with minimal effort. Students establish a personal status in academic and social activities based on family and community factors. Students can rely on parents, teachers and counselors to help make decisions and give advice. Students must abide by parental boundaries and restrictions. Students receive stimulation to achieve or participate from parents, teachers and counselors. Students’ freedom is limited. Parents will often help students if a crisis arises. There are distractions from school, but these are partially controlled by school and home. Students often make value judgments based on parental values; thus, many of their value judgments are made for them.

college
Faculty are available during office hours (posted hours each week) and by appointment to address students’ concerns. Academic competition is much stronger; minimal effort may produce poor grades. Students can build their status as they wish; high school status can be repeated or changed. Students rely on themselves; they see the results of making their own decisions. It is their responsibility to seek advice as needed. Students set their own restrictions. Students apply their own motivation to their work and activities as they wish. Students have much more freedom and must accept responsibility for their own actions. The opportunity for more distractions exists. Time management will become more important. Students have the opportunity to see the world through their own eyes and develop their own opinions and values.

Motivation Freedom Distractions Value Judgments

Adapted from Mullendore, R.H. and Hatch, C. (2000). Helping your first-year college student succeed: A guide for parents. Columbia, SC: OCM and Texas A & M University. (2000).

ConTenTs
Important Web Addresses & Phone Numbers The ABC’s of VCU & the Surrounding Community Offices and Information Worth Knowing Academic Honors Academic Status Dining Services Disability Support Services Division of Student Affairs & Enrollment Services Enrollment Services—Access to Records Enrollment Services—Student Accounting Enrollment Services—Withdrawal Honor System Judicial Affairs and Academic Integrity New Student Programs Office of Multicultural Student Affairs Parking Recreational Sports Residential Life & Housing Safety Schools Student Media Technology Services University Career Center University College University Counseling Services University Student Commons & Activities University Student Health Services USHS—The Wellness Resource Center A Parent's Guide to Roommates Campus Map 7 7 7 8 8 8 9 11 11 11 11 11 11 12 12 13 13 13 13 13 14 14 14 15 16 16 17 2 3

PArenT AssoCiATion
VcU Freshman Parent association
The Freshman Parent Association at Virginia Commonwealth University exists to provide parents and supporting family members an active role in the education of their student(s), by providing a forum for networking with other parents. It also seeks to further the educational goals of VCU by improving communication between parents and the university. The Freshman Parent Association serves as a resource for parents seeking general information about the university and student life by recognizing parents as a valuable resource group.

Purpose
◽ To inform parents of VCU’s programs, facilities, services and needs by publishing a newsletter ◽ To sponsor programs and events for freshmen parents so they may become better acquainted with VCU ◽ To serve as a liaison between freshmen parents and the entire university community ◽ To recognize freshmen parents as a valuable resource group and invite them to contribute their resources in various ways to the welfare of VCU ◽ To foster a spirit of loyalty among freshmen parents

Check out www.vcu.edu/uc/parents to learn how to become involved in the Freshman Parent Association. We hope that you choose to participate and, most importantly, become an active member.

www.vcu.edu

1

imPoRtant WeB addReSSeS & Phone nUmBeRS
Admissions, Office of Undergraduate Allied Health Professions, School of Anderson Gallery Arts, School of the Athletics Bookstores Business, School of Campus Police Communications & Public Relations Cooperative Education Program Dentistry, School of Dining Services Disability Support Services Education, School of Engineering, School of Financial Aid Graduate School G2GMobile@VCU Honors College Housing, Campus Housing, Off-Campus Human Resource Division Humanities and Sciences, College of Instructional Development Center International Education, Office of Libraries (VCU Libraries) Mail Services www.ugrad.vcu.edu views.vcu.edu/sahp www.vcu.edu/artweb/gallery www.vcu.edu/artweb www.vcuathletics.com www.bsv.vcu.edu/retailstr www.business.vcu.edu www.vcu.edu/police www.news.vcu.edu www.pubinfo.vcu.edu/dsa/ coop www.dentistry.vcu.edu www.bsv.vcu.edu/vcufood www.students.vcu.edu/dss www.soe.vcu.edu www.egr.vcu.edu www.vcu.edu/enroll/finaid www.graduate.vcu.edu http://g2g.vcu.edu www.honors.vcu.edu www.housing.vcu.edu www.usca.vcu.edu/offcampus www.hr.vcu.edu www.has.vcu.edu www.vcu.edu/mdcweb www.vcu.edu/oie www.library.vcu.edu www.bsv.vcu.edu/mailsrv 828-8471 828-1101 or (866) VCU-BOOK 828-3868 828-1222 or (800) 841-3638 828-7247 828-1522 828-2787 or (866) 534-3201 828-4000, tix: 828-RAMS MPC: 828-1678 MCV: 828-0336 828-1595 Mass Communications, School of Medicine, School of Military Sciences (ROTC) Multicultural Student Affairs, Office of New Student Programs Nursing, School of Parking & Transportation Pharmacy, School of Police, Campus RamCam Records & Registration Recreational Sports Social Work, School of Sports Center Student Accounting Student Affairs and Enrollment Services, Division of Student Services Centers Technology Services Help Desk University Career Center University College University Counseling Services University Student Commons & Activities VCUCard VCU Libraries Wellness Resource Center www.has.vcu.edu/mac www.medschool.vcu.edu www.has.vcu.edu/mil www.omsa.vcu.edu www.vcu.edu/uc/nsp www.nursing.vcu.edu www.bsv.vcu.edu/vcupark www.pharmacy.vcu.edu www.vcu.edu/police www.vcu.edu/ramcam www.vcu.edu/enroll/rar www.recsports.vcu.edu www.vcu.edu/slwweb www.vcu.edu/sportscenter www.vcu.edu/enroll/sa www.students.vcu.edu www.vcu.edu/enroll/ssc www.ts.vcu.edu/helpdesk www.students.vcu.edu/careers www.vcu.edu/uc www.students.vcu.edu/ counseling www.usca.vcu.edu www.students.vcu.edu/health www.vcucard.com www.library.vcu.edu www.thewell.vcu.edu/l 828-2660 828-9000 828-7682 828-6672 828-3700 828-0724 828-8726 828-3000 828-1177 827-1100 828-1030 828-7821 828-2228 828-1244 828-1349 828-2227 828-1645 827-UNIV (8648) 828-6200 828-1981 MPC: 828-8828 MCV: 828-9220 MPC: 827-CARD (2273) MCV: 628-CARD (2273) Emergency: 828-1234 Non-Emergency: 828-1196 828-1349

Emergency: 828-1234 Non-Emergency: 828-1196 828-1231 828-1645 828-9184 828-1148 828-2253 828-3382 828-3925 828-6669 828-6916

828-3018
828-1803 828-7666 828-7205 828-0177 828-1674

University Student Health Services

828-1101 or (866) VCU-BOOK

828-9355

www.vcu.edu

2

the aBc’S oF VcU & the SURRoUnding commUnity
anderson gallery
9011/2 W. Franklin St.

carytown

Carytown runs along Cary Street from Thompson Street to Boulevard and is home to many funky retail stores, restaurants and cafés. For essentials, there are grocery stores, drug stores and banks. Be sure to head to the historic Byrd Theater for a $2 movie. On Saturday nights, there’s even a Wurlitzer organ played before the show.

Since 1971, VCU’s Anderson Gallery has become one of the most significant venues for contemporary art in the Southeast. Well-known for presenting the work of nationally and internationally renowned artists, emerging figures and regional names, the Anderson Gallery mounts exhibitions that explore currents in contemporary art and design. Recent exhibitions have included work by such noted artists as: Yoko Ono, Gregory Crewdson, Teresita Fernandez, Sally Mann, Gregory Barsamian, Jim Campbell and Heide Fasnacht. Previous guest curators have included Edward Albee and John Yau. The gallery also houses work by student artists for thesis and graduate exhibitions each year.

church hill

Church Hill is the oldest residential neighborhood in the city and provides some excellent views of downtown Richmond. St. John’s Church, where Patrick Henry gave his “give me liberty or give me death” speech, is at the heart of the neighborhood, and the speech is reenacted regularly. Wander the quiet streets around the parks or visit during the Italian or Irish festivals.

the commons

Barnes & noble college Booksellers

www.usca.vcu.edu • 907 Floyd Ave. • 828-1981

The VCU Barnes & Noble College Booksellers is the main bookstore carrying course materials, study aids, reference materials, general books and magazines. Students and their families can pick up VCU sweatshirts, T-shirts and all sorts of other items to show their school spirit. If you’re hungry, grab a snack or a Quizno’s sub and relax in the Bookmark Bistro.

Broad Street

This may be the most important street to know when you come to Richmond. It runs east past the MCV Campus, up to Church Hill and west through the Monroe Park Campus, continuing to the major retail developments at Short Pump and beyond. In fact, if you continue to follow it west as it becomes Route 250, you could travel as far as Sandusky, Ohio.

Byrd Park/maymont

Byrd Park is a 200-acre public park located just north of the James River with a fitness/ running track, monuments, an amphitheater, and three small lakes: Shields, Swan and Fountain lakes. There are tennis courts, baseball fields and a fenced dog park. Byrd Park also is home to the historic Carillon and the Dogwood Dell outdoor amphitheater. Located adjacent to Byrd Park, Maymont is a 100-acre Victorian estate and park with formal gardens, wildlife exhibits, a nature center and the Maymont Children’s Farm. All of the regular attractions are free and house tours are available.

The University Student Commons is the main student life facility for the Monroe Park Campus. “The Commons,” located in the heart of VCU’s Monroe Park campus, is a great place to meet up with friends, host an event, get involved, or study. The Park Place Food Court, Commons Café and Common Convenience provide a wide variety of dining options without having to leave campus. Also located in the Lower Level of the Commons is Break Point, the university’s game room with pool tables, games and the widely popular Thunder Bowl. At the Commons, students can find the following offices: Off Campus Student Services, Student Organization Development, USC&A Administrative Office, USC&A Student Programming Office, University Career Center, University Counseling Services, Disability Support Services, the Office of Multicultural Student Affairs and the Monroe Park Student Government Association.

ct

The Commonwealth Times is the student press of VCU and is published twice a week during the school year on Mondays and Thursdays. Sections of the CT include News, Sports, Op/ Ed (opinion) and Spectrum, which covers arts and entertainment. The CT can be read online at www.commonwealthtimes.com.

campus connector

dining on campus

The Greater Richmond Transit Company (GRTC) operates three transit routes on the VCU campus. These routes provide intercampus service between VCU’s Monroe Park Campus and the MCV Campus to students, faculty and staff. The VCU Medical Center route provides transit service between the VCU Medical Center and other points on the MCV Campus. For schedule and route information, visit www.bsv.vcu.edu/vcupark.

Students may purchase dining plans, whether or not they live on campus. There are a wide variety of dining options conveniently available at the heart of both campuses, including Park Place and the Commons Café in the University Student Commons, the Shafer Court Dining Center with both take-out and dine-in options, Starbucks in Cabell Library, Quizno’s in the Barnes & Noble Bookstore, Hideaway Café in Hunton Hall—not to mention a variety of retail restaurants around both campuses that accept RamBucks.

www.vcu.edu

3

Fall Fest—VcU’s Family Weekend

Join the fun at the VCU Fall Fest, a great opportunity for new students and their families to enjoy VCU and Richmond and celebrate the university’s remarkable diversity, history and energetic growth. Highlights include tours of VCU and historic Richmond sites, RamMadness basketball kick-off, the VCU Class Ring Ceremony, concerts, The Rocky Horror Picture Show, mini academic lectures, School of the Arts showcases and much more. Beyond VCU’s expanding campuses, Richmond offers a wide array of cultural opportunities and experiences. Visit www.vcu.edu/fallfest for more information and schedules.

ginter house
901 W. Franklin St.

The Ginter House is the main administrative building on the Monroe Park Campus. It houses the offices of Financial Aid, the Provost and others. It is named for cigarette magnate Major Lewis Ginter (1824-1897), one of Virginia’s wealthiest men who developed Richmond’s Ginter Park neighborhood and commissioned the Jefferson Hotel.

grace Street

Fan

Alumni and other Richmonders remember Grace Street as a very different place than it is now. These days, the street is at the heart of VCU’s development. For instance, the Grace Street Theater is used for classes and dance performances, and there are plans to add more university buildings while also keeping the current mix of restaurants and eclectic retail.

The Fan, named for the pattern of tree-lined streets that fan out westward from Monroe Park, is one of the nation’s largest intact Victorian neighborhoods and a popular place for VCU students to live. Stunning mansions in a wide variety of architectural styles line picturesque Monument Avenue. The area also includes many small neighborhood restaurants and shops.

hibbs hall

For VCU, Hibbs Hall is both something old and new. Alumni will remember it as a classroom building and dining hall. A couple of years ago, the school gutted and updated this building with high-tech classrooms and offices for the University College and various departments.

First Fridays

First Fridays has become Richmond’s fastest-growing arts event and a Richmond tradition. The art and performances that fill the galleries along Broad Street and beyond range from work by VCU student artists, notable Richmond artists and even nationally recognized artists. The popularity of First Fridays has been instrumental in speeding the revitalization of Richmond’s downtown.

hollywood cemetery

Founders hall

Founders Hall was originally a house when it was built in the late 19th century. Later, it was part of the Richmond Professional Institute, which became VCU in 1968 and it is now home to Student Accounting and others.

Hollywood Cemetery is a short walk from the Monroe Park Campus. In addition to its hills and scenic views of the river, it is the resting place for two U.S. presidents, Jefferson Davis and other notable figures. Among its features is a ninety-foot-high granite pyramid built as a memorial to more than 18,000 Confederate soldiers who are buried there. There are also local legends about certain tombs, grave sites and the ghosts that haunt various mausoleums. Be sure to look for a black iron statue of a dog standing watch over a little girl’s grave.

homecoming

French Film Festival

Every spring since 1993, French filmmakers, producers and actors make a trip across the Atlantic to showcase their films and answer questions from the festival’s audience. So when you buy a ticket for a movie at this festival, a trip inside the filmmaker’s heart and mind comes along with it. For two weeks, at the largest French film festival outside of France, cultural lines are blurred as Richmond is treated to a slice of French life.

Homecoming is celebrated during the Rams basketball season. It has grown into one of VCU’s most popular traditions, featuring tailgate parties, parades, dances, the crowning of a king and queen, talent shows and, of course, pep rallies.

hunton Student center

Fraternity & Sorority life

Fraternities and sororities truly offer a home away from home experience for many students at VCU. Membership in a fraternity or sorority provides opportunities for leadership development, academic achievement, overall campus involvement and social networking. VCU is home to more than 30 fraternities and sororities, and students can join most chapters in the first semester of their freshman year, with a high school GPA of 2.75 or higher. For more information on Fraternity and Sorority Life at VCU, go to www.usca.vcu.edu/greeklife or call 804-828-4685.

Hunton Student Center, a national historical landmark, began life in 1841 as First Baptist Church. In December of 1938, The Medical College of Virginia (later VCU) acquired the church building which officially became the first student center for the university. In 2007, a $5 million renovation of the facility was completed. When students on the MCV Campus need a break between classes, they know to head over to Hunton Student Center for a great place to eat, study or hang out!

www.vcu.edu

4

intercultural Festival (icF)

As one of the most diverse college campuses in the country, there’s a lot of culture to be celebrated at VCU. Over the past few years, ICF has grown to become one of VCU’s favorite spring traditions. It now includes more than 30 student cultural organizations and attracts thousands of festival-goers from the entire Richmond community who enjoy performances, exhibits, student art shows, international cuisine, fashion shows, parades, dance lessons and children’s activities.

monroe Park

Jackson Ward

Monroe Park is Richmond’s oldest and most significant park. Statues in the park include Joseph Bryan, General Fitzhugh Lee and Confederate General Williams Carter Wickham. The Victorian-era fountain at the center of the park was completely renovated in 2004. Though the park was a major training and camp ground for Confederate troops during the Civil War, it is now a popular spot for VCU students to relax and play frisbee.

This historic neighborhood is home to 19th- and 20th-century urban row houses, the Maggie Walker House and a statue of famed Richmond-born dancer Bill "Bojangles" Robinson. Jackson Ward has become popular with students who live off campus. First Fridays are a great time to check out the area when the gallery crowds spill over to some of the spaces off Broad Street. If you are craving fried seafood or other classic southern cooking, Jackson Ward is a good place to find it.

James River

In addition to the galleries in and around VCU, Richmond offers a wide array of museums, including the Valentine Richmond History Center, Virginia Historical Society, the Children’s Museum of Richmond, the Science Museum of Virginia, the Poe Museum, the Virginia Holocaust Memorial, Tredegar Iron Works and the Museum of the Confederacy. The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts in the heart of the Museum District is currently undergoing a substantial expansion and renovation.

museums

The James runs through the heart of Richmond, forming one of the most scenic urban outdoors in the country. Kayakers can find some of the only Class IV rapids in an urban area, while walkers can find some great trails. On sunny days from spring through fall, it’s easy to find people lingering on the rocks to relax and catch some sun.

nickel Bridge

It costs 35 cents now, and this locally famous bridge is officially known as the Boulevard Bridge. It goes from Byrd Park to the South Side where you can check out Forest Hill Park and sections of the James River Park System.

The James River Park System is broken into seven unique sections on both banks. The park system is considered one of the gems of the city with woods, islands, meadows, wildlife and excellent fishing. The trails provide excellent biking and hiking alternatives for all skill levels. For a close visit from VCU’s campuses, head to Belle Isle, which can be reached from the northside of the river by the footbridge under the Lee Bridge. The island is the site of a notorious Civil War prison and the remains of a historic iron foundry are still visible.

oregon hill

Oregon Hill borders the Monroe Park Campus to the south. This neighborhood of quiet tree-lined streets is home to an eclectic mix of long-time residents, students and gentrifiers. The neighborhood is home to the popular Mamma Zu’s restaurant and one of Richmond’s two farmers’ markets.

landmark theater

Pumphouse–3-mile lock Park

Longtime Richmonders still call this theater “The Mosque.” It is home to concerts by the Richmond Symphony and Richmond Ballet, and hosts concerts by many nationally and internationally known music and theater acts. Tucked between Monroe Park and the University Student Commons, it is one of the most recognizable buildings on the Monroe Park Campus. VCU Libraries is composed of two main libraries; the James Branch Cabell Library on the Monroe Park Campus and Tompkins-McCaw Library for the Health Sciences on the MCV Campus and supplementary operations. The libraries hold more than 1.97 million volumes, almost 24,000 journal and other serial titles and more than 3.18 million microforms as well as film, video, sound, manuscript, comic and book art collections. Services available at VCU Libraries include research assistance, education services, borrowing materials from other libraries, collaboration space for students and faculty, and computers and media equipment. Each library houses a café featuring Starbucks coffee, drinks and light snacks.

On the edge of Byrd Park, the impressive Victorian Gothic Pumphouse still stands where it was built in 1883—and abandoned in 1924. Still plainly visible are stone locks used on the James River and Kanawha Canal. One structure, a stone arch, is part of the original canal built in 1789. George Washington passed through here when he traveled this section in 1791. Open during daylight hours.

libraries

Rammadness

Join us to celebrate the VCU Rams for the new season! Meet the men’s and women’s basketball teams, coaching staff, Rodney the Ram, the dance team and cheerleaders. Students can sign up to win great prizes like free tuition, books and parking. Better yet, it’s part of Fall Fest, so you’ll already be on campus for the weekend!

Residential Villages

The Residential Villages are an exciting way for incoming freshmen who share common interests, to interact both in and outside of class. All Residential Villages focus special attention on first-year students, provide a built-in academic and social support system, and help form lasting friendships, great memories and a sense of community.

www.vcu.edu

5

Richmond Folk Festival

The National Folk Festival, begun in 1934, moves to a new city every three years and arrived in Richmond in 2005. It has brought a remarkable array of performers to Richmond, from roots music homegrown in the hills of southwestern Virginia, to Asian throat singers. It was such a success that local organizers are continuing an annual, locallyproduced festival from Oct. 10-12. So head down to the Brown’s Island area for stellar music and cultural demonstrations.

Slave trail

Part of the James River Park System, the trail starts at Ancarrow’s Landing and follows the path slaves took to the docks to be sold. The walk is 1.3 miles in length, and city groups offer tours from time to time.

StRUt

Rodney the Ram Shafer court

The VCU mascot, Rodney makes regular appearances at VCU sporting events—and you’ll have plenty of chances to meet him at Fall Fest. Home to the crossroads of the Monroe Park Campus, this common area between the awardwinning Shafer Court Dining Center, Cabell Library, Hibbs Hall, the Shafer Playhouse and the Singleton Center bustles with activity throughout the day. Alumni and others may remember when concerts happened here, and when the streets still had cars rather than students traveling along it.

Every spring, VCU students look forward to the STRUT Fashion Show. It is an annual tradition that brings together students in fashion design, fashion marketing, graphic design, student models and local retail stores to create an innovative and explosive show. This exhibition of brains, talent, and ingenuity is a synergy of student ideas and is unique to VCU as well as the Richmond Community. Everyone with an interest in the arts is guaranteed to be entertained. STRUT Fashion Week kicks off with five days of makeovers, panel discussions and contests leading up to this campus extravaganza!

Student art Space

Shockoe Bottom and Shockoe Slip

Shockoe Bottom is a scenic area of old warehouses and cobbled streets on the east side of Richmond. Centered around the historic 17th Street Market, “the Bottom” as it’s known is a destination for nightlife and restaurants, such as Bottom’s Up Pizza and Millie’s. It is also home to the Poe and Holocaust museums.

The Student Art Space is a gallery located in the University Student Commons. The space provides a forum for students to exhibit their artwork and learn about gallery management. Exhibits are coordinated by the student art space organization.

tuition Payment and Refunds

Just west of the Bottom, Shockoe Slip runs up the hill along Cary Street. It is a destination for restauraunts, including a mix of old Richmond favorites and more recent national chains like Morton’s and Buffalo Wild Wings. It is also a short walk to the Canal Walk.

Shopping

Short Pump. Regency. Stony Point. Carytown. These are three of the likely destinations you or your students will think of when it comes to necessities and splurges in the Richmond area.

Payment for tuition, room, board and other university fees is generally due on the first day of the semester. These charges may be paid in four installments throughout the semester. The first payment of one-quarter of the amount owed plus a non-refundable $25 application fee must be paid at the beginning of the semester. Additional information will be enclosed with the invoices. Refunds for drops or withdrawals are computed based on the actual drop or withdrawal date certified by the Office of Records and Registration according to the University Refund Policy. Refunds are not made to students who do not attend classes and have not completed the required withdrawal procedure. Students and parents are encouraged to review the Student Financial Responsibility section which is available on the Student Accounting Web site.

the Siegel center

VcUcard

One of the most recognizable buildings on Broad Street, the Siegel Center provides an arena for sporting events, concerts and career fairs; a recreational center for weight and fitness training, aerobics, volleyball and basketball; and administrative offices for Recreational Sports and the Department of Athletics.

Sitterding house

Students are required to carry their VCUCard at all times. The card serves as a library card, provides security access to some VCU buildings and is accepted for meal plans, debit payment for merchants on and off campus, and for photocopying, printing and using laundry facilities in the residence halls. The VCUCard can be used to travel on the Monroe Park Campus and MCV Campus shuttles. It also can be used for access to Wachovia Bank services. For parking subscribers, the VCUCard is used for access to the parking decks.

Sitterding House is the last standing house at the heart of the Monroe Park Campus. It houses the offices of the Vice Provost for Student Affairs & Enrollment Services, the Dean of Students and the Associate Vice Provost for Enrollment Services.

www.vcu.edu

6

Welcome Week

Starting college is stressful enough—the packing and unpacking, meeting new roommates and leaving home for the first time. Welcome Week is here to help make the transition as smooth—and as fun—as possible. Events run the gamut, from college survival classes to the Foam Dance Party, karaoke, rafting trips, and of course the All Hall Basketball and Fitness Frenzy.

Work Study

Academic Warning: A student is placed on academic warning when the student’s cumulative GPA falls below 2.0 (grade “C”) at the conclusion of any semester of attendance (fall, spring or summer). Notification of warning appears on the student’s academic record. A degreeseeking student on academic warning may not enroll in more than 14 credits per semester of attendance except under unusual circumstances and with permission of the dean or designee of the school or college in which the student is enrolled. A student remains on academic warning for one semester of attendance, at the end of which time the student must obtain a cumulative GPA of at least 2.0. Failure to achieve this GPA results in academic probation. Academic Probation: A student is placed on academic probation when the student’s cumulative GPA falls below 2.0 for two successive semesters of attendance. Notification of probation appears on the student’s academic record. A degree-seeking student on academic probation may not enroll for more than 13 credits per semester of attendance. Students on academic probation are expected to improve their cumulative GPA by achieving a semester GPA of 2.0 or better during each semester of attendance. A student who achieves a cumulative GPA of at least a 2.0 is removed from academic probation. Failure to achieve a 2.0 semester GPA while on probation results in academic suspension.

Part-time job opportunities are posted in the VCU Career Center. Federal Work-Study job listings are posted at www.students.vcu.edu/ careers/jobs. Note: A Federal Work-Study award by Financial Aid does not guarantee employment.

Several departments hire students directly. For instance, the University Student Commons & Activities employs approximately 50 students, and Residential Life & Housing employs approximately 150 students. Other campus employers include Recreational Sports, VCU Libraries, bookstores and administrative and academic departments.

Students who work on campus 10–15 hours a week often see their grades improve. Working part-time on campus also helps students develop skills in time management, setting priorities and assuming responsibilities. Some students continue working for several semesters with a particular campus employer, gaining more and more responsibility and excellent on-the-job training.

oFFiceS and inFoRmation WoRth knoWing
academic honors
Dean’s List: The Dean's List is a recognition of superior academic performance. A student is placed on the Dean’s List for each term in which he or she earns a grade point average of at least 3.5, based on a minimum load of 12 term credits excluding courses graded credit/non-credit, with no grade below a “C.” A notation is placed on the student's permanent academic record. Students earning marks of “Incomplete” or “Progress” are not eligible for the Dean’s List for the term in which these grades were earned. Graduation Honors: Candidates for the baccalaureate degree who complete at least 45 credits at VCU may qualify for graduation honors. Calculation of the grade point average (GPA) for honors is based on grades received for all courses taken for a credit at VCU, as well as accepted transfer credits. To qualify, a student's cumulative GPA for courses taken for credit at VCU must be at least as high as the minimum requirement for the specific honor bestowed. Cum Laude is awarded for a GPA of 3.3 to 3.59. Magna Cum Laude is awarded for a GPA of 3.6 to 3.89. Summa Cum Laude is awarded for a GPA of 3.9 or better. For additional information, please refer to the Undergraduate Bulletin.

Academic Suspension: A student is placed on academic suspension when the student’s cumulative GPA is below 2.0 for two successive semesters and the following semester of attendance GPA falls below a 2.0. Notification of suspension appears on the student’s academic record. A student on a first academic suspension may not enroll at the university for two consecutive semesters. A student may apply for readmission to VCU for the semester following the completion of the suspension period. A student readmitted after suspension enrolls under the academic probation status and is subject to the provisions of that status. If a student readmitted after suspension fails to obtain a semester GPA of 2.0 in any semester before achieving a cumulative GPA of at least 2.0, the student is placed on a five-year suspension. The student may be considered for readmission after a minimum five-year separation from VCU.

dining Services
1111 W. Broad St., Suite A, Room 128 • (804) 828-1148 • www.bsv.vcu.edu/vcufood

All VCU students residing in University Housing are required to purchase one of the Residential Dining Plans through VCU Dining Services. VCU graduate students and students living in university apartments are exempt from this requirement. Residential Dining Plans include the following program options:
Block Plans: A specific number of meals that may be used at any time during the semester at any VCU Dining Center or VCU Retail Restaurant participating in the VCU Dining Services Meal Exchange program. Unlimited servings dining locations that accept block plans, Dining Dollars, RamBucks, cash and credit cards. Unlimited servings restaurants include: Shafer Court Dining Center’s Market 810, located on the Monroe Park Campus, and the Larrick Dining Center, located on the MCV Campus.

academic Status

Good Standing: A student is in “good standing” as long as the student maintains a cumulative 2.0 GPA.

www.vcu.edu

7

Students who participated in a Residential Dining Plan during a spring semester are eligible to receive an additional free 150 Dining Dollars when purchasing a qualified dining plan for the following fall semester. Unused Bonus Dining Dollars do not carry over to the spring 2009 semester.

In addition to Residential Dining Plans, all registered VCU students are eligible to participate in any of the Nonresidential Dining Plans. Check the Dining Services Web site for more information. Special Diets: VCU Dining Plan participants with special dietary needs are asked to call the VCU Dining Services Office as early as possible to discuss their requirements.

Students with disabilities are responsible for self-identification prior to requesting services/ accommodations. Students are strongly encouraged to request accommodations at least four weeks prior to the first day of classes. Students may request accommodations at any time during enrollment at VCU. For additional information visit www.students.vcu.edu/dss.

division of Student affairs & enrollment Services
901 Floyd Ave. • (804) 828-1244 • www.students.vcu.edu

Changes and Cancellations: The deadlines for changing or canceling a VCU Dining Plan are September 5, 2008 for the fall semester, and January 25, 2009 for the spring semester. Changes must be made by 4:00 p.m. Changes or cancellations will not be accepted after the deadline. Exceptions include:
◽ When a VCU Dining Plan cancellation is due to death, incapacitating illness or military service, the unused meals and Dining Dollars will be proportionally refunded. ◽ When the VCU Dining Services contract is terminated due to a violation of the VCU Dining Services Contract Terms and Conditions, the University Housing Contract, or for disciplinary purposes, the participant may not receive a refund. ◽ Change and cancellation requests made after 4:00 p.m., Friday of the second week of classes will require administrative evaluation by the VCU Dining Services manager.

The Division of Student Affairs & Enrollment Services seeks to create a student-centered culture by promoting community, encouraging engagement and developing students to be contributing citizens in a global and diverse society. The Division is led by the Vice Provost for Student Affairs and Enrollment Services and comprises many of the student life and services departments including:
◽ Undergraduate Admissions ◽ University Student Commons & Activities ◽ University Career Center ◽ University Counseling Services ◽ Disability Support Services ◽ Financial Aid ◽ University Student Health Services ◽ Office of Multicultural Student Affairs ◽ Records and Registration ◽ Recreational Sports ◽ Office of Judicial Affairs and Academic Integrity ◽ Student Accounting ◽ Student Media ◽ Financial Management, Technology & Communications ◽ Residential Life & Housing

disability Support Services

Monroe Park Campus: 907 Floyd Ave., Room 102 • Voice/TDD: (804) 828-2253 • Fax: (804) 828-1944 MCV Campus: 1000 E. Marshall St., Suite 202 • (804) 828-9782 • TTY: (804) 828-4608 • Fax: (804) 828-4609 www.students.vcu.edu/dss

VCU is committed to providing students with disabilities equal opportunities to benefit from all programs, services and activities offered. Disability Support Services include:
◽ (but is not limited to), advocacy, adapted materials, alternative testing, academic and career advising. ◽ Recommendations for appropriate academic adjustments including exam modifications, classroom accommodations and auxiliary aids supported by recent documentation. ◽ Assistance for the VCU community in complying with the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1974. ◽ Serving as a liaison between faculty and students with disabilities. ◽ Providing technical assistance to university departments. ◽ Providing current and accurate information regarding disability-related products, programs and services to current and prospective students, faculty and staff. ◽ Consulting with secondary schools, special educators, rehabilitation or high school counselors, parents and prospective students concerning university services for students with disabilities. ◽ Creating a welcoming place for students to meet, share, study, and obtain information concerning disability related issues and opportunities.

The central administration of the division also serves as a resource for students, parents, faculty and staff who have problems or concerns regarding their interactions with each other and with the university, and assists in resolving issues or refers inquirers to the appropriate individual elsewhere in the institution. Students, parents and staff members who have issues they wish to discuss or who are interested in various programs and opportunities are encouraged to contact the Associate Vice Provost for Student Affairs and Dean of Students or the Associate Vice Provost for Enrollment Services.

enrollment Services—Rights of Students Under the Family educational Rights and Privacy act
901 Floyd Ave. • (804) 828-1244 • www.vcu.edu/enroll/

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) is a Federal law that protects the privacy of student education records. The law applies to all schools that receive funds under an applicable program of the U.S. Department of Education. FERPA gives parents certain rights with respect to their children’s education records; however, these rights transfer to the student when he or she reaches eighteen or attends a school beyond the high school level.

www.vcu.edu

8

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords students certain rights with respect to their educational records:
1. The right to inspect and review the student’s educational records within 45 days of the day the university receives a request for access. Students should submit to the registrar, dean, head of the academic department, or other appropriate official written requests that identify the record(s) they wish to inspect. The university official will make arrangements for access and notify the student of the time and place where the records may be inspected. If the records are not maintained by the university official to whom the request was submitted, that official shall advise the student of the correct official to whom the request should be addressed. 2. The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the student believes are inaccurate or misleading. Students may ask the university to amend a record that they believe is inaccurate or misleading. They should write the university official responsible for the record, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate or misleading. If the university decides not to amend the record as requested by the student, the university will notify the student of the decision and advise the student of his or her right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the student when notified of the right to a hearing. 3. The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. One exception that permits disclosure without consent is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed by the university in an administrative, supervisory, academic or research, or support staff position (including law enforcement unit personnel and health staff ); a person or company with whom the university has contracted (such as an attorney, auditor or collection agent); a person serving on the Board of Visitors; or a student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks. A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility. Upon request, the university discloses education records without consent to officials of another school in which a student seeks or intends to enroll. Directory information may be released without a student’s prior consent; this information is limited to: ◽ student name ◽ date admitted ◽ birth date ◽ mailing address and telephone number ◽ local address and telephone number ◽ university e-mail address ◽ semesters of attendance ◽ major(s) ◽ minor ◽ specialization

◽ school ◽ full- or part-time status ◽ classification (freshman, sophomore, etc.) ◽ degree sought ◽ honors and awards ◽ degrees and dates received ◽ participation in officially recognized intercollegiate sports, weight, height, hometown, parents’ names and previous school(s) attended ◽ Emergency Contact Information 4. The right to file a complaint with the US Department of Education concerning alleged failures by Virginia Commonwealth University to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the office that administers FERPA: Family Policy Compliance Office U.S. Department of Education 400 Maryland Avenue, SW Washington, D.C. 20202

enrollment Services—Student accounting

827 W. Franklin St., Founders Hall, Room 123 • (804)828-2228 • www.vcu.edu/enroll/sa/

The Student Accounting Department is responsible for the assessment, billing and collection of tuition, room, board and other university fees. They also bill thirdparty payers for VCU charges and issue refunds to eligible students. Questions regarding payments or account balances can be made in person, by writing, or e-mailing the Student Accounting Department at [email protected].

Installment Payment Plan (IPP)

The IPP allows tuition, room, board and other university fees to be paid in 4 installments throughout the semester. Enrollment in this plan is only available during the first four weeks of the semester and the remaining installments are due throughout the semester. The IPP is only offered during the fall and spring semesters. The invoice payment coupon includes this application. Students must re-enroll in the Installment Payment Plan each semester. For more detailed information, please see our Web site.

Living Expense Refunds

When financial aid funds exceed university charges, your student may receive a refund from Student Accounting. They may be received by direct deposit or a mailed check; however, students are strongly encouraged to participate in the Direct Deposit Program in order to receive their refund more quickly. Direct deposit applications are available at the following locations: the Student Services Centers, the Disbursement Operations Office, Financial Aid Offices, the Student Accounting Department as well as online at www.vcu.edu/treasury/directdeposit.pdf.

www.vcu.edu

9

Drop vs. Withdraw

Drop—A student may drop a class (excluding short courses) prior to, and during the first week only of the fall or spring term. Charges are removed from the student’s account, and the student’s transcript does not list the class.

approximately three weeks. Exceptions to this refund policy are made only in rare instances. Written application for an exception must be filed in the Student Accounting Department to the Refund/Waiver Appeals Committee. Refunds of overpayments for non-financial aid recipients must be requested in writing to the Student Accounting Department. Refund request forms are available at the Student Services Centers (Founders Hall and Sanger Hall), and online at www.vcu.edu/enroll/forms/sa/
Sarefund.pdf.

Withdraw—When a student withdraws from a class (excluding short courses) within the first four weeks of the fall or spring term, the transcript lists the class with a mark of “W” and charges are assessed and adjusted according to the University Refund Policy. The student also may withdraw from a class between the end of week 4 and the end of week 10 with a mark of “W” but with no refund of tuition.

Refund of Tuition and Fees

The official University Refund Policy applicable for the fall and spring semesters only (excluding short courses) is outlined below. Refunds are calculated on a course-by-course, per credit hour basis, disregarding the full-time cap amounts. Students who are enrolled full-time and withdraw from course(s) may not receive a refund.
◽ Students dropping or withdrawing from courses through the first week of class will be entitled to a 100 percent refund of tuition and fees. ◽ Students withdrawing from courses through the second week of class will be entitled to an 80 percent refund of tuition and the university fee. ◽ Students withdrawing from courses through the third week of class will be entitled to a 60 percent refund of tuition and the university fee. ◽ Students withdrawing from courses through the fourth week of class will be entitled to a 40 percent refund of tuition and the university fee. ◽ Students withdrawing from courses after the fourth week of class are not entitled to receive a refund of tuition and fees.

In accordance with credit card regulations, the university will refund any credit balance on a student’s account that is the result of a credit card payment back to the credit card account. The remaining credit balance, if any, will be refunded to the student. Students are responsible for paying any increase in charges that may occur after the generation of a refund.

Financial Aid Implications

Based on regulatory changes passed by Congress, students who receive Title IV financial aid funds (grants, loans or work-study) may be required to repay all or a portion of the financial aid that was disbursed to their student account if they withdraw from VCU prior to completing 60 percent of the semester. For details on how this requirement applies to your situation, please contact a counselor in the Office of Financial Aid.

If students have received more funds than they are entitled due to the change in enrollment, the students must pay these funds back to the university. Students are reminded that they are ultimately responsible for any unpaid balance on their accounts as a result of the Financial Aid Office canceling or reducing their awards.

Refund of Room and Dining Charges

Students in off-campus courses are subject to the same refund policy as all other university students, if the class is scheduled on the regular term schedule. If the off-campus course is shorter or longer than the academic term, the refund dates are adjusted accordingly at the request of the Off-Campus Programs Office. The refund policy and deadlines of the English Language Program (ELP) are different from the university’s refund policy for academic courses. Details of the policy may be obtained from the English Language Program Office. A full refund for Holiday Intersession will be granted, if the course is dropped before midnight on the day of the first class meeting. Partial refunds are not granted.

Students will not be entitled to a refund of room fees if they are suspended from the residence halls for disciplinary reasons or if they voluntarily withdraw from the university residence halls but remain registered for any course(s) at the university unless clearance is granted through Residential Life & Housing.

Cancellations or changes to dining plans will be accepted up to 4 p.m., Friday of the second week of classes. Refer to your student's Room and Dining Contract Terms and Conditions for additional information.

Student Financial Responsibility

A full refund for summer tuition and applicable fees will be granted, if the course is dropped no later than the day following the first day of a given class. (This also is applicable if the class does not meet on two consecutive days.) Partial refunds are not granted for the summer term. This same refund policy also applies to short courses offered during the fall and spring terms. Refunds are computed based on the actual withdrawal date certified by the Office of Records and Registration. Refunds are not made to students who do not attend classes and have not completed the required withdrawal procedure. Refund processing may take

In order to attend VCU, students who register: Must assume the responsibility of full payment of tuition and fees generated from that registration. Must assume the responsibility of full payment of all room, board and other applicable miscellaneous charges. Must keep a current permanent mailing address on file with the Office of Records and Registration. Failure to receive an invoice because of an incorrect address does not relieve responsibility for timely payments. Must have a VCU e-mail address. The student's VCU e-mail address will be used by faculty and university offices to deliver important communications and serves as the university's official means of contact with the student. The university reserves the right to revise or alter all tuition and fees, regulations pertaining to student tuition and fees, and collection procedures at any time.

www.vcu.edu

10

enrollment Services—Withdrawal

To officially withdraw from the university before the end of a semester, a student should submit a completed official withdrawal form to Records and Registration. Forms may be found online at www.vcu.edu/enroll/forms. Students also can use eServices to officially withdraw from all courses. An official withdrawal must be done before the end of the first 10 weeks of classes. Failure to withdraw officially may result in a failing grade in all or some courses.

conjunction with university offices to also administer policies for residence halls, off-campus student conduct, the VCU Alcohol and Drug Policy, the Student Sexual Misconduct Policy and the Computer and Network Resources Use Policy.

new Student Programs

Hibbs Hall • 900 Park Ave. • (804) 828-3700 • www.vcu.edu/uc

During the fall and spring semesters, students whose registration is cancelled prior to the end of the add/drop registration period during the first week of classes will be entitled to a full refund of tuition and fees. A partial refund will be given to a student who withdraws after the end of the first week of classes but before the end of the fourth week; the percentage declines each week the student remains enrolled. Refunds are calculated on a course-by-course basis, disregarding the full-time cap amounts. Students who are enrolled and then withdraw may not receive a refund. If the reduction of charges results in an overpayment on the student account and the student is not receiving financial aid, a refund form must be completed and submitted to the Student Accounting Department. Refund forms are also available at www.vcu.edu/enroll/forms.

A student’s first year at Virginia Commonwealth University is filled with excitement, anticipation and questions! VCU’s comprehensive New Student Orientation program, which is coordinated through the University College, will help students make a smooth transition to university life, and continued new student programs and services keep families and students connected to campus resources throughout the first year.

office of multicultural Student affairs (omSa)

University Student Commons, Room 215 • (804) 828-6672 • www.omsa.vcu.edu

OMSA provides cultural programs, discussion groups, advises cultural student organizations, scholarship opportunities and much more. This office aims to strengthen the university’s sense of community through cultural appreciation. Some of the programs offered include the Intercultural Festival and Mosaic Week and resources include the International News Center and Multicultural Resource Library. More information can be found at www.omsa.vcu.edu.

Parking

honor System

1111 W. Broad St. • (804) 828-8726 • www.bsv.vcu.edu/vcupark/

The acceptance of admission to VCU means the student agrees to abide by the VCU Honor System. Students have an obligation under the Honor System to know and understand what acts are prohibited, to refrain from committing those acts, to refrain from intimidating or threatening another student who has made a charge, and when they have suspicion or knowledge of a violation to report it to the appropriate faculty member or the Office of Judicial Affairs & Academic Integrity.

Parking is available to students in a number of facilities on the Monroe Park Campus and is sold on a first-come, first-served basis. Commuter students may purchase parking decals per semester for:
◽ West Main Street Deck, 801 W. Main St. ◽ West Cary Street Deck, 1201 W. Cary St. ◽ Bowe Street Deck, 609 Bowe St. ◽ West Broad Street Deck, 1111 W. Broad St. ◽ West Franklin Street Deck, 1100 W. Franklin St. ◽ SJ Lot, corner of Cary and Jefferson Streets ◽ ZZ Lot, 620 W. Cary St. (must be a registered School of Engineering student) ◽ SG Lot, 301 W. Cary St. ◽ SL Lot, 103 South Cherry St. ◽ SC Lot, 412 W. Grace St. ◽ HB Lot, 1201 West Broad St.

Conduct prohibited by the VCU Honor System includes: cheating, plagiarism, facilitating academic dishonesty, stealing academic materials and lying related to academic matters. A student engaging conduct that violates the VCU Honor System may receive honor probation, an assignment of a grade of “F” for the course, suspension, expulsion, or revocation of a certificate, degree, thesis or dissertation. For more information, visit www.provost.vcu.edu/ policies —Honor System (under the letter H).

Judicial affairs & academic integrity, office of

University Student Commons • 907 Floyd Ave., Suite 106 Phone: (804) 828-1963 • Fax: (804) 827-1579 • www.students.vcu.edu/judicialaffairs Email: [email protected] or [email protected]

The Office of Judicial Affairs & Academic Integrity supports the educational mission of the university by educating students about appropriate behavior and fostering a community supporting academic success. The office takes the lead in the enforcement of university policies as outlined in the Virginia Commonwealth University Rules and Procedures and the VCU Honor System. The Office of Judicial Affairs & Academic Integrity works in

Housing students residing in university-operated housing (proof of residency required) may purchase 24-hour subscriptions on a per-semester basis to the:
◽ West Main Street Deck ◽ Bowe Street Deck ◽ CM Lot ◽ GS Lot ◽ Broad and Belvidere Deck

www.vcu.edu

11

Recreational Sports

1200 W. Broad St. • (804) 827-0318 • www.recsports.vcu.edu

Residential life & housing

Recreational Sports provides a variety of programs, services and facilities to meet the leisure and health needs of the VCU community. All currently enrolled students with valid identification are eligible to use all facilities; informal recreation, swimming and fitness facilities are available at no additional charge. Some programs charge nominal fees. More information can be found at
www.recsports.vcu.edu.

Gladding Residence Center, 711 W. Main St. • (804) 828-7666 • www.housing.vcu.edu

Programs

Residential Life & Housing operates a variety of 9- and 12-month living facilities, including traditional residential rooms, suite- and apartment-style buildings, and high-rise residence halls. Approximately 5,000 students choose to live on campus each year. Residential life at VCU offers many rewards and provides students with the opportunity to gain personal experiences that supplement and complement the formal education gained in classrooms and laboratories. The Residential Life & Housing program offers students the chance to make new friends, meet like-minded academic peers and develop leadership skills through participation in social, academic, governmental and judicial organizations. The staff of Residential Life & Housing is dedicated to providing community living that supports each student’s academic, personal and extracurricular pursuits, and its goal is to offer a sense of belonging for every residential student. Each residence hall is staffed with a Coordinator of Residence Education, Housing Manager, at least one Graduate Resident Director and many in-house Resident and Community Assistants.

◽ Informal recreation is available at all facilities and includes drop-in use of the fitness centers, gymnasiums, swimming pools and court space. ◽ Intramural sports leagues and tournaments are offered throughout the year at various skill levels, as well as men’s and co-rec divisions. Sports include basketball, flag football, softball, racquet sports, volleyball, soccer, ultimate frisbee and dodgeball. ◽ Fitness/Wellness Programs include group exercise classes (such as indoor cycling, Pilates, step aerobics, yoga), Personal Fitness Training services, fitness incentive programs, fitness workshops and certifications. ◽ The Outdoor Adventure Program provides reasonably priced outdoor recreational trips. Activities such as camping, kayaking, climbing, cross-country skiing, and more, run by experienced trip leaders are offered throughout the year. For those planning their own outdoor activities, the Outing Rental Center offers equipment such as canoes, tents, backpacks, sleeping bags, and trail guides at nominal cost. ◽ Sport clubs give students the opportunity to train and compete against other colleges in a variety of sports. Clubs vary in focus and programming as student members manage the operation of the club and decide on club activities. ◽ Aquatics programs are held at our two swimming pools. Members can take advantage of learn-to-swim for adults and children, water exercise and incentive programs, and certification programs. Pools are available for group rental. ◽ Recreational Sports operates a facility at the Stuart C. Siegel Center on the Monroe Park Campus and the MCV Campus Recreation & Aquatic Center. Both offer full service fitness centers, gymnasiums and Group Exercise classes. ◽ Indoor pools are located at the MCV Campus Recreation & Aquatic Center and on the lower level of the Franklin Street Gym. ◽ The Thalhimer Tennis Center is available year round on the Monroe Park Campus. ◽ Renovation of the MCV Campus Recreation & Aquatic Center will continue through the 2008–2009 academic year. While the facility will remain open during renovation some short-term closures may occur and will be announced. ◽ Full program and facility details can be found at the Recreational Sports Web site.

New freshman students who submit a housing application by June 1 are guaranteed residential housing. Housing contracts for freshman residence halls are based on the nine-month academic calendar; housing contracts for residence facilities specified for upperclassmen are a combination of 9- and 12-month agreements. Single-semester contracts are available only to new students who enter the university in the spring semester.

Moving in—what to bring Students may bring alarm clock, blankets, bed and bath linens, desk lamp, flashlight, iron and ironing board, multi-outlet electrical strips with heavy-duty cords and built-in circuit breakers, pillows, plants, posters, stereo, toiletries, touch-tone telephone, wastebasket, and nonflammable decorative items. Students may wish to talk to their future roommate(s) about possible duplication of items prior to arrival on campus. What not to bring Loft beds, personal air-conditioners, pets, standard extension cords and items that require a flame to operate or that produce heat (no candles, including decorative; Bunsen burners; incense; alcohol burners; grills; lanterns; and halogen lights). Illegal drugs, fireworks, chemicals, firearms and weapons of any kind are strictly prohibited. Students are expected to abide by the laws of the Commonwealth of Virginia, VCU's University Rules and Procedures and the policies of the Department of Residential Life and Housing.

Facilities

www.vcu.edu

12

How to address mail Each student living in university housing has a mail box. Please note the specific nine-digit Zip code for each residence hall.

Student media

817 W. Broad St. • (804) 828-1058 • www.has.vcu.edu/mac/student_info/student_media.html

Residence hall mail addresses
Monroe Park Campus
Name (Room No.) Ackell Residence Center 1100 W. Broad St. Richmond, VA 23220-3800 Name (Room No.) Brandt Hall 710 W. Franklin St. Richmond, VA 23220-4101 Name (Room No.) Broad & Belvidere Apartments 700 W. Broad St. Richmond, VA 23220-3805 Name (Room No.) Capital Garage Apartments 1301 W. Broad St., Apt. # Richmond, VA 23220 Name (Room No.) Gladding Residence Center 711 W. Main St. Richmond, VA 23220-5500 Name (Room No.) Johnson Hall 801 W. Franklin St. Richmond, VA 23220-4103 Name (Room No.) RAMZ Hall 933 W. Broad St. Richmond, VA 23220 Name (Room No.) Rhoads Hall 710 W. Franklin St. Richmond, VA 23220-4101 Name (Room No.) West Grace Student Housing 701 W. Grace St. Richmond, VA 23220-4191

MCV Campus
Name (Room No.) Bear Hall 600 N. 10th St. Richmond, VA 23298-7000 Name (Room No.) Cabaniss Hall 615 N. 8th St. Richmond, VA 23298-8000 Name (Room No.) McRae Hall 600 N. 10th St. Richmond, VA 23298-7000 Name (Room No.) Rudd Hall 600 N. 10th St. Richmond, VA 23298-7000 Name (Room No.) Warner Hall 600 N. 10th St. Richmond, VA 23298-7000

VCU offers many media outlets that allow students to express themselves. Student Media includes The Commonwealth Times, the independent student-run and -written newspaper published twice a week during the school year; The Vine, an undergraduate student magazine focused on multicultural issues; Poictesme, the student literary journal; Amendment, a journal aimed at encouraging social change through artistic expression; and WVCW, a student-run and -managed radio station. Other student media outlets on campus include VCU InSight, a monthly television program produced and staffed by students in the School of Mass Communications; and the broadcast station VCU TV/ HD student television production operation.

technology Services

701 W. Broad St. • (804) 828-1177 • www.ts.vcu.edu

Technology Services provides media, computing and other support services for the research, instructional, health care and public service endeavors of VCU students, faculty and staff. Services include the Help Desk and support for desktop applications, labs and classrooms, networks, wireless access, IT-related procurement, audiovisual equipment, teleconferencing, distance education and voice/video production.

G2GMobile@VCU Computer Program

Safety

www.vcu.edu/police • (804) 828-1234 or (804) 828-HELP for emergencies (804) 828-1196 for non-emergency dispatcher • (804) 828-WALK (9255) for Campus Security Escort Service

All students are required to have a personal computer. Technology Services has teamed with Lenovo, makers of award-winning ThinkPad laptop computers, to offer specially formatted machines to VCU students through the G2GMobile@VCU program. Special pricing on Apple laptop computers are also available. These specifications and pricing are revised annually and can be found at g2g.vcu.edu.

The VCU Police Department has jurisdiction at the university. The force consists of both sworn police officers and trained security personnel. VCU Police cars are identifiable by gold reflective stripes on white. Services are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. VCU Police officers encourage students to notify the department if suspicious activity is seen. All incidents are investigated promptly. The Campus Security Escort Service provides escorts for members of the VCU community traveling to or from VCU-related activities. The workers wear distinctive uniforms and are in constant radio contact with VCU Police dispatchers. Hours are 5 p.m. to 7 a.m. nightly on both campuses.

Student E-mail Accounts

Student e-mail accounts are used for official university communications, and are linked to the eID system, which allows broad access to other VCU services. For more information, go to www.vcu.edu/email.

University career center (Ucc)

University Student Commons, Room 143 • (804) 828-1645 • www.students.vcu.edu/careers/

The University Career Center assists students and recent alumni to identify and achieve their career goals. Career Center staff work with students to help them explore career options, decide on career directions and develop sound strategies for realizing their career goals. The Career Center offers a career library of more than 600 books and publications. Students have access to employer literature, recruiting brochures, graduate and professional school publications, and five online computers.

Schools

The Monroe Park Campus is organized into one college and eight schools: The College of Humanities and Sciences (which includes the schools of Government and Public Affairs, Mass Communications and World Studies) and the schools of the Arts, Business, Education, Engineering and Social Work. The MCV Campus houses the schools of Allied Health Professions, Dentistry, Medicine, Nursing, Pharmacy and Public Health. In addition, the School of Graduate Studies serves students on both campuses.

Career counseling sessions are offered by appointment using assessment tools such as the Strong Interest Inventory, the Self-directed Search and the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator. Students may receive assistance with resume development, job search skills and interviewing techniques.

www.vcu.edu

13

The Career Center maintains job postings of full-time, part-time, internship and co-op positions for students who are eligible. These postings may be accessed 24 hours a day through an account with the Career Center. Both on- and off-campus work study positions for eligible students can be viewed online at www.students.vcu.edu/careers.

The Career Center also offers a comprehensive Cooperative Education Program that blends traditional academics with paid work assignments in industry, business, government and nonprofit organizations. For additional information, including eligibility, go to www.students.vcu.edu/careers and the “Co-op” link. Graduating students use the Career Center to interview with business, industry, government and education representatives who visit the campus to recruit prospective graduates for permanent positions in their respective organizations. Students are encouraged to sign up as participants in the Career Center’s Web-based resumé referral system called eRecruiting in order to be referred to employers and have access to job listings.

◽ Psychiatric services—Limited services include medical evaluation, diagnosis and treatment with psychotropic medication. ◽ Consultation and outreach—Presentations, workshops and staff consultation are available to student organizations, academic departments and other groups on issues relevant to each group’s needs. ◽ Safe zone—Workshops for faculty and staff designed to reduce homophobia and heterosexism.

University Student commons & activities
www.usca.vcu.edu • 907 Floyd Ave. • 828-1981

The University Student Commons & Activities (USC&A) department can help your student get involved. The staff is dedicated to helping students become more engaged in campus life and has something for everyone. Participating and getting involved with campus activities will truly enhance your student’s college experience. The USC&A also offers a variety of student employment opportunities. For more information on all the services the USC&A has to offer, please visit www.usca.vcu.edu.

Facilities

University college

www.vcu.edu/uc • Advising Center: (804) 827-UNIV • Learning, Writing & Testing Centers: (804) 827-8108

The University College (UC) enhances student engagement and success by providing a central home for academic support services and the core curriculum. The UC offers:
◽ Academic Advising ◽ Learning Support Services ◽ Campus Learning and Writing Centers ◽ Orientation and New Student Programs ◽ Core Curriculum

The University Student Commons, located in the heart of the Monroe Park Campus, is the main student-life facility for this campus. It offers a great place to meet with friends, host an event, get involved or study. The Park Place Food Court, Commons Café and Common Convenience provide a wide variety of dining options without having to leave campus. Also located in the Lower Level of the Commons is Break Point, the university’s game room with pool tables, arcades and the widely popular Thunder Bowl. At the Commons, students can find the Student Organization Service Center, Off-Campus Student Services, University Career Center, University Counseling Services, Disability Support Services, the Office of Multicultural Student Affairs and the Student Government Association.

University counseling Services

Monroe Park Campus: (804) 828-6200 • University Student Commons, Room 238 MCV Campus: (804) 828-3964 • 1008 E. Clay St. (Grant House B011)

University Counseling Services (UCS) provides psychological services to the university community. The mission of UCS is to create an environment that fosters student growth, development and psychological well-being. Members of UCS’ professional staff include clinical psychologists, licensed clinical social workers, a consulting psychiatrist, psychology and social work interns, and advanced graduate students. UCS provides free brief psychotherapy to currently enrolled students as available. UCS adheres to professional, legal and ethical guidelines established by professional organizations and state law to protect student confidentiality. University Counseling Services include:

The Hunton Student Center is located on the MCV Campus. Hunton Student Center is a great place to study or grab a bite to eat between classes. The renovated 1841 church building has a state-of-the-art learning center, managed by VCU Libraries, along with spacious study areas on two floors including private group-study rooms. Also located at Hunton are the offices for the Associate Dean of Students, MCV Student Government Association, the Hideaway Café and a student recreation area. Information Centers can be found at both the Commons and Hunton Student Center. For a complete list of services and programs that these facilities offer, please visit www.usca.vcu.edu.

Programs

◽ Counseling and psychotherapy—Individual and couples work is designed to deal with personal and interpersonal issues. ◽ Group counseling—Ongoing psychotherapy groups focus on personal and social concerns.

USC&A offers a wide variety of programs and leadership opportunities for students on both the Monroe Park Campus and the MCV Campus. The following programming offices are included in the USC&A: Monroe Park Campus and MCV Campus Programs Office, Fraternity and Sorority Life, Leadership Development and

www.vcu.edu

14

the Office of Student Organization Development. Through these offices, several university traditions and major events are coordinated. These events include: Student Organization & Volunteer Opportunities (SOVO) Fair, Jazz on the Green, Fraternity and Sorority Recruitment, RamMadness, Homecoming, Greek Week, STRUT Fashion Show and the Leadership & Service Awards. Students are encouraged to participate in these university traditions along with participating in other programs and events offered during the week and on the weekends. For a complete listing of programs and events, please visit www.usca.vcu.edu.

clinical services including primary care services, women’s health, allergy shots and travel medicine. A pharmacy is located on the Monroe Park Campus. Details pertaining to these services as well as information regarding our appointment policy are also available on the Web site.

Immunizations

In compliance with Virginia state law, VCU requires all full-time students to submit immunization records to USHS. Detailed information is available at www.students.vcu.
edu/health/immunizations.

Services

Health insurance

USC&A also offers many services for students and the entire VCU community including Information Services, Off Campus Student Services and Event & Conference Services.

For directions to a campus building or information about programs and events, the USC&A Information Services staff can help! Stop by either Information Center (located at the Student Commons and Hunton Student Center), call 828-1981 or go to www.
usca.vcu.edu/information.

USHS has no infirmary beds and does not cover hospitalizations, X-rays, prescriptions, referrals to specialists, laboratory tests associated with chronic illnesses as well as other medical expenses. Therefore it is ESSENTIAL that students have adequate health insurance to cover the cost of hospitalization and other expenses. VCU does sponsor a health insurance program for students, their spouses and their dependents. See www.students.vcu.edu/ health/insurance for more details.

After-hours emergency service Parental consent

Off Campus Student Services (OCSS) offers a variety of ways to assist and educate those who drive, ride, walk or bus to campus. OCSS provides a Web-based housing search system, ride-share assistance, a car emergency tool kit for check-out, bicycle registration and coin-operated rental lockers providing secure storage for personal belongings, as well as educational programs for off campus students. For more information visit www.usca.vcu.
edu/offcampus.

In the event that an urgent medical problem arises after regular office hours, students may call the practitioner on call for advice. See the Web site for instructions. If your student is under 18, it is important to sign a consent form and send it to USHS. It can be found on the required immunization form your student received in the VCU Handbook for Accepted Students or online at www.students.vcu.edu/health/immunizations. Certain diagnoses and conditions will be treated in a confidential manner and without parental consent regardless of the student’s age. These diagnoses include contraception, pregnancy, family planning, diagnosis and treatment of sexually transmitted infections, mental health issues and substance abuse. Strict confidentiality is assured if, or once your student turns 18. No information will be released to anyone—including parents—without the student’s consent or a court order. While this may prove worrisome or frustrating to you as a parent, strict confidentiality is essential in promoting a therapeutic relationship with the health care provider and in encouraging the student to take responsibility for his or her own health care.

Event & Conference Services offers a professional staff of event planners to assist clients with planning and implementing programs and events held in USC&A managed facilities and at VCU in general. From simple meetings to large summer conferences, our clients can enjoy the appeal of a collegiate environment with many amenities of a full-service conference center. For a complete list of services, please visit www.usca.vcu/es

University Student health Services

Monroe Park Campus: 1300 W. Broad St. Suite 2200 • (804) 828-8828 MCV Campus: 1000 E. Marshall St. #305 • (804) 828-9220 www.students.vcu.edu/health

University Student Health Services (USHS) provides quality outpatient medical care and public health services including health education programming which empowers students to become full participants in their health care. USHS targets services in five areas: medical services, public health, preventative medicine and health education, teaching and research. They are accredited by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC). For more general information or information about eligibility and charges see www.students.vcu.edu/health.

Checklist of essential personal health information every college student should bring to school:
◽ Health insurance information with name and telephone number of primary care provider, if applicable ◽ List of current medications and dosages ◽ List of allergies to medications, foods, etc. ◽ Previous medical history ◽ Copy of immunization record ◽ Updated family medical history

Professional staff and services

The highly qualified staff including physicians, a physician assistant, nurse practitioners, registered nurses, pharmacists, health educators, and a psychiatrist provide a variety of

www.vcu.edu

15

the Wellness Resource center
815 Cathedral Place P.O Box 842022 • (804) 828-9355 • www.students.vcu.edu/health/thewell

a PaRent'S gUide to RoommateS: dos and don’ts
Though students bear the primary responsibility for successful roommate relationships, parents play an integral role. While conflict is likely to occur when living in such close quarters with another person, it doesn’t have to be as disruptive as it might appear at the outset. Your student often will take his or her cues from you. The tips below will help you support them on the road to easier roommate living.

The Wellness Resource Center is engaged in the science and art of empowering all students to move towards optimal health—a balance of physical, emotional, social, intellectual and spiritual health. The Well is committed to helping VCU students learn about health through one-on-one sessions, group presentations and awareness events. Services offered at The Well include programs dealing with the following issues:
◽ ◽ ◽ ◽ Nutrition, disordered eating and body image Rape, sexual assault, stalking and domestic violence Sexual health Smoking and tobacco cessation—see www.smokefreeVCU.org and come by for a free Quit Kit. ◽ Stress ◽ Substance Abuse Education and Prevention—visit our confidential and anonymous online assessment at www.myonlinesurveys.com/vcu, password: vcu.edu

dos:

◽ do encourage your student to talk to his/her roommate honestly, even if he or she is normally shy.

Good communication is key to a good living relationship. Remind your student to set expectations and guidelines for how the room operates. Do this early revisit those guidelines throughout the year to make any necessary changes. Hall staff is happy to help. each roommate’s likes, dislikes and habits is a useful tool in beginning communication between roommates and will assist in discussing the disagreements that all roommates inevitably have. who once was a morning person could become a night person, so it’s important to respect growth and development. Often, issues that seem to have no solution can be resolved with the quick involvement of our trained staff. Remind them to be assertive but also ready to compromise. A new living situation is tough often doesn’t play out exactly the way that only one person would like it to. Communication begins with stating needs clearly; that can help ensure conflict doesn’t occur in the first place. Assistant and each building has at least one Resident Director who lives in the building. Master’slevel professional staff are assigned to run each hall; there is a residence life staff member on call at all times.

◽ do encourage your student to create a roommate or suitemate contract. A contract that states

Volunteer opportunities at “The Well”

◽ do ask staff for guidance. Remember that patterns change as the year goes on. The roommate

The Well has many volunteer opportunities for students. Applications are available online:
◽ Project Reach: Peer educators who are trained to help VCU students make healthy choices teaching about a variety of important college health concerns: nutrition, stress, body image, sleep, sexual health, and alcohol. ◽ VCU Cancer Awareness Team (CAT): Peer educators who work to raise awareness of cancer and encourage prevention and early detection among VCU students. This group participates in Relay for Life and is a chapter of Colleges Against Cancer through the American Cancer Society. ◽ SAVES: Peer educators who teach men and women about healthy relationships, sexual assault, stalking, and relationship violence.

◽ do talk to your student about his/her living situation and encourage him/her to involve hall staff.

◽ do know the resources and remind your student of them. Each student is assigned a Resident

don’ts

Health research about VCU students

◽ don’t play the blame game. Most roommate conflicts result from a lack of communication of clear
expectations on both sides. Remember, you’re only hearing one side of the story.

VCU students are healthier than they think—because they use many creative health strategies. For research findings about the health behaviors at VCU, interesting health strategies and recent poster material see www. yourstrategy.org.

◽ don’t assume that your student and their roommate have to be exactly alike. Good living

situations are a result of communication and mutual respect for one another. Not everyone has the same definition of “early” or “clean”; it’s important that students communicate their needs clearly. and happy. When dealing with a conflict, the goal is to work through the problem and improve the living situation for everyone. Everyone, including your student, has to be willing to compromise a little bit. mediation. Or any of our staff. We want to help resolve the conflict and make sure everyone grows from the experience.

◽ don’t get caught up in “winning.” Every parent wants their student to be happy and healthy…

◽ don’t assume your student is in it alone. Any student can seek his or her RA to assist with a

Finally, don’t hesitate to contact the Residential Life and Housing Office if you have questions, concerns or issues you need to discuss with us. Our central office number is (804) 828-7666.

www.vcu.edu

16

monroe Park and mCV campuses map
64

1
95

301
7TH ST.
T.

64

AL S DUV

MCV Rec & Aquatic Center Cabaniss Hall Biotech BioTech I

MCV CAMPUS
95 33

C H AM BE RL

VA BioTech Park
JACKSON ST.

MONROE PARK CAMPUS
LEIGH ST. LOMBARDY ST. HANCOCK ST. HARRISON ST. GOSHEN ST. GILMER ST. BOWE ST. CATHERINE ST. CLAY ST.

BELVIDERE ST.

��

COLISEUM
BR
CLAY ST.

12TH ST.

MONROE ST.

HENRY ST.

JEFFERSON ST.

MADISON ST.

FOUSHEE ST.

ADAMS ST.

Siegel Center Capital Garage Apts.
GRACE ST.

Ackell Residence Center

Fine Arts Center RAMZ Hall
SHAFER ST. LAUREL ST.

Broad & Belvidere Student Apts.

10TH ST.

��

Sanger Hall

W. Broad St. Deck
HARRISON ST. RYLAND ST.

BROAD ST.

BROAD ST.

��

TO 18TH ST.

��

COLLEGE ST.

9TH ST.

Bowe St. Deck

MARSHALL ST.

MARSHALL ST.

�� ��

11TH ST.

W. Grace Student Housing

GRACE ST. ��

� � VCU CAMPUS CONNECTOR

FRANKLIN ST.

BANK ST.

2ND ST.

3RD ST.

7TH ST.



VE G RO

AVE .

D OY FL
IS

E AV

.

Student Commons Temple Bldg.

Harris Hall

Main Street Deck

Gladding Residence Center

Oliver Hall

MAIN

ST.

Trani Life Sciences Bldg.

Cary St. Gym
N

North

C A RY

ST.

Cary St. Deck



E.

Cabell Library



School of Engineering West

CARY ST.

CARY ST.

Cary St. Student Housing
. ST

VCU Brandcenter
CANAL ST. D OWNTOWN EXPRESSWAY

CU

MB

L ER

AN

D

195

ID

L

OO EW

D

E AV

.

BYRD ST.

Hollywood Cemetery

AL

BE

R MA

LE

. ST

13TH ST.

12TH ST.





PAR K AV

Singleton Center



5TH ST.

8TH ST.

6TH ST.

4TH ST.

1ST ST.



WEST AVE.

Hibbs Hall

Shafer Court
CA TH ED RA LP L.

MONROE PARK

School of Engineering East Snead Hall
DE RE

MAIN ST.

MAIN ST.

15TH ST.

Rhoads Hall Brandt Hall � � Johnson Hall

CAPITOL SQUARE

FRANKLIN ST.
� �

VCU CAMPUS CONNECTOR � �

14TH ST.

�� ��
Valentine Museum & History Center

33

MCV Campus N Parking Deck School Low-Rises of Nursing

N AY E E AV .
LEIGH ST.

D Parking Deck

Nelson Clinic

Museum of the Confederacy

��

��

O O K RD .

Main Hospital

GOVE R NOR ST.

BE

I LV

PI

NE

. ST

. ST

MO RR IS . ST

HA

RR

HAR

B LOM ARDY ST.

UR LA

ON

VE Y

P LU M ST.

. ST

EL

CH

ST.

. ST

ER

LIN

RY

DE . ST

. ST

2008–2009 Calendar for Parents & Families
Fortieth and forward
Get ready! You are set to begin your VCU experience during a very special year. Forty years ago, in the summer of 1968, Richmond Professional Institute merged with the Medical College of Virginia to become what is known now as Virginia Commonwealth University. VCU is celebrating this important milestone in its evolution to becoming a world-class research and teaching university, and you're invited! Centered around the theme "Fortieth and forward," a variety of events and programs are being planned throughout the fall semester that you won't want to miss, so be on the lookout for future announcements.

Division of Student Affairs & Enrollment Services Sitterding House 901 Floyd Ave. P.O. Box 843017 Richmond, Virginia 23284-3017 (804) 828-8940 www.students.vcu.edu

New Student Programs University College Hibbs Hall, First Floor 900 Park Avenue P.O. Box 842507 Richmond, Virginia 23284-9079 (804) 828-3700 www.vcu.edu/uc

DIV-08-0056. VCU is an EEO/AA institution.

Sponsor Documents

Or use your account on DocShare.tips

Hide

Forgot your password?

Or register your new account on DocShare.tips

Hide

Lost your password? Please enter your email address. You will receive a link to create a new password.

Back to log-in

Close