2014 – 2015 A GUIDE FOR PARENTS produced by in partnership with For more information, please contact Parent and Family Programs Missouri State University 901 South National - PSU 416 Springfield, MO 65897 (417) 836-7641 FamilyAssociation@missouristate.edu www.missouristate.edu/parents About this Guide UniversityParent has published this guide in partnership with Missouri State University with the mission of helping you easily navigate your student’s university with the most timely and relevant information available. contents | Missouri State Guide Discover more articles, tips and local business information by visiting the online guide at: www.universityparent.com/missouristate The presence of university/college logos and marks in this guide does not mean the school endorses the products or services offered by advertisers in this guide. 2995 Wilderness Place, Suite 205 Boulder, CO 80301 www.universityparent.com Advertising Inquiries: (855) 947-4296 ads@universityparent.com Comprehensive advice and information for student success 4 6 8 12 18 26 32 36 37 | Sarah Schupp Publisher Adam Walsh DESIGN michael fahler AD DESIGN Connect: facebook.com/UniversityParent twitter.com/4collegeparents | | | | | | | | | 24 38 39 40 42 47 | | | | | | Welcome from the Missouri State University Family Association! About the Family Association A Family’s Guide to FERPA Learning Beyond the Classroom: Academic Resources Get Involved, Get Engaged: Co-Curricular Opportunities Taking Care of Business: Campus Services and Amenities Your Student’s Well-being: Health and Safety Resources Missouri State Athletics Residence Life and Services Resources Must-have knowledge to navigate your way Campus Map Residence Hall Mailing Addresses Important Dates Recommended Reading for Parents/Families Your Missouri State Glossary Missouri State Area Resources © 2014 UniversityParent 2 Missouri State University www.universityparent.com/missouristate 3 Missouri state GUIDE Missouri state GUIDE Welcome from the Missouri State University Family Association! At Missouri State University, we communicate to students that our community is a place where students are challenged to excel in and out of the classroom. At the same time, we also share that students should expect assistance, support, and guidance during their college experience. The encouragement and resources to assist our students come from a partnership of many individuals dedicated to student success—faculty, staff, and student leaders. We invite you, as your student’s parents and family members, to join us in this partnership. You play a critical role in your student’s success; students regularly report that the most significant support and encouragement they receive comes from their parents and families, and parental involvement positively influences a student’s likelihood of graduating. In this guide, you will find a wealth of information about resources we offer our students, as well as tips to help your student adjust to his or her transition. As a parent or family member, you may also need support while your student is attending college. The Family Association aims to offer you this support by providing regular communications about campus events and tips for encouraging your student’s success, serving as a point of contact for questions you may have, and offering fun campus events in which students and their families can participate together. Please become a member of the Family Association by visiting our website at www.missouristate.edu/familyassociation. 4 Missouri State University www.universityparent.com/missouristate We genuinely want all parents and family members to be a part of the Missouri State experience. We encourage you to come to campus during Family Weekend activities, Homecoming, the annual Public Affairs Conference, division I athletic contests, cultural events, and any of the hundreds of other exciting and enjoyable events that occur on campus throughout the year. Missouri State University is a great place to live, learn, and grow! We look forward to meeting you, and we will work diligently to create a wonderful Missouri State experience for you and your student. Sincerely, Joe Morris Director of SOAR Priscilla Childress Coordinator of Parent & Family Programs Erica Garnett Graduate Assistant 5 Missouri state GUIDE Missouri state GUIDE About the Family Association University Staff Becoming a member of the Family Association is easy—and free! Complete the online form at www.missouristate.edu/familyassociation/ membership.htm and you will receive information about campus news, events, and tips for parenting a college student. You can also stay informed by reading our blog, The Family Connection. It provides families with regular updates on campus events, upcoming dates and reminders, special news, and fun facts about Missouri State! Visit blogs.missouristate. edu/familyassociation to see this exciting resource. Be sure to “like” the Family Association’s Facebook page, located at www.facebook.com/missouristatefamily, to stay informed and connect with other family members, as well. Save the Date for Family Weekend! September 12-14 The Missouri State University Family Association invites you and your family to attend Family Weekend on September 1214, 2014. Family Weekend is an excellent opportunity to visit your student at their new college home and experience their life in the Missouri State and Springfield communities. Your student will be thrilled to show off their favorite parts of the campus and Springfield, the new friends they have made, and the way in which they have developed into a successful student. You can also meet other parents of Missouri State students and become acquainted in a fun and informal setting. Some tentative special events for Family Weekend include: • Tailgating at Bearfest Village • The Bears’ home opening game against the University of North Dakota • A special banquet for parents, families, students, and friends • Family Weekend competitions, including giveaways and special prizes More fun and exciting events for students and families are being planned as well. We hope you take this opportunity to visit your student and enjoy the Missouri State campus. More information about Family Weekend 2014 will be available online at www.missouristate.edu/familyweekend as the weekend approaches. See you there! Tip for Parents and Families Don’t ask if your student is homesick. Keeping busy with adjusting to new surroundings, making new friends, and managing their time, often helps to keep thoughts of homesickness away. Asking them if they’re homesick often introduces a thought they have not yet considered. If they are homesick, they will tell you. — University Staff 6 Missouri State University www.universityparent.com/missouristate 7 Missouri state GUIDE Missouri state GUIDE These restrictions are often frustrating to family members, particularly to those paying college bills. Rather than seeing these restrictions as obstacles to helping your student, we encourage you to view them as an opportunity to have important discussion with your student. A Family’s Guide to FERPA University Staff The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) protects your student’s privacy and grants him or her exclusive right to view and share education records such as grades, transcripts, disciplinary records, contact information, and class schedules. Under this law, colleges and universities may not disclose education records to anyone other than the student—including parents and family members. 8 Missouri State University Relationships between families and students are strengthened when your student is provided independence to grow and support when he or she makes mistakes. When it comes to grades and academic work, talk to your student as an adult. Share your opinions, but respect his or her decisions, too. Help establish trust and communication in your relationship with your student through the following means: www.universityparent.com/missouristate • Help your student set academic goals for studying and grades early in the semester; periodically check to see if your student is meeting these goals. • Ask questions about your student’s classes and what he or she is learning; show that you’re interested in more than just grades. • Show support during stressful times like finals week by sending encouraging e-mails and care packages. • After supporting your student through the whole semester, ask if he’ll share his grades with you. Respect his or her decision, whatever it might be. Continue to support your student academically. 9 Missouri state GUIDE We understand that working within the restrictions of FERPA can be challenging, but remember that this law is intended to take personal responsibility for his or her transcript and financial obligations. Encourage your student to take ownership over his education— and to discuss his or her education with you every once in a while. Additional information about FERPA can be found at www.missouristate.edu/ registrar/FERPA.html. Missouri state GUIDE Partners in Education (PIE) Program student. Students may withdraw permission to release information to the partner at any time. Partners in Education is a program which aims to help first-year students and their families build a relationship of trust and communication, with the goal of improving students’ academic success and retention. By enrolling in the program, students can grant a designated partner (usually a parent or family member) authorization to access information regarding the student’s academic progress for their first year. The partner will also mailed midterm and final grade reports of the Students can enroll by completing the PIE form in the appendix of their SOAR Handbook. Contact the Academic Assistance Office at (417) 836-5034 or visit www.missouristate. edu/partnersineducation to learn more about PIE. Please note that only the Academic Assistance Office personnel may release academic information to the partner indicated on the PIE form. Tip for Parents and Families Be prepared for emotional phone calls home. Students will often turn to family first when they experience difficulties. Try not to view this as a problem to be fixed, but as a chance for your student to vent. Once he is finished, ask him to tell you about a fun experience to help him return to a positive frame of mind. — University Staff “Relationships between families and students are strengthened when your student is provided independence to grow and support when he or she makes mistakes.” 10 Missouri State University www.universityparent.com/missouristate 11 Missouri state GUIDE Missouri state GUIDE Learning Beyond the Classroom: Academic Resources University Staff Students have access to a variety of campus resources that can assist them in maximizing their academic success. These resources help students perform better on course assignments, boost their learning through out-of-class experiences, and create a plan for obtaining their degree. Encourage your students to use these resources often! Academic Advisement Center • Appointments with peer tutors for almost any academic subject. • Drop-in tutors who assist with business, computer, mathematics, and science courses. • Peer writing consultants who help with a wide variety of writing assignments. • Peer assisted study session (PASS) leaders who offer review sessions for students taking historically difficult courses. University College Hall 109 (417) 836-5258 www.missouristate.edu/advising Academic Advisement Center advisors assist undeclared students in exploring majors and developing meaningful educational plans to help them achieve their life goals. Advisors help students with course planning and scheduling, make referrals to on-campus support services, and encourage students to get the best possible education at Missouri State. BearCLAW (Center for Learning and Writing) Meyer Library, First Floor, Southeast Corner (417) 835-6398 www.bearclaw.missouristate.edu The BearCLAW provides a number of resources to help students study and complete course assignments. These include: 12 Designed to foster collaborative work and interaction, space in the BearCLAW contains an open computer lab in which students can access online course materials or work on assignments with their tutors and writing consultants. BearCLAW faculty, staff, and graduate students also present student success seminars to classes and student groups each semester. Missouri State University Career Center www.universityparent.com/missouristate 13 Missouri state GUIDE Career Center Carrington Hall 309 or Glass Hall 103 (417) 836-5636 www.careercenter.missouristate.edu The Career Center assists students with all of their career development and job search needs. Students can make individual appointments with career counselors to identify, understand, and research careers and majors. This office can also assist students in seeking internships and full-time job opportunities. Staff members help students explore current information for hundreds of career possibilities, including working conditions, job outlook, salary, education requirements, and more. 14 Missouri state GUIDE Citizenship and ServiceLearning (CASL) Plaster Student Union 131 (417) 836-5774 www.missouristate.edu/casl Service-learning is a teaching strategy which course content is directly applied to community service, giving students the opportunity to learn civic responsibility and strengthen community ties. As part of Missouri State’s public affairs mission, students in selected designate courses work with non-profit and government agencies to make a difference in the community while gaining academic credit, similar to a “mini-internship.” Some courses, such as certain sections of GEP 101, incorporate service-learning throughout the course and all students in the class have a shared experience. Other classes provide service-learning as an option for individual students. Contact the CASL office to learn more about academic courses offering service-learning. Missouri State University Disability Resource Center International Services Carrington Hall 302 Morris Center for Continuing Education 301 S. Jefferson (417) 836-4192 or (417) 836-6792 (TTY) www.missouristate.edu/disability Missouri State University is committed to providing an accessible and supportive environment for students with disabilities. Academic accommodations are available at no cost to students who can provide documentation of a disability from a qualified specialist and can demonstrate that the requested accommodations are necessary for participation in University programs. To initiate request for academic accommodations, a student must contact Disability Resource Center. www.universityparent.com/missouristate (417) 863-6618 www.international.missouristate.edu International Services assists international students with their unique needs. It provides recruitment, admission and retention services for international students, as well as intercultural awareness programs for the University and local community. Other services include transfer credit evaluation, orientation to Missouri State and American culture, special activity programming, and assistance with complying with immigration and US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) regulations. 15 Missouri state GUIDE Missouri state GUIDE Study Away Programs Morris Center for Continuing Education (417) 836-6368 www.international.missouristate. edu/studyaway/ Study Away offers Missouri State students extensive opportunities to develop their understanding of and competence in dealing with other cultures by studying abroad. Study Away offers over experiences in over 70 different countries, ranging anywhere from one week up to one academic year. In addition to helping students research these opportunities, it assists them with applying for financial aid, preparing for departure, and transferring credit back to Missouri State. University Libraries Duane G. Meyer Library (417) 836-4525 www.library.missouristate.edu 16 Learning Diagnostic Clinic Multicultural Services Alumni Center 502 Carrington Hall 302 (417) 836-4787 www.psychology.missouristate.edu/ldc (417) 836-3043 www.multicultural.missouristate.edu The Learning Diagnostic Center (LDC) serves students who are diagnosed as having a learning disability, psychological disorder, and/or a neurological disorder, and it assists Missouri State University in complying with certain aspects of the laws and guidelines of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Students who might need support services through the clinic need to first register with Disability Resource Center and to do so as soon as possible. Multicultural Services assists students from under-represented ethnic groups with their overall academic development. It serves as an advocate for issues affecting Missouri State’s African American, Asian American, Hispanic, and Native American students. Additionally, Multicultural Services staff promotes minority student recruitment and retention, offers multicultural education and programming to the campus and local communities, and provides community outreach/relations. Missouri State University The Missouri State University library system is comprised of the Duane G. Meyer Library, the Music Library, the Haseltine Library at Greenwood Laboratory School, Garnett Library on the West Plains campus, and the Evans Library on the Mountain Grove Campus. Students have access to a wide variety of materials by using the latest technology, such as online record catalogs. www.universityparent.com/missouristate Students can check out materials from academic libraries around the state and have them delivered to Meyer, Mountain Grove, or West Plains. Access to library resources is available on the web. There are twenty-one group study rooms, an open computer lab, a coffee shop, lobby lounge, and Wi-Fi for student use. Tip for Parents and Families Visit. Students love to show off their new room, friends, organizations and college life to loved ones. Plan a time to visit campus on a weekend that works for both you and your student. Even if you live nearby, plan an afternoon shopping trip or a dinner night for your student and some of his new friends. — University Staff 17 Missouri state GUIDE Get Involved, Get Engaged: Co-Curricular Opportunities University Staff The college experience includes much more than studying and classroom work. Much of students’ learning and personal development comes through their involvement in: Campus Recreation Foster Recreation Center (417) 836-5334 www.missouristate.edu/recreation Campus Recreation offers students opportunities to remain active, stay fit, and meet other students through participation in intramural sports, fitness, wellness activities, outdoor trips, and workshops. The new Foster Recreation Center (FRC) includes a recreational pool, climbing wall, three-court gymnasium, indoor jogging track, complete fitness center, and multipurpose rooms. Volunteer Programs Plaster Student Union 131 (417) 836-7615 www.missouristate.edu/ studentengagement/ LeadershipandVolunteerism.htm Volunteer Programs provides students with service opportunities to agencies, individuals, and efforts in the local community and beyond. These opportunities include one-time and regular service, immersion programs in the fall and spring semesters, and special service events like our “Into the Streets” program or “Bear Blitz Service Trips.” 18 Missouri State University www.universityparent.com/missouristate 19 Missouri state GUIDE Missouri state GUIDE Dean of Students Office Office of Student Conduct Plaster Student Union 405 Plaster Student Union 405 (417) 836-5527 www.missouristate.edu/dos (417) 836-6937 www.missouristate.edu/studentconduct The Dean of Students Office assists students in accomplishing personal and educational goals, including helping them remove barriers that might make these goals more difficult to reach. Staff members are available to answer questions or concerns, refer students to appropriate resources, and help students navigate their way through University procedures. The office also serves as a resource for parents, faculty, and staff. The Office of Student Conduct serves the students of the Missouri State University community by implementing the Code of Student Rights and Responsibilities, adjudicating alleged violations of the Code, safeguarding student rights, and dealing with emergency situations which involve students. The Dean of Students Office also offers notary services, voter registration and access to free legal advice from a local attorney. This office strives to create awareness that all Missouri State University students possess certain rights and privileges along with corresponding duties and responsibilities. Through a participatory educational process, students learn how to balance the exercise of individual rights while maintaining and enhancing an academic environment within a caring, civil, and safe community. Student Conduct also serves as a resource to student organizations, University departments, and individual faculty, staff, and students who may be victimized by other students or student organizations. Parties involved in such disputes are provided a fair and impartial enforcement of University policies and mediation of conflicts, leading to an understanding and acceptance of the consequences of their behaviors. major campus events such as Bear Bash, New Student Festival, Sample Springfield, College Bowl, the STAR Awards, May Day, and After Hours late night programming. During Homecoming Week, the OSE hosts various competitions and events for students to participate in, all in celebration of our great University and community. These traditions have become a fun and exciting way for students to get involved on campus. Office of Student Engagement Student Activities Council (SAC) Plaster Student Union 101 www.organizations.missouristate.edu/sac/ (417) 836-4386 www.missouristate.edu/ studentengagement The Office of Student Engagement (OSE) provides students with involvement opportunities that allow them to explore their potential and develop into productive, principled citizens. The OSE oversees the University’s 300-plus student organizations and coordinates 20 Missouri State University www.universityparent.com/missouristate SAC, Missouri State’s student programming board, provides opportunities for growth and personal development through social, cultural and diverse events it plans. Open to the entire student body, these activities are funded through the student involvement fee that every student pays; most are free to students. Students are encouraged to participate in its All Council, Executive Board and committees to help spend student money wisely and plan events students want. 21 Missouri state GUIDE Fraternity and Sorority Life Missouri State currently has 16 national fraternities, 7 national sororities, 1 local sorority, 3 NPHC fraternities, and 2 NPHC sororities registered on campus. Fraternity & Sorority Life also houses 4 local organizations. Each chapter has its own unique programs and characteristics, yet all are founded on similar principles of community involvement, academic excellence, and leadership. The fraternity and sorority community at Missouri State: 22 Missouri state GUIDE • Regularly contributes tens of thousands of community service hours and dollars to local charities. • Has average GPAs that consistently exceed that of the all-campus average GPA. • Produces more campus leaders than any other organization on campus. • Helps foster your student’s involvement and success. Missouri State University We encourage all parents and students to explore the benefits of joining our Greek community. Please visit the parents’ section on their website at www.missouristate.edu/ studentengagement/FSL/ for additional facts and information. Statement on Hazing Both Missouri State University and the fraternity and sorority community do not condone or tolerate hazing. Hazing is defined as any action taken or situation created, whether on or off fraternity/ sorority property, to produce mental or physical discomfort or ridicule. Sanctions and disciplinary actions will be taken against those who haze and, in some cases, those who allow hazing to continue unchallenged. Please see our policy on hazing in Article 4.5 of the Code of Student Rights and Responsibilities at www.missouristate.edu/studentrights. www.universityparent.com/missouristate Tip for Parents and Families Talk to others. Several other families are going through a similar experience as you, while their student is in college. Keeping in contact with other families that you meet at orientation or campus events can be an additional source of support for you and your family. — University Staff 23 Missouri state GUIDE Missouri state GUIDE 2 014 –2 015 24 Missouri State University www.universityparent.com/missouristate 25 Missouri state GUIDE Missouri state GUIDE Taking Care of Business: Campus Services and Amenities University Staff College students are a busy bunch. Between their studies, jobs, and campus involvement, they often need convenient services and amenities to help them take care of their business, their appetites, and their health and wellness. 26 Missouri State University BearPass Card Office Missouri State Bookstore Plaster Student Union 128 Morris Hall (417) 836-8409 www.missouristate.edu/bearpasscard (417) 836-5403 www.missouristatebookstore.com The BearPass Card is Missouri State’s official multipurpose student identification card. It is the required method of identification on campus. The BearPass is used to verify students’ identity, cash checks at the Bursar’s Office, check out materials at the library, obtain services at Taylor Health and Wellness Center, and utilize meal plans. The University-owned and operated Bookstore is the best place for students to purchase textbooks, course-related material, and a full line of BearWear (official Missouri State apparel). The Bookstore carries classroom supplies and health-related items, and it has a full-service Clinique counter. www.universityparent.com/missouristate 27 Missouri state GUIDE Missouri state GUIDE The Bookstore operates a number of affiliate stores around campus, as well. • • • 28 Bear Necessities, located on the second floor of the Plaster Student Union; Bear Park South Convenience Store, located in the Bear Park South shuttle waiting area; and Boomer’s Convenience Store, located on the first floor of Hammons House, offer a variety of convenience items like refreshments and snacks. BearHouse Entertainment, also located on the second floor of the Plaster Student Union, provides computer hardware, peripherals, and supplies, gaming systems and accessories, electronics, and a wide selection of current PC and console video games, CDs, and DVDs. Students have access to bestselling books and novels as well as works from local authors in PawPrints Union Bookstore, a comfortable and relaxed shop in the Plaster Student Union. • • Stock up on clothing and accessories for your fraternity or sorority at It’s a Greek Thing, located on the second floor of the Plaster Student Union. Located in the JQH Arena, the BearWear Team Store has everything you need to show your Bear pride including apparel, accessories for your home and office, as well as collectible memorabilia. The Bookstore also offers a textbook reservation program as an easy and convenient way for students to get the books and course materials they need. Visit www.missouristatebookstore.com/ TextRes.htm for more information or to help your student utilize this program. Missouri State University Bursar’s Office CopyThis Carrington Hall, First Floor Plaster Student Union 210 (417) 836-5128 www.missouristate.edu/bursar/ (417) 836-5808 www.missouristate.edu/ printing/copythis.htm Does student have fees that need to be paid? He or she can visit the Bursar’s Office, which serves as the University’s cashier. This office processes payments from students, faculty, staff, University departments, and businesses. It can also cash personal checks. Paying Students’ Accounts Online In order for parents and family members to access copies of their student’s account statements and make payments online, that student must first create a Parent PIN. Instructions for doing so can be found at www.missouristate.edu/ SOAR/cashnet.htm. www.universityparent.com/missouristate This one-stop shop provides students, faculty and staff a variety of copy, lamination, binding, and computer services—all at great savings. Dining Services Blair-Shannon House 114 (417) 836-5660 www.missouristate.edu/dining Dining Services offer on-campus students the option to select a 10-meal, 14-meal, 19-meal, or unlimited meal plan. The unlimited meal plan provides complete access to all dining center services anytime the dining centers are open. 29 Missouri state GUIDE Missouri state GUIDE • $150 of BoomerMeals can be purchased for $135 • $200 of BoomerMeals can be purchased for $180 for the benefit of the entire University community. It oversees activities related to class registration, produces the annual Undergraduate Catalog, and ensures the accuracy, integrity, and security of academic records. • $250 of BoomerMeals can be purchased for $220 Student Employment Services For example: Students use their BearPass Card to redeem meals in any dining facility; a computerized system keeps track of the number of meals used as well as the remaining balance. Commuting students may purchase a traditional meal plan to be used within the dining centers or Boomer Meals to be used at any dining location on campus. Contact Dining Services for more information regarding meal plan options. Tip for Parents and Families Blair-Shannon House 113 (417) 836-5627 www.missouristate.edu/studentemp Student Employment Services keeps an active file of permanent and temporary part-time jobs, from on campus and in the Springfield community. Currently enrolled students can access the job locator database by visiting the website above and signing in with their BearPass login and password. Trust your student. Your student will face many tough decisions on her own, maybe for the first time. Knowing that you fully trust and support her will help your student be confident in her ability to make the right decision. — University Staff Office of Student Financial Aid Carrington Hall 101 (417) 836-5262 www.missouristate.edu/financialaid The 10-meal, 14-meal, and 19-meal plans allow 10, 14, or 19 visits to the dining centers weekly. The week begins at breakfast on Monday and ends with the Sunday dinner meal. In addition to their meal plan, on-campus students also select a BoomerMeals option; these meals can be used in any dining location on campus. BoomerMeals operate similarly to a debit account, where the balance decreases as meals are redeemed. Dining Services provides bonus dollars for each BoomerMeals option, giving you even more value! 30 The Office of Student Financial Aid offers several types of financial assistance, including scholarships, grants, loans, and employment opportunities. Funding for these programs comes from institutional, federal, state, and private sources. Financial aid is made available to students who may not have sufficient financial resources to cover all college expenses. Specific information about financial aid programs for entering students can be found at the website above. Office of the Registrar Carrington Hall 320 (417) 836-5520 www.missouristate.edu/registrar The Office of the Registrar supports the University’s mission to develop educated individuals by interpreting, communicating, and enforcing academic policies and procedures Missouri State University www.universityparent.com/missouristate 31 Missouri state GUIDE Missouri state GUIDE Your Student’s Well-being: Health and Safety Resources University Staff Taylor Health and Wellness Center • Consultation services in gynecology, dietetics, orthopedics, internal medicine, general surgery, radiology, and psychiatric care • Diagnostic laboratory testing and radiological procedures and interpretations • Women’s health services • Wellness programming Morris Hall (417) 836-4000 www.health.missouristate.edu Taylor Health and Wellness Center and its staff of physicians, nurses, pharmacists, technicians, and support staff provide a variety of health services for students, including: • • 32 A primary clinic for diagnosis and treatment of illnesses and injuries A full-service pharmacy with both prescribed and over-the-counter medications Required student fees include a health fee, which provides them with unlimited prepaid basic office visits. Some services incur additional charges, including laboratory tests, consulting physician visits, X-rays, prescriptions, and other specified procedures. Missouri State University Counseling and Testing Center Carrington Hall 311 (417) 836-5116 www.counselingandtesting. missouristate.edu www.universityparent.com/missouristate The Counseling and Testing Center promotes students’ personal development and psychological wellbeing. Experienced professional counselors, psychologists, social workers, and graduate students assist clients in resolving conflicts which may interfere with their progress at the 33 Missouri state GUIDE University. The Center offers individual and group counseling sessions, educational programs, consultations and referrals, and emergency and crisis services; it also administers several national standardized tests. The Center’s counseling services are free and strictly confidential; no information—including whether an individual has received counseling— will be released without the informed written consent of the client, except in certain emergency situations. Missouri state GUIDE Safety and Transportation 636 E. Elm (417) 836-5509 www.missouristate.edu/safetran The Department of Safety and Transportation coordinates campus safety, parking, vehicle and bicycle registration, safe walk services, and the Missouri State Alert system. Students who operate a motor vehicle on campus are responsible for being informed about Missouri State’s parking and traffic regulations. A copy of the Missouri State University Parking and Traffic Regulations can be obtained at the website above. Parking in a disabled space in a University parking lot requires a state-issued disabled parking permit. Concerns regarding a disability permit should be directed to the Parking Administration Office. Safe Walk Services Students who do not feel safe walking from one campus location to another, during dark hours, can request a public safety officer to accompany them. To obtain this service, students should call (417) 836-5509 and state their name, location, and destination. An officer will then be dispatched by radio to that location. Encourage your student to add this number to their address book or contact list. SHARP (Self Defense & Rape Prevention) SHARP training teaches students how to protect themselves through prevention of attacks and learning techniques for escape. Valuable information about confrontation avoidance and selfdefense techniques are shared in two evening course sessions conducted by the Missouri State University’s Safety and Transportation Department. This FREE course is designed for women. Class dates and times can be found on the website above or through Campus Recreation. Springfield Police Campus Substation The Springfield Police Department maintains a substation on Missouri State University’s campus. Located at 636 E. Elm, this substation places the officers on campus, making them a part of, and readily available to, the University community. Commissioned Springfield police officers regularly patrol campus and partner with University faculty and staff to provide programs and information. 34 Missouri State University Bear Line Shuttle Service The University operates a free shuttle service for use by students, faculty, staff, and guests of Missouri State University. The shuttle makes numerous stops at locations convenient to University parking lots, residence halls, academic buildings, Meyer Library, Plaster Student Union, Hammons Student Center, and Morris Center. www.universityparent.com/missouristate “Commissioned Springfield police officers regularly patrol campus and partner with University faculty and staff to provide programs and information.” Tip for Parents and Families Expect change. College is a very diverse environment in which your student is being immersed. They will face many new challenges, and will learn things about themselves that they may want to change or keep the same. Remember that at their core, they are the same person they were when they went away for school. — University Staff 35 Missouri state GUIDE Missouri state GUIDE Missouri State Athletics University Staff Tickets: (417) 836-7678 www.missouristatebears.com Missouri State Athletics sponsors Division I teams in baseball, men’s and women’s basketball, women’s cross country, women’s field hockey, football, men’s and women’s golf, men’s and women’s soccer, softball, men’s and women’s swimming and diving, women’s track and field, and volleyball. More details about Missouri State Athletics, including schedules and ticket purchasing information, are available at the website above. FIGHT SONG ALMA MATER Uphold tradition our school we hold so dear We will be loyal throughout our college years Fight for victory as we stand up and cheer Let’s hear it for the Bears! B-E-A-R-S! Bears! M-I-S-S-O-U-R-I-State! Sing We Praises, Now to Our Alma Mater, All Hail Maroon and White, Missouri State, We Pledge Devotion, May You Live Ever in Truth and Light. May You Live Ever in Truth and Light. Residence Life, Housing and Dining Services University Staff Hammons House 104 (417) 836-5536 www.missouristate.edu/reslife Missouri State University provides students with housing facilities that reflect a strong commitment to education. Wellmaintained living accommodations and highly trained staff provide opportunities for your student to grow as an individual through the development of new friendships, exploration of new ideas, and involvement in new activities. University Housing Policy All single students under 21 years of age with fewer than 30 hours of transferrable credit earned after high school graduation are required to live in University housing. Students commuting from a legal guardian’s permanent address within 60 miles of Springfield may request, in writing, an exception to this policy. Student Housing Contracts Housing information and contracts are available upon request. All students may submit the housing contract and a $100 security deposit by mail or online upon admission. Housing contract terms span both fall and spring semesters (or the remaining portion of the year at the time of occupancy). Tip for Parents and Families Write often. Students check their mailboxes at least once a day. Nothing brightens up their day like receiving a letter or care package. — University Staff 36 Missouri State University www.universityparent.com/missouristate 37 RESOURCES RESOURCES Residence Hall Mailing Addresses Blair-Shannon House Sunvilla Tower 1001 E. Madison St. - Blair Room # OR Shannon Room # Springfield, MO 65807 833 E. Elm St. - Apt. # Springfield, MO 65806-2431 Monroe Apartments 1141 E. Bear Blvd. - Room # Springfield, MO 65807 Freudenberger (Freddy) House 1000 E. Madison St. - Room # Springfield, MO 65807 Scholars House 1116 E. Cherry St. - Room # Springfield, MO 65807 Hammons House 1001 E. Harrison St. – Room # Springfield, MO 65807 Hutchens House 1021 E. Harrison St. – Room# Springfield, MO 65807 Wells House 1132 E. Madison St. - Room # Springfield, MO 65807 Kentwood Hall 700 E. Saint Louis St. - Room # Springfield, MO 65806-2496 Woods House 1115 E. Bear Blvd. - Room # Springfield, MO 65807 RESIDENCE HALL PHONE NUMBERS 38 Important Dates Fall Semester 2014 August 15 August 18 August 22 September 1 October 8 October 9-10 October 14 November 26-30 December 4 December 5 December 6-11 December 12 Spring Semester 2015 January 12 January 16 January 19 February 16 March 6 March 9-15 March 16 April 2-5 May 7 May 8 May 9-14 May 15 Main Office (417) 836-5536 Blair-Shannon House (417) 836-5196 Freudenberger House (417) 836-5189 Hammons House (417) 836-4907 Summer Semester 2015 Hutchens House (417) 836-8484 Kentwood Hall (417) 836-4818 Monroe Apartments (417) 836-8228 Scholars House (417) 836-8787 Sunvilla Tower (417) 836-5410 Wells House (417) 836-5193 Woods House (417) 836-5338 June 8 June 9 July 2 July 4 July 6 July 9 July 29 July 30-31 July 31 Missouri State University Move-In Begins Fall 2014 Classes Begin Last day-Drop First Block Classes at 100% credit/refund Labor Day Holiday First Block Classes End Fall Break Second Block Classes Begin Thanksgiving Holiday Last Day of Classes Study Day-No Classes Final Exam Period Fall Commencement Spring 2015 Classes Begin Last day-Drop First Block Classes at 100% credit/refund Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday President’s Day Holiday First Block Classes End Spring Break Second Block Classes Begin Spring Holiday Last Day of Classes Study Day-No Classes Final Exam Period Spring Commencement Semester Session 1, 2, 3 Begin Last day-Drop Session 1, 2, 3, at 100% credit/refund Session 3 Classes End/Final Exams Independence Day-No Classes Session 4 Classes Begin Session 2 Classes End/Final Exams Last Day of Sessions 1 & 4 Final Exam Period for Sessions 1 & 4 Summer Commencement www.universityparent.com/missouristate 39 RESOURCES RESOURCES Recommended Reading for Parents/Families Books The following publications are available for purchase through most major retailers. You're On Your Own (But I'm Here If You Need Me): Mentoring Your Child During the College Years by Marjorie Savage (Touchstone, ISBN: 1416596070) Letting Go: A Parent’s Guide to Understanding the College Years (5th ed.) by Karen Levin Coburn and Madge Lawrence Treeger (Harper Perennial, ISBN: 0061665738) I'll Miss You Too: An Off-to-College Guide for Parents and Students by Margo E. Bane Woodacre and Steffany Bane (Sourcebooks, ISBN: 1402206410) I Wish My Family Had Known . . . Missouri State Students • That just because I went to college doesn’t mean I am any less a part of my family. • They raised a strong and confident young man/woman that is capable of a lot more than they realize. • How accepted I would be here and how many new friends I would make. The Naked Roommate: For Parents Only (2nd ed.) by Harlan Cohen (Sourcebooks, ISBN: 1402267568) • How welcome they would be to visit me anytime they want. • How much I would miss them. Dollars & Sense for College Students: How Not to Run Out of Money by Midterms by Ellen Braitman (Princeton Review, ISBN: 0375752064) • That I wasn’t going to get a 4.0 like I did in high school. • That packages, mail, and visitors are my favorite things. • How busy college can be at times. • The stereotypes on TV are not true. Don’t Tell Me What to Do, Just Send Money (2nd ed.) by Helen E. Johnson and Christine Schelhas-Miller (Golden Guides; Second Edition, ISBN: 0312573642) Financial Aid for the Utterly Confused by Anthony Bellia (McGraw-Hill, ISBN: 0071467319) Booklets The following resources are published by the National Resource Center for the First-Year Experience and Students in Transition and are available for purchase at www.nrcpubs.com. “Empowering Parents of First-Year College Students: A Guide for Success” “A Family Guide to Academic Advising” (2nd ed.) “A Guide for Families of Commuter Students: Supporting Your Student's Success” 40 Missouri State University www.universityparent.com/missouristate 41 RESOURCES RESOURCES Deferred Payment The option to charge goods and services provided by University businesses and vendors (such as the Bookstore, Taylor Health and Wellness Center, etc.) to a student’s account. This option gives students the convenience of paying for items on the same bill as their student fees. Your Missouri State Glossary Hold University Staff A block which prohibits students from functions such as registering for courses or receiving a transcript or diploma. Hall Director Full-time staff members who manage the daily operations of the residence halls. Access Card Cards issued to residence hall students which serve as electronic keys, granting them access to their specific residence hall (and in some cases, their specific floor or wing.) BearPass Card Student photo identification cards. They are used to confirm a student’s identity, redeem meals from their meal plan, defer books or other goods to the student’s University account, and check out books from the library. BearPass Cards also have a debit function which allows students to use money from a prepaid balance. BearPass Login The user name that students use to log on to campus computers and e-mail accounts. BearPass Number Missouri State’s student identification number. This number is needed for class registration, financial aid needs and any other business conducted with the University. It is important that students remember this number. Blackboard The Blackboard Learning System™ is an online tool to support teaching and learning at Missouri State University. Blackboard is frequently used by those taking online courses or as supplement to traditional seated courses. Block Courses Courses that meet for one half of a semester. Two sessions of block courses are offered per semester. Carillon A collection of 48 bronze bells located in a 140 foot tower attached to the Meyer Library. These bells can be heard through campus, usually at the top of each hour. Curricular Learning Communities (CLC) Two or more linked classes which the same group of students attend. These linked courses often share a common subject; the faculty for these courses coordinate lessons and assignments to this subject. Incoming freshmen students are encouraged to enroll and participate in these courses. 42 Missouri State University www.universityparent.com/missouristate 43 RESOURCES RESOURCES Prerequisite Specific requirements that must be completed prior to enrolling in a given class, program, or field of study. Prerequisites often apply to the completion of other courses. Provost The chief academic officer of the University. The Provost is responsible for providing primary administrative leadership, direction, and evaluation for all academic activities and faculty affairs of the University. Recruitment The term used to describe the mutual selection process for joining a fraternity or sorority. Resident Assistant (RA) Trained student leaders who live on each residence hall’s floor or wing to assist students with issues, build floor community, enforce policies, and maintain a safe atmosphere. Residence Hall Association (RHA) Student organization which serves as the voice of students in the residence halls. The RHA General Assembly is comprised of student leaders from each residence hall. Service-Learning A type of experiential education that combines and pursues both academic achievement and community service in a seamless weave, requiring the use of effective reflection exercises. JQH Arena The arena in which Missouri State Bears and Lady Bears play basketball and concerts and other community events are often held here. Named for its benefactor, John Q. Hammons. Student Government Association (SGA) The student e-mail system on campus. A governing group comprised of students which represent and serve as the voice of Missouri State’s student body. SGA’s resolutions inform and guide policy decisions made by Missouri State’s administrators. Meal Plan Suitemates Office 365 Account An amenity provided by Dining Services which allows students to dine in campus dining centers. Students can choose plans which offer 10, 14, 19, or unlimited number of meals per week. My Missouri State Some residence halls on campus offer suite-style rooms where 4-6 people share a suite with multiple bedrooms. The students who live in the same bedroom are considered roommates, while the students who stay in the other bedroom(s) would be considered suitemates. The University’s online student information and record portal which can be accessed through my.missouristate.edu. Students use it to access information and conduct University business. It is only accessible by Missouri State students, faculty, and staff. New Student Convocation The official ceremony designed to welcome new students to the University. It is held the Sunday afternoon before classes begin. Plus/Minus Grading Grading system approved in 2008 that gives instructors the option of grading their classes on a plus/minus scale (A, A-,B+,B,B-,C+,C,C-,D+,D,F). 44 Missouri State University www.universityparent.com/missouristate 45 RESOURCES Missouri State Area Resources For more area resources: www.universityparent.com/missouristate Peer Assisted Study Sessions (PASS) A series of voluntary review sessions for students taking historically difficult courses. PASS leaders (trained students who have been successful in these courses) guide these sessions and help students compare notes, discuss important concepts, develop strategies for studying the subject, and test their knowledge. Places to Stay Best Western Route 66 Rail Haven Syllabus A document provided by a course instructor that outlines the instructor’s contact information, required material, information about what the course will cover, attendance policy, available points, grading procedures, and important dates and deadlines for tests, papers, and projects. 203 S. Glenstone Ave. Springfield, MO 65802 (417) 866-1963 www.bwrailhaven.com Please see ad on back cover. DoubleTree by Hilton Springfield 2431 N. Glenstone Ave. Springfield, MO 65803 (417) 831-3131 doubletree.hilton.com Please see ad on p. 43. The Pride Missouri State’s 300 member marching band. Drury Inn & Suites ‚ Springfield 2715 N. Glenstone Ave. Springfield, MO 65803 (800) 378-7946 www.druryhotels.com Please see ad on p. 23. Motel 6 Springfield North Ramada Plaza Hotel & Oasis Convention Center 2546 N. Glenstone Springfield, MO 65803 (417) 866-5253 www.ramadaoasis.com Please see ad on p. 41. 2655 N. Glenstone Ave. Springfield, MO 65803 (417) 831-2100 www.motel6.com Please see ad on p. 31. The Standard The official student-run newspaper of Missouri State University. Places to Live Undergraduate Catalog Contains information about every college, department, major, and course located within the University. It also offers general information about the university, and its policies, programs, offices, and services. Town & Campus Apartments 2010 E. Page St. Springfield, MO 65802 (417) 566-3449 www.townandcampusapts.com Please see ad on p. 17. Withdrawal Dropping all courses at Missouri State University. To withdraw, students must submit a written request to the Office of the Registrar, Carrington Hall 302. XF Letter grade assigned to students who commit academic dishonesty or cheating. Additional Services Career Center Carrington Hall 309 Glass Hall 103 901 S. National Ave. Springfield, MO 65897 (417) 836-5636 careercenter.missouristate.edu Please see ad on p. 13. CoxHealth‚ The Clinic at Walmart 2021 E. Independence St. Springfield, MO 65804 (417) 885-1445 www.coxhealth.com Please see ad on p. 19. Penske Truck Rental 5117 S. Campbell Springfield, MO 65810 (417) 890-0777 www.PenskeU.com Please see ad on p. 33. Trinity Lutheran Church 1415 S. Holland Springfield, MO 65807 (417) 866-5878 www.trinitylutheranspfd.org Please see ad on p. 45. UniversityParent E-News www.UniversityParent.com Please see ad on p. 29. View the For advertising inquiries, please contact UniversityParent at (855) 947-4296 or email: ads@universityparent.com 46 Missouri State University Parent Handbook Online www.universityparent.com/missouristate