university parentguide...explore majors and career options through ucs academic advisors can assist...
TRANSCRIPT
Tulane University1
CAMPUS RESOURCES – LOCAL INSIGHT – HELPFUL INFORMATION
20122013 University of Houston
UNIVERSITY PARENT
GUIDE
54
About Our GuidesUniversity Parent Media works closely with
institutions around the country to bring together
the most relevant, timely information into one
all-inclusive resource.
We have published this guide with the mission of
helping you easily navigate the University and its
surrounding community. Ultimately, we hope these
resources help nurture your connection and
involvement in your student’s college years!
contents
24 | Houston CommunityMake the most of your visit by getting to know the area
24 | Welcome to Houston!
24 | Houston for Free
6 | UH GuideComprehensive advice, information for campus success
6 | Welcome UH Parents and Family Members!
7 | Family Weekend
8 | UH Traditions
10 | Resources for Academic Success
11 | University Career Services
14 | Top 10 Reasons to Live on Campus
16 | Student Life at UH
18 | Student Health Resources
20 | Campus Safety
21 | Financial Services
23 | What is FERPA?
The presence of University of Houston logos and marks in this Guide does not mean the school endorses the products or services offered by advertisers in this Guide.
©2012 University Parent Magazines, Inc.
Make the Most of Your Parent Guide
Hang on to your Guide! Inside you’ll
find information that’s useful all year
long, including important phone
numbers, websites and calendars.
Store your copy in a purse or glove
compartment for convenient reference.
Pass it along to parents of prospective
college students to promote the school.
Please recycle when finished!
Discover more content, tips and local
business information by visiting us online
at: www.universityparent.com/uh
For more information, please contact
University of Houston
Dean of Students Office
252 University Center
(832) 842-6183
www.uh.edu/dos
28 | ResourcesMust-have knowledge to navigate your way
28 | Campus Map
30 | Important Contact Information
31 | Proud Supporters UH
This Guide is produced in partnership with the UH Division of Student Affairs, the Dean of Students Office and University Parent Media.
University Parent Media2995 Wilderness Place, Suite 205Boulder, CO 80301Phone: (866) 721-1357Email: [email protected]
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PUBLISHER
Sarah Schupp
VP OF OPERATIONS
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UH GUIDE
www.universityparent.com/uh6 University of Houston
UH GUIDE
Coming to college is a big step, regardless
of a person’s background. Students often
face challenges, which may overwhelm
and confuse them as they continue to
evolve and change throughout their
collegiate experience. Parents and family
members can often help make such
obstacles easier to overcome. By building
a relationship with you, we strive to create
an environment where parents and family
members are informed and involved
with their student’s college career.
We hope you will take full advantage of
the opportunities that await you and that
you will continue to play an active role
in your student’s life. We encourage you
to utilize our website at www.uh.edu/
dos/parents as it can provide you with
helpful information about UH programs,
resources, policies and procedures.
Remember to sign up to receive The
Cougar Connection, our monthly parent
e-newsletter, to ensure you receive
important information, updates and tips
Family WeekendThis fall, UH parents and family
members are invited to campus for a
weekend of activities and programs,
including a UH football game! The
goal of Family Weekend is to welcome
our parents to the UH community and
give them the opportunity to learn
about their student’s life here at the
University. Events include a variety
of social and educational activities
for parents and family members
including a Family Picnic, Welcome
Breakfast with UH Administration and
a as Family Tailgate Celebration!
This is a real opportunity to
connect with your student and the
University! Here are a few tips to
help make the most of your visit:
� Attend a session at your
student’s college. This is a great
opportunity to see what your
student is experiencing in the
classroom and how their college
is preparing them for their future.
� Try New Things. There will be
a variety of activities available
during the weekend. Try some
of these new things with your
student, from sporting events
to theater productions, your
student may find a new hobby,
interest or direction as a result!
� Meet & Mingle. Attend
receptions, talk with other
parents and meet administrators
and faculty members. These
people are at your disposal
during the weekend. Plus,
you’ll get a better feel for what
campus life is about and who is
available to your student.
As parents and family members, you are officially part of the University of Houston
family. We recognize the critical role parents can play in their student’s educational
experience. We believe that establishing a positive relationship with parents and
family members is an important factor in the continued success of your student.
and to register for our annual Family
Weekend event that occurs every fall
semester. If you have any questions,
comments or feedback please feel
free to contact us at [email protected].
Best of luck to you and your
student this year, we look forward
to seeing you on campus!
Sincerely,
Alison Von Bergen
Dean of Students Office
UH Parents and Family Members!Welcome
www.universityparent.com/uh 9
UH GUIDE
8 University of Houston
UH GUIDE
SHASTA
The history of the Cougar mascot dates
back to 1947 when the Alpha Phi Omega
organization sponsored a drive to
purchase the school’s first live mascot. The
name “Shasta” was chosen in a “name-
the-cat” contest held that same year.
Shasta has since retired, but her character
and energy live on in every aspect of life
at the University of Houston. Her fighting
spirit is represented by our energetic
student mascot at most sporting events.
COUGAR SIGN
The Cougar sign, made by folding in
the ring finger of the hand towards the
palm, has several stories explaining its
meaning. The true story of its origin,
however, dates back to 1953; the first
time UH played the University of Texas
in football. During the trip to the game,
Shasta’s front paw was caught in the
car door and one toe was cut off. The
opposing team mocked UH by imitating
the cougar’s injury. The Cougars soon
adopted that gesture as a symbol of pride.
CLASS RING
So many University of Houston traditions
reside in the hearts of students and
Alumni, but the UH class ring is the only
tradition that is always with you. The
ring is presented each semester at a
formal ring ceremony. Tradition dictates
that current students must wear the
ring facing inward, with only alumni
wearing the ring facing outward.
FRONTIER FIESTA
Each year a piece of the campus
is transformed into a town called
“Fiesta City” the site of a student run
festival featuring live concerts, variety
shows, carnival booths, multicultural
performances, a barbecue cook-off and a
bake contest. Founded in 1940, Frontier
Fiesta continues to promote scholarship,
� Get to know your student’s
friends during the weekend.
You may even want to
suggest ahead of time that
a group of their friends and
families attend one of the
meals or events together.
� Check out campus facilities
while you’re visiting. The pool
is open, why not go for a swim?
Roam around the University
Center, visit nature nooks on
campus and soak it all in.
� You’ll have the opportunity
to take a family photo during
the weekend. Send it to
your student via email or
regular mail once you get
home as a happy memento
� Put yourself in Visitor Mode.
You’re on your student’s
turf this weekend. Let them
take the lead and show you
their place with pride, and
have a wonderful visit!
UH Traditionscommunity and education in UH students,
staff and faculty as well as the community
attracting 20 – 35,000 each year.
RUB THE COUGAR PAW
In 2003 John and Rebecca Moores,
two alumni filled with Cougar Spirit
and Pride, commissioned the Cougars
overlooking Cullen Plaza. They were
sculpted by the famous Alaska based
artist R.T. “Skip” Wallen. Each weighs
in excess of 1,000 pound and together
they symbolize the University’s Courage,
Pride and Tenacity. The Cougars are
part of the UH tradition – so is winning.
The campus community and alumni
“Rub the Paw” for good luck, especially
during the week before Homecoming
to show support for the team.
EVERY FRIDAY IS DECLARED COUGAR RED FRIDAY. Wearing red
on Friday is more than just a tradition; it
is who we are. We wear red to show our
pride and passion for the University. It is
our visual identity. The color unites us, to
live and to celebrate together, and behold
our individual achievements as a singular
legacy of the pride. We encourage our
campus community and those all around
the city to wear Red on Fridays.
All family members
must register to
attend Family
Weekend!
Complete details, including
the schedule and registration
information are located
on our website at www.
uh.edu/parents/events.
10 www.universityparent.com/uhUniversity of Houston 11
UH GUIDE UH GUIDE
Our UCS center offers many
resources and services including:
� Help students choose the right
major through vocational testing,
personality assessments and
exercises to explore careers
for different degrees
� Guidance and support through
one-on-one career advising,
resume critiques, mock interviews
and job search strategies
� Assistance with finding job
search opportunities and on-
campus and off-campus jobs
� Provide various workshops,
career fairs, employer databases,
online job banks, career
resource library and on-campus
recruitment opportunities
Your student can gather career-related
info from a variety of sources. Some
individual academic colleges also
have their own Career service center.
So encourage your student to take
advantage of all resources and visit
UCS as well as their college Career
Service Center (if applicable).
Encourage Your Students to
Have a Career Action Plan:
FRESHMEN
� Explore majors and career
options through UCS
Academic Advisors can assist your
student in determining what classes
they should take, developing their
degree plan, and answering questions
pertaining to academic polices and
expectations. We encourage students
to meet with their academic advisors
regularly to ensure that they are on
the correct path for college success!
Your student’s advisor is based on their
major. Students who have declared
their majors are served by advisers in
the department of their major. Students
who have not declared a major will be
advised and assisted by UScholars
Academic Advising professionals to
make an informed decision about a
major field of study. All students must
declare a major by the beginning of
their sophomore year (30 credit hours).
In addition, the UScholars advisors
Resources for Academic Success
University Career Services
� Schedule an appointment
with a career counselor
� Participate in career
inventory assessments
� Establish relationships with
upperclassmen, faculty
members and administrators
� Get involved with the Center
for Student Involvement and
join a student organization
Many students don’t set foot in University Career Services (UCS) until they’re a senior,
frantic to get their resume critiqued so they can find a job. Yet, it’s wise to visit this
helpful office early on – even during the first year – because career counselors can
help students get on track and explore career options they may not have known
about otherwise.
provides advice and support for students
interested in pre-professional programs
(dentistry, medicine, nursing, physical
therapy, veterinary medicine, and law).
Learning Support Services (LSS) offers
workshops on a variety of subjects such
as improving learning skills, improving
test taking strategies, and writing a
research paper, provides learning
strategies counseling designed to
reduce math and test anxiety,
improve study habits, and teach
active learning methods and offers
peer tutoring for undergraduate
students in an a variety of topics.
The Writing Center, a free tutorial service
available to all students, offers one-
on-one consultations with peer tutors/
writing consultants who assist students
from all disciplines with their writing
assignments. Writing Consultants do not
simply proofread students’ papers for
grammatical errors. They help students
develop and structure ideas--organize
their thoughts--so that they learn how
to think about the process of writing.
The Math Tutoring Center provides
students with one-on-one tutoring
for help with homework and for
preparation for exams for their
undergraduate mathematics courses.
Where can I find my major advisor?
Names, office locations, and phone
numbers for each academic department
are listed at http://www.uh.edu/provost/
stu/advisorlist.html. Also see: http://
www.uh.edu/departments/
UScholars
Academic Advising
http://uscholars.uh.edu
or (832) 842-2100
Learning Support Services (LSS)
http://las.uh.edu/LSS
or (713) 743-5411
The Writing Center
www.uh.edu/writecen
or (713) 743-3016
Math Tutoring (Math Lab)
http://casa.uh.edu/casa
12 www.universityparent.com/uhUniversity of Houston 13
UH GUIDE
SOPHOMORES
� Identify four to seven career field
options of interest and research
different majors that interest you
would compliment these careers
� Shadow alumni or professors
in your career interest areas
� Begin to establish a resume
– attend a resume workshop
if you need help
� Take an active leadership role
in a student organization
� By the beginning of the sophomore
year (30 credit hours) your student
needs to declare a major- they
can talk to their academic advisor
about course selections
JUNIORS
� Create/update your resume
and have it reviewed by
a UCS counselor
� Practice interviewing skills
with a UCS counselor
� Attend campus career fairs
and practice networking
� Learn how to market yourself and
join a professional organization
associated with your related
major of career interest
� Begin to build a professional
wardrobe for interviews
SENIORS
� Update your resume to ensure
it effectively conveys your
skills to an employer
� Develop a prospective list
of employers and research
these companies
� Utilize the Campus Recruitment
and JOBank services
� Ask three people to serve as
references, remember to give
them a copy of your resume
so that they are familiar with
your skills and qualifications.
� Sign up for on campus interviewing
and begin job search
� Apply to graduate and
professional schools
www.universityparent.com/uh 15
UH GUIDE
14 University of Houston
UH GUIDE
1. Achieve Academic Success. Research indicates that students
who live on campus are more satisfied with their college experiences, earn
higher grades and are more likely to graduate than their commuting peers.
2. Saves Time and Money. You don’t have to waste time buying
gas, fighting traffic and hunting for a parking space before class.
3. Convenience.You are just a short walk from your classes,
campus activities, sporting events, and student services such
as advising, health services, and dining areas.
4. You Don’t Have to Cook! While kitchens are available, the dining halls
offer affordable meal plans and exciting menu options. Campus living also provides
easy access to national franchises such as Starbucks, Chili’s Too, Wendy’s, Chick
Fil-A, Taco Bell, Subway, Pizza Hut, Smoothie King, Java City and McAlisters.
5. It’s a Blast! Don’t just study, join student organizations,
attend athletic events, concerts, conferences and special lectures.
Experience everything the campus has to offer.
6. Enjoy Exercise and Recreation 7 Days a Week. Not only are you close to our award winning 264,000 square- foot Campus
Recreation & Wellness Center that is open 7 days a week, but most
residential facilities have 24-hour fitness areas on site.
Reasons to Live on CampusTop 10
7. No Hidden Costs! For most student residents one
housing payment includes rent, furniture, utilities, cable television,
high speed internet, and local telephone service.
8. Make New Friends. It’s much easier to get acquainted
with your peers when you are living down the hall from them and
participating in activities that take place right where you live.
9. Experience a Supportive Environment. With college
life comes transition. You’re not alone academically or socially when you
are on campus. Mentors, counselors, student leaders, peer advisors and
professional staff are available for support.
10. Explore Living/Learning Communities. Students who live on
campus have the opportunity to participate in small living/learning communities
that focus on areas such as business, the arts, wellness and sustainability.
UH Housing
www.housing.uh.edu | (713) 743-6000
View our housing brochure scan here.
16 www.universityparent.com/uhUniversity of Houston 17
UH GUIDE UH GUIDE
The reason we emphasize this is because
students who are involved in some type
of campus activity are shown to receive
better grades, are more likely to graduate,
are more satisfied with their collegiate
experience and are more marketable
when searching for a job or applying
for graduate school. This is because
involved students are developing and
practicing the skills they learned in
the classroom in their organizations!
Through involvement within campus
organizations students are able to:
� Meet new people (both
other students as well as
UH faculty and staff)
� Develop their leadership skills
� Make a difference on
and off campus
� Purse and try new interests
� Network and build their resume
� Develop their time management
and communication skills
� Increase their cultural awareness
� Find their “niche” at UH
� Have fun!
Student Life departments at the University
of Houston consist of six student-focused
centers. These areas provide everything
your student may need including food,
student organizations, child care,
Student Life at UH
leadership development, fraternity and
sorority life, leisure services, graphic
services, colleagues in faith, and much
more. Visit us at www.uh.edu/sl.
The Center for Student Involvement
and The Center for Fraternity and
Sorority Life provides leadership and
involvement opportunities for students.
There are more than 350 student
organizations at the University of
Houston. There are organizations based
on campus traditions, student interests
and hobbies, social fraternities and
sororities, honors organizations, and
major academic focused organizations.
There is something for everyone, and if
your student doesn’t find an organization
that fits their needs, they can start one.
Opportunities to play in sports clubs
(including fencing, tae kwon do and team
handball), on intramural teams (such
as table tennis, soccer and dodge ball)
and even simple “pick-up” games of
basketball can be found within Campus
Recreation. The UH Campus Recreation
and Wellness Center offers world-class
exercise equipment and facilities for an
assortment of recreational activities.
There, students, staff, faculty and alumni
can be found working out, rock-wall
climbing, enjoying aquatics activities
and more—all under one roof!
We encourage all students to become involved in some type of activity, occurring outside
the academic classroom, which contributes to students’ overall learning throughout their
college experience.
18 www.universityparent.com/uhUniversity of Houston 19
UH GUIDE UH GUIDE
UH HEALTH CENTER
The UH Health Center provides
comprehensive outpatient health care
program consisting of a walk-in clinic,
medical specialty clinics, dental clinic
and pharmacy that are all affordable
and easily accessible. Students can
visit the Health Center to see a general
physician during office hours without
an appointment on a first come, first
serve basis; specialty clinics require an
appointment. The cost is minimal for all
students and even less if your student
carries the university recognized health
insurance. Additional information about
campus health insurance can be found
at http://www.uh.edu/admin/hc.
DENTAL OFFICE ON CAMPUS
UH is the first and only University in Texas
to provide high-quality dental services
through the Health Center. Students
have no reason to skip dental visits
while in school or frantically squeeze
in visits during semester breaks. The
state of the art dental office is capable of
addressing all routine, basic, and major
dental needs including emergencies.
Student Health Resources
Dental insurance is accepted including
the student dental insurance. An in-
house discount payment plan is also
available that provides 2 routine visits and
significant discounts on any other work the
student may need during the year. Large
discounts are also available for Wisdom
Tooth Removal, Invisalign Orthodontics,
and Teeth Whitening. For more
information please call: (713) 227-6453
or visit http://uh.edu/admin/hc/dental/
COUNSELING & PSYCHOLOGICAL
SERVICES (CAPS)
Another resource available to students is
a variety of counseling services including
confidential individual, couple and group
counseling through our Counseling and
Psychological Services (CAPS). Students
may seek counseling for a wide array
of emotional health issues including:
stress, depression, anxiety, academic
problems, homesickness, transition
issues and relationship concerns. All
currently enrolled students at the
university are eligible for CAPS
services, most of them are free.
THE UH WELLNESS CENTER
The UH Wellness Center is a campus
wide prevention and education program
aimed at promoting a healthier, safer
environment for the University of
Houston. It does so through providing
outreach, education, and support
to the university community. Its
goal is to inform students on how
to improve their own personal well-
being. Outreach programs include
issues of self-esteem, sexual decision
making and safer choices, alcohol
and other drugs, stress management,
communication skills, emotional
wellbeing, and values clarification.
For more
information about
these student
resources visit:http://www.uh.edu/admin/hc/
http://www.caps.uh.edu
www.las.uh.edu/wc
20 www.universityparent.com/uhUniversity of Houston 21
UH GUIDEUH GUIDE
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
� When will my financial aid disburse
to my student financial account?
Financial aid funds begin
disbursing to students on
the first day of classes.
� How does my student apply
for a scholarship at the
University of Houston?
For most UH-funded scholarships,
your application for admission
serves as your scholarship
application as well. Others
require that you submit the
Campus Safety
Financial Services
The Office of Student Financial Services, also known as the Bursar’s Office, is
responsible for the billing of tuition and fees for admitted students. This involves
creating payment plans to help student get their accounts paid off as well as actually
sending the bills.
The Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid offers students a wide range of
scholarships, fellowships, and other types of financial aid. A Financial Aid Officer is
available to help your student with any concerns they might have about the financial
aid process. Officers are located in room 120 of the Welcome Center and are assigned
to students based on the student’s last name.
The University of Houston
takes the safety and security
of our campus community very
seriously. The University of
Houston Emergency
Operations Center is your
single resource for up-to-the-minute
information about campus emergency
incidents including school closures or
announcements about unfavorable
weather conditions. To ensure your
student receives emergency email
notifications and text messages, please
have them verify their information in the
myUH system (student instructions).
Parents and family members can also join
our mailing list to receive notifications.
The University’s Department of Public
Safety strives to maintain a safe
environment for all individuals on
campus. Some of their services they
offer the university community are:
Emergency call boxes have been
placed at various locations on the
University of Houston campus.
Call boxes connect directly to our
University Police Communications
Division and can be used to request
police assistance, escorts, assists with
vehicle problems, and information.
Our security escort service is designed
for community members who have
safety concerns and desire having
another present when traversing the
campus. Based on availability, either a
UHDPS Police Officer, Security Officer,
or Cougar Patrol member will escort
students, faculty and staff to locations
beginning and ending on campus.
As part of the Operation I.D. program,
UHDPS has engravers program that
students may borrow to engrave
their belongings. Engravingvaluables
with a driver’s license number or
other identifying information will aid
police agencies in identifying you
as the property’s owner while also
preventing a thief from choosing
to steal your belongings because
they are more identifiable.
If your student has a bicycle on campus,
UHDPS encourages students to
register their bikes for free at either the
UHDPS Police Department located
at 3869 Wheeler St or the Online
Bicycle Registration Form. A reflective
numbered registration sticker will be
provided to be affixed to the bicycle
frame to make identification by police
easier. Registration may provide the
only means of returning a stolen bicycle
once it is recovered by police.
FAFSA and provide additional
documentation. Check our
Scholarships page for details.
� I’m not eligible for a Stafford or
Perkins loan. What are my options?
Many banks and other private lenders
offer educational loans to help you pay
for your education. Interest rates may
not be as low as the federal programs
can offer, but some lenders are able
to offer attractive loan options.
22 www.universityparent.com/uhUniversity of Houston 23
UH GUIDE UH GUIDE
� What records does FERPA cover?
FERPA regulations give privacy
protection to all students’ “educational
records”. Education records are
broadly defined as “those records
that are directly related to a student
and are maintained by an educational
agency or institution or by a party
acting for the agency or institution.”
Examples of FERPA records include
grades, transcripts, discipline
records and class schedules.
� What information can
I have access to?
FERPA allows the University to
release information referred to as
“Directory Information” without a
student’s permission. This type of
information is generally considered
not to be harmful or an invasion
of privacy if released. Directory
Information includes, but is not
limited to, name, address, telephone
number, major, degree sought,
dates of attendance and honors.
� Will the University let me know
if my child gets in any trouble
related to drugs or alcohol?
The University may, without the
student’s permission, release
certain information to parents or
guardians of students under the age
of 21 found responsible for violating
any law, rule or university policy
pertaining to drugs or alcohol.
� Will I be notified if my son or
daughter is hurt or in danger?
If there is an emergency involving
one of our students, the university will
attempt to notify the students’ parents.
� Why can’t I access my
student’s records?
Though we recognize the important
role of parents, we feel that, as part
of the development process, it’s
important to treat our students as
adults. This involves communicating
directly with the students instead
of with the parents. The best way
to get the information you want
is to simply talk to your son or
daughter. We encourage parents
to communicate with their students
about their academic progress.
Open communication will help
ensure that you are included in the
important decisions and situations
your students will face in college.
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (a.k.a. FERPA or the Buckley
Amendment) protects a student’s right to privacy concerning their academic records
and information. The University of Houston will not disclose any information without
the written consent from the student, with some exceptions as stated by FERPA. There
are some types of information such as grades, financial aid, or class schedules that
parents might like to receive but under FERPA, parents can not have access to these
records unless the student gives written permission to the University. This means that
even if you are paying the bills, you can not access your student’s educational records.
What is FERPA? � What is the difference between
subsidized and unsubsidized loans?
Subsidized Stafford Loans are based
on financial need, and the government
pays the interest to the lender while
you are in school at least half-time, as
well as during any deferment periods.
Unsubsidized Stafford Loans are not
based on need, and borrowers are
responsible for all interest accrued
on the loan. Interest payments can
be deferred until graduation.
� How will I receive my loan?
Your funds will be received
electronically and will be applied
to your student account. Any
remaining funds will be credited
to your Cougar One Card.
� How can my student apply for an
Emergency Tuition Loan, Short
Term Loan, or Installment Plan?
Log on to myUH (PeopleSoft). Click
UH Self-Service located at the top
left-hand of the page. Under Learner
Services, click on Student Financials
then click on Payment Plans.
NOTE: A “paid” status must be
accomplished to be eligible for a
UH Book Loan. Please note, the
Installment Pay Plan is unavailable
during Summer Sessions.
24 25For more info about Houston, visit: www.universityparent.com/uh
HOUSTON GUIDE HOUSTON GUIDE
Houston for FreeIt’s easy to enjoy budget-friendly
sights that make cents.
Spend your day exploring Houston’s
hotspots, while saving big with a well-
edited list of the city’s most-loved free
things to do. Fortunately, for locals and
visitors alike, several of Houston’s most
memorable attractions won’t break
the bank, in fact they won’t even cost
a dime. In Houston, it’s easy to enjoy
budget-friendly sights that make cents.
Miller Outdoor Theatre might be one of the
best reasons to visit (and live in!) Houston.
Open from March through November,
the venue hosts a range of performances
including classical music, ballet, dance,
film, Shakespeare and more. The
theater, set inside Hermann Park,
also allows patrons to BYOB (no
glass containers, please!), so pack
a picnic and settle in for the show.
Downtown’s new 12-acre Discovery
Green park has something going on all
the time. In the spring and fall, spend
happy hour listening to local musicians
perform in the amphitheater, pick up
fresh produce at the Green Market on
Sundays and, in the winter, enjoy ice
skating on Kinder Lake (for a small fee).
The Menil Collection - a local treasure,
global destination and one of the top
free attractions in Houston - opened
to the public in June 1987 to house
the art collection of philanthropists
John and Dominique de Menil. Widely
considered one of the greatest of
the twentieth century, the collection
consists of more than 16,000 works
dating from the Paleolithic era to the
present day. Although historically vast,
it uniquely resists the conventional
museum model of the encyclopedia.
Instead, within the four areas that
to Houston!Welcome
America’s fourth-largest city
is a cosmopolitan destination,
filled with world-class dining,
arts, hotels, shopping and
nightlife. Take a stroll through
the historic Heights, spend
the day exploring the Museum
District or head down to Space
Center Houston. Later on,
grab a bite in one of dozens
of award-winning restaurants,
or hang out with the cool
kids on Washington Avenue.
There’s always something to
do in this Southern hospitality
meets urban chic city. Come
explore YOUR Houston!
26 27For more info about Houston, visit: www.universityparent.com/uh
HOUSTON GUIDE HOUSTON GUIDE
largely define the collection -
Antiquity, Byzantine and Medieval,
Tribal, and Twentieth-Century Art
(with a concentration in Surrealism)
– one finds a selective – and even
wonderfully eccentric – approach
to collecting and displaying art.
Dubbed the Garage Mahal, the Art
Car Museum is unlike anything you’ve
ever imagined. It’s the only place you’ll
find the antennae and wing-cloaked
Roachster or the Honda motorcycle
that has been transformed into a
shiny red rolling stiletto art car.
The Lee and Joe Jamail Skatepark
is the creme de la creme of the
grinding and boarding world. The
$2.2 million, state-of-the-art facility -
thought to contain the largest cradle
in the world - is located close to
downtown, near Eleanor Tinsley Park.
Tucked on the west side of Memorial
park is the Houston Arboretum and
Nature Center, a 155-acre nature
sanctuary that educates visitors on
how to protect native plants and
animals in the city. Walk the center’s
five miles of trails and visit the
sanctuary’s interactive exhibits free of
charge. Dogs on leashes are welcome.
Designed by architect Philip
Johnson more than 20 years ago,
the Galleria-area Water Wall offers a
refreshing respite for visitors seeking
a mid-afternoon break. The 64-foot-
tall fountain - built to look like a
“horseshoe of running water” - sits
among 1,118 oak trees at the base
of the 64-story Williams Tower.
Set sail on a free, 90-minute boat tour
of the Port of Houston. While on board
the 90-passenger boat, you’ll learn
about the history of the seaport and be
able to watch ocean freighters and barges
navigate the 50-mile channel. The tour
is free, but reservations are required.
Houston’s Contemporary Arts Museum
focuses on showing new work from
national and international artists.
In addition to hosting exhibits, the
CAMH also offers lectures, special
programs and a stellar shop chock-
full of unique books and gifts.
Dedicated to remembering victims of the
Holocaust and honoring the survivors,
the Holocaust Museum Houston works
to educate future generations about
the dangers of hate and prejudice.
Check out the education center
and the permanent exhibit, Bearing
Witness: A Community Remembers,
which focuses on stories of Holocaust
survivors living in the Houston area.
See the work of local and national
artists who focus on using materials
like fiber, metal, glass, clay and wood at
the Houston Center for Contemporary
Craft. Located next door to Lawndale
Art Center, the HCCC has innovative
exhibits and unique gifts in the Asher
Gallery. Admission is always free.
Located in the Museum District, the
Lawndale Art Center is a staple of
Houston’s art scene. Four galleries are
contained in the art deco structure,
which serves as a backdrop for annually
changing exhibits and events like Dia
de los Muertos and The Big Show.
Set in Houston’s Third Ward, Project
Row Houses is a nonprofit art initiative
aimed at creating a positive place for local
artists to work. Some of the shotgun-
style houses are dedicated to art and
photography, while others are devoted
to the literary and performing arts.
Rothko Chapel is a serene place to
meditate in the middle of Houston’s
Museum District. Founded by John
and Dominque de Menil (of Menil
Collection fame), Rothko is a non-
denominational chapel and exhibit
space for modern art that draws
thousands of visitors each year.
Visit T’afia any Tuesday,
Wednesday or Thursday evening
for free appetizers with the
purchase of a cocktail. Dine on
tasty dishes like chickpea fries and
sliders while sipping blojitos and
ratafias, T’afia’s namesake cocktail.
Tour the city with the help of
a personal Houston Greeter.
The program, made up of local
volunteers, provides two-to-
four hour hosts that are able
to show newcomers or visitors
local attractions that might be of
interest to them. The service is
free, and METRORail provides free
passes for visitors and greeters.
www.houstongreeters.org.
Editorial Content is courtesy of the
Greater Houston Convention and
Visitors Bureau, which can be found
at http://www.visithoustontexas.com/.
Photos courtesy of Greater Houston
Convention and Visitors Bureau.
Miller Outdoor Theater photo (pg
24) courtesy of Greater Houston
Convention and Visitors Bureau
and photographer Leroy Gibbins
28
Campus Map
RESOURCES
29www.universityparent.com/uhUniversity of Houston
30 www.universityparent.com/uhUniversity of Houston
RESOURCES This Guide brought to you by these
Proud Supporters of UH
Places to Live
Bayou Oaks5019 Calhoun Rd.Houston, TX 77004(713) 747-3834www.bayouoaks-uh.com State-of-the-art amenities with a unique community feel to provide a premier student living experience students. Minutes away from campus.Please see ad on p. 28.
Cambridge Oaks Apartments4444 Cullen Blvd.Houston, TX 77004(713) 748-2606
www.cambridgeoaksUH.com This on-campus community provides students an independent life style focused on academic success.Please see ad on p. 2.
Catalina Village Apartments 3560 Dixie Dr.Houston, TX 77021(713) 747-7238www.catalinavillageapts.com Like nothing you’ve ever seen before. Incredibly casual yet utterly luxurious. It would
be hard to find a more suitable location than Catalina Village.Please see ad on facing page.
The Plaza Museum District 1615 Hermann Dr.Houston, TX 77004(713) 874-1311www.plazamuseumdistrictapts.comLocated in the heart of the museum district, The Plaza Museum District is just minutes away from the Houston Medical Center or downtown!Please see ad on p. 13.
Dellwww.Dell.com/DellU University of Houston students get the best price on consumer PCs from Dell. Plus, get 10% off Dell mobility products. If you find a better price on your day of purchase, contact a Dell University sales specialist and we will beat that price.Please see ad on p. 19.
UH Bookstores 126 University Center4800 Calhoun Rd.Houston, TX 77004(713) 748-0923www.uh.bncollege.com Welcome to your UH Bookstore. It all starts here! We are your official provider of all things UH. From required course materials and more.Please see ad on p. 17.
Where to Shop
Harris County Federal Credit Union 1400 Franklin St.Houston, TX 77002(713) 755-5160www.hcfcu.com Whatever your lifestyle and financial goals, our checking accounts have it all: convenience, flexibility, and a choice of features. An ATM or Visa® Check Card is available with each checking account.Please see ad on p. 12.
Houston Athletics3100 Cullen Blvd.Houston, TX 77204(713) 462-6647www.UHCougars.com Don’t let your student have all the fun! Join the Houston family and be a part of the game day experience!
Student Services
Football tickets available!Please see ad on p. 9.
METRO - SE Rail Line5330 Griggs Rd., Suite A104Houston, TX 77021 (713) 343-4350www.gometrorail.org The SE rail line connects the UH community to historic 3rd Ward, growing East End and EADO district, and Downtown - right from your campus!Please see ad on p. 28.
University of Houston Health Center 100 UH Health CenterHouston, TX 77204(713) 743-5136www.uh.edu/admin/hc Keeping your student healthy
is important toward student success as they pursue their studies and career at UH.Please see ad on p. 18.
University of Houston Dental OfficeHealth Center, Building 525, 4800 Calhoun Rd.Houston, TX 77004(713) 227-6453www.uh.edu/admin/hc/dental.htm Large discounts are available for routine, basic and major dental work including Wisdom Tooth Removal, Invisalign, and Teeth Whitening.Please see ad on p. 11.
Wells Fargowww.backstage.wellsfargo.com Your path to financial stability starts here.Please see ad on back cover.
Crowne Plaza Hotel Houston1700 Smith St.Houston, TX 77002(713) 739-8800www.cpdowntown.comWe offer special rates for UH events or just a special trip to visit your student! Visit our website for special University Packages! Please see ad on p. 22.
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites - Houston Medical Center 8080 Main St.Houston, TX 77025(713) 665-4439www.8080main.com Stay you at our hotel with a
Places to Stay
complimentary hot breakfast and stay connected with complimentary wireless high speed internet. Call us today!Please see ad on p. 21.
Marriott at the Texas Medical Center6580 Fannin St.Houston, TX 77030(713) 796-0080www..com/HOUMCWe are only minutes away! Featuring Driscoll’s Restaurant, Paladora Lounge and Starbucks. Near Reliant Park, Houston MetroRail and the Houston Museum District.Please see ad on p. 20.
For advertising inquiries, please contact UPM Sales Consultant
Sharon Haddad at (866) 721-1357 or email: [email protected]
Important Contact InformationThis is a list of commonly requested phone numbers and websites. A more
extensive list for University Offices and University Colleges and Academic
Departments are available on the UH website.
Academic Advising
(832) 842·2100
Athletic Tickets
Athletics Office
(713) GO-COOGS [(713) 462-6647]
(1-877) COUGAR-5 [(877) 268-4275]
Bookstore
(713) 748-0923
Campus Recreation and Wellness Center
(713) 743-9500
Center for Student Involvement
(832) 842-6245
University Career Services
(713) 743-5100
Cougar One Card Office
(832) 842-2273
Counseling & Psychological
Services (CAPS)
(713) 743-5454
Dean of Student’s Office (Oversees
Parent and Family Programs)
(832) 842-6183
Center for Students with Disabilities
(713) 743-5400
(713) 749-1527 (TDD)
Center for Fraternity and Sorority Life
(832) 842-4955
Health Center
(713) 743-5151
(713) 743-3333
(UHPD, call afterhours and ask for the
Health Center physician on call)
Residential Life and Housing
(713) 743-6000
Information Technology
(713) 743-1411
Meal Plans
Dining Services
(832) 842-5989
Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid
(832) 842-1010, option 5
Parking/Police
Department of Public Safety
(713) 743-3333 (police, non-emergency)
(713) 743- 5849 (parking enforcement)
Tuition, Fees, Student Accounts
Student Financial Services (Bursar’s Office)
(832) 842-21010, option 6
(Customer Services)
University Center
(832) 842-6154
Vice President for Student Affairs
(713) 743-5390