2013-2014 family guide and calendar

2013-14 Family Guide and Calendar

The Division of Student Affairs’ New Student and Family Programs is the vital connection between the university and the families of our students. New Student and Family Programs works with families to provide the very best education for our students, from orientation through graduation, both in and out of the classroom.

If you need guidance about resources and opportunities in this publication, or if you have a question and aren’t sure where to start, contact us. We serve as a central resource for parents and families, to support and enhance your involvement in your student’s educational experience.

Here are some of the services and resources we offer:

It is hard to believe my first year at Virginia Tech is over, and that we are welcoming new and returning students to Blacksburg for the 2013-14 academic year. Time does fly when you love what you do!

Whether you are a new Hokie family or have been a part of our remarkable community for a while we promise to provide your student every opportunity for growth and to offer you the resources to support them. Our partnership with you matters very much. We know that as your student is preparing for this transition or returning to college life, you are preparing as well. It is our hope that you use this handbook as a guide to assist you in planning your involvement with Virginia Tech and your student’s experience here. It includes important dates, month-by-month suggestions for ways to encourage your student’s success, a guide to the university, and contact information for many of our programs and services.

On a campus as vibrant and busy as Virginia Tech, it is difficult to collect all the important dates for an entire year. We hope that, in addition to this publication, you will visit the university’s webpage often for updates throughout the year. The Hokie Family E-News is another good resource to keep current. It is emailed monthly by the Division of Student Affairs to parents and family members. You will find it to be another valuable source of information for what is going on at the university and in your student’s life. If you have questions, or if we can assist you in any way, please don’t hesitate to contact New Student and Family Programs at [email protected] or 540-231-3284.

My sincerest wishes to you, your family, and your—our—Virginia Tech student for a happy, healthful, productive, and intellectually rewarding year. We look forward to our continued partnership with you.

Dr. Patricia A. Perillo Vice President for Student Affairs

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First-Year Student Orientation

Transfer Orientation

Hokie Camp

Monthly Hokie Family E-News (Aug–May)

New Student and Family Programs website at www.nsfp.vt.edu

DSA Facebook page at www.facebook.com/VirginiaTechStudentAffairs

Fall Family Weekend

Spring Family Tailgate

Selection of the Virginia Tech Family of the Year

DEAR PARENTS AND FAMILIES,

New Student and Family Programs

540-231-3284 | [email protected]

NEw STuDENT AND FAMILy PRoGRAMS

Welcome to Blacksburg, Virginia. Established in 1798, Blacksburg has always been a special place to live, work, and visit. Nestled between the picturesque Blue Ridge and Alleghany mountains, the natural beauty surrounding Blacksburg offers a vista for residents and visitors to enjoy, while taking in the many unique stores, art galleries, and restaurants.

Consistently ranked among the country’s best places to live, Blacksburg is known for award-winning services, a reasonable cost of living, safety, moderate climate, and abundant leisure activities. Blacksburg is proud to be the home of Virginia Tech and major technology companies located in the Corporate Research Center and the Blacksburg Industrial Park, as well as the Edward Via School of Osteopathic Medicine, which all contribute to the town being recognized as one of the best-educated work forces in the country.

While proud of our commitment to the future, we also celebrate our history. Blacksburg’s past plays a significant role in how we view the decades ahead. Our respect for the people and the traditions of those who helped build this region give us a base. We build upon that base to form a dynamic, diverse community, ready to face the challenges ahead.

The town is fortunate to have an energetic and civic-minded citizenry that supports a local government at the forefront of providing progressive services. Because of the abundance of natural beauty surrounding Blacksburg, environmental consciousness is a way of living in the community. The town also treasures its rich history that includes numerous properties listed on the National Register of Historic Properties.

Residents and visitors continuously discover the blending of the past with the dynamic present, making Blacksburg a truly special place. Whether you’re a full-time resident, a student, or a visiting guest, we hope you enjoy all Blacksburg has to offer.

Source: Mayor Ron Rordam, Town of Blacksburg, www.blacksburg.va.us

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BLACKSBuRG, VIRGINIA

Check your email settings to make sure the monthly Division of Student Affairs Family E-news is hitting your inbox and not your spam box. All Hokie families are automatically signed up for the E-News, which will keep you up to date on the latest information from the division as well as educational, professional, and fun events going on at the university. You can also visit www.dsa.vt.edu/family to learn even more about how we can work together to support your student throughout his or her time at Virginia Tech.

Make sure to note that the earliest that any excess financial aid will be refunded to your student for fall semester is the Thursday prior to the start of classes. Excess aid will only be refunded if all aid requirements have been met (students can confirm requirements through Hokie SPA). The easiest way to receive refunded aid is through direct deposit; students can set up a direct deposit account through Hokie SPA.

Mark your calendar for Fall Family Weekend, September 27–29. Bring your entire family to campus to visit your student and learn more about the wonderful community we have here at the university and in Blacksburg.

Check out our Dining Services venues at www.dining.vt.edu and see why the Princeton Review thinks your student will be one of the best-fed college students in the nation.

Hokie Passport Services provides the official identification card that permits authorized access to university services and facilities, manages dining accounts, and maintains individual debit accounts for use in various vendor locations on and off campus. For more information, please visit: www.hokiepassport.vt.edu.

Become familiar with the Hokie Handbook, which is one of the best resources you and your student will have when it comes to life at Virginia Tech. The handbook contains the Student Code of Conduct, University Policies for Student Life, and other key policies and procedures. Information about acceptable on-campus transportation devices (bikes, skateboards, etc.) can be found here, as well. Access the handbook at www.hokiehandbook.vt.edu.

Set realistic expectations for your student regarding academics, financial responsibility, social involvement, drinking, and drugs. Discuss these expectations with him or her in a non-judgmental manner, and be open to listening to his or her feedback as well. Keep the lines of communication open.

Don’t forget to take care of yourself. A child leaving home can be a huge adjustment for a family. Any feelings of joy and sorrow, pride and loss, are completely normal. This may be a good time to refocus on your own hobbies and interests.

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Sunday Monday Tuesday wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

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Steppin’ Out Street Festival

Drop/add opens for fall 2013

Budget Tuition Plan debit

Fall tuition payment deadline

Budget Tuition Plan enrollment deadline

Hokie Camp Session 1 begins

Hokie Camp Session 1 ends

Fall Dining Plans begin at 4:01 p.m.

Residence hall check-in





New cadet check-in

Steppin’ Out Street Festival

Family E-News

Classes begin

Eid Al-Fitr (Islam)




Football vs. Alabama– Atlanta, Ga.

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AuGuST 2013

Fall Family Weekend is September 27–29. Keep up with www.dsa.vt.edu/family to find out more.

One of the best ways for your student to get involved and make new friends is to find a student organization that suits his or her interests. Encourage your student to visit Student Centers and Activities and to check out GobblerConnect, Virginia Tech’s online portal for student organizations. This is a very easy way to quickly find groups that match your student’s interests, from community service to academics to scary movies. Learn more at www.studentcenters.vt.edu and at gobblerconnect.vt.edu.

We also have the annual Gobblerfest student organization fair on September 6, on the Drillfield. This is another great way to learn more about what’s available for students who are looking to get involved on campus.

If your student is looking to find a job, the deadline to obtain a Federal Work Study job is September 13. If your student is having trouble finding a job, they should check out the Hokies4Hire link on the Career Services website at www.career.vt.edu.

With all the recent changes, your student may feel excited but also overwhelmed during the first few weeks of school. Talk to your student about how to balance their academic schedule with their social life. Discuss the importance of healthy habits—proper nutrition, exercise, and getting enough sleep. If he or she still feels overwhelmed, recommend a visit to the Cook Counseling Center on campus. Visit the center’s website at www.ucc.vt.edu.

Virginia Tech’s Office of Emergency Management promotes a culture of emergency preparedness throughout the university community. Please encourage your student to sign-up for VT Alerts, Virginia Tech’s emergency notification system. This system alerts students to campus emergencies through the Virginia Tech home page, emails, electronic message boards in classrooms, phone alerts, desktop alerts, and more. For more information or to sign-up for VT Alerts, please visit: www.emergency.vt.edu.

Fall also means it’s time for Hokie football. Students are eligible for free tickets to all Virginia Tech sporting events. Students can get free tickets to football games through a lottery system; you can find out more at www.hokietickets.com/student/football/lottery. Remember, with football comes tailgating, so encourage your student to have fun and be safe while tailgating.

Also encourage your student not to come home every weekend, particularly during the first few weeks of the fall semester. Students can miss out on a lot the university has to offer, and their absence can keep them from meeting new people and forming new friendships.

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Football at Georgia Tech

Labor Day (classes meet)

Native American Day

Fall Family Weekend

Fall Family Weekend

Fall Family Weekend

Football vs. Western Carolina

Football at East Carolina

Yom Kippur (Jewish)

Football vs. Marshall

International Day of Peace

Autumn begins

Grandparents Day

Rosh Hashanah begins (Jewish)

Gobblerfest

Rosh Hashanah ends (Jewish)

Students with unpaid accounts will be dropped from classes at 5 p.m.

Deadline to obtain a Federal Work Study job


Family E-News

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SEPTEMBER 2013

The fall and winter months are often the time when students come down with a cold or even the flu, so it’s important for them to do everything they can to stay healthy. Aside from eating right and getting enough sleep, remind your student to be aware of their stress level. Stress can compromise their immune system, so suggest ways to help them de-stress. Also, encourage them to get a flu shot at Schiffert Health Center or at the annual flu vaccine clinic on October 2. Visit the website at www.healthcenter.vt.edu.

October is also the month of midterms, and your student may be anxious about the first big exam of their college career. Sending them a care package during this time may not make exams seem less daunting, but it will put a big smile on his or her face. Visit the Mail Services website at www.mailservices.vt.edu to find out how to properly address packages so they will reach the right residence hall.

Now may also be a good time to discuss your student’s academic progress. If he or she seems to be struggling in the classroom or just wants to do better, encourage him or her to visit the Student Success Center. The center offers tutoring, seminars, and other resources to help with reaching academic goals. Learn more at www.studentsuccess.vt.edu. Poor academic performance can also affect financial aid. Remind your student to seek help if he or she is struggling. Find out more information about Reasonable Academic Progress at www.finaid.vt.edu/appeals/rap/policy-2011-2012.

Course registration for spring 2014 will begin soon. Check with your student to see if he or she has met with an academic advisor. If not, encourage them to do so.

As Thanksgiving Break approaches, discuss your expectations for when he or she returns home for the week, especially since this may be the most time your student has spent at home in several months.

Remind your student that regular class attendance is important.

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VT Homecoming

Football vs. North Carolina

Columbus Day

Eid al-Adha begins (Islam)

Eid al-Adha ends (Islam)

Halloween

Fall Break begins (no classes, university offices open)


Fall Flu Clinic

Fall Break ends

Football vs. Pittsburgh

Football vs. Duke

Family E-News

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oCToBER 2013

With the fall semester winding down, it’s a good time to start a discussion about your student’s assessment of his or her first semester at college. Ask your student about likes or dislikes or what he or she would change, and maybe brainstorm a few ideas about what they can to do to improve the situation.

This is also a time when co-curricular activities heat up, such as seasonal parties, concerts, service projects, and religious activities. These can sometimes drain a student’s energy. Reach out to your student to offer support and remind him or her to study and keep up with assignments.

You may want to talk about your student’s finances. If you expect them to pay for their own entertainment—eating out with friends, going to the movies, etc.—work with them to set a budget. You might suggest they look to the university for a part-time job. After all, there’s no better employer when it comes to understanding a student’s school schedule than a university. Search student jobs at www.hr.vt.edu/employment.

When your student comes home for Thanksgiving, expect that he or she has changed some from the person who went away to school in August.

If your student mentions wanting to study abroad in an upcoming semester, check out www.educationabroad.vt.edu and offer them some suggestions. We offer programs in locales such as Switzerland, India, and Ghana. It’s a great way to get college credit while learning about the global community.

During Winter Break, Virginia Tech will provide students with the opportunity to continue to learn during their time off from regular university semesters. Students will have the option to study abroad, take online courses, or take on-campus classes. Subscribe to the Hokie Family E-Newsletter at www.dsa.vt.edu/family/stayinformed for specific dates and information when they become available.

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Football at Boston College

Football at Miami

Football at Virginia

Daylight-saving time ends

Diwali begins (Hindu) Diwali ends (Hindu)

Family E-News

Election Day

Veterans Day

International Education Week

Thanksgiving Day

Thanksgiving Break begins

Residence halls close at 10:00 a.m.


Football vs. Maryland

Hanukkah begins (Jewish)

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NoVEMBER 2013

As the air begins to get colder and end-of-semester exams and projects loom, it’s important that your student builds a stronger immunity to protect against germs. Advise your student to get enough rest and get moving. A good eight hours of sleep every day and regular exercise can strengthen your student’s immune system. Encourage them to take advantage of the gym, swimming pool, and group exercise classes in McComas Hall or War Memorial Gym.

Don’t be too alarmed about lower-than-expected grades. First-semester grades often accompany the shock of adjusting to a completely new environment, so take that into account. Grades should improve in subsequent semesters as students adjust to their new lives. If your student is experiencing serious grade problems, encourage him or her to talk with an academic advisor about getting help.

The General Scholarship Application is available this month. You can find out more information about General Scholarships and how to apply at www.finaid.vt.edu. The deadline to apply is February 15.

Remember that the residence halls close on December 21 for Winter Break.

When students return home for the month-long Winter Break, they may be concerned about losing their independence after several months away from home. Talk with your student ahead of time about your expectations while he or she is living at home.

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Football ACC Championship (Charlotte, N.C.)

Christmas (Christian)

Christmas Eve (Christian)

New Year’s Eve

Kwanzaa begins

Classes end

Spring semester bills sent out

Reading Day Exams begin

Exams end

Fall Dining Plans end at 8:00 p.m.

Residence halls close at noon

Fall Commencement ceremonies

Winter Break begins

Thanksgiving Break ends

Residence halls re-open at noon

Spring Budget Tuition Plan Enrollment

Hanukkah ends (Jewish)Family E-News

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DECEMBER 2013

As classes resume in the spring semester with new professors and new classmates, encourage your student to take a renewed, invigorated look at his or her classes as not just sources of college credit, but as opportunities to discover new interests and learn new skills, as well.

Continue becoming familiar with university resources so you can direct your student to the appropriate office or department for assistance. Encourage your student to handle his or her own problems without relying on you to solve them.

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is now available for the 2014-15 academic year. Make sure to complete it by the priority deadline of March 1. Also keep an eye on the University Scholarships and Financial Aid website at www.finaid.vt.edu.

Learning takes place outside of the classroom, too, and the university offers numerous educational and entertaining events throughout the school year. Encourage your student to attend these, especially cultural events held during heritage month celebrations, such as the Hispanic Heritage and Jewish Cultural months. Find out more about multicultural events at Virginia Tech by visiting Multicultural Programs and Services at www.mps.vt.edu.

It’s common for students at this stage to have not yet chosen a major. Encourage your student to visit Career Services to discuss various career options and what to consider when selecting a major. Career advisors can also help students research internships, professional organizations, create or revise a resume, and more. Visit the website at www.career.vt.edu.

This is also the time of year for the housing application process, also known as HAP. Campus housing is guaranteed only for incoming first-year students, so if your student wants to live on campus next year they must apply now. Learn more at www.housing.vt.edu/contracts/apply/undergrad.

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New Year’s Day

Kwanzaa ends

Gantan-sai (Shinto)

FAFSA available

Spring tuition payment deadline

Budget Tuition Plan enrollment deadline

Spring Dining Plans begin at noon


Residence halls open at noon

Martin Luther King Jr. holiday (no classes; university offices closed)

Classes begin

2014-15 campus housing application process begins

2014-15 campus housing application process ends

Chinese New Year

Family E-News

Winter Break ends

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JANuARy 2014

University Scholarships and Financial Aid will begin receiving FAFSA information this month. Remind your student to watch his or her email account for information about needed documentation to complete the process. The priority deadline is March 1.

Your student is probably excited about the upcoming Spring Break, March 8 –16. Talk about his or her potential plans and encourage him or her to begin budgeting for the trip. Also, remind your student to stay safe during the break. If your student is traveling with friends, discuss plans in case of an emergency.

Only incoming first-year students are guaranteed campus housing, so talk with your student about his or her living arrangements for the next school year. They need to begin researching off-campus housing as well as looking at potential roommates. Encourage them to work with Virginia Tech Off Campus Housing, a part of Student Centers and Activities. The office can help them find the right living situation. Find more information at www.studentcenters.vt.edu/vtoch.

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Housing offers for 2014-15 distributed


Setsubun-sai (Shinto)

Lincoln’s birthday

Washington’s Birthday

Valentine’s Day

2014-15 campus housing/dining contracts due by 5:00 p.m.

VTCC Military Ball

Deadline to submit General Scholarship Application

President’s Day (classes meet)

Family E-News

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FEBRuARy 2014

Start planning for the Spring Family Tailgate on April 19. Bring the whole family for a weekend of fun on our beautiful campus and around town. See what we have planned at www.dsa.vt.edu/family.

As spring arrives, the weather in Virginia is usually warm and comfortable. If your student is the outdoorsy type, now is the time for him or her to take advantage of Venture Out, the university’s own outdoor adventure service. Families are more than welcome to join their students on the trips, as well. See the website at www.studentcenters.vt.edu/ventureout to learn more about equipment rental services and the various programs available, from horseback riding to camping to kayaking.

If your student will be vacationing during Spring Break, talk about his or her plans for a safe travel experience during the break from school.

Spring midterms are just around the corner; remind your student about the importance of healthy habits and study habits. Encourage your student to speak with professors if they have any questions or concerns about their class performance.

Daylight-saving time begins on March 9. Don’t forget to remind your student to spring forward one hour.

University Scholarships and Financial Aid will begin awarding financial aid for the 2014-15 academic year in March; remind your student to review his or her Hokie SPA account to make sure there is no outstanding documentation needed for aid to be awarded.

Some majors may require an internship, or perhaps your student is beginning to look for a summer job related to their field of study. Encourage your student to speak with a career advisor in Career Services to learn more about internships and job opportunities.

Also encourage your student to plan ahead if he or she is attending Summer Sessions at Virginia Tech. If they plan to live on campus for the summer, they will need to purchase a summer dining plan from Dining Services. Available summer dining plans can be found at www.dining.vt.edu/plans/summerplans.

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Spring Break begins


Daylight-saving time begins

Spring Break ends

Residence halls re-open at noon Spring begins


Ring Dance

FAFSA submission priority deadline

Ash Wednesday (Christian)Family E-News

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MARCH 2014

The Spring Family Tailgate is April 19 prior to the Spring Game. Register and learn more about this fun family event at www.dsa.vt.edu/family.

Your student may experience high levels of anxiety while studying for final exams, especially if there is pressure to improve grades from the previous semester. Suggest ways to relax, and encourage him or her to create a manageable study plan.

As the weather gets warmer, spring fever may mount and your student might feel like skipping a few classes here and there. Remind him or her that summer is just around the corner, but now is the time to continue attending class. This will pay off at the end of the semester.

Many student organizations will begin recruiting new leadership for the next year at the end of the spring semester. Getting involved in a student organization is great way for your student to be a part of the university community. Encourage him or her to reach out to Student Centers and Activities at www.studentcenters.vt.edu to learn more about student leadership opportunities.

Encourage your student to approach final exams with a positive attitude.

If your student is staying in Blacksburg for the summer, make sure he or she has finalized living arrangements. If he or she will be attending Summer Sessions, they may be eligible for campus housing. Find out more at www.housing.vt.edu/contracts/apply/summer.

University Scholarships and Financial Aid will begin awarding summer financial aid in April; remind your student to register for summer classes as early as possible so that his or her financial eligibility can be reviewed (there is no separate application for summer aid).

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Earth Day

Day of Remembrance

Spring Family Tailgate

Spring Game

Passover ends (Jewish)

International Street Fair

Easter (Christian)

Good Friday (Christian)


Passover begins (Jewish)

Family E-News

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APRIL 2014

Encourage your student to stay active during the summer with a summer job, summer school, or other activities.

Remind your student that it’s almost time to move out of on-campus housing for the summer, and that there will be certain vacating rules they must follow. Encourage them to speak with a resident advisor to become familiar with the checkout procedures. He or she can also learn more about the move-out procedure at www.housing.vt.edu/movingout. The residence halls will close at noon on Thursday, May 15.

Also, remind your student that initial dining plan funds and dining plan carry over/roll over funds must be spent by the end of spring semester when dining centers close. We encourage students to spend all remaining dining plan funds by May 14 at 8:00 p.m.

Discuss possible living arrangements for the next school year. Only incoming first-year students are guaranteed campus housing, so your student may not be able to live on campus even if he or she wants to (especially if they didn’t complete the HAP process in January). Don’t forget to talk about potential roommates.

If your student is coming home for the summer, make sure they’re realistic about the situation. It won’t be the same as it was when they left for college. In some cases, many childhood and high school friends will have moved away. Encourage him or her to find new support groups and activities to stay busy during the summer.

Again, be sure to discuss your expectations for when your student returns home. Being home for several months will be an adjustment for him or her, and for you. Make sure you come to an understanding about how you will both handle the arrangement.

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Exams beginClasses end

Exams end

Spring Dining Plans end at 8:00 p.m.

Buddha Day (Buddhist)

Senior Day

ROTC Commissioning


Spring Commencement ceremonies

Spring Commencement ceremonies

Reading Day

Mother’s Day

Memorial Day (no classes)

Residence hall check-in 10:00 a.m.– 5:00 p.m. for Summer I

Summer I classes begin

Ascension of Baha’u’llah begins (Baha’i)

Ascension of Baha’u’llah ends (Baha’i)

Family E-News

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MAy 2014

If your student is enrolled in Summer Sessions, remind him or her that these classes are essentially full-semester classes packed into only a few weeks. So while it may be tempting to knock off early and spend time in the sun, he or she must maintain strong study habits.

If your student is working over the summer, encourage him or her to put aside some of the money they earn. If he or she is resistant to saving, remind them how nice it will be to have their own spending money during the school year instead of having to rely on whether or not you will send money.

Talk with your student about the past school year. Ask about what they liked or didn’t like, and discuss what they can do to improve the next school year.

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World Environment Day

Father’s Day

Ramadan begins (Islam)

Summer begins

Flag Day

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JuNE 2014

Talk with your student about finances for the upcoming academic year. Discuss his or her spending habits and the possibility of setting up a budget. This is a great time for your student to learn about financial responsibility.

Discuss how new living arrangements will affect the next school year. Encourage your student to coordinate with his or her roommates and figure out who will be responsible for bringing which appliances, how they plan to split the bills, etc. Also remind them that the next school year will arrive soon and that it would be a good idea to start planning his or her return to school now so they don’t feel overwhelmed when the time actually comes.

Discuss your student’s plans for campus involvement in the next school year. Encourage him or her to take advantage of the many student organizations at the university, or to get involved around the community. There are numerous ways to stay active and engaged here at Virginia Tech, and after a successful first year, your student should be ready to go.

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Independence Day (no classes; university offices closed)

Summer I classes end

Fall semester bills distributed

Exams begin

Exams end

Residence hall check-in noon – 6:00 p.m. for Summer II

Summer II classes begin

Residence halls close for Summer I at 10:00 a.m.

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JuLy 2014

OFFICE OF THE VICE PRESIDENT 540-231-6272 www.dsa.vt.edu

The Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs provides administrative leadership for the departments within the Division of Student Affairs, including policy development, program development and assessment, budgeting, and goal and priority setting. The office works with the departments within the division, the academic colleges, and administrative units to promote programming that embodies the Aspirations for Student Learning and Virginia Tech’s Principles of Community.

ALUMNI RELATIONS 540-231-6272 www.dsa.vt.edu

When students leave campus after commencement, they don’t truly leave the university. Alumni Relations keeps in touch with student affairs alumni by hosting reunions, sharing stories, and highlighting their achievements.

CAMPUS ALCOHOL ABUSE PREVENTION AT VIRGINIA TECH 540-231- 2233 www.alcohol.vt.edu

Virginia Tech realizes that current efforts to reduce high-risk drinking and alcohol-related negative consequences must be sustained and continue to evolve. To accomplish this, Virginia Tech has institutionalized prevention efforts in a university center, the Campus Alcohol Abuse Prevention Center.

CAREER SERVICES 540-231-6241 www.career.vt.edu

Career Services assists students with their career development needs throughout their time at Virginia Tech. Career advisors guide students through the career exploration process as well as investigating cooperative education and internship options. The Career Services staff and their wealth of resources aid students as they develop future plans.

COOK COUNSELING CENTER 540-231-6557 www.ucc.vt.edu

Cook Counseling Center offers counseling services to students for personal and educational concerns. Professional psychologists and counselors provide short-term individual, couples, and group counseling. There is no charge for the center’s confidential counseling services. Appointments may be made in person during office hours, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Students in need of immediate assistance are seen on an emergency, non-appointment basis.

CORPS OF CADETS 540-231-6858 www.vtcc.vt.edu

The Virginia Tech Corps of Cadets strives to create a military environment that educates and develops the whole person mentally, morally, and physically, and instills in each cadet the attributes and competencies essential for successful leadership.

CRANWELL INTERNATIONAL CENTER 540-231-6527 www.international.vt.edu

The Cranwell International Center, a gift from the William Cranwell Family, opened in 1986 and is a focal point for the international community, providing an array of educational, cultural, and social activities. Another goal of the center is to encourage interchange between international guests and their U.S. colleagues.

DEAN OF STUDENTS OFFICE 540-231-3787 www.dos.vt.edu

The Dean of Students Office assists the university with its mission of creating a welcoming climate for all students. The office oversees work in New Student and Family Programs, Student Advocacy, Multicultural Programs and Services, and Cranwell International Center.

DINING SERVICES 540-231-3933 www.dining.vt.edu

Virginia Tech’s award-winning Dining Services is recognized nationally for its creativity and commitment to students. With ten dining venues on campus, students are never far from convenient, nutritious, and tasty choices for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

FRATERNITY AND SORORITY LIFE 540-231-6609 www.greeklife.vt.edu

Fraternity and Sorority Life provides guidance and support to nationally affiliated fraternities and sororities at the university. Staff members directly advise the Interfraternity Council, the National Pan-Hellenic Council, the Panhellenic Council, and the Multicultural Greek Council.

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uNIVERSITy RESouRCES THE DIVISIoN oF STuDENT AFFAIRS

HOUSING AND RESIDENCE LIFE 540-231-6205 www.housing.vt.edu

Living on campus is an important part of the college experience, and with all the living choices Housing and Residence Life has to offer, students have the opportunity to choose their own adventure. Through a variety of services, programs, and activities, the staff also promotes the personal growth and academic success of all residents and helps to provide a positive educational, physical, and social environment in these communities.

LEADERSHIP EDUCATION COLLECTIVE

The Leadership Education Collective provides programming and direction for students with the ambition to lead on a global scale. The collective provides outreach programs to the university community to help develop student leaders.

MULTICULTURAL PROGRAMS AND SERVICES 540-231-8584 www.mps.vt.edu

Multicultural Programs and Services helps the university create and maintain an inclusive and welcoming environment. To this end, MPS offers programs and services committed to the holistic development of all students as it relates to their cultural, personal, social, and intellectual growth.

NEW STUDENT AND FAMILY PROGRAMS 540-231-3284 www.nsfp.vt.edu

New Student and Family Programs is responsible for welcoming first-year and transfer students to the university through New Student Orientation and other new student programs. The staff also provides support for the families of students through resources and events.

RECREATIONAL SPORTS 540-231-6856 www.recsports.vt.edu

Recreational Sports promotes and implements recreational and fitness activities essential to improving student life. The department offers non-credit instruction, fitness activities, wellness education and assessment, intramural sports, and extramural sports competitions with a goal of fostering healthy lifestyle choices and facilitating positive physical and mental outcomes and coping strategies.

SCHIFFERT HEALTH CENTER 540-231-6444 www.healthcenter.vt.edu

The center provides quality health care and health education in support of the university’s mission to educate the whole person. Wellness and health services are offered by physicians, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, health educators, and college health nurses. The staff also includes pharmacists, a dietitian, medical technologists, and radiologic technologists. The center is accredited by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care Inc.

SERVICES FOR STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES 540-231-3788 www.ssd.vt.edu

Services for Students with Disabilities helps create an inclusive and welcoming community for all students by ensuring that students with disabilities receive equal access to education and opportunities.

STUDENT ADVOCACY

Student Advocacy provides support to students during emergencies and coordinates responses using the appropriate resources available. Students can look to Student Advocacy for questions regarding resources and services offered by the university

STUDENT CENTERS AND ACTIVITIES 540-231-5431 www.studentcenters.vt.edu

Student Centers and Activities operates the two student centers (Johnston and Squires) and the War Memorial Chapel, as well as provides leadership training, advising, consulting, and program development. The office is also responsible for selection of Who’s Who, Man and Woman of the Year, and University Student Leadership Awards recipients.

STUDENT CONDUCT 540-231-3790 www.studentconduct.vt.edu

Student Conduct policies apply to all students and all registered student organizations. Its major purpose is to help create a fair, just, and disciplined university community. The system supports the educational mission of the university by teaching students about appropriate behavior and by fostering a community conducive to academic success.

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uNIVERSITy RESouRCES THE DIVISIoN oF STuDENT AFFAIRS

STUDENT SUCCESS CENTER 540-231-5499 www.studentsuccess.vt.edu

The Student Success Center offers free academic support, such as tutoring and study skills seminars, to undergraduate students at Virginia Tech. It also has programs and activities for students who are already succeeding academically but want to enrich their educational experience.

ACADEMIC COLLEGES & DEPARTMENTS

College of Agriculture & Life Sciences 540-231- 6503 www.cals.vt.edu

College of Architecture & Urban Studies 540-231-6416 www.caus.vt.edu

College of Engineering 540-231-6555 www.eng.vt.edu

College of Liberal Arts & Human Sciences 540-231-6548 www.clahs.vt.edu

College of Natural Resources & Environment 540-231-5482 www.cnre.vt.edu

Pamplin College of Business 540-231-6602 www.pamplin.vt.edu

College of Science 540-231-5144 www.science.vt.edu

University Studies 540-231-8440 www.uaac.vt.edu

Veterinary Medicine 540-231-7666 www.vetmed.vt.edu

FAMILy EDuCATIoNAL RIGHTS AND PRIVACy ACT oF 1974

We will do whatever we can to help you, as a family, continue to be involved in your student’s education, even when they are far from home. There are some things we can’t do, however, and most of those things are spelled out by the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974, also known as FERPA.

In general, FERPA stipulates that students are guaranteed access to their own academic records and that students can determine who else will have access to their records, as well. This means that without the student’s written consent, Virginia Tech cannot legally divulge to you or anyone else any information regarding your student’s academic record at the university. If your student wants to give written consent, they can do so through their Hokie SPA account at hokiespa.vt.edu.

There is more to FERPA than just that, but that may be the most important aspect for families. To learn more about FERPA, contact the office of the University Registrar at 540-231-6251 or 540-231-6252, or you can email the staff at [email protected]. You can also visit the registrar’s website at www.registrar.vt.edu/privacy/index.html.

Dean’s List notices sent to hometown papers may exclude your student due to certain privacy settings. Make sure your student is aware of their chosen privacy settings. 30

ACADEMIC SuPPoRT

It’s possible your student may get a little homesick during their first year at college, or perhaps you sense they’re a little stressed about exams or that they’re unsure about what to study. A care package sent from home is always a good idea in these circumstances. Even if they don’t feel so lonely or anxious, a care package full of goodies and reminders of family never fails to bring about a smile. Candy, cookies, cards, CDs—anything you think will make your student’s day can be sent right to them on the Virginia Tech campus.

There are many books written for parents of college-bound students. The following list has been compiled from several different websites and publications. Most should be available at your local library or online bookstores.

“The Happiest Kid on Campus” by Harlan Cohen

“Letting Go: A Parent’s Guide to Understanding the College Years” by Karen Levin Coburn & Madge Lawrence Treeger

“When Your Kid Goes To College” by Carol Barkin

“When Kids Go to College: A Parent’s Guide to Changing Relationships” by Barbara M. Newman & Philip R. Newman

“You’re on Your Own, But I’m Here if You Need Me” by Marjorie Savage

“Let the Journey Begin: A Parent’s Monthly Guide to the College Experience” by Jacqueline MacKay & Wanda Ingram

“Bringing Home the Laundry: Effective Parenting for College and Beyond” by Janis Brody

“Almost Grown: Launching Your Child From High School to College” by Patricia Pasick

“Empty Nest, Full Heart: The Journey from Home to College” by Andrea Van Steenhouse

“Don’t Tell Me What To Do, Just Send Money: The Essential Parenting Guide to the College Years” by Helen E. Johnson & Christine Schelhas-Miller

HoKIE PARENT READING LIST

Here are a few tips to make sure all mail and packages reach your student safely:

Make sure the address is printed in the format to the left.

Each residence hall has it’s own four-digit code tacked onto the end of the zip code. Please visit www.mailservices.vt.edu/residential to find out the correct code.

All packages sent through the U.S. Postal Service will be sent to residence hall mailboxes. Packages sent via UPS or FedEx will be delivered directly to your student’s room.

Make sure your student knows where his or her hall’s mailbox is located. They can find this out by viewing Residential Mail Procedures on the above website.

If you have any other questions about residential mail service at Virginia Tech, contact Mail Services at 540-231-4085, or at [email protected].

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MAIL SERVICES

Student NameResidence Hall Rm. 423630 Washington St. SWBlacksburg, Va., 24060-9523

Some people seem to be born with a passion for a specific field. It’s almost as if they know from day one the direction they want to take in life. But most people aren’t like that. Their interests change and they may jump from one idea to something completely unrelated a few times each year. Everyone has different methods for figuring out what excites them, so don’t let your student’s possible confusion about their life plans frustrate you. This is a normal stage in their development, and you can be sure they will find their way.

However, that doesn’t mean students don’t need support and the occasional motivational nudge from their families. With that in mind, here are some things you can do each year to help your student plan for a successful career after college.

Encourage your student to explore their interests and abilities through taking classes in various fields. This may help give them a better idea of whether a particular subject fascinates them or is really only a mild interest.

Discuss volunteer opportunities with them. They can volunteer on campus or with a community organization. These positions can help broaden their experience and build their resume.

Ask them about the career fairs and resume workshops on campus. Remind them that these events can be a wealth of information about potential careers and employers as well as about what makes a resume stand out to employers.

Keep up with Career Services at www.career.vt.edu.

Talk to them about the previous year. Find out what they learned. They may have already chosen a major by this point, but if not you can help them look at which majors fit best with their refined interests.

Encourage them to enroll in UNIV 2004 Exploring Careers: Making Decisions and Plans. This for-credit class may help them if they have yet to decide on a field of study.

Find out if they have pursued internship opportunities or experience-based classes in their chosen discipline. Taking advantage of such things can greatly increase their knowledge and experience and will make them more attractive to employers.

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How To HELP youR STuDENT PLAN FoR SuCCESS: A CoLLEGE TIMELINE

FIRST-yEAR

SoPHoMoRE yEAR

Ask them about research they have done on their chosen major. Encourage them to explore at least three career options related to their major, and help them identify organizations and associations affiliated with those careers or with their major. These organizations are great for networking.

Recognize that your student is an adult now, but offer support as they narrow their career interests and begin networking with professionals in their field.

Talk to them about the direction they are headed. Find out if they are already planning for their post-college life. Understand that they might be leaning toward something that would take them far from home or that you may think is impractical, but that it is their life and their decision to make.

Show interest in their internships, jobs, and classes. Ask about the kind of work they’re doing.

Remind them to take advantage of Career Services’ advising opportunities, resume workshops, and career fairs.

Offer all your support during their last year. It can be a stressful time for some students.

Send a care package during exams. These reminders mean a lot to students.

Remind them once again to take advantage of the assistance offered by Career Services.

Sit back and be proud.

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JuNIoR yEAR

SENIoR yEAR

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Fall 2013

Aug. 10 .......................Drop/add opens for fall 2013

Aug. 21-24 ..................Move-in days

Aug. 26 ......................Classes begin

Oct. 18 .......................Fall Break begins

Oct. 20 .......................Fall Break ends

Nov. 23 .......................Thanksgiving Break begins

Dec. 1 ........................Thanksgiving Break ends

Dec. 11 .......................Classes end

Dec. 12.......................Reading Day

Dec. 13.......................Exams begin

Dec. 19.......................Exams end

Dec. 20 ...................... Fall Commencement ceremonies (university and graduate)

Dec. 21 ......................Residence halls close at noon

Spring 2014

Jan. 18 .......................Residence halls open at noon

Jan. 21 .......................Classes begin

Jan. 21-24................... On-campus housing application process for 2014-2015

Feb. 14 .......................Housing/dining contracts due for 2014-2015

March 8 ......................Spring Break begins

March 16 ....................Spring Break ends

May 7 .........................Classes end

May 8 .........................Reading Day

May 9 .........................Exams begin

May 14 .......................Exams end

May 16 ....................... Spring Commencement ceremonies (Residence halls close at noon)

May 17 .......................Spring Commencement ceremonies

Summer I 2014

May 27 .......................Classes begin

July 3 .........................Classes end

July 5 .........................Exams begin

July 7 .........................Exams end

Summer II 2014

July 8 .........................Classes begin

Aug. 14.......................Classes end

Aug. 15.......................Exams begin

Aug. 16.......................Exams end

This calendar may be amended as necessary. Check www.housing.vt.edu/dates and the university academic calendar for the most current information.

DATES AT A GLANCE

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Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, gender, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, veteran status, or any other basis protected by law. Anyone having questions concerning discrimination or accessibility should contact the Office of Equity and Access.

THINGS To DISCuSS wITH My STuDENT

VT/800/0613/6.5/131968

2013-2014 family guide and calendar

Documents