SENIOR YEAR HANDBOOK THE SENIORrsquoS GUIDE TO SUCCESS

NOVEMBER 2016

TABLE OF CONTENTS Use our Table of Contents as a checklist Items with a checkbox require your action Good luck

Section 1 Preparing for Graduation

Meet with Your Advisor Apply for Graduation Know the Graduation Dates Take Important Surveys

Section 2 Preparing for Commencement

Spring Ceremony Schedule Special Graduation Events

Order Commencement Supplies

Section 3 Meeting Academic Requirements

Confrm Your Credits Transcripts amp Diploma

Section 4 Preparing For Your Next Steps

ProfessionalGraduate School Full-Time Employment

Section 5 Dollars and Sense

Five Tips to Successful Money Management

Section 6 Staying Connected to SDSU

Update your Contact Information

To our seniors

You are rapidly approaching the time when your imaginations become reality

I want to congratulate you on all of your accomplishments and achievements During these last months on campus it the time to prepare yourself to ensure you realize your goals and aspirations

As seniors SDSU has many resources available to you I encourage you to check your academic and graduation requirements talk to advisors about graduate school options and make contact with the Offce of Career Development This is a time of transition and new opportunities

Lastly I would encourage you to attend the Commencement Ceremony in May This occasion will be a public celebration and recognition of your accomplishments and I look forward to shaking your hand that day Your degree refects years of dedication and hard work and it will be a valuable indication that you have prepared well for the challenges of our ever-changing world

Sincerely

Barry H Dunn PhD President

SECTION ONE 1PREPARING FOR GRADUATION As your credit count climbs here are a few essential stops on your path to graduation

1 MEET WITH YOUR ACADEMIC ADVISOR Just in case you need to change your schedule you should schedule a meeting with your academic advisor as early in the fall term as possible During that meeting conduct a thorough audit of completed courses assess whether you have earned the required grades needed to meet requirements and identify courses left to completeYou should leave that meeting with the outline of a senior year academic plan including all remaining courses

4 Section 1

2 APPLY FOR GRADUATION Before you can graduate you need to complete the graduation application Start by visiting WebAdvisor and clicking My Profle to confrm that all of your majors minors and specializations are listed correctly

To add or change a major or specialization contact your Deanrsquos offce

College of Agriculture and Biological Sciences Berg Agricultural Hall Room 131 688-4148 College of Arts amp Sciences Wagner Hall Room 251 688-4723 College of Education amp Human Sciences Wagner Hall Room 249 688-6181 Jerome J Lohr College of Engineering Crothers Engineering Hall Room 201 688-4161 College of Nursing Wagner Hall Room 255 688-5178 College of Pharmacy Avera Health amp Science Center Room 133 688-5591

To add or change a minor visit MyState and click My Classes then Change Minor

After yoursquove confrmed all of your details complete the graduation application by visiting MyState and click Forms then Graduation Application Complete your graduation application by the date identifed for the semester you plan to graduate Check online for the specifc date

Fall Semester in early September Spring Semester in late January Summer Semester in June

3 OFFICIAL GRADUATION DATES Each May SDSU hosts its annual commencement ceremony Although there is no offcial ceremony at the end of other terms the end of a semester still marks your offcial graduation date Check with the Registration Offce for specifc graduation date

HOLD UP Be sure your student account is paid in full upon graduation and you have no holds (parking library) that would prevent you from receiving a transcript in the future Visit SDePay via WebAdvisor to check your account

4 TAKE IMPORTANT SURVEYS Your experience at SDSU is unique and we want to hear your feedback Two key surveys yoursquoll be asked to complete during your senior year are

bull National Survey of Student Engagement

This survey is implemented in even years (ex 2012 2014 2016) only

bull Graduate Placement Survey

In the weeks leading up to graduation you will receive an email including a link to the Graduate Placement Survey It should only take a couple of minutes for you to share your plans after graduation and some details about your next steps The results of this survey can help prospective students when making important choices about attending SDSU and selecting a major

NOTE We do not withhold diplomas due to fnancial obligations Transcripts we do withhold

FAST FACT According to the 2014 Graduate Placement Survey the class of 2014 had a 917 placement rate

Section 1 5

IN THE KNOW TIPS FROM AN ADVISOR We asked one of our most seasoned and successful academic advisors to pass along some valuable wisdom to students approaching graduation and herersquos what she had to say

DR DEB DEBATES Emeritus Professor College of Education and Human Sciences

66 Section 1

STUDENT TO PROFESSIONAL ndash A CHALLENGING TRANSITION The transition from university student to full-time professional is both exciting and challenging The role of professional brings a new set of expectations and responsibilities

Leave your mark 1Make the most of your fnal year by doing your best work professors will remember you and be eager to recommend you to employers

Start the job search early 2Update your resume and have it reviewed by faculty members in your feld use university resources available to you through the Offce of Career Development at the Center for Student Engagement in the Union Like them on Facebook to keep aware of all that they offer

Get your work done 3While a student you may have had a couple of hours off between classes for coffee and conversation but that will no longer be the case as you enter the professional world The forty hour work week becomes a reality and in fact professionals are expected to complete tasks assigned no matter how long it takes so the forty hour week stretches into 60 or more Find a job you love

Dress professionally 4If you want to be taken seriously and considered a professional you must look the part Consult with colleagues to determine what is appropriate ndash one rule of thumb if is something you would wear to a bar or nightclub it probably isnrsquot appropriate for work

Show respect 5Everyone who works at a school or business is important to the success of that enterprise Show respect for everyone Greet them with a smile and acknowledge their work Recognize that you may be working with people from different generations who have preferred methods of communication that differ from yours ndash respect these preferences in your communication with them Respect experiencehellip you must show respect to earn respect

Take Pride 6Take pride in your degree and in your work let all that you do be something that you are proud to call your own

Section 1 7

SECTION TWO 2PREPARING FOR COMMENCEMENT Graduating is one huge accomplishment Making all of the arrangements for the pomp and circumstance of the actual commencement ceremony is another

SPRING COMMENCEMENT The Spring Commencement Ceremony is scheduled for the Saturday immediately following fnals week

Undergraduate Ceremonies Held in Frost Arena with line-up in the Wellness Center

Graduate Ceremony Held in Frost Arena with line-up in Frost Arena

SPECIAL GRADUATION EVENTS Commencement is a time for the entire institution to come together and celebrate the success of its graduates Additionally many individual colleges departments and offces hold special ceremonies and events to mark the achievement of participating students Check with your departmentcollege

LOG ON As your graduation date gets closer fnd more information regarding commencement and graduation at wwwsdstateeducampus recordsgraduationcfm

The University does not hold a commencement ceremony in December or August but fall and summer graduates are encouraged to participate in the spring festivities If you would like to participate in spring commencement either before or after your offcial graduation date please visit wwwsdstateeducampus recordsgraduationcfm to access the Request to Participate in Commencement Ceremony form

Some individual colleges do host their own ceremonies in December Confrm your collegedepartmentrsquos plans in the appropriate Deanrsquos offce

8 Section 2

TABLE OF CONTENTS Use our Table of Contents as a checklist Items with a checkbox require your action Good luck

Section 1 Preparing for Graduation

Meet with Your Advisor Apply for Graduation Know the Graduation Dates Take Important Surveys

Section 2 Preparing for Commencement

Spring Ceremony Schedule Special Graduation Events

Order Commencement Supplies

Section 3 Meeting Academic Requirements

Confrm Your Credits Transcripts amp Diploma

Section 4 Preparing For Your Next Steps

ProfessionalGraduate School Full-Time Employment

Section 5 Dollars and Sense

Five Tips to Successful Money Management

Section 6 Staying Connected to SDSU

Update your Contact Information

To our seniors

You are rapidly approaching the time when your imaginations become reality

I want to congratulate you on all of your accomplishments and achievements During these last months on campus it the time to prepare yourself to ensure you realize your goals and aspirations

As seniors SDSU has many resources available to you I encourage you to check your academic and graduation requirements talk to advisors about graduate school options and make contact with the Offce of Career Development This is a time of transition and new opportunities

Lastly I would encourage you to attend the Commencement Ceremony in May This occasion will be a public celebration and recognition of your accomplishments and I look forward to shaking your hand that day Your degree refects years of dedication and hard work and it will be a valuable indication that you have prepared well for the challenges of our ever-changing world

Sincerely

Barry H Dunn PhD President

SECTION ONE 1PREPARING FOR GRADUATION As your credit count climbs here are a few essential stops on your path to graduation

1 MEET WITH YOUR ACADEMIC ADVISOR Just in case you need to change your schedule you should schedule a meeting with your academic advisor as early in the fall term as possible During that meeting conduct a thorough audit of completed courses assess whether you have earned the required grades needed to meet requirements and identify courses left to completeYou should leave that meeting with the outline of a senior year academic plan including all remaining courses

4 Section 1

2 APPLY FOR GRADUATION Before you can graduate you need to complete the graduation application Start by visiting WebAdvisor and clicking My Profle to confrm that all of your majors minors and specializations are listed correctly

To add or change a major or specialization contact your Deanrsquos offce

College of Agriculture and Biological Sciences Berg Agricultural Hall Room 131 688-4148 College of Arts amp Sciences Wagner Hall Room 251 688-4723 College of Education amp Human Sciences Wagner Hall Room 249 688-6181 Jerome J Lohr College of Engineering Crothers Engineering Hall Room 201 688-4161 College of Nursing Wagner Hall Room 255 688-5178 College of Pharmacy Avera Health amp Science Center Room 133 688-5591

To add or change a minor visit MyState and click My Classes then Change Minor

After yoursquove confrmed all of your details complete the graduation application by visiting MyState and click Forms then Graduation Application Complete your graduation application by the date identifed for the semester you plan to graduate Check online for the specifc date

Fall Semester in early September Spring Semester in late January Summer Semester in June

3 OFFICIAL GRADUATION DATES Each May SDSU hosts its annual commencement ceremony Although there is no offcial ceremony at the end of other terms the end of a semester still marks your offcial graduation date Check with the Registration Offce for specifc graduation date

HOLD UP Be sure your student account is paid in full upon graduation and you have no holds (parking library) that would prevent you from receiving a transcript in the future Visit SDePay via WebAdvisor to check your account

4 TAKE IMPORTANT SURVEYS Your experience at SDSU is unique and we want to hear your feedback Two key surveys yoursquoll be asked to complete during your senior year are

bull National Survey of Student Engagement

This survey is implemented in even years (ex 2012 2014 2016) only

bull Graduate Placement Survey

In the weeks leading up to graduation you will receive an email including a link to the Graduate Placement Survey It should only take a couple of minutes for you to share your plans after graduation and some details about your next steps The results of this survey can help prospective students when making important choices about attending SDSU and selecting a major

NOTE We do not withhold diplomas due to fnancial obligations Transcripts we do withhold

FAST FACT According to the 2014 Graduate Placement Survey the class of 2014 had a 917 placement rate

Section 1 5

IN THE KNOW TIPS FROM AN ADVISOR We asked one of our most seasoned and successful academic advisors to pass along some valuable wisdom to students approaching graduation and herersquos what she had to say

DR DEB DEBATES Emeritus Professor College of Education and Human Sciences

66 Section 1

STUDENT TO PROFESSIONAL ndash A CHALLENGING TRANSITION The transition from university student to full-time professional is both exciting and challenging The role of professional brings a new set of expectations and responsibilities

Leave your mark 1Make the most of your fnal year by doing your best work professors will remember you and be eager to recommend you to employers

Start the job search early 2Update your resume and have it reviewed by faculty members in your feld use university resources available to you through the Offce of Career Development at the Center for Student Engagement in the Union Like them on Facebook to keep aware of all that they offer

Get your work done 3While a student you may have had a couple of hours off between classes for coffee and conversation but that will no longer be the case as you enter the professional world The forty hour work week becomes a reality and in fact professionals are expected to complete tasks assigned no matter how long it takes so the forty hour week stretches into 60 or more Find a job you love

Dress professionally 4If you want to be taken seriously and considered a professional you must look the part Consult with colleagues to determine what is appropriate ndash one rule of thumb if is something you would wear to a bar or nightclub it probably isnrsquot appropriate for work

Show respect 5Everyone who works at a school or business is important to the success of that enterprise Show respect for everyone Greet them with a smile and acknowledge their work Recognize that you may be working with people from different generations who have preferred methods of communication that differ from yours ndash respect these preferences in your communication with them Respect experiencehellip you must show respect to earn respect

Take Pride 6Take pride in your degree and in your work let all that you do be something that you are proud to call your own

Section 1 7

SECTION TWO 2PREPARING FOR COMMENCEMENT Graduating is one huge accomplishment Making all of the arrangements for the pomp and circumstance of the actual commencement ceremony is another

SPRING COMMENCEMENT The Spring Commencement Ceremony is scheduled for the Saturday immediately following fnals week

Undergraduate Ceremonies Held in Frost Arena with line-up in the Wellness Center

Graduate Ceremony Held in Frost Arena with line-up in Frost Arena

SPECIAL GRADUATION EVENTS Commencement is a time for the entire institution to come together and celebrate the success of its graduates Additionally many individual colleges departments and offces hold special ceremonies and events to mark the achievement of participating students Check with your departmentcollege

LOG ON As your graduation date gets closer fnd more information regarding commencement and graduation at wwwsdstateeducampus recordsgraduationcfm

The University does not hold a commencement ceremony in December or August but fall and summer graduates are encouraged to participate in the spring festivities If you would like to participate in spring commencement either before or after your offcial graduation date please visit wwwsdstateeducampus recordsgraduationcfm to access the Request to Participate in Commencement Ceremony form

Some individual colleges do host their own ceremonies in December Confrm your collegedepartmentrsquos plans in the appropriate Deanrsquos offce

8 Section 2

To our seniors

You are rapidly approaching the time when your imaginations become reality

I want to congratulate you on all of your accomplishments and achievements During these last months on campus it the time to prepare yourself to ensure you realize your goals and aspirations

As seniors SDSU has many resources available to you I encourage you to check your academic and graduation requirements talk to advisors about graduate school options and make contact with the Offce of Career Development This is a time of transition and new opportunities

Lastly I would encourage you to attend the Commencement Ceremony in May This occasion will be a public celebration and recognition of your accomplishments and I look forward to shaking your hand that day Your degree refects years of dedication and hard work and it will be a valuable indication that you have prepared well for the challenges of our ever-changing world

Sincerely

Barry H Dunn PhD President

SECTION ONE 1PREPARING FOR GRADUATION As your credit count climbs here are a few essential stops on your path to graduation

1 MEET WITH YOUR ACADEMIC ADVISOR Just in case you need to change your schedule you should schedule a meeting with your academic advisor as early in the fall term as possible During that meeting conduct a thorough audit of completed courses assess whether you have earned the required grades needed to meet requirements and identify courses left to completeYou should leave that meeting with the outline of a senior year academic plan including all remaining courses

4 Section 1

2 APPLY FOR GRADUATION Before you can graduate you need to complete the graduation application Start by visiting WebAdvisor and clicking My Profle to confrm that all of your majors minors and specializations are listed correctly

To add or change a major or specialization contact your Deanrsquos offce

College of Agriculture and Biological Sciences Berg Agricultural Hall Room 131 688-4148 College of Arts amp Sciences Wagner Hall Room 251 688-4723 College of Education amp Human Sciences Wagner Hall Room 249 688-6181 Jerome J Lohr College of Engineering Crothers Engineering Hall Room 201 688-4161 College of Nursing Wagner Hall Room 255 688-5178 College of Pharmacy Avera Health amp Science Center Room 133 688-5591

To add or change a minor visit MyState and click My Classes then Change Minor

After yoursquove confrmed all of your details complete the graduation application by visiting MyState and click Forms then Graduation Application Complete your graduation application by the date identifed for the semester you plan to graduate Check online for the specifc date

Fall Semester in early September Spring Semester in late January Summer Semester in June

3 OFFICIAL GRADUATION DATES Each May SDSU hosts its annual commencement ceremony Although there is no offcial ceremony at the end of other terms the end of a semester still marks your offcial graduation date Check with the Registration Offce for specifc graduation date

HOLD UP Be sure your student account is paid in full upon graduation and you have no holds (parking library) that would prevent you from receiving a transcript in the future Visit SDePay via WebAdvisor to check your account

4 TAKE IMPORTANT SURVEYS Your experience at SDSU is unique and we want to hear your feedback Two key surveys yoursquoll be asked to complete during your senior year are

bull National Survey of Student Engagement

This survey is implemented in even years (ex 2012 2014 2016) only

bull Graduate Placement Survey

In the weeks leading up to graduation you will receive an email including a link to the Graduate Placement Survey It should only take a couple of minutes for you to share your plans after graduation and some details about your next steps The results of this survey can help prospective students when making important choices about attending SDSU and selecting a major

NOTE We do not withhold diplomas due to fnancial obligations Transcripts we do withhold

FAST FACT According to the 2014 Graduate Placement Survey the class of 2014 had a 917 placement rate

Section 1 5

IN THE KNOW TIPS FROM AN ADVISOR We asked one of our most seasoned and successful academic advisors to pass along some valuable wisdom to students approaching graduation and herersquos what she had to say

DR DEB DEBATES Emeritus Professor College of Education and Human Sciences

66 Section 1

STUDENT TO PROFESSIONAL ndash A CHALLENGING TRANSITION The transition from university student to full-time professional is both exciting and challenging The role of professional brings a new set of expectations and responsibilities

Leave your mark 1Make the most of your fnal year by doing your best work professors will remember you and be eager to recommend you to employers

Start the job search early 2Update your resume and have it reviewed by faculty members in your feld use university resources available to you through the Offce of Career Development at the Center for Student Engagement in the Union Like them on Facebook to keep aware of all that they offer

Get your work done 3While a student you may have had a couple of hours off between classes for coffee and conversation but that will no longer be the case as you enter the professional world The forty hour work week becomes a reality and in fact professionals are expected to complete tasks assigned no matter how long it takes so the forty hour week stretches into 60 or more Find a job you love

Dress professionally 4If you want to be taken seriously and considered a professional you must look the part Consult with colleagues to determine what is appropriate ndash one rule of thumb if is something you would wear to a bar or nightclub it probably isnrsquot appropriate for work

Show respect 5Everyone who works at a school or business is important to the success of that enterprise Show respect for everyone Greet them with a smile and acknowledge their work Recognize that you may be working with people from different generations who have preferred methods of communication that differ from yours ndash respect these preferences in your communication with them Respect experiencehellip you must show respect to earn respect

Take Pride 6Take pride in your degree and in your work let all that you do be something that you are proud to call your own

Section 1 7

SECTION TWO 2PREPARING FOR COMMENCEMENT Graduating is one huge accomplishment Making all of the arrangements for the pomp and circumstance of the actual commencement ceremony is another

SPRING COMMENCEMENT The Spring Commencement Ceremony is scheduled for the Saturday immediately following fnals week

Undergraduate Ceremonies Held in Frost Arena with line-up in the Wellness Center

Graduate Ceremony Held in Frost Arena with line-up in Frost Arena

SPECIAL GRADUATION EVENTS Commencement is a time for the entire institution to come together and celebrate the success of its graduates Additionally many individual colleges departments and offces hold special ceremonies and events to mark the achievement of participating students Check with your departmentcollege

LOG ON As your graduation date gets closer fnd more information regarding commencement and graduation at wwwsdstateeducampus recordsgraduationcfm

The University does not hold a commencement ceremony in December or August but fall and summer graduates are encouraged to participate in the spring festivities If you would like to participate in spring commencement either before or after your offcial graduation date please visit wwwsdstateeducampus recordsgraduationcfm to access the Request to Participate in Commencement Ceremony form

Some individual colleges do host their own ceremonies in December Confrm your collegedepartmentrsquos plans in the appropriate Deanrsquos offce

8 Section 2

SECTION ONE 1PREPARING FOR GRADUATION As your credit count climbs here are a few essential stops on your path to graduation

1 MEET WITH YOUR ACADEMIC ADVISOR Just in case you need to change your schedule you should schedule a meeting with your academic advisor as early in the fall term as possible During that meeting conduct a thorough audit of completed courses assess whether you have earned the required grades needed to meet requirements and identify courses left to completeYou should leave that meeting with the outline of a senior year academic plan including all remaining courses

4 Section 1

2 APPLY FOR GRADUATION Before you can graduate you need to complete the graduation application Start by visiting WebAdvisor and clicking My Profle to confrm that all of your majors minors and specializations are listed correctly

To add or change a major or specialization contact your Deanrsquos offce

College of Agriculture and Biological Sciences Berg Agricultural Hall Room 131 688-4148 College of Arts amp Sciences Wagner Hall Room 251 688-4723 College of Education amp Human Sciences Wagner Hall Room 249 688-6181 Jerome J Lohr College of Engineering Crothers Engineering Hall Room 201 688-4161 College of Nursing Wagner Hall Room 255 688-5178 College of Pharmacy Avera Health amp Science Center Room 133 688-5591

To add or change a minor visit MyState and click My Classes then Change Minor

After yoursquove confrmed all of your details complete the graduation application by visiting MyState and click Forms then Graduation Application Complete your graduation application by the date identifed for the semester you plan to graduate Check online for the specifc date

Fall Semester in early September Spring Semester in late January Summer Semester in June

3 OFFICIAL GRADUATION DATES Each May SDSU hosts its annual commencement ceremony Although there is no offcial ceremony at the end of other terms the end of a semester still marks your offcial graduation date Check with the Registration Offce for specifc graduation date

HOLD UP Be sure your student account is paid in full upon graduation and you have no holds (parking library) that would prevent you from receiving a transcript in the future Visit SDePay via WebAdvisor to check your account

4 TAKE IMPORTANT SURVEYS Your experience at SDSU is unique and we want to hear your feedback Two key surveys yoursquoll be asked to complete during your senior year are

bull National Survey of Student Engagement

This survey is implemented in even years (ex 2012 2014 2016) only

bull Graduate Placement Survey

In the weeks leading up to graduation you will receive an email including a link to the Graduate Placement Survey It should only take a couple of minutes for you to share your plans after graduation and some details about your next steps The results of this survey can help prospective students when making important choices about attending SDSU and selecting a major

NOTE We do not withhold diplomas due to fnancial obligations Transcripts we do withhold

FAST FACT According to the 2014 Graduate Placement Survey the class of 2014 had a 917 placement rate

Section 1 5

IN THE KNOW TIPS FROM AN ADVISOR We asked one of our most seasoned and successful academic advisors to pass along some valuable wisdom to students approaching graduation and herersquos what she had to say

DR DEB DEBATES Emeritus Professor College of Education and Human Sciences

66 Section 1

STUDENT TO PROFESSIONAL ndash A CHALLENGING TRANSITION The transition from university student to full-time professional is both exciting and challenging The role of professional brings a new set of expectations and responsibilities

Leave your mark 1Make the most of your fnal year by doing your best work professors will remember you and be eager to recommend you to employers

Start the job search early 2Update your resume and have it reviewed by faculty members in your feld use university resources available to you through the Offce of Career Development at the Center for Student Engagement in the Union Like them on Facebook to keep aware of all that they offer

Get your work done 3While a student you may have had a couple of hours off between classes for coffee and conversation but that will no longer be the case as you enter the professional world The forty hour work week becomes a reality and in fact professionals are expected to complete tasks assigned no matter how long it takes so the forty hour week stretches into 60 or more Find a job you love

Dress professionally 4If you want to be taken seriously and considered a professional you must look the part Consult with colleagues to determine what is appropriate ndash one rule of thumb if is something you would wear to a bar or nightclub it probably isnrsquot appropriate for work

Show respect 5Everyone who works at a school or business is important to the success of that enterprise Show respect for everyone Greet them with a smile and acknowledge their work Recognize that you may be working with people from different generations who have preferred methods of communication that differ from yours ndash respect these preferences in your communication with them Respect experiencehellip you must show respect to earn respect

Take Pride 6Take pride in your degree and in your work let all that you do be something that you are proud to call your own

Section 1 7

SECTION TWO 2PREPARING FOR COMMENCEMENT Graduating is one huge accomplishment Making all of the arrangements for the pomp and circumstance of the actual commencement ceremony is another

SPRING COMMENCEMENT The Spring Commencement Ceremony is scheduled for the Saturday immediately following fnals week

Undergraduate Ceremonies Held in Frost Arena with line-up in the Wellness Center

Graduate Ceremony Held in Frost Arena with line-up in Frost Arena

SPECIAL GRADUATION EVENTS Commencement is a time for the entire institution to come together and celebrate the success of its graduates Additionally many individual colleges departments and offces hold special ceremonies and events to mark the achievement of participating students Check with your departmentcollege

LOG ON As your graduation date gets closer fnd more information regarding commencement and graduation at wwwsdstateeducampus recordsgraduationcfm

The University does not hold a commencement ceremony in December or August but fall and summer graduates are encouraged to participate in the spring festivities If you would like to participate in spring commencement either before or after your offcial graduation date please visit wwwsdstateeducampus recordsgraduationcfm to access the Request to Participate in Commencement Ceremony form

Some individual colleges do host their own ceremonies in December Confrm your collegedepartmentrsquos plans in the appropriate Deanrsquos offce

8 Section 2

3 OFFICIAL GRADUATION DATES Each May SDSU hosts its annual commencement ceremony Although there is no offcial ceremony at the end of other terms the end of a semester still marks your offcial graduation date Check with the Registration Offce for specifc graduation date

HOLD UP Be sure your student account is paid in full upon graduation and you have no holds (parking library) that would prevent you from receiving a transcript in the future Visit SDePay via WebAdvisor to check your account

4 TAKE IMPORTANT SURVEYS Your experience at SDSU is unique and we want to hear your feedback Two key surveys yoursquoll be asked to complete during your senior year are

bull National Survey of Student Engagement

This survey is implemented in even years (ex 2012 2014 2016) only

bull Graduate Placement Survey

In the weeks leading up to graduation you will receive an email including a link to the Graduate Placement Survey It should only take a couple of minutes for you to share your plans after graduation and some details about your next steps The results of this survey can help prospective students when making important choices about attending SDSU and selecting a major

NOTE We do not withhold diplomas due to fnancial obligations Transcripts we do withhold

FAST FACT According to the 2014 Graduate Placement Survey the class of 2014 had a 917 placement rate

Section 1 5

IN THE KNOW TIPS FROM AN ADVISOR We asked one of our most seasoned and successful academic advisors to pass along some valuable wisdom to students approaching graduation and herersquos what she had to say

DR DEB DEBATES Emeritus Professor College of Education and Human Sciences

66 Section 1

STUDENT TO PROFESSIONAL ndash A CHALLENGING TRANSITION The transition from university student to full-time professional is both exciting and challenging The role of professional brings a new set of expectations and responsibilities

Leave your mark 1Make the most of your fnal year by doing your best work professors will remember you and be eager to recommend you to employers

Start the job search early 2Update your resume and have it reviewed by faculty members in your feld use university resources available to you through the Offce of Career Development at the Center for Student Engagement in the Union Like them on Facebook to keep aware of all that they offer

Get your work done 3While a student you may have had a couple of hours off between classes for coffee and conversation but that will no longer be the case as you enter the professional world The forty hour work week becomes a reality and in fact professionals are expected to complete tasks assigned no matter how long it takes so the forty hour week stretches into 60 or more Find a job you love

Dress professionally 4If you want to be taken seriously and considered a professional you must look the part Consult with colleagues to determine what is appropriate ndash one rule of thumb if is something you would wear to a bar or nightclub it probably isnrsquot appropriate for work

Show respect 5Everyone who works at a school or business is important to the success of that enterprise Show respect for everyone Greet them with a smile and acknowledge their work Recognize that you may be working with people from different generations who have preferred methods of communication that differ from yours ndash respect these preferences in your communication with them Respect experiencehellip you must show respect to earn respect

Take Pride 6Take pride in your degree and in your work let all that you do be something that you are proud to call your own

Section 1 7

SECTION TWO 2PREPARING FOR COMMENCEMENT Graduating is one huge accomplishment Making all of the arrangements for the pomp and circumstance of the actual commencement ceremony is another

SPRING COMMENCEMENT The Spring Commencement Ceremony is scheduled for the Saturday immediately following fnals week

Undergraduate Ceremonies Held in Frost Arena with line-up in the Wellness Center

Graduate Ceremony Held in Frost Arena with line-up in Frost Arena

SPECIAL GRADUATION EVENTS Commencement is a time for the entire institution to come together and celebrate the success of its graduates Additionally many individual colleges departments and offces hold special ceremonies and events to mark the achievement of participating students Check with your departmentcollege

LOG ON As your graduation date gets closer fnd more information regarding commencement and graduation at wwwsdstateeducampus recordsgraduationcfm

The University does not hold a commencement ceremony in December or August but fall and summer graduates are encouraged to participate in the spring festivities If you would like to participate in spring commencement either before or after your offcial graduation date please visit wwwsdstateeducampus recordsgraduationcfm to access the Request to Participate in Commencement Ceremony form

Some individual colleges do host their own ceremonies in December Confrm your collegedepartmentrsquos plans in the appropriate Deanrsquos offce

8 Section 2

IN THE KNOW TIPS FROM AN ADVISOR We asked one of our most seasoned and successful academic advisors to pass along some valuable wisdom to students approaching graduation and herersquos what she had to say

DR DEB DEBATES Emeritus Professor College of Education and Human Sciences

66 Section 1

STUDENT TO PROFESSIONAL ndash A CHALLENGING TRANSITION The transition from university student to full-time professional is both exciting and challenging The role of professional brings a new set of expectations and responsibilities

Leave your mark 1Make the most of your fnal year by doing your best work professors will remember you and be eager to recommend you to employers

Start the job search early 2Update your resume and have it reviewed by faculty members in your feld use university resources available to you through the Offce of Career Development at the Center for Student Engagement in the Union Like them on Facebook to keep aware of all that they offer

Get your work done 3While a student you may have had a couple of hours off between classes for coffee and conversation but that will no longer be the case as you enter the professional world The forty hour work week becomes a reality and in fact professionals are expected to complete tasks assigned no matter how long it takes so the forty hour week stretches into 60 or more Find a job you love

Dress professionally 4If you want to be taken seriously and considered a professional you must look the part Consult with colleagues to determine what is appropriate ndash one rule of thumb if is something you would wear to a bar or nightclub it probably isnrsquot appropriate for work

Show respect 5Everyone who works at a school or business is important to the success of that enterprise Show respect for everyone Greet them with a smile and acknowledge their work Recognize that you may be working with people from different generations who have preferred methods of communication that differ from yours ndash respect these preferences in your communication with them Respect experiencehellip you must show respect to earn respect

Take Pride 6Take pride in your degree and in your work let all that you do be something that you are proud to call your own

Section 1 7

SECTION TWO 2PREPARING FOR COMMENCEMENT Graduating is one huge accomplishment Making all of the arrangements for the pomp and circumstance of the actual commencement ceremony is another

SPRING COMMENCEMENT The Spring Commencement Ceremony is scheduled for the Saturday immediately following fnals week

Undergraduate Ceremonies Held in Frost Arena with line-up in the Wellness Center

Graduate Ceremony Held in Frost Arena with line-up in Frost Arena

SPECIAL GRADUATION EVENTS Commencement is a time for the entire institution to come together and celebrate the success of its graduates Additionally many individual colleges departments and offces hold special ceremonies and events to mark the achievement of participating students Check with your departmentcollege

LOG ON As your graduation date gets closer fnd more information regarding commencement and graduation at wwwsdstateeducampus recordsgraduationcfm

The University does not hold a commencement ceremony in December or August but fall and summer graduates are encouraged to participate in the spring festivities If you would like to participate in spring commencement either before or after your offcial graduation date please visit wwwsdstateeducampus recordsgraduationcfm to access the Request to Participate in Commencement Ceremony form

Some individual colleges do host their own ceremonies in December Confrm your collegedepartmentrsquos plans in the appropriate Deanrsquos offce

8 Section 2

STUDENT TO PROFESSIONAL ndash A CHALLENGING TRANSITION The transition from university student to full-time professional is both exciting and challenging The role of professional brings a new set of expectations and responsibilities

Leave your mark 1Make the most of your fnal year by doing your best work professors will remember you and be eager to recommend you to employers

Start the job search early 2Update your resume and have it reviewed by faculty members in your feld use university resources available to you through the Offce of Career Development at the Center for Student Engagement in the Union Like them on Facebook to keep aware of all that they offer

Get your work done 3While a student you may have had a couple of hours off between classes for coffee and conversation but that will no longer be the case as you enter the professional world The forty hour work week becomes a reality and in fact professionals are expected to complete tasks assigned no matter how long it takes so the forty hour week stretches into 60 or more Find a job you love

Dress professionally 4If you want to be taken seriously and considered a professional you must look the part Consult with colleagues to determine what is appropriate ndash one rule of thumb if is something you would wear to a bar or nightclub it probably isnrsquot appropriate for work

Show respect 5Everyone who works at a school or business is important to the success of that enterprise Show respect for everyone Greet them with a smile and acknowledge their work Recognize that you may be working with people from different generations who have preferred methods of communication that differ from yours ndash respect these preferences in your communication with them Respect experiencehellip you must show respect to earn respect

Take Pride 6Take pride in your degree and in your work let all that you do be something that you are proud to call your own

Section 1 7

SECTION TWO 2PREPARING FOR COMMENCEMENT Graduating is one huge accomplishment Making all of the arrangements for the pomp and circumstance of the actual commencement ceremony is another

SPRING COMMENCEMENT The Spring Commencement Ceremony is scheduled for the Saturday immediately following fnals week

Undergraduate Ceremonies Held in Frost Arena with line-up in the Wellness Center

Graduate Ceremony Held in Frost Arena with line-up in Frost Arena

SPECIAL GRADUATION EVENTS Commencement is a time for the entire institution to come together and celebrate the success of its graduates Additionally many individual colleges departments and offces hold special ceremonies and events to mark the achievement of participating students Check with your departmentcollege

LOG ON As your graduation date gets closer fnd more information regarding commencement and graduation at wwwsdstateeducampus recordsgraduationcfm

The University does not hold a commencement ceremony in December or August but fall and summer graduates are encouraged to participate in the spring festivities If you would like to participate in spring commencement either before or after your offcial graduation date please visit wwwsdstateeducampus recordsgraduationcfm to access the Request to Participate in Commencement Ceremony form

Some individual colleges do host their own ceremonies in December Confrm your collegedepartmentrsquos plans in the appropriate Deanrsquos offce

8 Section 2

SECTION TWO 2PREPARING FOR COMMENCEMENT Graduating is one huge accomplishment Making all of the arrangements for the pomp and circumstance of the actual commencement ceremony is another

SPRING COMMENCEMENT The Spring Commencement Ceremony is scheduled for the Saturday immediately following fnals week

Undergraduate Ceremonies Held in Frost Arena with line-up in the Wellness Center

Graduate Ceremony Held in Frost Arena with line-up in Frost Arena

SPECIAL GRADUATION EVENTS Commencement is a time for the entire institution to come together and celebrate the success of its graduates Additionally many individual colleges departments and offces hold special ceremonies and events to mark the achievement of participating students Check with your departmentcollege

LOG ON As your graduation date gets closer fnd more information regarding commencement and graduation at wwwsdstateeducampus recordsgraduationcfm

The University does not hold a commencement ceremony in December or August but fall and summer graduates are encouraged to participate in the spring festivities If you would like to participate in spring commencement either before or after your offcial graduation date please visit wwwsdstateeducampus recordsgraduationcfm to access the Request to Participate in Commencement Ceremony form

Some individual colleges do host their own ceremonies in December Confrm your collegedepartmentrsquos plans in the appropriate Deanrsquos offce

8 Section 2

COMMENCEMENT amp GRADUATION INFORMATION For all the commencement information you need including how to order your cap and gown visit sdstateedu and search graduation

CAP amp GOWN To participate in the commencement ceremony you need to dress the part of the graduate After completing your graduate application you will receive an email from the Registrarrsquos Offce with specifc instructions to order your cap and gown online The cap and gown are made from recycled materials and donrsquot need to be returned they are yours to keep

IN THE KNOW MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR LAST DAYS AS A COLLEGE STUDENT

and Instagram

locations below Take a tour of Brookings using the checklist of 1

Share your adventure on Twitter 2using bestofbrookings

Take a ride on the bike path and swing through the Dakota Nature Park

Grab breakfast at Cookrsquos Kitchen on Main Street

Climb the Campanile

Visit the Agricultural Heritage Museum the South Dakota Art Museum and the South Dakota Childrenrsquos Museum

Snap your picture next to the Weary Wil and Dirty Lil sculptures on the Hobo Day plaza

Buy a bag of burgers at Nickrsquos Hamburger Shop

Get a scoop of famous SDSU ice cream at the Dairy Bar

Add your own stops

Section 2 9

SECTION THREE 3MEETING ACADEMIC REQUIREMENTS With your destination set on degree now is the time to confrm that you have met all requirements of your academic program

CONFIRM YOUR CREDITS To receive an undergraduate degree from SDSU you Early in the fall semester conduct an audit with your must earn a minimum of 120 credits While you may academic advisor This will help you determine the transfer credit from other accredited universities or exact number of credits and which specifc courses colleges 50 of the major or minor requirements must are needed to meet all graduation requirementsbe earned by completing SDSU courses

Some majors require more than 120 credits Those majors are

MAJOR CREDIT COUNT

Agricultural amp Bio-systems Engineering 130 credits

Agronomy 125 credits

Civil Engineering 130 credits

Early Childhood Education DSU Cooperative Program

141 credits

Electrical Engineering 130 credits

Mechanical Engineering 130 credits

Music Education 126 credits

Pharmaceutical Sciences 138 credits

Studio Art - Art Education Specialization 128 credits

10 Section 3

TRANSCRIPTS amp DIPLOMAS Now that yoursquore ready to graduate get the paper to prove it

Transcripts Transcripts must be ordered in writing Requests sent via email phone or texts are not accepted Send a letter of request to

Fax 605-688-6384 Enrollment Service Center Attn Transcripts South Dakota State University Box 511A Brookings SD 57007

Diplomas To indicate your delivery or pick up preference visit wwwcbgradcom and click Personalize

LOG ON For more information on transcripts visit httpwwwsdstateeducampusrecords transcriptscfm

Graduating with Honors Summa Cum Laude ndash equal to or greater than 39 cumulative grade point average

Magna Cum Laude ndash equal to or greater than 37 cumulative grade point average (but lt 39)

Cum Laude ndash equal to or greater than 35 cumulative grade point average (but lt 37)

Section 3 11

TRANSCRIPTS amp DIPLOMAS Now that yoursquore ready to graduate get the paper to prove it

Transcripts Transcripts must be ordered in writing Requests sent via email phone or texts are not accepted Send a letter of request to

Fax 605-688-6384 Enrollment Service Center Attn Transcripts South Dakota State University Box 511A Brookings SD 57007

Diplomas To indicate your delivery or pick up preference visit wwwcbgradcom and click Personalize

LOG ON For more information on transcripts visit httpwwwsdstateeducampusrecords transcriptscfm

Graduating with Honors Summa Cum Laude ndash equal to or greater than 39 cumulative grade point average

Magna Cum Laude ndash equal to or greater than 37 cumulative grade point average (but lt 39)

Cum Laude ndash equal to or greater than 35 cumulative grade point average (but lt 37)

Section 3 11

4 SECTION FOUR

PLANNING YOUR NEXT STEPS Now that graduation is getting closer itrsquos time for you to start thinking about what comes after college Whether you decide to pursue graduate school or get a full-time job there are some important things you should do now to prepare

GRADUATEPROFESSIONAL SCHOOL Is graduate school right for you personally academically and fnancially

Pursuing a graduate degree is a major commitment Various personal fnancial and other factors must be considered and the process of selecting a graduate program can be overwhelming Although Graduate School can be costly and time-consuming there are a number of resulting benefts Many careers require a graduate degree to advance or even attain employment Graduate degrees can also lead to fnancial and personal gains Consider asking yourself the following questions

bull What are my career goals Is a graduate degree required to reach them

bull Will a graduate degree improve my marketability and career advancement bull Do I have the time and fnancial resources to devote to further education

Find the right graduate program

Masterrsquos programs provide education in a specialized feld and take two to three years to complete Doctoral programs provide extensive in-depth expertise in a specialized feld and take three to eight years to complete

Programs can be professionally- or research-focused Professional programs provide knowledge and skills required for a specifc profession such as medicine or social work and usually require internships or other experiences where knowledge must be applied Research based programs focus on expanding knowledge through original research in a traditional academic feld such as plant science or economics Deciding which type of program is right for you will depend on your career goals and the preparation required to achieve them

12 Section 4

When selecting a graduate program professors or other experts in the feld can help identify prospects Communicating directly with professors can help determine if a program is a good match and the connections you make can will be benefcial as you go through the admissions process Most programs provide extensive information on the internet Once a list of potential graduate programs are identifed you can request more in-depth information from specifc institutions As you review the information you have collected you may want to consider the following

bull Accreditation bull Admission standards bull Career assistance bull Tuition fees and funding bull Faculty bull Reputationranking bull Research opportunities bull Resources (libraries grants labs) bull Size (of program and university) bull Relevancy of coursework to your interests

Many institutions offer fexibility in earning your degree by offering full-time and part-time options online programs online courses or courses at off-campus sites Depending on your individual needs these may be important factors to consider as you select a program

Section 4 13

FULL-TIME EMPLOYMENT With a college diploma in hand yoursquore set to earn $1000000 more in your lifetime than your peers who donrsquot have a Bachelorrsquos degree (Brookings Institute 2013) Now that the numbers are in your favor how do you secure that frst post-college position

Defne Your Dream Job 1As you prepare your post-graduation plans you should be answering some important questions Do you care more about creative freedom than dollars Are you hoping to move close to home or are you willing to spin the globe Is it important to you to work in a feld directly related to your major We may be able to help you fnd some answers

Contact the Offce of Career Development to learn more about the Focus 2 career inventory

Examine Your Experience 2The best jobs may attract dozens if not hundreds of qualifed candidates A comprehensive accurate resume will help to move your application from the stack of possible hires to the probable pile

The Offce of Career Development offers resume reviews during walk-in hours each week and can dig deeper during one-on-one meetings with our team of career advisors

Pull a frst draft of your resume together and connect with the Offce of Career Development to get a free critique

Reach for the Research 3Be an educated job seeker When yoursquore trying to decide if your career path converges with your ideal destination get the stats Visit the South Dakota Department of Labor and Regulation at wwwdlr sdgovlmic and fnd information about the labor market in South Dakota

Visit the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics and learn important labor and cost of living information from all over the country

Begin Your Search 4Make the most of your network Now is the time to reach out to people of infuence who know you Think of people associated with organizations where yoursquove volunteered Update former bosses on your job hunt and inquire about any connections they may have in certain felds Even your parentsrsquo circle of friends and colleagues could be your link to a great opportunity

A huge amount of networking isnrsquot done in person According to BeHiringcom 89 of all employers said they intended to use social networking in their next hiring process 28 of recently hired college graduates said they found their last position through social networking

14 Section 4

When selecting a graduate program professors or other experts in the feld can help identify prospects Communicating directly with professors can help determine if a program is a good match and the connections you make can will be benefcial as you go through the admissions process Most programs provide extensive information on the internet Once a list of potential graduate programs are identifed you can request more in-depth information from specifc institutions As you review the information you have collected you may want to consider the following

bull Accreditation bull Admission standards bull Career assistance bull Tuition fees and funding bull Faculty bull Reputationranking bull Research opportunities bull Resources (libraries grants labs) bull Size (of program and university) bull Relevancy of coursework to your interests

Many institutions offer fexibility in earning your degree by offering full-time and part-time options online programs online courses or courses at off-campus sites Depending on your individual needs these may be important factors to consider as you select a program

Section 4 13

FULL-TIME EMPLOYMENT With a college diploma in hand yoursquore set to earn $1000000 more in your lifetime than your peers who donrsquot have a Bachelorrsquos degree (Brookings Institute 2013) Now that the numbers are in your favor how do you secure that frst post-college position

Defne Your Dream Job 1As you prepare your post-graduation plans you should be answering some important questions Do you care more about creative freedom than dollars Are you hoping to move close to home or are you willing to spin the globe Is it important to you to work in a feld directly related to your major We may be able to help you fnd some answers

Contact the Offce of Career Development to learn more about the Focus 2 career inventory

Examine Your Experience 2The best jobs may attract dozens if not hundreds of qualifed candidates A comprehensive accurate resume will help to move your application from the stack of possible hires to the probable pile

The Offce of Career Development offers resume reviews during walk-in hours each week and can dig deeper during one-on-one meetings with our team of career advisors

Pull a frst draft of your resume together and connect with the Offce of Career Development to get a free critique

Reach for the Research 3Be an educated job seeker When yoursquore trying to decide if your career path converges with your ideal destination get the stats Visit the South Dakota Department of Labor and Regulation at wwwdlr sdgovlmic and fnd information about the labor market in South Dakota

Visit the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics and learn important labor and cost of living information from all over the country

Begin Your Search 4Make the most of your network Now is the time to reach out to people of infuence who know you Think of people associated with organizations where yoursquove volunteered Update former bosses on your job hunt and inquire about any connections they may have in certain felds Even your parentsrsquo circle of friends and colleagues could be your link to a great opportunity

A huge amount of networking isnrsquot done in person According to BeHiringcom 89 of all employers said they intended to use social networking in their next hiring process 28 of recently hired college graduates said they found their last position through social networking

14 Section 4

FULL-TIME EMPLOYMENT With a college diploma in hand yoursquore set to earn $1000000 more in your lifetime than your peers who donrsquot have a Bachelorrsquos degree (Brookings Institute 2013) Now that the numbers are in your favor how do you secure that frst post-college position

Defne Your Dream Job 1As you prepare your post-graduation plans you should be answering some important questions Do you care more about creative freedom than dollars Are you hoping to move close to home or are you willing to spin the globe Is it important to you to work in a feld directly related to your major We may be able to help you fnd some answers

Contact the Offce of Career Development to learn more about the Focus 2 career inventory

Examine Your Experience 2The best jobs may attract dozens if not hundreds of qualifed candidates A comprehensive accurate resume will help to move your application from the stack of possible hires to the probable pile

The Offce of Career Development offers resume reviews during walk-in hours each week and can dig deeper during one-on-one meetings with our team of career advisors

Pull a frst draft of your resume together and connect with the Offce of Career Development to get a free critique

Reach for the Research 3Be an educated job seeker When yoursquore trying to decide if your career path converges with your ideal destination get the stats Visit the South Dakota Department of Labor and Regulation at wwwdlr sdgovlmic and fnd information about the labor market in South Dakota

Visit the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics and learn important labor and cost of living information from all over the country

Begin Your Search 4Make the most of your network Now is the time to reach out to people of infuence who know you Think of people associated with organizations where yoursquove volunteered Update former bosses on your job hunt and inquire about any connections they may have in certain felds Even your parentsrsquo circle of friends and colleagues could be your link to a great opportunity

A huge amount of networking isnrsquot done in person According to BeHiringcom 89 of all employers said they intended to use social networking in their next hiring process 28 of recently hired college graduates said they found their last position through social networking

14 Section 4

Dollars and Sense 5If money motivates you ask yourself some of these important questions and then seek out the answers

1 What is the median household income in the corner of the country or region where you hope to live and work

2 What is the expected starting salary in your chosen feld And after fve years

3 What is the cost-of-living in your top fve cities or states (rent insurance transportation entertainment dining out)

Know Your Resources 6Put yourself in the position to be successful Take advantage of career fairs on-campus interview opportunities resume review sessions and career development walk-in hours Learn more about scheduled programs through the Offce of Career Development by visiting wwwsdstateeducareercenter or visit facebookcom and search for the South Dakota State University Offce of Career Development

BEFORE AND AFTER THE INTERVIEW Before the interview

Research the company or organization

Dress for success

Build a professional online presence

Update your email address if necessary

After the interview

Send hand-written thank you notes

Be persistent but donrsquot be a pest

Explore other opportunities while you wait

Section 4 15

SECTION FIVE 5DOLLARS AND SENSE Five Tips to Successful Money Management for New College Graduates

1 START SAVING It might sound unrealistic with so many new expenses but the earlier you start a savings plan the larger your retirement account can grow Contribute to your employerrsquos 401(k) even if they donrsquot match your contribution Ideally college graduates should save ten percent of annual income

2 MAKE A BUDGET Determine your essential expenses (rent insurance debt) each month and subtract them from your take home paycheck automatically Then consider second-tier essentials (groceries car expenses professional attire savings) and spend within your means Finally use whatever is left to enjoy the life yoursquore working so hard to create

16 Section 5

3 MANAGE DEBT WISELY Whether your debt comes from student loans credit cards or both managing it every month is the best way to address what you owe Pay your highest-rate debt frst Credit cards often carry higher interest rates that student loans Also consider consolidating student loan debt it can lower your monthly payment and itrsquos easier to manage one payment each month

4 KNOW YOUR CREDIT SCORE A poor credit score can affect your ability to rent an apartment buy a car or land a great job The best way to protect your score is to pay all of your bills on time Set-up automatic payments for regular expenses like your utilities or cell phone bills A late payment not only costs you additional fees it lowers your credit score

GET INSURED 5Yoursquore invincible right It might be tempting to save a couple bucks each month by skipping coverage but donrsquot do it If yoursquore a traditional-aged college graduate you can stay on your parentsrsquo health insurance plan until your 26th birthday If yoursquore renting right after college be sure to get rentersrsquo insurance it will cover the loss of your belongings in the event of a fre

CREDIT CARDS often carry higher interest rates than student loans Remember to pay your highest-rate debt frst

Section 5 17

SECTION SIX

6STAYING CONNECTED TO YOUR UNIVERSITY Itrsquos hard to believe but life after college gets even busier and staying connected to this place might be more diffcult than you think Before you ride off into the South Dakota sunset think of how you can strengthen your link to your alma mater

IN THE KNOW We asked our Alumni Association PresidentCEO to provide insight on how to stay connected after your undergraduate experience Check out her wise words on the next page

ANDI FOUBERG PresidentCEO of the SDSU Alumni Association

1818 Section 6

CONNECTING IS EASIER THAN YOU THINK As you wrap-up your time as a student know that your time as a Jackrabbit continuesYou are now a part of the largest network of college graduates in the state of South Dakota Whether you head back to your hometown relocate to another South Dakota community or explore beyond the 605 you will always be a member of the South Dakota State University Family

Stay connected through the Alumni Association by

Update your contact information by visiting www statealumcomupdateinfo

Join the SDSU Alumni Association Facebook page (facebookcomstatealum)

Follow us on Twitter (sdstatealumni)

Attend Alumni Association events either in Brookings or in your region (wwwstatealumcomevents)

Once a student forever an alum Once a Jackrabbit always a Jackrabbit

GIVING OPPORTUNITIES Private gifts provide the margin of excellent at SDSU Since 2007 more than 8000 people ndash primarily alumni ndash have made their frst gift ever to the university through the SDSU Foundation

Your Jackrabbit experience was enriched by the generosity of donors ndash whether through a scholarship funding for a program or new and enhanced facilities We encourage all graduates to consider giving back and supporting future Jackrabbits To learn about giving opportunities go to wwwsdstatefoundationorg

IN THE KNOW TIPS FROM A RECENT GRADUATE

ALEX KUNZ Spring 2014 Graduate

STAY TRUE TO THE YELLOW AND BLUE Alex Kunz is a native of Sioux Falls SD and graduated in May of 2014 with a degree in Music Merchandising He is now pursuing a Master of Fine Arts ndash Musical Performance degree at Arizona State University in Tempe AZ We asked him for fve ways a recent grad can stay connected to SDSU

Display a piece of SDSU or Brookings memorabilia in your frst house or apartment

Follow an offcial SDSU social media account to stay up-to-date on happenings around campus

Make tracks back to Brookings and visit campus when you can whether for Hobo Day or just because

Stay in touch with an advisor or professor who made a difference in your experience

Give back whatever you can

Section 6 19

3 MANAGE DEBT WISELY Whether your debt comes from student loans credit cards or both managing it every month is the best way to address what you owe Pay your highest-rate debt frst Credit cards often carry higher interest rates that student loans Also consider consolidating student loan debt it can lower your monthly payment and itrsquos easier to manage one payment each month

4 KNOW YOUR CREDIT SCORE A poor credit score can affect your ability to rent an apartment buy a car or land a great job The best way to protect your score is to pay all of your bills on time Set-up automatic payments for regular expenses like your utilities or cell phone bills A late payment not only costs you additional fees it lowers your credit score

GET INSURED 5Yoursquore invincible right It might be tempting to save a couple bucks each month by skipping coverage but donrsquot do it If yoursquore a traditional-aged college graduate you can stay on your parentsrsquo health insurance plan until your 26th birthday If yoursquore renting right after college be sure to get rentersrsquo insurance it will cover the loss of your belongings in the event of a fre

CREDIT CARDS often carry higher interest rates than student loans Remember to pay your highest-rate debt frst

Section 5 17

SECTION SIX

6STAYING CONNECTED TO YOUR UNIVERSITY Itrsquos hard to believe but life after college gets even busier and staying connected to this place might be more diffcult than you think Before you ride off into the South Dakota sunset think of how you can strengthen your link to your alma mater

IN THE KNOW We asked our Alumni Association PresidentCEO to provide insight on how to stay connected after your undergraduate experience Check out her wise words on the next page

ANDI FOUBERG PresidentCEO of the SDSU Alumni Association

1818 Section 6

CONNECTING IS EASIER THAN YOU THINK As you wrap-up your time as a student know that your time as a Jackrabbit continuesYou are now a part of the largest network of college graduates in the state of South Dakota Whether you head back to your hometown relocate to another South Dakota community or explore beyond the 605 you will always be a member of the South Dakota State University Family

Stay connected through the Alumni Association by

Update your contact information by visiting www statealumcomupdateinfo

Join the SDSU Alumni Association Facebook page (facebookcomstatealum)

Follow us on Twitter (sdstatealumni)

Attend Alumni Association events either in Brookings or in your region (wwwstatealumcomevents)

Once a student forever an alum Once a Jackrabbit always a Jackrabbit

GIVING OPPORTUNITIES Private gifts provide the margin of excellent at SDSU Since 2007 more than 8000 people ndash primarily alumni ndash have made their frst gift ever to the university through the SDSU Foundation

Your Jackrabbit experience was enriched by the generosity of donors ndash whether through a scholarship funding for a program or new and enhanced facilities We encourage all graduates to consider giving back and supporting future Jackrabbits To learn about giving opportunities go to wwwsdstatefoundationorg

IN THE KNOW TIPS FROM A RECENT GRADUATE

ALEX KUNZ Spring 2014 Graduate

STAY TRUE TO THE YELLOW AND BLUE Alex Kunz is a native of Sioux Falls SD and graduated in May of 2014 with a degree in Music Merchandising He is now pursuing a Master of Fine Arts ndash Musical Performance degree at Arizona State University in Tempe AZ We asked him for fve ways a recent grad can stay connected to SDSU

Display a piece of SDSU or Brookings memorabilia in your frst house or apartment

Follow an offcial SDSU social media account to stay up-to-date on happenings around campus

Make tracks back to Brookings and visit campus when you can whether for Hobo Day or just because

Stay in touch with an advisor or professor who made a difference in your experience

Give back whatever you can

Section 6 19

SECTION SIX

6STAYING CONNECTED TO YOUR UNIVERSITY Itrsquos hard to believe but life after college gets even busier and staying connected to this place might be more diffcult than you think Before you ride off into the South Dakota sunset think of how you can strengthen your link to your alma mater

IN THE KNOW We asked our Alumni Association PresidentCEO to provide insight on how to stay connected after your undergraduate experience Check out her wise words on the next page

ANDI FOUBERG PresidentCEO of the SDSU Alumni Association

1818 Section 6

CONNECTING IS EASIER THAN YOU THINK As you wrap-up your time as a student know that your time as a Jackrabbit continuesYou are now a part of the largest network of college graduates in the state of South Dakota Whether you head back to your hometown relocate to another South Dakota community or explore beyond the 605 you will always be a member of the South Dakota State University Family

Stay connected through the Alumni Association by

Update your contact information by visiting www statealumcomupdateinfo

Join the SDSU Alumni Association Facebook page (facebookcomstatealum)

Follow us on Twitter (sdstatealumni)

Attend Alumni Association events either in Brookings or in your region (wwwstatealumcomevents)

Once a student forever an alum Once a Jackrabbit always a Jackrabbit

GIVING OPPORTUNITIES Private gifts provide the margin of excellent at SDSU Since 2007 more than 8000 people ndash primarily alumni ndash have made their frst gift ever to the university through the SDSU Foundation

Your Jackrabbit experience was enriched by the generosity of donors ndash whether through a scholarship funding for a program or new and enhanced facilities We encourage all graduates to consider giving back and supporting future Jackrabbits To learn about giving opportunities go to wwwsdstatefoundationorg

IN THE KNOW TIPS FROM A RECENT GRADUATE

ALEX KUNZ Spring 2014 Graduate

STAY TRUE TO THE YELLOW AND BLUE Alex Kunz is a native of Sioux Falls SD and graduated in May of 2014 with a degree in Music Merchandising He is now pursuing a Master of Fine Arts ndash Musical Performance degree at Arizona State University in Tempe AZ We asked him for fve ways a recent grad can stay connected to SDSU

Display a piece of SDSU or Brookings memorabilia in your frst house or apartment

Follow an offcial SDSU social media account to stay up-to-date on happenings around campus

Make tracks back to Brookings and visit campus when you can whether for Hobo Day or just because

Stay in touch with an advisor or professor who made a difference in your experience

Give back whatever you can

Section 6 19

CONNECTING IS EASIER THAN YOU THINK As you wrap-up your time as a student know that your time as a Jackrabbit continuesYou are now a part of the largest network of college graduates in the state of South Dakota Whether you head back to your hometown relocate to another South Dakota community or explore beyond the 605 you will always be a member of the South Dakota State University Family

Stay connected through the Alumni Association by

Update your contact information by visiting www statealumcomupdateinfo

Join the SDSU Alumni Association Facebook page (facebookcomstatealum)

Follow us on Twitter (sdstatealumni)

Attend Alumni Association events either in Brookings or in your region (wwwstatealumcomevents)

Once a student forever an alum Once a Jackrabbit always a Jackrabbit

GIVING OPPORTUNITIES Private gifts provide the margin of excellent at SDSU Since 2007 more than 8000 people ndash primarily alumni ndash have made their frst gift ever to the university through the SDSU Foundation

Your Jackrabbit experience was enriched by the generosity of donors ndash whether through a scholarship funding for a program or new and enhanced facilities We encourage all graduates to consider giving back and supporting future Jackrabbits To learn about giving opportunities go to wwwsdstatefoundationorg

IN THE KNOW TIPS FROM A RECENT GRADUATE

ALEX KUNZ Spring 2014 Graduate

STAY TRUE TO THE YELLOW AND BLUE Alex Kunz is a native of Sioux Falls SD and graduated in May of 2014 with a degree in Music Merchandising He is now pursuing a Master of Fine Arts ndash Musical Performance degree at Arizona State University in Tempe AZ We asked him for fve ways a recent grad can stay connected to SDSU

Display a piece of SDSU or Brookings memorabilia in your frst house or apartment

Follow an offcial SDSU social media account to stay up-to-date on happenings around campus

Make tracks back to Brookings and visit campus when you can whether for Hobo Day or just because

Stay in touch with an advisor or professor who made a difference in your experience

Give back whatever you can

Section 6 19