virginia tech parent calendar 2012-13

2012-13 Parent Calendar

The offi ce of Parent and Alumni Relations was created to provide you with the support you need to help your student succeed at Virginia Tech. If you need guidance about resources and opportunities offered here, or just have a question and aren’t sure where to start, contact us. We are glad to serve as a partner in your student’s success!

Here are some of the services and resources we offer:

Fall and spring mailed parent newsletters

Monthly Hokie Parent E-News email

Parents and Families website, www.dsa.vt.edu/family

Fall Family Day and Spring Family Weekend events

Welcome to the Virginia Tech family! We are thrilled that you and your student decided to become members of the Hokie Nation. We know that this is an important time in your student’s development and we take seriously the success of your student. We promise to provide your student every opportunity for growth and to offer you the resources to support them. Our partnership with you matters very much.

We know that as your student is preparing for this transition to college life, you are preparing, as well. It is our hope that you use this handbook as a guide to this important familial transition, to your student’s fi rst year of college, and throughout the college experience. This calendar will offer you important dates, month-by-month suggestions for ways to encourage your student’s success, and a guide to the university.

I hope this resource will answer many of your questions and help you understand what to expect during the coming year. Again, we remain available to support your student and you, as we know this time of transition impacts the entire family. If you have additional questions, or if we can assist you in any way, please don’t hesitate to contact our Director of Parent and Alumni Relations, Penny Helms White, at [email protected] or 540-231-3678.

We look forward to our continued partnership with you.

All of my best wishes for a wonderful year,

Dr. Patricia A. Perillo

Vice President for Student Affairs

Dear Parents and Famil ies,

112 Burruss Hall

540-231-6272

[email protected]

PARENT AND ALUMNI RELATIONS

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

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

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

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

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

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

Blacksburg, Virginia

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

Mark your calendar for Fall Family Day on Saturday, Oct. 20. Bring your entire family to campus to visit your student and learn more about the wonderful community we have here at the university and in Blacksburg.

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

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

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

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

TIPS

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

1 2 3 4

5 6 7 8 9 10 11

12 13 14 15 16 17 18

19 20 21 22 23 24 25

26 27 28 29 30 31

Steppin’ Out

Street Festival

Last day to apply for

course withdrawal

Classes end for

Summer II Exams begin

Exams end

Hokie Camp

Session 1 begins

Residence halls close

at 10 a.m.

Hokie Camp

Session 1 ends

Hokie Camp

Session 2 begins

Residence hall

check-in

Residence hall

check-in

Residence hall

check-in

Hokie Camp

Session 2 ends

Hokie Camp

Session 3 begins

Steppin’ Out

Street Festival

Drop/add opens for

fall 2012

Classes begin

Eid Al-Fitr (Islam)

Hokie Camp

Session 3 ends

Hokie Camp

Session 4 begins

Residence hall

check-in

Hokie Camp

Session 4 ends

AUGUST 2012

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

We also have the annual Gobblerfest student organization fair on Sept. 7 on the Drillfi eld. This is another great way to learn more about what’s available for students who are looking to get involved on campus.

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

Fall also means it’s time for Hokie football. Students are eligible for free tickets to all Virginia Tech sporting events. You can learn more about ticketing at www.hokietickets.com/student/football/lottery. Remember, with football comes tailgating, so encourage your student to have fun and be safe while tailgating.

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

TIPS


1

2 3 4 5 6 7 8

9 10 11 12 13 14 15

16 17 18 19 20 21 22

23 24 25 26 27 28 29

30

Labor Day

(classes meet)

Football vs.

Georgia Tech

International Day of

Peace

Native American

Day

Football vs.

Cincinnati

Autumn begins

Football vs. Bowling

Green

Football at

PittsburghGrandparents Day

Rosh Hashanah

begins (Jewish)

Yom Kippur

(Jewish)

SEPTEMBER 2012

Fall Family Day is Saturday, Oct. 20. Keep up with www.dsa.vt.edu/family to fi nd out more.

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

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

Now may also be a good time to discuss your student’s academic progress. If he or she seems to be struggling in the classroom or just wants to do better, encourage him or her to visit the Student Success Center. The center offers tutoring, seminars, and other resources to help with reaching academic goals. Learn more at www.caee.vt.edu.

Course registration for spring 2013 will begin soon. Check with your student to see if he or she has met with an academic advisor. If not, encourage them do so.

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

Remind your student that regular class attendance is important.

TIPS


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7 8 9 10 11 12 13

14 15 16 17 18 19 20

21 22 23 24 25 26 27

28 29 30 31

Football at

North Carolina

Columbus Day

Eid al-Adha

begins (Islam)

Halloween

Fall Break begins (no

classes, university

offi ces open)

Flu Clinic

10 a.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Fall Break ends

Homecoming

Football vs. Duke

Fall Family Day

Football at Clemson

OCTOBER 2012

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

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

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

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

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

TIPS


1 2 3

4 5 6 7 8 9 10

11 12 13 14 15 16 17

18 19 20 21 22 23 24

25 26 27 28 29 30

Football at Miami

Football vs. Florida

State

Daylight-saving

time ends Election Day

Veterans Day

International

Education Week

Thanksgiving Day

Residence halls re-

open at 4 p.m.

Thanksgiving

Break ends

Football vs. Virginia

Diwali begins

(Hindu)

Football at

Boston College


at 10 a.m.

Thanksgiving

Break begins

NOVEMBER 2012

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

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

Remember that the residence halls close on Dec. 22 for Winter Break.

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

TIPS


1

2 3 4 5 6 7 8

9 10 11 12 13 14 15

16 17 18 19 20 21 22

23 24 25 26 27 28 29

30 3 1

Football ACC

Championship

(Charlotte, N.C.)

Hanukkah begins

(Jewish)

Christmas Kwanzaa begins

Classes end Reading Day Exams begin

Exams end


at noon

Fall commencement

ceremonies

Winter break begins

Christmas Eve

New Year’s Eve

DECEMBER 2012

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

Continue becoming familiar with university resources so you can direct your student to the appropriate offi ce or department for assistance. Encourage your student to handle his or her own problems.

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

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

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

TIPS


1 2 3 4 5

6 7 8 9 10 11 12

13 14 15 16 17 18 19

20 21 22 23 24 25 26

27 28 29 30 31

New Year’s Day

Gantan-sai (Shinto)

Residence hall

check-in

Residence hall

check-in

Martin Luther King

Jr. holiday (no

classes, university

offi ces closed)

Classes begin

2013-14 campus

housing application

process begins

2013-14 campus

housing application

process ends

JANUARY 2013

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is now available for the 2013-14 academic year. Make sure to complete it by the priority deadline of March 1. Also keep an eye on the University Scholarships and Financial Aid website at www.fi naid.vt.edu.

Your student is probably excited about the upcoming Spring Break week, March 9 to 17. Talk about his or her potential plans and encourage him or her to begin budgeting for the trip. Also, remind your student to stay safe during the break. If your student is traveling with friends, discuss plans in case of an emergency.

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

TIPS


1 2

3 4 5 6 7 8 9

10 11 12 13 14 15 16

17 18 19 20 21 22 23

24 25 26 27 28

Housing offers for

2013-14 distributed

Setsubun-sai

(Shinto)

Chinese

New Year Lincoln’s birthday

Washington’s

Birthday

Ash Wednesday

(Christian)

2013-14 campus

housing/dining

contracts due

Valentine’s Day

President’s Day

(classes meet)

FEBRUARY 2013

Start planning for Spring Family Weekend, April 19 to 21. Bring the whole family for a weekend of fun on our beautiful campus and around town. See what we have planned at www.dsa.vt.edu/family/familyweekend.

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

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

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

Daylight-saving time begins on March 11. Don’t forget to remind your student to spring forward one hour.

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

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

TIPS


1 2

3 4 5 6 7 8 9

10 11 12 13 14 15 16

17 18 19 20 21 22 23

24 25 26 27 28 29 30

31

Spring Break begins


at noon

Daylight-saving time

begins

Passover begins

(Jewish)

Spring Break ends

Residence halls re-

open at noon Spring begins

Good Friday

(Christian)Easter (Christian)

MARCH 2013

Spring Family Weekend is April 19 to 21. Register and learn more about this fun family event at www.dsa.vt.edu/family/familyweekend.

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

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

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

Encourage your student to approach fi nal exams with a positive attitude.

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

TIPS


1 2 3 4 5 6

7 8 9 10 11 12 13

14 15 16 17 18 19 20

21 22 23 24 25 26 27

28 29 30

Earth Day

Day of

Remembrance

3.2 Run in

Remembrance

Spring

Family Weekend

Spring Game

Spring

Family Weekend

Spring

Family Weekend

The Big Event

APRIL 2013

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

Remind your student that it’s almost time to move out for the summer, and that there will be certain rules they must follow. Encourage them to speak with a resident advisor to become familiar with the checkout procedures. He or she can also learn more about the move-out procedure at www.housing.vt.edu/movingout. The residence halls will close at noon on Sunday, May 19.

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

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

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

TIPS


1 2 3 4

5 6 7 8 9 10 11

12 13 14 15 16 17 18

19 20 21 22 23 24 25

26 27 28 29 30 31

Exams beginClasses end

Exams end Senior Day

Spring

commencement

ceremonies

Residence halls

close at noon

Spring

commencement

ceremonies

Reading Day

Mother’s Day

Memorial Day

(no classes)

Buddha Day

(Buddhism)

Residence hall

check-in

10 a.m.-5 p.m.

for Summer I

Summer I

classes begin

Ascension of

Baha’u’llah begins

(Baha’i)

MAY 2013

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

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

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

TIPS


1

2 3 4 5 6 7 8

9 10 11 12 13 14 15

16 17 18 19 20 21 22

23 24 25 26 27 28 29

30

World

Environment Day

Father’s Day Summer begins

Flag Day

JUNE 2013

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

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

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

TIPS


1 2 3 4 5 6

7 8 9 10 11 12 13

14 15 16 17 18 19 20

21 22 23 24 25 26 27

28 29 30 31

Independence

Day (no classes,

university offi ces

closed)

Summer I

classes end Exams begin

Exams end

Exams begin Exams end


for Summer I

Summer II

classes begin

Ramadan begins

(Islam)

JULY 2013

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

The Offi ce of the Vice President for Student Affairs provides administrative leadership for the 15 departments within the Division of Student Affairs, including policy development, program development and assessment, budgeting, and goal and priority setting. The offi ce works with the departments within the division, the academic colleges, and administrative units in the areas of academic development, retention, new student programs, multicultural diversity, students’ rights and responsibilities, student advocacy, and facilities.

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

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

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

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

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

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

CORPS OF CADETS 540-231-6413 www.vtcc.vt.edu

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

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

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

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

The Dean of Students Offi ce assists the university with its mission of creating a welcoming climate for all students. It is responsible for providing support for transition to college life, fostering an inclusive campus community, coordinating responses to student emergencies, and providing advocacy and support for students. The offi ce staff also serves as a liaison to Hokie parents.

DINING SERVICES 540-231-2603 www.dining.vt.edu

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

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

Fraternity and Sorority Life provides guidance and support to 59 nationally affi liated fraternities and sororities. Staff members directly advise the Interfraternity Council, the National Pan-Hellenic Council, the Panhellenic Council, and the Multicultural Greek Council.

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

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

UNIVERSITY RESOURCES THE DIVISION OF STUDENT AFFAIRS

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

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

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

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

SCHIFFERT HEALTH CENTER 540-231-7473 www.healthcenter.vt.edu

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

SERVICES FOR STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES 540-231-0858 www.ssd.vt.edu

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

STUDENT CENTERS AND ACTIVITIES 540-231-0632 www.studentcenters.vt.edu

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

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

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

UNIVERSITY RESOURCES THE DIVISION OF STUDENT AFFAIRS

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

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

ACADEMIC COLLEGES & DEPARTMENTS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

FAMILY EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT OF 1974

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

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

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

ACADEMIC SUPPORT

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

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

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

When Your Kid Goes To College by Carol Barkin

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

HOKIE PARENT READING LIST

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

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

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

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

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

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

MAIL SERVICES

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

HOW TO HELP YOUR STUDENT PLAN FOR SUCCESS:A COLLEGE TIMELINE

FRESHMAN YEAR

SOPHOMORE YEAR

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

Recognize your son or daughter is an adult now, but offer support as they narrow their career interests and begin networking with professionals in their fi eld.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sit back and be proud.

JUNIOR YEAR

SENIOR YEAR

Fall 2012

Aug. 4 ........................Drop/add opens for fall 2012

Aug. 22-25 .................Move-in days

Aug. 23 ......................Dining centers open for dinner

Aug. 27 ......................Classes begin

Oct. 12 .......................Fall break begins

Oct. 14 .......................Fall break ends

Nov. 17 .......................Thanksgiving holiday begins

Nov. 25 .......................Thanksgiving holiday ends

Dec. 12.......................Classes end

Dec. 14.......................Exams begin

Dec. 20 ......................Exams end

Dec. 21 ...................... Fall commencement ceremonies (university and graduate)

Dec. 22 ......................Residence halls close at noon

Spring 2013

Jan. 18-19...................Residence halls open at noon

Jan. 22 .......................Classes begin

Jan. 22-25 .................. On-campus housing application process for 2013-2014

Feb. 14 .......................Housing/dining contracts due for 2013-2014

March 9 ......................Spring Break begins

March 17 ....................Spring Break ends

May 8 .........................Classes end

May 10 .......................Exams begin

May 15 .......................Exams end

May 17 ....................... Spring commencement ceremonies

May 18 .......................Spring commencement ceremonies

May 19 .......................Residence halls close at noon

Summer I 2013

May 28 .......................Classes begin

July 5 .........................Classes end

July 6 .........................Exams begin

July 8 .........................Exams end

Summer II 2013

July 9 .........................Classes begin

Aug. 15.......................Classes end

Aug. 16.......................Exams begin

Aug. 17 .......................Exams end

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

DATES AT A GLANCE

THINGS TO DISCUSS WITH MY STUDENT

K-7 .........109 .......Agnew HallM-2 ........204 .......Air Conditioning FacilityM-8 ........032 .......Ambler Johnston HallO-4 ........368 .......Architecture AnnexO-4 ........269 .......ArmoryM-2 ........196 .......Art and Design Learning CenterO-6 ........026 .......Barringer HallN-7 ........197 .......Basketball Practice FacilityJ-9 .........119 .......Bioinformatics Phase IJ-9 .........120 .......Bioinformatics Phase IIK-3 .........173 .......Bishop-Favrao HallM-3 ........005 .......Brodie HallL-2 .........270F .....Building 270FK-4 .........171 .......Burchard HallK-4 .........193 .......Burke Johnston Student CenterN-12 ......183 .......Burrows/Burleson Tennis CenterL-4 .........176 .......Burruss HallL-6 .........036 .......Campbell HallN-8 ........187 .......Cassell ColiseumL-7 .........112 .......Cheatham HallL-8 .........038 .......Cochrane HallM-3 ........270G .....College of Science Admin. Bldg.K-3 .........172 .......Cowgill HallO-7 ........272 .......Cranwell International CenterJ-12 .......475 .......Dairy Science ComplexK-5 .........156 .......Davidson HallK-4 .........155 .......Derring HallM-7 ........189 .......Dietrick HallL-2 .........126 .......Durham HallM-5 ........022 .......Eggleston HallL-7 .........110 .......Engel HallK-10 .......185D .....English FieldM-3 ........013 .......Femoyer HallP-10 .......240 .......Fleet ServicesJ-9 .........123 .......Food Science and TechnologyL-7 .........111 .......Fralin Life Science InstituteI-5 ..........295 .......Golf Course ClubhouseO-5 ........251 .......Graduate Life Center at

Donaldson BrownL-9 .........124 .......GreenhousesJ-7 .........274 .......The GroveJ-4 .........158 .......Hahn Hall - North WingK-5 .........157 .......Hahn Hall - South WingK-9 .........124A .....Hahn Horticulture GardensK-3 .........133C .....Hancock HallL-8 .........042 .......Harper HallI-10 ........149C .....Harry T. Peters Large Animal ClinicN-12 ......459 .......Health and Safety BuildingO-3 ........179 .......Henderson HallK-7 .........054 .......Hillcrest HallL-3 .........130 .......Holden HallI-4 ..........250C .....Holtzman Alumni CenterL-6 .........103 .......Hutcheson HallL-3 .........129 .......Institute for Critical Technology

and Applied ScienceK-1 .........257 .......International AffairsN-8 ........187B .....Jamerson Athletic Center N-6 ........028 .......Johnson HallM-3 ........001 .......Lane HallN-9 ........185 .......Lane Stadium/Worsham FieldL-7 .........113 .......Latham HallN-7 ........030 .......Lee HallK-9 .........121 .......Life Sciences IK-8 .........118 .......Litton-Reaves HallM-3 ........007 .......Major Williams HallM-3 ........151 .......McBryde HallL-9 .........191 .......McComas HallO-4 ........369 .......Media AnnexO-4 ........370 .......Media BuildingN-8 ........187A .....Merryman Athletic CenterO-6 ........027 .......Miles HallM-2 ........203 .......Military BuildingN-2 ........008 .......Monteith HallL-8 .........055 .......New Hall WestN-6 ........040 .......New Residence Hall (East)N-6 ........024 .......Newman HallN-4 ........177 .......Newman LibraryL-4 .........132 .......Norris HallM-3 ........201 .......Old Security BuildingN-6 ........029 .......O’Shaughnessy HallH-1 ........2380 .....Outreach & International AffairsN-5 ........195 .......Owens HallK-4 .........153 .......Pamplin HallN-12 ......455 .......Parking ServicesL-4 .........127 .......Patton HallM-6 ........039 .......Payne HallM-6 ........041 .......Peddrew-Yates Residence HallM-3 ........175 .......Performing Arts BuildingP-10 .......242 .......Police DepartmentM-2 ........202 .......Power PlantK-6 .........102 .......Price HallM-7 ........031 .......Pritchard HallL-3 .........133 .......Randolph HallN-3 ........004 .......Rasche HallL-10 .......186 .......Rector Field House

BT

I-11 ........149B .....Richard B. Talbot Educational Resources Center

K-5 .........154 .......Robeson HallL-6 .........101 .......Sandy HallK-6 .........106 .......Saunders HallL-7 .........108 .......Seitz HallN-2 ........006 .......Shanks HallN-2 ........188 .......Shultz HallI-4 ..........250B .....Skelton Conference CenterM-6 ........035 .......Slusher HallL-8 .........194 .......Smith Career CenterL-6 .........105 .......Smyth HallJ-6 .........275 .......SolitudeO-10 ......190 .......Southgate Center

N-4 ........180 .......Squires Student CenterP-10 .......242 .......Sterrett Facilities ComplexL-8 .........192 .......Student Services BuildingL-2 .........170 .......Surge Space BuildingN-12 ......183 .......Tennis CenterH-4 ........250A .....The Inn at Virginia TechO-3 ........169 .......Theatre 101M-2 ........012 .......Thomas HallM-4 ........174 .......Torgersen HallN-5 ........178 .......University BookstoreO-5 ........252 .......University ClubN-5 ........025 .......Vawter HallJ-11 .......149 .......Virginia-Maryland Regional

College of Veterinary Medicine

G-3 ........249 .......Visitor and Undergraduate Admissions Center (Open 07/11)

K-7 .........301 .......Wallace AnnexK-8 .........115 .......Wallace HallM-4 ........181 .......War Memorial ChapelM-6 ........182 .......War Memorial HallK-3 .........134 .......Whittemore HallJ-11 .......149A .....William E. Lavery Health

Research CenterK-5 .........152 .......Williams HallM-10 ......185H .....Women’s Softball FieldJ-5 .........276 .......Wright House

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Virginia Tech is an equal opportunity, affirmative action institution.

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virginia tech parent calendar 2012-13

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