INTO USF Graduate Pathway Program A Welcome Guide for New Students
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IMPORTANT REMINDER As announced by the White House on September 20, 2021 and going into effect in early November 2021, all adult foreign nationals traveling to the United States by air must demonstrate proof of full vaccination against COVID-19. There has been no change to this mandate at this point-in-time. Adult foreign nationals will be required to be fully vaccinated and show proof of vaccination prior to boarding a U.S.-bound international flight.
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WELCOME TO INTO USF!
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THE GRADUATE PATHWAY PROGRAM
Welcome to Pathway!
We are thrilled to be working with you on your journey to getting a degree at USF. We enjoy helping students learn and watching them meet their goals in classes and their new community. We are glad that we get the opportunity to support your goals and answer questions that you may have about resources at INTO, the campus, and surrounding area! Our advice to Pathway students is to know and use these resources. There are many people and services available to help you succeed, so don’t be afraid to ask for help! GO BULLS!
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Brenae Hillard Academic Advisor
Joe-Barry Gardner Academic Advisor
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TABLE OF CONTENTS Required First Steps
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Important Dates
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Path to Progression
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Orientation
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Academic Advising
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INTO Faces
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INTO Contacts
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Purchasing Textbooks
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Self Care
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Adjusting to a New Culture
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Graduate School Expectations
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Recommended Reading List
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Student Organizations
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Academic Integrity
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USF Policies
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Optional Practical Training
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Glossary of Terms
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REQUIRED FIRST STEPS... A STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE Step 1: Click here to select your program, see the Progression requirements for your program, and sign the Progression Agreement form. Step 2: Click here to see more information about the required documents you will need to submit when you start your program. Step 3: Send your records to INTOImmunization@usf.edu as soon as possible. Submit immunizations so that your pathway advisor can register you for courses. For more information about classes, Click here. Step 4: Click here to familiarize yourself with technology you will need to use for your Pathway program, including creating a USF email, activating your NetID, Canvas, Microsoft Teams, etc. Step 5: Remember to check your USF student email frequently for any communication about schedules, class options, and changes. Click here to log in to your USF email.
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IMPORTANT DATES INTO Pathway Orientation begin
May 10th, 2022
First Day of Classes
May 16th, 2022
Summer A & C Classes begin
May 16th, 2022
Memorial Day Holiday - No Classes
May 30th, 2022
Independence Day Holiday - No Classes Summer B Classes begin
June 27th, 2022
Last Day of Summer Classes
August 5th, 2022
Progression Decision Timeline for Progressing Students
August 11th, 2022
July 4th, 2022
ATTENTION! • Changing your major is NOT possible once Orientation begins. If you are interested in changing your program, please email INTOAdmissions@usf.edu as soon as possible.
• Changing from an Accelerated Pathway to a Standard Pathway is possible until the end of the first week of classes. If you want to make the change now, please email your request to INTOAdmissions@usf.edu as soon as possible.
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ORIENTATION WHAT TO EXPECT All new students beginning the Pathway Program are required to attend INTO USF Orientation. The goal of Orientation is to familiarize you with the resources available to assist you with your academic, immigration, and personal needs. You will receive more information about orientation close to the beginning of the semester. During the “Meet Your Academic Advisor” session, students will:
• Meet their Academic Advisors and learn about how they can assist students in meeting academic goals.
• Learn more about progression requirements, graduate school expectations, and culture shock.
• Learn about the technology used in the Pathway Program and have time to answer any questions you may have. It is very important that you attend the “Meet Your Academic Advisor” session presented by your assigned Pathway Advisor and ALL other orientation sessions so that you receive information specific to your program.
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ACADEMIC ADVISING THE PATHWAY ADVISOR’S ROLE The Graduate Pathway Advisor’s role is to help students successfully progress to USF and ensure that students enjoy a fulfilling experience during their time in the program. It is therefore important that you meet with your Pathway Advisor regularly throughout the semester. The advisor-student relationship is a team effort in which both parties hold important responsibilities: The role of the Pathway Advisor is to inform students of INTO USF and University-related policies and procedures, help students understand program progression requirements, and promote self-sufficiency in students as they prepare for progression. Likewise, the role of the student is to inform his or her Pathway Advisor of any challenges or concerns and to actively participate in the educational experience.
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Your Pathway Advisor is here to assist you with any concerns you may encounter throughout your time in the Pathway Program. It is important that students keep their Pathway Advisors informed and are strongly encouraged to contact them in the event that: • You are ill and are not able to attend classes for an extended period of time.
• You have a family emergency that requires you to travel during the semester. • You experience difficulty in your coursework. • You experience difficulty with technology for class. • You experience any other type of issue and are not sure what to do. Pathway Advisors value the success of their students, so be sure to share your accomplishments with your Advisor along the way!
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INTO FACES PEOPLE YOU SHOULD KNOW
Jenny Schultz Associate Director Academic & Learning Support
Karolina Goldberg Assistant Director Academic & Learning Support
Andrei Danila Coordinator of Learning & Testing
Janna Eveland Associate Director Student Services
Donna Rock Coordinator for Learning & Management
Brian Goercke Wellness & Welfare Specialist
Hong Wu Fiscal and Business Assistant
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INTO CONTACTS International Services
Email: internationalservices@usf.edu
Topics: I-20s, Social Security cards, anything immigration-related.
INTO Finance
Email: INTOFinance@usf.edu
Topics: Payments, payment plans, etc.
INTO Admissions
Email: INTOAdmissions@usf.edu
Topics: Change of program, deferrals, and cancellations.
INTO Activities/Events/Trips
Email: Into-studentengagement@usf.edu
Topics: INTO and USF activities and trips.
INTO Transcript Evaluations
Email: INTOTranscriptEvaluations@usf.edu
Topics: Questions about official/unofficial academic transcripts, transcript evaluations, diplomas, etc.
INTO Health Insurance
Email: INTOInsurance@usf.edu
Topics: INTO Health insurance, health services, insurance holds.
INTO Housing
Email: INTOHousing@usf.edu
Topics: Questions about on campus and off campus housing.
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PURCHASING TEXTBOOKS TEXTBOOK LOCATION INFORMATION It is recommended that students begin familiarizing themselves with the content of the textbooks in their courses. You will need your course registration information or your NetID to locate your textbooks. Follow the steps on this guide to check your course registration in OASIS. Follow these steps to locate and purchase your textbooks through the USF Bookstore: Step 1: Visit https://www.bkstr.com/usftampastore/home Step 2: Enter the necessary information to look up your required textbooks. For example, you can enter your 8-digit Student ID (EX: U12345678) or use your course schedule to locate the textbook for your course. Using schedule in the table below as an example, you would select “EEL” as the Department, “5250” as the Course, and “1” as the Section from the provided drop-down menus. COURSE SUBJECT
SECTION
DELIVERY
TITLE
EEL 5250
1
Class Lecture
Power System Analysis
ATTENTION! Course registration is subject to change up until the first week of classes. Be aware before purchasing textbooks!
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SELF CARE EMOTIONAL, INTELLECTUAL, PHYSICAL, & SOCIAL WELLNESS You are about to experience an exciting but stressful time as you begin your graduate studies. Here is a link to the Current Student Toolkit where you can find quick-links to helpful resources on and off campus. Click here for additional resources compiled by your academic advisors. You can also go to the USF Health and Wellness website for information on recreation and other wellness services that you will have access to as a USF student. The USF Wellness Center offers in person and virtual services and resources to help students develop a healthy lifestyle. As campus locations reopen, visit the Wellness Center and experience the amenities provided to help you relax and rejuvenate. For example, you can sit back and relax while you enjoy a
free massage in one of the hightech Brookstone massage chairs.
Questions about self care and want to demystify mental health? Click the play button for a short video!
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ADJUSTING TO A NEW CULTURE COPING WITH CULTURE SHOCK Culture Shock can result in feelings of isolation, confusion, and distress following the move to a new country or entering a new education system. Students can start to feel Culture Shock during their first semester. Culture Shock can cause students to:
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lose motivation to study
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disconnect from friends
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stop completing homework
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stop attending class
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feel very tired in class
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earn failing grades
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lose interest in academics
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wish to return home
The more you are aware of the impact that Culture Shock can have on you, the easier it will be for you to adjust to a new culture. Read the infographic on the next page to learn about the different stages of Culture Shock.
THE STAGES OF CULTURE SHOCK
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WHAT TO EXPECT HONEYMOON: Eve ryt hi ng i s w o n d e rful, n ew, an d excit i ng! DISTRESS: Yo u not i ce all t he n egat ives o f t he n ew cult ure . Yo u ma y feel ex t reme h omesi ckn es s, l o n el i n es s, an d ADJUSTMENT: Thi ngs are impr ov i ng; yo u are adjust i ng t o t he n ew cult ure . ACCEPTANCE: Yo u have ac ce pt ed t he po sit ives an d n egat ives o f t he n ew cult ure an d are a ble t o nav igat e t he n ew
THE PATHWAY TEAM IS HERE TO HELP
Yo u are not al o n e! Yo ur Adv i s o r can help yo u c op e wit h Cult ure Sh ock, sh ow yo u h ow t o balance yo ur acad em i c an d p e rs o nal l ife, an d di rect yo u t o helpful res o urces o n campus!
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GRADUATE SCHOOL EXPECTATIONS OF GRADUATE STUDENTS Graduate students are expected to be familiar with the appropriate behaviors, communication etiquette, and academic expectations observed at the University of South Florida.
• Professors will expect you to meet with them or ask questions if you don’t understand something in your course. You can ask general questions in class or meet with professors during office hours or email them with questions that are specific to you.
• Read the syllabus carefully and follow instructions exactly as written. Consult the syllabus before asking the professor questions about an assignment. The answer may be in the syllabus.
• Be respectful toward your professors. “Yes” means yes and “No” means no. Avoid arguing or complaining about the professor’s expectations or course requirements to the professor. If you have questions or concerns, come meet with your Pathway Advisor to develop a plan to professionally discuss your frustrations with your professors.
• Meet social responsibility requirements by
following the guidelines set by the university. You can find more information about USF’s Coronavirus response here.
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5 Tips for Success in Graduate School MANAGE YOUR TIME
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Use an online calendar to access information on your appointments and assignment due dates on the go.
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TAKE RESPONSIBILITY If you need help, it is up to you to ask for it and to use the resources provided.
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PERSEVERE Understand that setbacks are a natural part of graduate school. Be persistent. Each day is an opportunity to start fresh.
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CELEBRATE Take the time to acknowledge your accomplishments and reward yourself for your successes.
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TAKE BREAKS Make time in your schedule to relax and have fun with friends and family. Icons Designed by Freepik and distributed by Flaticon http://www.flaticon.com/ Icons Designed by Freepik and distributed by Flaticon http://www.flaticon.com/
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RECOMMENDED READING LIST For more information about American culture and graduate school expectations in the US, read some of the articles and books below.
American Culture Understanding American Culture: Tips for Acclimating to US Daily Life Topics in this article include demeanor, personal space, having good relationships with Americans, greetings, and much more!
American Ways: An Introduction to American Culture (4th Edition) Readers will learn to enhance their critical thinking, reading, and writing skills, while learning about American Culture. (You will need to purchase this book or find it online.)
Graduate School Expectations Communication Strategies for International Graduate Students: Surviving and Thriving in American Academia This manual gives information about American Culture, Educational Assumptions, Improving English Skills, and much more! Getting Ahead as an International Student This book explains how you will be expected to learn and study while in the U.S., how you can develop your skills to excel as an independent learner, and why universities use different methods of teaching.
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STUDENT INVOLVEMENT In-Person Involvement Student organizations are a great way for new students to get involved on campus. With over 100 student organizations, from academic and professional organizations to special interest groups and multicultural student organizations, there is something for everyone! To find out more about USF’s student organizations as well as campus events and service opportunities, you can visit BullSync in “Student Organizations” on MyUSF or click here.
Virtual Involvement USF World welcomes all USF students to join the World Library on Microsoft Teams! This is the perfect place to go if you are looking for a place to study, get work done, and be productive. It is organized by topics or “floors” for you to visit and interact with others asynchronously. For some more virtual fun: From #INTuesdays, to Coffee Talks, to Virtual Game & Movie Nights, there is always something happening with INTO USF Student Services on Discord! There are events every week -- don't miss out on any of the fun!
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ACADEMIC INTEGRITY HOW TO AVOID PLAGIARISM
PLAGIARISM
Plagiarism includes:
Plagiarism is the practice of taking someone else’s work or ideas and passing them off as your own work. Schools in the United States do not tolerate academic dishonesty and will impose serious consequences on students who plagiarize in their work. Students with online classes will also be strictly held to this standard.
• Copying phrases, sentences, or paragraphs directly from a source without referencing where you found the information. • Copying another student’s homework. • Having another student write a paper for you. • Reusing a paper that you submitted in another class.
This video will help you understand different types of Plagiarism.
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Watch this video tutorial on USF’s Academic Integrity, then take the quiz!
Consequences for plagiarizing may include: • Receiving a “0” or “F” grade on the plagiarized assignment. • Receiving an “F” grade in the class. • Receiving an “FF” on academic transcript, which will signify plagiarism to any other school the student applies to. • Suspension or expulsion from USF, which could result in the loss of student visa. Don’t worry! Help is available! • INTO USF Learning Resource Services offers workshops and tools • Click here for guides on avoiding plagiarism • Click here for USF’s Academic Integrity Policy
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USF POLICY HIGHLIGHTS • NO SMOKING POLICY: USF is proudly a tobacco-free campus. Smoking and use of tobacco products are not allowed in any outdoor or indoor area, including parking garages, sidewalks or recreational areas on campus. The Tobacco and Smoke Free Policy applies to anyone on USF property (students, faculty, staff, visitors, etc.). If you need help quitting, click here.
• ACADEMIC POLICIES: Learn more about the academic policies that can impact your student experience and academic record.
• SEXUAL MISCONDUCT/SEXUAL HARASSMENT: Sexual harassment, including sexual violence, is prohibited within the USF System. This policy provides in-depth information on this topic including the reporting process and investigation under Title IX.
• COVID-19 SAFETY MEASURES: USF continues to closely monitor the evolving coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. USF students, faculty and staff on campus will be required to follow a number of safety guidelines, including wearing masks, to help reduce the spread of COVID-19.
Student Code of Conduct: Here Tobacco Boundaries Map: Here OMBUDS Office: Here Victim’s Advocacy: Here
Respect the Rules. Respect Others. Live with Honor.
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OPTIONAL PRACTICAL TRAINING ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS Optional Practical Training (OPT) is offered through the USF Office of International Services. This program is designed for international students who are interested in completing an internship related to their field of study and will need to obtain a work visa. Students who complete the Pathway Program and progress to the University will be eligible for OPT after completing one academic year (two semesters) at USF. Please be advised that semesters completed during Pathway do not count towards OPT eligibility. Click here for additional information on OPT eligibility.
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GLOSSARY OF TERMS Accelerated Pathway Program: one-semester program in which students take courses in their chosen department and must successfully complete all progression requirements by the end of their first semester in order to be admitted to USF. Add/Drop week: the first week of classes when schedules can be adjusted without penalty. Students in the Pathway Program must meet with their advisor to request schedule changes. Core Course: a course required for the completion of a degree. Department: a division of a university devoted to a particular academic discipline. Electives: courses students can take for credit toward their degree, but are not part of the required course list. Grades: a score or mark (A, B, C, D, F) indicating a student’s academic performance on an assessment, paper, or in a course. See USF’s grading system for more information. GPA (Grade point average): a student's overall academic performance. A GPA is a conversion of the letter grade to a 4.0 grading score and averaged by the total credits taken. Pass/Fail: a grading system that results in either a pass or a fail grade, rather than a specific score or letter grade. At USF, this system results in an S (Satisfactory) or U (Unsatisfactory). If you are in the Standard Pathway Program, your English course is a pass/fail course.
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Prerequisite: a required course that must be completed before a student is allowed to enroll in a more advanced one. Progression: successful completion of the Pathway Program and admission to USF. Progression Requirements: the requirements that students in the Pathway Program must meet in order to be fully admitted to USF. See your Progression Agreement to determine the requirements for your program. Standard Pathway Program: two-semester program in which students take courses in their chosen department as well as English for Academic Purposes courses. Students must successfully complete all progression requirements by the end of their second semester in order to be admitted to USF. Supplemental Documents: documents such as resume, letters of recommendation, and statement of purpose which must be submitted to meet progression requirements. See your Progression Agreement to determine which documents (if any) need to be submitted. Transcript: a certified copy of a student’s educational record containing titles of courses, the number of credits, and the final grades in each course. Waiver: the act of choosing not to require something that is usually required. Students in the Standard Pathway Program receive a TOEFL waiver upon successful completion of English courses. Withdraw: to formally stop participating in a course or attending a university. Students in the Pathway Program may not withdraw from a course. Withdrawal from the Pathway Program requires a meeting with your Academic Advisor, Immigration Advisor, and the INTO Finance Office.
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Credit: University of South Florida
SEE YOU AT ORIENTATION! May 10th, 2022
