Volume 16, Issue 1
Winter 2014
In this issue:
 Homecoming 2014
 Ace
 Commencement
 Housing Deadlines
 UNCW Presents
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PERCH
College Knowledge
UNCWeekends
Spring 2014 Important Dates
Transition Programs
CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE UNIVERSITY CALENDAR
One of the highlights of the Seahawk year is Homecoming at UNCW! This year is full of fun and
merriment that students and alumni alike will remembers for year to come! Click on the Teal Brick Road
to see what’s planned.
ACE for 2014
By: Andrea Ingle, Graduate Assistant for ACE
It's that time of year when UNCW alumni come home to their Seahawk country and
the current Seahawks get to experience the joys of Homecoming! Starting it off with
a shadow cast of Moulin Rouge at 7 p.m. in Lumina Theater on February 15, other
exciting events throughout the week include Glow Ball, the infamous Late Night
Breakfast, All Student Show in the Boseman Gallery, Battle of the Bands, and will end out with the Homecoming
Men’s Basketball Game.
On February 16, your Seahawk can relive the joys of a familiar childhood game with Glow Ball, a heightened
game of dodgeball that uses glow-in-the-dark balls and a video DJ to get the heart pumping! After claiming a
victory over the Glow Ball courts of the new Student Recreation Center from 6-9 p.m., students can head over to
Late Night Breakfast at Wagoner Hall from 10 p.m.- 12 midnight, a tradition that is as delicious as Homecoming
is inviting.
The annual All Student Show in our Boseman Gallery is a great opportunity for students to have the chance to
showcase their artwork in a formal gallery setting, and the big All Student Show opening will announce the
winners of this year’s show while communing with art students and art lovers alike! This event will commence on
February 20 from 5:30-7 p.m. in the Ann Flack Boseman Gallery of the Fisher University Union.
Office of Transition Programs
Seahawk Parents Learning About Student Happenings
Our first Battle of the Bands is kicking off this year with performances by diverse student and non-student bands.
Encompassing a wide variety of genres, the show’s MC will be the winner of Last Seahawk Standing, the student
that won the UNCW-based comedy contest last semester. Sure to be a blast, Battle of the Bands will be judged by
both formal judges and the students themselves! Your Seahawk can come cast their vote in the musical battle of
the UNCW ages on February 20 from 8-10 p.m. in the Warwick Center.
The Men’s Basketball Game against College of Charleston on February 22 is the big finale of the busy
Homecoming week schedule. ACE’s Student Tealgate will begin at 5:30 p.m. at Wagoner Drive prior to the big
game across the road at 7 p.m. in Trask Coliseum. Snacks will be provided, along with a good dose of UNCW
spirit before we go cheer our Seahawks to victory!
For a full list of ACE's Homecoming schedule, visit 2014 HOMECOMING or visit our Facebook page at
www.facebook.com/UNCWACE.
Click on the logo to learn about the May Commencement ceremonies.
IMPORTANT ON-CAMPUS HOUSING
DEADLINES
By: Matthew Herrington, Housing and Residence Life
Please note that this process has already begun
The following information has been provided to all students currently living on campus.
It is provided here, in abbreviated form, to highlight the deadlines. For more detailed information, access the
ROOM SIGN UP PROCESS OR HOUSING AND RESIDENCE LIFE PARENTS SITE
It’s the time of year to be thinking about 2014-15 housing plans. In order to be eligible for on-campus housing,
students must complete a housing contract and pay a $105 non-refundable housing contract fee five business days
prior to their expected sign up or pull in time. Please be aware that housing contracts will only be accepted from
returning students as space permits; in order to be guaranteed housing for the 2014-15 academic year, please
complete a housing contract as soon as possible.
How to contract:
1. Go to mySeaport beginning on January 27, 2014.
2. Click “Contract and Payment” link.
3. Complete process.
*If unable to complete the housing contract online, please come into the Office of Housing and Residence Life,
and fill out a contract, and make the payment in person.
Room selection will begin at 10 a.m. on the first day listed and remain open until 4:30 p.m. on the last day
listed. For example, if selecting a room during stage 1, the process will open at 10 a.m. on Feb. 5 and will
remain open until 4:30 p.m. on Feb. 6. If help is needed completing the process, students may come to the
Office of Housing and Residence Life.
Seahawk Crossing, Seahawk Landing, Seahawk Village
Reclaim Room (Academic Year SC & Lease-based SC, SV & SL)
Stage 1 – Wednesday to Thursday, February 5-6
Stage 2 (Roommate pull in) – Friday to Sunday, February 7-9
Open Room Sign-up (Academic Year SC & Lease-based SC, SV & SL)
Monday to Tuesday, February 10-11 (Times based on class level)
Seniors: Monday 10 a.m.-12 noon
Juniors: Noon to 2 p.m.
Sophomores: 2-4 p.m.
On Tuesday, February 11, all students who are eligible for this phase may sign up for spaces.
Rising Seniors (Village & Landing Only)
Wednesday to Thursday, February 12-13
Rising Juniors (Village & Landing Only)
Monday to Tuesday, February 17-18
Rising Sophomores (Village & Landing Only)
Wednesday to Thursday, February 19-20 (Based on Contract Receipt Date)
Students will be emailed no later than Wednesday, February 12 with the specific time they will be able to
begin accessing the system on Wednesday, February 19.
Rising Juniors (Academic Year Crossing Only)
Monday to Tuesday, February 24-25 (Based on Contract Receipt Date)
Students will be emailed no later than Monday, February 17 with the specific time they will be able to
begin accessing the system on Monday, February 24.
Rising Sophomores (Academic Year Crossing Only)
Wednesday to Thursday, February 26-27 (Based on Contract Receipt Date)
Students will be emailed no later than Wednesday, February 19 with the specific time they will be able to
begin accessing the system on Wednesday, February 26.
Rising Sophomore & Juniors (Lease-based Crossing Only)
Monday to Tuesday, March 10-11 (Based on Contract Receipt Date)
Students will be emailed no later than Monday, March 3 with the specific time they will be able to begin
accessing the system on Monday, March 10.
Rising Seniors (Seahawk Crossing)
Wednesday, March 12
Traditional Academic Year Housing:
(University Suites & University Apartments)
Reclaim Room
Stage 1 – Monday to Tuesday, March 17-18
Stage 2 (Roommate pull in) – Wednesday to Thursday, March 19-20
Open room sign-up
Students currently living ON campus
Monday, March 24 (until all available spaces are full)
Students who are currently living on campus can sign up from
8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. or until all available spaces are filled.
Students currently living OFF campus
Wednesday, March 26 (until all available spaces are full)
Students who are currently living off campus can sign up from
8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. or until all available spaces are filled.
Spring Season Upcoming Performances
By: Jessica Leitheiser, Graduate Assistant for Arts and Programs
The primary goal of UNCW Presents is to encourage students to explore and participate in a wide range of
cultural arts possibilities to enrich their college experience. We are committed to providing educational and
creative opportunities that extend beyond the stage. We coordinate free programs in which members of UNCW
and our region are able to interact with visiting artists and lecturers, supporting classroom and lifelong learning.
The spring 2014 season offers an impressive, talented roster: a Grammy-winning musician, expert dancers, skilled
vocalists, a world-renowned theater company and a Pulitzer Prize winning writer. Performers and lecturers alike
will prove to offer our students, faculty and their families rewarding experiences. We invite you to join us spring
semester for an incredible arts experience. Visit www.uncw.edu/presents for tickets.
Monday, Feb. 24, 2014 - 7 p.m., Burney Center
Jose Antonio Vargas: Define American* seeks to elevate the conversation about immigration and challenge
notions of what defines American. Vargas is a Pulitzer Prize winning writer, former lecturer at Georgetown
University and an undocumented immigrant, who despite his successes has kept his
immigration status a secret until recently. He continues to write for some of the most
prestigious publications in the country.
Tuesday, March 18, 2014 - 7 p.m., Kenan Auditorium
The Fantasticks, Nebraska Theatre Caravan** – the world’s longest running
theatrical production of any kind – tells the story of a boy, a girl and their fathers
who plot to get them together by keeping them apart. The production features the
original, live accompaniment with piano and harp and adds a steampunk design spin
to costumes, sets and props in this classic show. Additionally, Nebraska Theatre
Caravan will be in residence at UNCW offering free master classes.
Monday, March 24, 2014 - 7 p.m., Kenan Auditorium
Celtic Nights: Journey of Hope offers some of the finest male and female voices of
the Celtic world. This glittery and splashy production is rooted in tradition and
showcased against a thundering backdrop of expert dancing and musicianship,
costumes, sets and dramatic lighting. It is sure to create an exhilarating picture
of a proud people who dared to dream big and carve out a life in the New
World.
Tuesday, April 8, 2014 - 7 p.m., Kenan Auditorium
An Evening with Branford Marsalis wraps up an amazing UNCW Presents
season. Grammy-winning saxophonist Branford Marsalis has played with
everyone from Miles Davis to Sting and the Grateful Dead. He’s a National
Endowment for the Arts Jazz Master, a Tony Award nominee and former
leader of Jay Leno’s Tonight Show Band. Marsalis and his multi-talented quartet are known for their mastery of
jazz, rock and classical genres, and their album was the iTunes Best Instrumental Jazz Album of 2012.
Join us on Facebook for campus activity updates, tickets and promotions: www.facebook.com/UNCWPresents
Visit www.uncw.edu/happenings for a listing of all the arts and cultural events on campus.
* Jose Antonio Vargas’s lecture is co-sponsored by Centro Hispano and Honors College.
**The Fantasticks is co-sponsored by ACE and presented through a special arrangement with MUSIC THEARTRE INTERNATIONAL, New York, NY.
Off-Campus Housing Fair
By: The PERCH
The decision for your student to move off-campus during their college
career can be challenging. It requires maturity, accountability, and
planning. Shopping for the right apartment for your student can become
a time-consuming, stressful experience, but it does not have to be.
The PERCH is available to provide resources for you and your student. We invite you to attend the Off-Campus
Housing Fair. This event will take place on March 19, 2014 in the Warwick Center from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. The
Housing Fair gathers local apartment complexes, rental agencies, and home services so that students have a onestop opportunity to learn about their off-campus living options. This event is fun and stressfree! There will be free pizza and giveaways! We hope to see you there! If you are unable to
attend, we invite you to use our off-campus housing website,
www.uncw.edu/offcampushousing. This website has apartment as well as roommate
listings. If you have any questions, please contact us at (910) 962-3119.
Low Academic Performance: Common Factors and How We
Can Support Our Students
By: Keryn Vickers, Academic Advisor, University College
1092 DePaolo Hall  910-962-3245  uc@uncw.edu  www.uncw.edu/uc
Whatever grade point average a student may earn, there are important factors that contribute
to, or interfere with, their success. Based on feedback provided to University College advisors by students who
struggle to do well at UNCW, here are the most commonly reported reasons for poor academic performance:
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Poor time management, too much freedom, and/or didn’t set appropriate priorities
Did not anticipate the rigor of college
Health related – physical mental/emotional
Did not attend class
Difficulty balancing work and school; financial problems
Too much socializing
Major was not a good “fit”
Homesickness, loneliness
Low motivation, disorganization
Family situations (illness, divorce, etc.)
Family Support
It is no surprise that families are an integral part of student success. Here are some ways to support your student,
based on the common challenges:
 Understand that working more than 20 hours per week can negatively impact students’ academic
performance.
 Communicate with your student as often as you like, but encourage her/him to communicate directly with
support services on campus. It is best if students ask for help as soon as issues arise.
 Remember that many helpful resources are on the UNCW campus and require no additional fees. These
resources include University Learning Services (tutoring), the Writing Center, the Counseling Center,
Health Services and the Career Center.
 Talk to your students about their goals and priorities.
 Encourage your student to meet with professors if (s)he has questions about assignments, grades, or
course requirements.
 Encourage your student to meet with his or her academic advisor for guidance and support.
 Remember that your student still needs your guidance and example as a parent. Do not be afraid to ask
your students questions about their health, social activities, and academic performance.
You are not alone! Dr. Jim Burns from Azusa Pacific University gives some insights about The Changing Role
for Parents of College Students. Please visit the following URL: www.homeword.com/changing-role-parentscollege-students-ta-a-1384.html
Sharon McGregor Bond, from the University of Denver also shared some interesting Tips for Parenting College
Students in a Digital Age which includes access to an app: The Parent App and an essential parenting guide for the
college years. Please visit the following URL: www.thechoiceblog.com/2013/08/tips-for-parenting-collegestudents-in.html
University College Support
Advisors are available to meet with students to discuss concerns, identify related campus services, and provide
guidance about academic goals. Students are required to meet with their advisors in March for pre-registration
advising, but they are also encouraged to meet with their advisors whenever the need arises or they have questions
or concerns.
In order for the advising relationship to be successful, both advisor and student must take an active role in the
advising process. While advisors are excellent guides, students must learn to take responsibility in seeking out
information, asking for help, and reflecting on their own educational experiences and goals.
University College has developed an intervention program for students who earn below a 2.0 cumulative GPA,
thereby placing them on Academic Probation. Students on academic probation are restricted to taking no more
than 14 credit hours. These students are also encouraged to meet regularly with their academic advisor to identify
challenges, set goals, and develop an action plan for academic recovery. In addition to meeting with their
academic advisor, students must complete an online academic module. The module includes information on
academic standards and policies, resources and study skills. Failure to complete this module successfully will
result in a hold being placed on their registration account. In certain circumstances the academic advisor will also
recommend and/or require your student to meet with an academic peer mentor. The peer mentor will meet weekly
with your student for the first ten weeks of the semester to provide additional support and resources.
Eligibility Requirements
UNCW policy states that unless students meet the minimum cumulative GPA retention requirement by the end of
the Spring semester, they will be declared academically ineligible to return for the following Fall and Spring
semesters.
All students must need the grade point requirements outlined below:
Total Quality (GPA) Hours
Good Academic
Academic
Required GPA for Eligibility
and Transfer Hours
Standing
Probation
to Continue in the University
____________________________________________________________________________________
1 – 45
2.00
1.75 – 1.99
1.75
46 – more
2.00
2.00
For more information on retention requirements and other academic policies, refer to the UNCW Undergraduate
Catalogue at
http://catalogue.uncw.edu/content.php?catoid=16&navoid=981#Retention__Dismissal_and_Readmission
It’s Not Complicated, It’s UNCWeekends
By: Erica C. Brinsfield
UNCWeekends is a student-run group that works
together to provide a variety of activities to keep students
entertained on the weekends. Some of these programs
include 80’s roller-skating, bowling, paintball, ice
skating, bingo, trivia, and a whole host of other creative
events that take place in the UNCW and Wilmington
community.
Why do we do this? We do this because we want students to recognize that fun doesn’t have to involve
alcohol. We also want to provide them with opportunities to meet new friends and to experience the
UNCW and Wilmington culture at its best.
We invite your student to join our programming board at any time! Through your student’s experience
with UNCWeekends, he/she will gain the following skills: event planning, enhancement of marketing
skills, program management, problem-solving, teambuilding, and the ability to navigate complex
relationships with different students and administrators.
UNCWeekends’ weekly spring semester meetings are held on Mondays from 6:30-7 p.m. in the
Involvement Center, FSC 2029. We gladly welcome your student to join us! If your student is unable to
meet us at that time, they are more than welcome to come to one of our upcoming events listed below.
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Friday, February 7 Cosmic Bowling at Cardinal Lanes on Shipyard from 9-11 p.m.
Admission is $2 with a UNCW ID
Thursday, February 13 Valentine’s Day Ghost Walk, Downtown 6:30 p.m.
Tickets are $3 with a Student UNCW ID, sold at Sharky’s Game Room FSC (ticket sales start
Feb. 4 and end Feb 13 at 4 p.m. *tickets are limited*)
What’s coming in March?
o Everything Green Trivia
o Ice Skating
o Shopping & Show Trip to Myrtle Beach, SC
Whether your student wants to become a leader of the group or just an active member, they will create
lifelong friendships and have fun while doing it! Students interested in joining may contact Erica C.
Brinsfield at ecb8199@uncw.edu.
@UNCWeekends
#UNCWeekends
www.facebook.com/groups/UNCWeekends
Stress in Relationships
By: Lizzie Van Name, Health Promotion Peer Educator
Stressful relationships can play a major role in an unhappy atmosphere. Our lives as college
students largely revolve around the interactions we have with other people. Whether with
friends, significant others, or roommates, tension can create a setback when it comes to
success.
Warning signs:
► Mood swings - stress caused by relationships can cause anger, irritability, and depression.
Relationships should be a place where a person feels most comfortable with themselves. One should be
surrounded by people who love and support them for who they are. If someone does not feel accepted by
others, it can create rockiness in the relationships which may result in unhappy emotions.
► Isolation - if your student is avoiding conversations with you or others in their
life it may be because they are avoiding the tension that may exist in the relationship.
Instead of trying to handle the problem that exists they may be doing what they can
to avoid it and keep to themselves to avoid confrontation with those they care
about.
► Slipping grades - when major stressors are present in one’s life it may be hard to
focus on what is important. Academics may fall to the way side if a student is more worried about
confrontation or awkwardness with a roommate, friend, or significant other. It can be hard to keep
together a proper study or sleep habit when they are distracted by an uncomfortable relationship.
How to help:
► Find someone to talk to - whether a friend, a mentor or the staff at the Counseling Center, encourage
your student to find someone they can talk to about their problems. Having an outlet for the stress and
tension they are feeling can be a good way to relieve some pressure and maybe problem solve too!
► Be gentle - when addressing concerns you may have with your student’s behavior, use “I” statements
instead of attacking statements. Try, “I feel that you have begun to isolate yourself more lately,” instead of
“You keep shutting me out and that’s not fair.” Using “I” statements can reassure your student that they
are not wrong for feeling the way they do and can help them to open up to you about what’s really going
on.
► Remind them to be happy! - Sometimes in college there is a lot of pressure to
be in relationships, but a relationship during college isn’t for everyone. Remind
your student that they deserve to be happy and if the people they surround
themselves with do not make them happy, than they might need to make some
changes in their life. It is not worth it to do what everyone else does if it isn’t what
you want to do.
Upcoming Fun Events for Spring 2014
February 5:
February 13:
February 16-22:
February 28:
March 1:
March 3-7:
March 9:
March 14-15:
March 20:
March 27:
April 15:
April 17:
April 18:
April 26:
April 30:
May 1:
May 2-8:
May 9-10:
Premiere of student-directed films on Volunteering and Service Learning
Piano Masterworks: Bemelmans/Loparits
Homecoming – Moulin Rouge, Glow Ball, Late Night Breakfast,
Canstruction, Cupcake decorating , Parade, Teal Tuesday, Step
Show, Battle of the Bands, Dub Idol
Last day for undergraduate students to Withdraw
On-campus housing closes at 10 a.m. for Spring Break
Spring Break; university open but no classes
On-campus housing opens at 10 a.m.
Bridgman/Packer dance
Hawk It Out
Bela Fleck & Abigail Washburn
Graduation application deadline for Summer and Fall 2014
No classes; university open
Holiday; university closed
Oozeball 2014
Festapalooza and last day of classes
Reading Day
Final exams
Commencement Exercises
The Office of Transition Programs provides a
comprehensive array of programs designed to meet the
unique needs of undergraduate students and parents from
orientation through graduation. Programs generate an
intentional connection for the students through engaging
interactions with other students, faculty and staff.
Ultimately, through this community participation each
student is provided the opportunity to improve critical
thinking, problem solving, academic achievement,
interpersonal and intrapersonal growth and civic
responsibility.
Office of Transition Programs
601 South College Road
Wilmington, NC 28403-5997
Phone: 910-962-3089
Fax: 910-962-4265
E-mail: transitions@uncw.edu
www.uncw.edu/transitions