Bear Facts 2012 by WashU Student Transitions & Family Programs

BearFacts 2012

First Year Center Campus Box 1136 One Brookings Drive St. Louis, MO 63130-4899

NONPROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE PAID ST. LOUIS, MO PERMIT NO. 1256

BEARFACTS BearFacts A guide for students by students

Connecting People, Programs, and Resources

move-in Day 2012 thursDay august 23

BearFacts A guide to the first year for students by students

Bear Facts is the guide issued to all new students arriving at Washington University in St. Louis this fall. Provided to you by the First Year Center, this guide was designed and written by students you’ll meet very soon as a means to help prepare you for your arrival in August. Authored and Edited First Year Center students & staff

Design Anthony Popeo ‘12

Photography WU Photographic Services Matt Mitgang ‘12

Table of Contents

Introduction

Before Day 1

Learning On Campus

Living On Campus

Getting Involved

St. Louis

101

Index

107

Welcome from the First Year Center

Connecting People, Programs, and Resources

For many of you, the hardest decision about attending college wasn’t whether to go, but where to go. After all of your college visits — online, in person, or a combination of the two — you decided that Washington University is the place for you. We welcome you to this community and look forward to the contributions you will make over the next four years. Lots of mail, both snail and electronic, will be in your “in-box” before you arrive on campus in August. You’ll receive mail from the school to which you’ve been admitted, informing you of their expectations and academic requirements. You’ll receive information from Residential Life about your housing assignment and roommate(s). And, depending on the interests you marked on your application, you’ll receive mail from student groups inviting your participation. Each of these mailings is important for your successful transition to Washington University. This guide provides a comprehensive look at what you need to be thinking about to prepare for your arrival. It should be helpful in answering your questions — both the ones you have and the ones you haven’t yet considered.

college life. Take the time to get to know them. They are participating in the orientation programs because they want to welcome you and help you get settled.

Although some of the information in this guide was provided by your school and Residential Life, most of it was written by current students. The First Year Center Executive Board is a group of undergraduate students, each responsible for a particular aspect of your first-year experience. They wrote pieces to introduce you to the nuances of being a Washington University student. They’re living it, and thus, are best suited to write about it.

Warmest wishes to you as you begin your journey here at Washington University!

Regardless of the information you’ll receive over the summer, or the number of times you visited before or after you were admitted, we guarantee there will be some butterflies in your stomach when you arrive to campus in August. We hope you’ll find comfort, however, in knowing that you’ll be greeted by many people intent on making you and your family feel welcome on campus and part of the Washington University community. Bear Beginnings: New Student Fall Orientation, in August, is your chance to get to know the others in your Class as well as to connect with returning students. Teams of Washington University Student Associates (WUSAs), upperclass students who serve as orientation leaders and academic peer mentors, work with the Residential Life staff to provide information and assist you in getting settled and ready for the first day of classes; they will continue to guide you through your first year. In addition to these student leaders, you’ll meet faculty, staff, and administrators who are ready and willing to help you make the adjustment to

BEARFACTS 2012

This guide, various summer opportunities, and Bear Beginnings have been developed to help you feel at home here. Even if we share every piece of information with you ahead of time, your participation is what will make Washington University feel like your University. We encourage you to ask as many questions as you can. Say “hello” to the people you pass in the hall of your residence house and the ones you sit next to during orientation events or the first weeks of class. You’ll be surprised how many people will return your hello with their own. Often, that’s all that is needed to start a meaningful conversation that just may lead to an even more meaningful friendship. When you arrive to campus, please visit us in the Women’s Building – we’re here to assist you have the most welcoming and successful first year possible.

The First Year Center staff Sharon Stahl Vice Chancellor for Students Danielle Bristow Director, First Year Programs Katharine Pei Assistant Director, First Year Programs Kirsten Smith Administrative Coordinator, First Year Center Terri Brennan Department Secretary

Welcome from the First Year Center Executive Board As the 2012 First Year Center Executive Board, we would like to welcome you to Washington University! The First Year Center Executive Board, a group of upperclass students who plan and support events and initiatives for first-year students, is dedicated to helping you make a smooth transition to college life. We are proud to bring you Bear Facts: An Arrival Guide for Students, by Students. This publication will provide you with information about pre-orientation programs, what to do before arriving on campus in August, what to expect once you get here, the logistics of Bear Beginnings: New Student Fall Orientation, placement exams, living and learning at Washington University, and much, much more. We hope that after reading Bear Facts, you will be better prepared for your arrival. For the next four years, Washington University will be your home away from home. You will meet new people, experience what it is like to live on your own, and find your place in the WU community. The most important step in this great journey is to join us in August for Bear Beginnings, where you’ll get to know the campus and the people around you.

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10.

10 TIPS FOR THE CLASS OF 2016

If you need help, ASK Build a relationship with your advisor Don’t be afraid to try new things Get involved with something you’re passionate about Make an effort to know your professors Go to class Explore the city of St. Louis Take a class unrelated to your major Attend Wash U events (sports, guest speakers, concerts…) Have FUN!

We hope you are as excited about Bear Beginnings 2012 as we are, and that you will make the most of your time here. We are here for you, so if there is anything we can do to better your experience or answer questions you may have, please do not hesitate to ask us. For contact information and complete Bear Beginnings details, visit our website at firstyear.wustl.edu or email us at firstyearcenter@wustl.edu. Good luck and we’ll see you in August! Munira Boxwalla, ‘13 Sam Cornblath, ‘14 Reggie Gacad, ‘14 Jordan Gamble, ‘14 Becky Greenberg, ‘14 Ilana Greenberg, ‘13 Anna Hilke, ‘13 Sean Janda, ‘14 Varun Mehrotra, ‘14 Tyler Perez, ‘14 Divya Verma, ‘14 Jordan Zipkin, ‘13

Chicago, IL Baltimore, MD Cleveland, OH Chicago, IL Chicago, IL Morristown, NJ St. Paul, MN Philadelphia, PA St. Louis, MO Manassas, MD Forsyth, IL Montreal, QC

firstyear.wustl.edu

ACTION ITEMS Here’s a master list of everything you’ll want to do before you arrive on campus in August (and even some things you should do once you get here). We’ve tried to be comprehensive, but keep in mind some items may be missing. →→ Sign up to attend a pre-orientation program →→ Consider attending a summer program →→ Take any necessary online placement exam →→ Confirm your AP, IB, and transfer credits were sent to the University →→ Send a picture to the University Registrar for your WUSTL ID →→ Invite your parents to view your eBilling Statement →→ Activate your WUSTL Key and University email accounts →→ Complete the online alcohol education module →→ Check out all the First Year Center programs and events at firstyear.wustl.edu →→ Follow the First Year Center on Facebook and Twitter →→ Familiarize yourself with how to register for classes in your school →→ Explore the academic support services available →→ Complete your health forms and submit them to Student Health Services (SHS) →→ Transfer your prescriptions to the WU Pharmacy →→ Check for your housing assignment on WebSTAC in July →→ Contact your roommate to decide who’s bringing what →→ Notify Dining Services if you have special dietary concerns →→ Sign up for Home Plate →→ Consider shipping your belongings to campus or purchasing some of your school supplies once you arrive in St. Louis →→ Establish a budget →→ Share your student account billing statement with your parents or family members →→ Add money to your Bear Bucks account →→ Add the Washington University Police Department phone number to the contacts in your phone: 314.935.5555 →→ Add First 40 events to your calendar →→ Download the WUSTL map app →→ Consider registering to vote in Missouri or research how to absentee vote in your home state →→ Check out all the ways to get involved on campus →→ Sign up for a U-Pass →→ Register for WeCar →→ Make a bucket list of all the exciting things you want to do in St. Louis over the next four years →→ Contact the First Year Center with any remaining questions at firstyearcenter@wustl.edu or 314.935.5040 →→ Get excited for an amazing college experience!

BEARFACTS 2012

IMPORTANT DATES Summer 2012 June 16 - 21

Freshman Summer Academic Program

June 21 - 23

ArtSci Summer Weekend 1

June 28 - 30

ArtSci Summer Weekend 2 and TRANSFERmations

July 12 -14

ArtSci Summer Weekend 3 and Engineering Summer Weekend

July 19 – 21

ArtSci Summer Weekend 4

Fall 2012 August 16

International Student Explore Program Begins

August 16

Wilderness Project Pre-Orientation Program Begins

August 19 - 22

Pre-Orientation Programs

August 20

Fall Tuition and Fees Due

August 23

Move-in Day; Bear Beginnings

August 23 - 25

Parent & Family Orientation

August 28

First Day of Classes

September 3

Labor Day (no classes)

October 19

Fall Break (no classes)

October 26 - 28

Parent & Family Weekend

November 21 - 27

Thanksgiving Break (no classes)

December 13 - 19

Final Exams

Spring 2013 January 14

First Day of Classes

January 21

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

March 10 - 16

Spring Break

May 2 - 8

Final Exams

May 17

152nd Commencement

PACKING LIST You don’t need to pack your whole room to come to college, but you will want to make sure that you have some odds and ends covered. This list isn’t inclusive, but there are some things we couldn’t live without once we got here.

You Should Bring: ›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ››

Alarm clock This is the only tape you Backpack can use to adhere anything Blue painter’s tape to your wall! Calendar Calling card or cell phone and charger Checkbook/credit card Cleaning supplies Clothes and shoes that can get dirty (for Service First and other projects you may get involved in) Comforter, blankets, and pillows Desk lamp Dry erase board and markers Envelopes and stamps First aid kit Flashlight Hammer and tools Hangers, shoe rack, and plastic hooks Health insurance information Heavy winter coat ID/Driver’s license Iron/Ironing board Laundry bag and detergent Power strips and extension cords Prescription medication(s) School supplies Shampoo and body wash Sheets (twin, extra long) Shower shoes and shower caddy Small fan Towels (MORE THAN 1!) Trashcan Umbrella

You May Also Consider: ›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ››

Air freshner Bed raisers Bike and bike lock Board games Closet organizers Computer or laptop Printer (and paper!) Cooking utensils Cups, plates, and utensils Decorations for your room Desk chair cushion Desk organizer Camera Ethernet cord Extra shelving units, crates, plastic containers, filing cabinet

›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ››

Iron/Iron board Kleenex Microwave Plastic drawers Portable vacuum Small refrigerator (no larger than 4 cubic feet) Sponge and dish soap Stereo Suit and/or semi-formal attire for special events you may attend ›› Television (and DVDs and videos) ›› Under-bed storage bins

Make Sure To Avoid: ›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ››

Air-conditioning units Candles Electric appliances with exposed coils Gas grills or charcoal grills Guns/weapons Halogen lamps Hot plates Incense Pets (other than fish) Toaster Water beds

Tips: ›› Talk with your roommate(s) prior to packing so you can avoid bringing duplicate items ›› Save the boxes you bring your stuff in for when you have to pack up again in May ›› Memorize your room number and Campus Box number right away ›› You can do a lot of shopping after you arrive and have seen your room ›› Order items ahead of time from the Bed, Bath & Beyond in your hometown, and pick them up in St. Louis!

firstyear.wustl.edu

Before Day 1

IN THIS SECTION Pre-Orientation; Starting School As A. . .; A Note About Your Parent & Family Members; Letters from Home; Summer Programs; Things to Do Before You Arrive; eBilling Statements; Student ID Cards; WebSTAC, WUSTL Key, and University Email; Online Alcohol Education; Using WebSTAC; Your First Few Days; People You Will Meet

Action Items →→ Sign up to attend a pre-orientation program →→ Consider attending a summer program →→ Take any necessary online placement exams →→ Confirm your AP, IB and transfer credits were sent to the University →→ Send a picture to the University Registrar for your WUSTL ID →→ Invite your parents to view your eBilling Statement →→ Activate your WUSTL Key and University email account →→ Complete the online alcohol education module →→ Read the First Year Reading Program Book

BEFORE DAY ONE →→ →→ →→ →→ →→ →→ →→ →→ →→ →→ →→ →→ →→

Section Contents Pre-Orientation Starting School As A... A Note About Your Parent & Family Members Letters From Home Summer Programs Things To Do Before You Arrive eBilling Statements Student ID Cards WebSTAC, WUSTL Key, University Email Online Alcohol Education Using WebSTAC Your First Few Days People You Will Meet

Welcome to Wash U! We’re going to say this a few more hundred times before you get to midterms in October. Learn to love the phrase. We’re very excited to have you here, so you should get energized too! While Move-In Day is still several weeks away, there are many important action items for you to complete before you arrive to campus. On page 8, you will find a comprehensive list of all the “to do’s” you should be thinking about and working on this summer. You’ll also find them listed on the opening page of each section.. This list will not only help you prepare for your arrival, but also introduce you to the many exciting summer programs offered. These programs give you a jump start to your college career and have unique benefits such as early course registration, meeting other new students, and getting settled early. Pre-orientation is opportunity that allows you to arrive on campus four days early and explore one of your passions or interests such as medicine, comedy, service, leadership, and much more. Be sure to check out all the options on pages 13 and 28. We know summer is a time for family, adventures with childhood friends, and relaxing. But it’s also important to work on these items as well so you start college with the right foot forward. The items in this section may look cumbersome; however, if you tackle a few items each week, you’ll be done in no time. So, in case we haven’t said it enough already, “Welcome to Wash U! And get excited!”

BEARFACTS 2012

Pre-Orientation Want to attend a Pre-Orientation program? Register by August 1, 2012 at firstyear.wustl.edu. They fill quickly, so register soon!

Benefits of doing a Pre-Orientation Program:

›› FUN, exciting way to start out the year ›› Meet friends who share a common interest or passion with you ›› Get to know the campus and for those offcampus programs, it allows you to see St. Louis and the greater community in which you will be living for the next four years ›› Allows you more time to move in and get situated

Pre-orientation (pre-o) programs are a great start to your Wash U experience. It is your opportunity to work closely with a campus organization, gain valuable leadership skills, get a jump start on being involved on campus, and meet other students with similar interests. You will also be able to move in early and begin to learn the ins and outs of Washington University’s campus before the formal orientation program. For more information on each of the programs, go to firstyear.wustl.edu.

Why Pre-O? So you’ve gotten a couple of emails about pre-o, and maybe you heard about the programs from an upperclass student, but why should you really do one? Check out this comment from a current student: “When it hit midsummer, I decided to sign up for a pre-orientation program almost as an afterthought. Originally, I wanted to stay home for as long as possible as I was so nervous about coming down to St. Louis and the unknown of college life. I am so glad I had a change of heart! I created fond memories and made lasting friendships. In fact, some of my closest friends here at Wash U are people I met during my pre-o. Additionally, I had the chance to serve the greater St. Louis community, which proved rewarding and instantly made me feel like a part of something important.”

Arrival Logistics

INFORMATION FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS International Students should plan to arrive before the start date on their I-20/DS-2019. New international students are expected to participate in the Explore Program. Students participating in the Explore Program should arrive between August 13, 2012 and August 15, 2012. Campus housing will not be available for Explore students arriving before August 13, 2012. For additional arrival information, please visit oisshome.wustl.edu/students. International Students who are participating in the Explore Program are expected to attend a pre-orientation program. You will register for your preferred program through the Office of International Students and Scholars when you register for the Explore Program for International Students. Please do not submit an application to the First Year Center. For more information, visit the Office for International Students and Scholars website, oisshome.wustl.edu.

Pre-orientation program participants will arrive on Sunday, August 19, 2012, and move into the residence house room to which they have been assigned for the year. If you are arriving by plane, orientation staff will meet you at Lambert Airport and guide you to the free shuttle that will be available for pre-o participants on August 19 from 8:30AM – 4:00PM. If arriving by car, we will meet you as you enter the South 40 residential area and give you information about parking and unloading your vehicle. Wilderness Project participants will arrive on campus Thursday, August 16. You will need to ship your belongings for your residence house room or have someone bring them on Move-In Day, August 23rd, as you will not have access to your room until the 23rd.

Parent and family members, when should you arrive on campus if you are attending Parent & Family Orientation? (We know you’re reading!) If your student comes to a preorientation program, we encourage you to send him or her ahead with enough necessities to get through the first three days, such as bedding, toiletries, and clothing. The students will be tremendously busy with the programs and won’t have much time, if any, to spend with you. Therefore, we suggest you join us for Parent & Family Orientation from Thursday, August 23rd through Saturday, August 25th and assist your student with setting up his or her room on the 23rd. More information regarding Bear Beginnings: New Student Fall Orientation, including a sample schedule is available on the First Year Center website, firstyear.wustl.edu. Also, be on the lookout for the in the Parent & Family Resource Calendar that will be mailed to you in July. firstyear.wustl.edu

Pre-Orientation Programs for august 2012 The Burning Kumquat

Cost $215 Enrollment 16

Okay, we don’t grow kumquats. Or burn them. But we are the Burning Kumquat, an urban garden on Washington University’s campus founded and run by students. We want to share with you the joy of learning about, and living with, the land. You’ll work hard, get your hands dirty, and eat the food we grow, all the while learning about sustainable agriculture, social responsibility in food practices, and the secrets of life. Traveling by bicycle, we tour other urban farms and sell produce at markets in the St. Louis area. The farm is for Wash U and the surrounding area, and we welcome you to it. Peas and love!

CAMPUS COMEDY

Cost $210 Enrollment 24

Campus Comedy, a performing arts-based program, is an interactive, improvisational comedy experience designed to introduce incoming students to the performing arts culture at Wash U and to the greater comunity. Working in teams, students practice improvisational and sketch comedy, interact with upperclass students, learn about and experience the performing arts groups on campus, and showcase their talents in a performance on the final night of the program. Campus Comedy also helps prepare students for performing arts group auditions at the beginning of the semester, and includes several opportunities to explore campus and St. Louis communities.

Habitat for humanity

Cost $215 Enrollment 25

Wash U’s campus chapter of Habitat for Humanity offers a program for students interested in learning more about the struggles of St. Louis’ homeless community, understanding substandard housing, and getting to know a small, but passionate, group of students! Students will spend four days exploring campus and St. Louis City while learning about community, homelessness, affordable housing, and poverty. This program gives students interested in service work and Habitat for Humanity a great opportunity to get involved on campus and in the community before you even have your first class as a student at Wash U!

BEARFACTS 2012

List of Programs Burning Kumquat

Campus Comedy

Habitat for Humanity

Endesign

Freshman Press

Hot Lasers and Fast Atoms

IDEA

KWUR: Adventures in Radioland

L.A.U.N.C.H.

Leadership through Service

Leading Your Way

Louder than a Grenada

Medicine and Research Connections

Leading Wash U Style

As Seen on WUTV

Wilderness Project

World of Politics

ENDESIGN

Cost $325 Enrollment 21

Ever wondered what engineering design is really about? Here is your chance to find out! In EnDesign, you will create a successful design project from start to finish. You will learn to complete a proposal for your design, defend it, and then build it. The excitement and fun of designing and implementing an engineering project awaits you! You will also visit engineering companies and hear from professional engineers about what it takes to be successful. Come experience some real engineering!

Freshman Press

Cost $265 Enrollment 35

Freshman Press is an exciting opportunity for students to jump straight into the world of student journalism. Participants get to interact with current members of Student Life, Washington University’s independent newspaper, and local alumni who work as professional journalists. Participants will learn about the different sections of the paper and choose which one they would like to experience firsthand: reporting news or sports, writing features or arts/entertainment pieces, crafting editorials, or working in multimedia/photo. Participants will also gain copy or design experience and produce their own full issue, which will appear as an insert in Student Life’s first paper of the year.

HOT LASERS AND FAST ATOMS

Cost $380 Enrollment 30

Join us for a preview of the labs, faculty, and cuttingedge research in the physical and chemical sciences and mathematics at Wash U. You will have discussions with upperclassmen, faculty, active research scholars, and undergraduate science advisors; tour laboratories; and visit several fun spots around St. Louis. In the mornings, faculty will lecture on current and “on-the-horizon” research. In the afternoons, you will visit laboratories on- and off-campus, including the Center for Materials Innovation, the high-resolution NMR facility, SigmaAldrich, and Stereotaxis. Choices for lab visits include cosmic-ray astrophysics, mass spectrometry, thin-film deposition, and many, many others. Opportunities for undergraduate research will also be detailed. Cost $300 Enrollment 20

IDEA

IDEA (Innovation*Discovery*Experience*Action*) will bring out your inner innovator and entrepreneur! Whether you are interested in art, engineering, business, or the sciences, you’ll explore what to do with your ideas, how you can start a business, and how you can change the world. You will get to know Skandalaris Center faculty and staff, as well as members of the entrepreneurial ecosystem in the St. Louis community. You will learn the tools of entrepreneurship through a visit to a successful St. Louis venture, panel discussions from commercial and social entrepreneurs, a scavenger hunt around St. Louis, and working with a team to present an idea at a celebratory IdeaBounce® event.

KWUR adventures in radioland

Cost $225 Enrollment 15

KWUR 90.3 FM is the University’s entirely studentrun, freeform, non-commercial radio station. KWUR’s program immerses new students in the alternative St. Louis and campus music communities in addition to the KWUR community. Participants will receive all the necessary training to be eligible for their own radio show in the fall semester; they will not need to go through the normal semester-long training process. The program also includes music-related trips around the greater St. Louis area. This program is intended for students who are serious about becoming DJs and participating in radio throughout college.

LEADERSHIP THROUGH SERVICE IN ST. LOUIS (LTS)

Cost $240 Enrollment 80

LTS offers a rare opportunity to explore and serve the St. Louis community while acclimating to college life. LTS includes daily community service projects, city excursions, inspiring discussions, and amazing memories. Join 80 new students and 12 sophomore counselors eager to support your transition to WU with a perfect combination of eye-opening experiences and pure fun! By the end of LTS, you’ll have seen the “real” St. Louis, broadened and deepened your understanding of pressing social justice issues, built a network of like-minded friends, gained a solid connection to the Community Service Office, and learned about opportunities for continued involvement throughout the year. Join the fun as the city becomes your classroom!

L.A.U.N.C.H.

Cost $375 Enrollment 150

Learning And Understanding New Challenging Horizons New perspective, new friends, new beginnings! Join us for three days and two nights at Camp Lakewood, a beautiful 350 acre lake and resort in the foothills of the Ozarks, just two hours from Wash U’s campus. While at LAUNCH, you will participate in group activities, interactive workshops, team building activities, a community service project, and have free time to enjoy the amenities at Camp Lakewood. Not only is LAUNCH the largest pre-orientation program, it is also the oldest and the one with the most tradition here at Washington University. Come join us, and become part of the LAUNCH tradition! LEADING YOUR WAY: EXPLORING LEADERSHIP FOR WOMEN

Cost $215 Enrollment 40

If you’re looking to gain leadership skills, connect with peers, and have a great time your first week in St. Louis, this program is for you! Women have an undeniable impact on the world we live in, and in this program, students will explore what that impact is and how you can create your own impact on the community. Leading Your Way will provide a mixture of resources, skill development, and relationship building opportunities, while learning more about this campus and the St. Louis community. Join us as we explore St. Louis, learn about the unique skills women bring to organizations and interact with other Wash U leaders to discuss what it means to be a leader in the world today.

firstyear.wustl.edu

LOUDER THAN A GRENADA: SPOKEN WORD POETRY

Cost $210 Enrollment 15

Louder than a Grenada: Spoken Word Poetry is a unique chance to learn about yourself, your peers, and the City of St. Louis through spoken word poetry or Slam, a growing worldwide movement. Whether you are a seasoned slam poet or don’t even know what slam poetry is, this pre-o will give you a chance to write, perform, explore, and connect with both new students and upperclassmen. In four years, WU-SLam, Wash U’s premier spoken word poetry group, has grown from an informal freestyle club into one of the most prominent groups on campus. In 2011, WU-SLam’s team was ranked the 2nd best college slam team in the nation and our annual Grand Slam filled the largest venue on campus. Check us out on YouTube: Wash USlam.

Student Union: Leading Wash U Style

Cost $375 Enrollment 42

Wilderness Project participants backpack and rock climb in the beautiful Ozarks for a week. The program serves either to fuel outdoor passion or as a gentle introduction to outdoor recreation. Regardless of your outdoor experience, Wilderness Project provides a tight-knit community to participants before the school year begins. The program was founded on the philosophy that the natural environment provides a neutral space for facilitating life’s transitions, promoting personal growth, and discussing social issues. Outside the context of everyday routines, students gain a powerful perspective on their lives, their communities, and how they fit into a global perspective. The project is designed to challenge participants to be effective, socially- and environmentally- conscious leaders. No previous experience is required.

BEARFACTS 2012

Cost $400 Enrollment 90

Medicine and Research Connections, sponsored by Cornerstone: The Center for Advanced Learning and the Washington University School of Medicine, introduces new students to cutting-edge medical practice and research conducted at Wash U and in St. Louis. Students meet and hear from physicians, scientists, faculty members, and the Dean of the School of Medicine, Dr. Larry Shapiro. Students will also visit the Donald Danforth Plant Science Center. While attending classes at the School of Medicine mini-medical school, students will learn about the latest in medical research and practices, explore how physicians work up patients, and review actual Emergency Medicine cases. Past pre-o activities have included visits to the Medical School, Center for Advanced Medicine, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Surgical Vivarium and Genome Sequence Center.

Cost $215 Enrollment 50

Student Union: Leading Wash U Style is a great way to get a jumpstart on leadership opportunities at Washington University. Sponsored by Student Union, Wash U’s undergraduate student government, you will work side-by-side with current student leaders to explore and develop your personal leadership style. You will take part in fun events both on- and off-campus, giving you a better understanding of the University and the surrounding St. Louis community. Student Union: Leading Wash U Style will provide you with the skills and knowledge to excel as a leader in the Wash U community.

Wilderness Project

MEDICINE AND RESEARCH CONNECTIONs

As Seen on WUTV

Cost $250 Enrollment 20

Whether you are a filmmaker or just want to be on camera, As Seen on WUTV is the program for you! During this program, you’ll learn all about television production with WUTV, Wash U’s student-run television station by writing, producing, and starring in your very own TV show. You’ll also visit a local television station to see how TV gets made in the real world and explore St. Louis. Most importantly, you’ll meet new friends and get settled in on campus before Bear Beginnings: New Student Fall Orientation begins.

World of Politics

Cost $240 Enrollment 30

Ready to engage with political issues during your time at Wash U? Get started right away with World of Politics! Meet other budding politicos and discover the many ways to satiate your political appetite on-campus and around St. Louis. During this program you will gain first-hand experience writing for the Washington University Political Review magazine, practice debating in a Model United Nations committee, and learn about the resources available on campus for getting involved with politics and public affairs. Off-campus, you will visit political campaigns gearing up for November’s big elections, see various St. Louis attractions, and hear from guest speakers about the state of both local and national politics.

Hey there! It’s the First Year Center Executive Board again. We each arrived to Wash U with a diverse set of backgrounds and experiences, and we know the same is true for you as well. These experiences influence who we are and what we expected about starting school at WU. We wanted to share some of our reflections on arriving to WU – we hope our stories will help you frame your own expectations and alleviate some of the nervousness and excitement you may be having. Each of these stories was written by one of us. Enjoy!

WHO’S WHERE?

Student from a Small High School

International Student

Gay Student

Multicultural Student

Spiritual Student

First Child To Go To College

Student from a Small Town

Pre-Med Student

Student from the East Coast

Student with Dietary Restrictions

Student On Financial Aid

Student from the South

Student from St. Louis

Student from the West Coast

Student from the Midwest

An Only Child

Youngest Child

Student from an All-Boys High School

Student from a Large High School

Close to My Family

First time Away from Home

Starting School As A... Student from a Small High School Coming to a medium sized university of nearly 6,000 undergraduates from a high school of a little more than 300 students was definitely different. I was nervous about leaving the comfort of the small school environment in which solid relationships with peers and faculty were the norm. But I was looking forward to a larger school with more resources and more students, all of which I found—and more—at Wash U. The academic resources and the number of extra-curricular opportunities Wash U has to offer are amazing. Wash U’s advising system is one of the most extensive with mentors to assist you with everything from academic credits, majors, social life, co-curricular life and anything else needed. As for being concerned about leaving the hominess of my small high school, I couldn’t have been more wrong. Wash U offers the same small high school feel that I love. The students are all friendly, and everyone wants to get to know one another. Just like back home, at school I feel like I have several “families” on campus that are ready to help me out of tough situation at a moment’s notice. Whether it is my freshman floor family, my extra-curricular families or my academic family, I always have an outlet. Although the size of Wash U was originally overwhelming, Wash U is truly a friendly, loving community.

International Student Life at Wash U will likely be very different from life at home. Many students, both domestic and international, feel the stress of leaving home and entering an entirely new setting with different rules, expectations, and freedoms. As an international student, you have to deal with the additional changes in culture and language. The transition from feeling unsure to comfortable will be different for everybody. Some days, you may feel inclined to stay in your room at night, Skype your friends and family back home, and just take a break from all the changes. In my case, it was easier to just be alone sometimes, away from the chaos and differences. I did not engage myself in activities right away as I needed some time to adjust. I quickly learned that homesickness cannot be cured when you are inside a bubble. Cultural differences can be used to your advantage when meeting new people — it can be an incredible icebreaker. Students here are both friendly and curious. The more people you talk to, you will see that your classmates may not be as different as you feared. Rather than stay in your room at night, step out into the hallway. Join a club or a group and try to immerse yourself in the activities and opportunities presented to you. It will surprise you how much you can get out of school as an international student when you step out of your comfort zone. There is also an enormous support system in place for international students at Stix International House. They will assist you with all the complicated forms and papers that can be a challenge. Stix also runs programming for international students, creating the opportunity to learn a great deal about the St. Louis community while meeting other students who are experiencing similar adjustments to your own. Home is where you are happy and feel comfortable.

firstyear.wustl.edu

Gay Student For me, I came to Wash U fairly comfortable with my sexuality. I come from a generally accepting town and school where plenty of my friends were out and proud. However, when I told my friends I would be going to school in St. Louis, they warned me that people there might not be as accepting as the people I had grown up around. While I wasn’t nervous before this conversation, I began to be concerned. Would my roommate care that I was currently in a same-sex relationship? Would I feel accepted in this new community? While most people have first-day jitters about entering the college community, being gay brought a whole other set of reasons to be concerned. I decided to tell my roommate and close friends I was gay the first week of classes. After that, I came out to people as sexuality or dating came up in conversation. Deciding when to come out to friends and classmates at college is a personal decision that will be different for everyone. However and whenever you decide to come out at Wash U, know there are plenty of resources to help you decide how come out to your roommate and friends, or even to help you get involved with LGBT events on campus and in the St. Louis community. I have met many wonderful and passionate individuals through Wash U’s Pride Alliance organization, which coordinates activities to promote LGBT rights as well as many annual social events. Meeting other gay students has also allowed me to learn about, and understand, the different experiences people have coming out or coming to grips with their sexuality. Before coming to college, I had never heard first-hand from students who were raised in a less tolerant, more constricting atmosphere where they feared being judged for their sexuality. Exchanging stories with them and learning from their hardship has made me appreciate the environment I was raised in and has made me more passionate about fighting for equal rights everywhere. Overall, the Wash U community is a very accepting and non-judgmental atmosphere. My roommate, friends, and acquaintances have been overwhelmingly supportive of my sexuality, and I feel comfortable being gay at Wash U. When you come to college, be open with yourself and open with the people around you. You will find the Wash U community will accept you no matter what gender you love.

Multicultural Student Growing up, I could count the number of Indian friends I had on one hand. My family and I always lived in areas without very diverse populations, and as a result, I grew up embracing my Indian heritage and culture while at home and with family, but attempting to assimilate while out with friends and at school. I knew coming to college meant I would be exposed to an unparalleled amount of diversity, and I was really excited for a change of pace. When I got to campus, I was determined to have a diverse group of friends and to try really hard not to fit any stereotypes; I wanted to experience everything! And I found out that

BEARFACTS 2012

Wash U was the perfect place to accomplish this goal. During my freshman year, I joined Ashoka, the south Asian cultural group, and went to various other cultural events and shows such as Diwali, Lunar New Year Festival, Black Anthology, and Carnaval. I tried different kinds of food, listened to different kinds of music, and met a ton of new people. Wash U is bursting at the seams with culture, passion, and excitement for diversity. Because of these experiences, I feel closer to my heritage than ever, and now appreciate other cultures much more. I am proud to say I am Indian, and am so happy to finally have other people my age who can identify with me in this way. Wash U has many cultural student organizations so you can become involved with and explore anything you want to learn about. You will undoubtedly find people with whom you can share excitement and interest in various cultural experiences. Wash U has a program and a niche for every multicultural student, whatever it is you’re looking for. You can even explore some you aren’t familiar with!

Spiritual Student I’d attended public schools my whole life, though I was raised in a strongly Catholic family and participated in religious education and various retreats and youth groups throughout high school. Needless to say, I was extremely excited to find out Wash U had an active Catholic Student Center (CSC). The experiences I’ve had being active at the CSC definitely aren’t limited to Catholic students, however. There are a variety of religious organizations including the Muslim Students Association, Jewish Student Union, Hillel, Chabad, College Central, and Overflow, just to name a few. What I’ve gained from being involved in religious groups on campus is a network of amazing people who share my values and challenge my understanding of myself. For me, the CSC has become a home away from home, and connects me to other undergraduates and adults who have wisdom and encouragement to get me through my days when school gets too hectic. Coming to Wash U as a religious student has also introduced me to new experiences. One of the greatest things about this school is the great diversity of people and beliefs. Figuring out how to explain my beliefs and why they matter to others has really strengthened my faith. At the same time, I’ve also been able to learn so much by talking to people of different faiths and backgrounds. Being open and pursuing my faith has introduced me to so many wonderful people and helped me get to know them in truly genuine ways.

First Child To Go To College Being the oldest in a family of four means that I’ve been my parents’ guinea pig for every major transition. I was the first to go to high school, learn to drive, and apply to college. During the summer before my freshman year at Wash U, I was ready to make the jump from living at home to being an independent college student. However, my parents didn’t see things the same way. I knew my parents were excited for me, but they seemed to have reservations

about sending me 13 hours away. I was ready to take care of myself and solve my own problems. If I forgot to bring something to college, I figured I could go to the store. But I felt like my parents were not as trusting in my abilities to take care of myself. Every day, my mom came to me with more and more things I could “never go to school without.” Though I was thankful for all my parents’ concerns, I began to lose the feeling college would be my great step towards independence. Then, one day, my mom said she had being having what she called reoccurring nightmares about me going to college. In each dream, she was going to college but always forgot something, causing all sorts of problems. She used this to explain the ever-expanding stockpile of college supplies. This was a crystallizing moment. Her actions did not reflect a lack of belief in me, but rather her parental instincts. I realized both my parents were just doing the same thing they had been doing since I was born – they were trying to watch over me. From then until I left for school, I showed my parents how much I appreciated their work. I let my parents do what they thought was necessary for me to be prepared for college. While I made sure to tell them when something was overkill (20 removable hooks and eight storage bins), I understood all their attention and help was also to make sure they felt comfortable about sending me far away. In the end, everything went smoothly once I got to St. Louis, and 10 months later, my parents were exponentially more prepared to send my younger brother to college.

Student from a Small Town After attending high school in a central Illinois town with a population of 3,000 people, I was really excited to come to St. Louis and check out what living in the city was all about. I had been to St. Louis before, but I was excited to become “a local.” When I got here, I was ready to start exploring the area and to find out where the best Mexican food was, where the best movie theater was, and where to find the best coffee. I’m not going to lie though, it was scary coming to a university where the campus population well outnumbers the population of my hometown, which in turn, is located in a city that has a population that is unthinkably huge compared to what I was used to. Back home, everybody knew everybody and I felt like my entire town had my back. I was worried I would be alone at school and wouldn’t be able to depend on anyone. But when I got to Wash U, I realized that even though there seemed to be a ton of people, campus became comfortable really fast. My RAs and WUSAs helped me adjust to my new setting really well, and my freshman floor became a community of support, just like the one I was used to back home. I have come to love the city of St. Louis, because I think it mixes the best of both worlds: the resources that come with living in a city and the friendly, Midwestern feeling of a small town. So with this in mind, get ready to build your new community and to embrace your home away from home at Wash U.

Pre-Med Student Every student interested in medicine knows the life of a pre-med is one defined by hard work, determination, and perseverance. I mean, we’ve all heard the horrific rumors of weed outs, spiteful professors, and cut-throat competition. It’s scary business, and intimidating to say the least. Even my parents used these stories to scare me into working hard so that I could get into a good college, that would help me get to a good med school, that would help me get into a good residency. . . You get the picture. Needless to say, coming to Wash U as a pre-med, I was excited, yet terrified at the same time. Would the other students be super cut throat? Would I even have freedom to study what I wanted? Would I get weeded out? Well, after going through a bit of my pre-med curriculum, I would like to offer you some advice: relax. I do admit, classes are difficult, and they’re going to challenge you; but they’re not impossible. I love that everyone is willing to help, fellow students and professors alike, both of whom have become invaluable resources. I found that even when I was struggling in my pre-med classes at first, Wash U offered me an arsenal of academic and pre-med help: study groups, Cornerstone: The Center for Advance Learning, Peer Lead Team Learning (PLTL), pre-med advising, research, and even my freshman floor! I’ve discovered it does take a lot of hard work and dedication, but with all of these resources, it’s definitely manageable. I have found that my pre-med experience has been much more of an exploration than anything else. It allows me to explore the sciences and evaluate my interests in medicine, as well as other fields of study. Also, the medical field is not for everyone, and it’s okay if you realize it’s not for you. What I’ve loved most about being a pre-med here at Wash U is that I am not limited from having a college experience! I have options and choices that allow me to tailor my premed experience to be my own, and I have faith that you will be able to utilize everything that Wash U offers you to make it your own as well.

Student from the East Coast Have you spent the last few months trying to explain that Washington University in St. Louis is, in fact, in St. Louis? Are you not totally sure where Missouri is on a map of the U.S.? Did the ridiculously friendly people you met on your tour of Wash U make you slightly uneasy? If you answered yes to these questions, you’re probably one of the many incoming students from the East Coast! But don’t fear East Coasters, the Midwest is more like home than you think, and you too will soon be one of these very friendly people who once made you nervous. Growing up, I never pictured myself going to college in the Midwest. In fact, I’m not even sure I knew what state St. Louis was in until about a month into being a student at Wash U. I grew up in the tri-state area, where the Midwest feels worlds away, and where the claim that St. Louis is a big city is a bit laughable. However, once I arrived at

firstyear.wustl.edu

Wash U, I realized that St. Louis offered everything I could want from an east coast city, and that there are so many east coast students at Wash U – it’s almost like being at home. St. Louis might not be as large as New York, but the selection of restaurants, cultural activities, and nightlife is comparable, and much more affordable on a college student budget. As to Wash U’s student body, you’d be hard pressed to talk to a group of students without at least one of them being from the East Coast. Having students from nearby areas can be a great treat if you’re feeling a bit homesick for the east, but you’ll also get support from your friends from all over the globe. So just remember, the Midwest is not filled with sand and tumbleweeds, you will have to explain to people not in the know what Wash U is for years to come, and home is only a short plane ride away (although you may never want to go back!).

here would be affordable. Once I was on campus and relying on my own finances for things like books and trips to the Loop, the office was there to help me develop good spending habits and find a job that fit perfectly with my class schedule.

Student with Dietary Restrictions

Student from the South

I have been a vegetarian all my life. Living in a rural area, I was used to not finding vegetarian options at school and in local restaurants. Over the summers during high school, I attended a couple of camps at other universities and would come back home a few pounds lighter due to lack of options. So I just figured Wash U would be the same way; that I’d be eating salad and pasta with tomato sauce every day.

My decision to attend college some 700 miles from home was not an easy one, because where I’ve always called home is no ordinary place. I was born and raised in New Orleans, Louisiana, and my hometown has shaped my personal identity in ways that go beyond craving crawfish and screaming “Who Dat?” whenever I encounter someone wearing black and gold.

When I got to Wash U, however, I was pleasantly surprised to find a plethora of vegetarian/vegan options. I think what sets Wash U’s food apart from other dining hall food is that almost everything is customizable. Whether it’s the stir-fry station at Bear’s Den on the South 40 or the Grill at the Danforth University Center, you can always choose your protein, vegetables, and sauces. There is a Kosher station in Bears Den and halal options for meat, and wherever a la carte is available, there are clearly labeled halal and kosher options. Even during floor dinners and more formal events, you can request your meal be vegetarian or kosher. If you have allergies or other restrictions, Wash U has dietitians who can work with you to identify all the appropriate options. Wash U’s Dining Services and staff go out of the way to make sure each student’s personal needs and preferences are met. Because of all of these options, I have actually ended up trying a lot of new dishes and being a vegetarian has never been easier.

Student On Financial Aid Finding my offer of admission to Wash U online was one of the coolest days of my young life. I was ridiculously excited about the years I had ahead of me that would be filled with a huge array of things to learn, experiences to have, and personal growth to encounter. But through all of the elation that day, my mom kept me grounded with a friendly reminder that Wash U couldn’t be an option for me if my financial aid package didn’t meet the needs of my family. I’m writing this now, so you know how all that worked out. Student Financial Services (SFS) puts a great deal of effort into making sure money is not a limiting factor when considering a Wash U education. College isn’t cheap, but SFS worked with my family and me to ensure that coming 20

BEARFACTS 2012

You’ll meet people from varying backgrounds throughout your first year. Everybody’s bound to meet some people like themselves and many people who aren’t. Socioeconomic status is included in this spectrum. Some of your peers may not have to contribute to the financial part that underwrites their education. Others may have a job outside of class to support their finances throughout the year. Whatever your case may be, the aid package that allows you to be here is the least of your peers’ concerns. Relax, be responsible with your money, and have an awesome time!

Not only are most of my favorite things uniquely New Orleans - its food, the music, the laid-back atmosphere (sometimes a little too laid-back), there are other less obvious features that shaped my personal identity. New Orleans is a town where families are particularly close and no one is a stranger. My Dad likes to say there are only five hundred people in New Orleans and they’re all related. It’s a warm place to live, and I don’t mean just the weather. Coming to Wash U, I’m sure I shared the typical concerns of all incoming freshmen (Will I get along with my roommate? Do I really want to be pre-med?), in addition to some concerns peculiar to the New Orleans native (Where would I find king cakes, beignets, and chicory coffee?). One of the things that worried me most—would my new St. Louis friends forgive me when the Saints most certainly smash the Rams Halloween weekend? My Cajun pride, though, has never wavered, but I soon realized I could fall in love with a new place without betraying my hometown. As cool as New Orleans, is I was quickly impressed by how much St. Louis has to offer; almost an overwhelming amount. In the few months I have been here, I have grown to love the campus and am always looking for reasons to explore the city Wash U calls home.

Student from St. Louis I remember thinking; “Wash U is the perfect school…only if it was in another city.” All I wanted to do for college was get away. I wanted the traditional college experience where you pack up your car, drive for five to eight hours and move to a completely new city. And yet, Wash U had everything else I wanted. A great school with wonderful people, fantastic facilities, and an awesome city close by. I thought I would end up seeing my parents every single day just because we

were only 45 minutes away. Turns out, that wasn’t the case. I didn’t come home once during my first semester outside of scheduled breaks. I saw my parents sparingly and I really felt like I was away at college. I realized that home is as close or as far as I wanted to make it. I have been given my space and I cherish it, but its always nice to be able to call Mom and Dad and go out to dinner if I feel like it. I used to think there were a lot of disadvantages to going to a school in the area that you are from, but really it has turned out to be one of the best decisions of my life.

Student from the West Coast To my fellow West Coasters, I present some knowledge I have gleaned from my first years at Washington University. First, the people greeting you in the grocery store, on the street, at the shopping mall, etc. are not creepy or obsessed with you. Instead, they have been brought up with a sense of Midwestern hospitality. Simply smile and wave and they will usually let you pass. Over time, this ritual will begin to feel more commonplace. To those of you from L.A., the dark smog in the air is not pollution but is instead an ominous sign of things to come, usually rain, which I am sure those of you from Seattle are fairly familiar with. However, around November, you may experience a colder version of this precipitation, known as snow. While this sensation is unpleasant, a warm winter jacket and snow boots will usually remedy the situation. In the event that this does not work, I would recommend large quantities of hot chocolate and Netflix in bed. Lastly, you may feel as though you are the only one of your peers from somewhere besides Chicago or the Northeast. Don’t despair, this simply adds to your unique perspective. You will have a new point of view to add to each conversation. Plus, I’m sure your friends will be dying to visit you in the humidity/bug free best coast, oops, I mean west coast, over the summer. Once you’ve gotten over the initial culture shock, you will begin to explore what St. Louis has to offer. The zoo and almost all of the museums are free. Just take a quick walk over to Forest Park and there are countless ways to fill your day. Additionally, St. Louis has lots of yummy (albeit less nutritious) food options to offer such as the famed Ted Drewes Frozen Custard, Pappy’s barbecue, and Blueberry Hill’s toasted ravioli. So, when you get frustrated by your friends constantly playing six degrees of separation with their fellow East Coasters or Midwesterners, just remember you come from the glorious coast that brought us Hollywood, Starbucks, Microsoft, and gold.

Student from the Midwest Before arriving on campus, most of my friends back home were talking about jetting off to the east and west coasts to attend school. My five-hour car ride from Chicago to St. Louis didn’t seem like much of a new or exciting start to what adults told me would be the best time of my life. While I had been raised in the Midwest my whole life, I had never been to St. Louis until I decided to apply to Wash U. When I got here, I realized that no matter how close I was to home, this was a completely new environment and there were as many new things for me to experience as

my southern, west coast, and east coast classmates. For example, we all had no idea what “toasted ravioli” was or how to navigate the MetroLink. Toasted ravioli happens to be deep-fried ravioli, a delicious St. Louis specialty, and it turns out the MetroLink is an easy and convenient way to get around the city. Going to school in the same region I grew up in has really given me the best of both worlds. I am fortunate enough to be close enough to home to visit my family when I want and far away enough to be independent. I’ve had friends come stay with me in Chicago over shorter breaks because it was easier for them than booking a plane ride home (and I’m planning to visit their hometown over the summer). Since you are used to the frigid Midwest cold, you will probably be a pro at dealing with the more mild St. Louis weather. You might even need to lend a helping hand to the people have never seen snow before or who do not currently own a winter jacket (yes, they exist). No matter where you are from in the Midwest, living in and exploring St. Louis will be a new and exciting experience while still giving you the comfort of that friendly Midwestern hospitality.

An Only Child As an only child, you may often hear stereotypes such as “you must get everything you want,” and “it must be pretty lonely.” Depending on your circumstances, both of these might be true to a certain extent. In my experience, I always had my own room and never had to share anything. And though I did get lonely sometimes, I enjoyed my alone time. Throughout middle school and high school, I adapted to the dynamic of being an only child and the thought of college made me uncomfortable. How was I supposed to share a room with someone, and even more, share a bathroom with not only one, but multiple people? Would it be like living with the siblings I’ve never had? What if I needed my alone time? Anxious enough as I was about having a roommate, I soon found out that I had two. Now I began to really worry. When I got to school however, I realized that everyone in my traditional residence house had to share space and bathrooms with people they hardly knew. I guess being an only child just meant it took a little longer to adjust. Being in a triple, I thought, would be the end of my world. Going in with an open mind and a willingness to cooperate and compromise (which I learned is key when having roommates) was invaluable. Though it wasn’t easy, communicating with each other and being aware that what I did in our room not only affected me but my roommates as well made it easier to transition and adapt. Now, I can’t believe I was as nervous as I was because living in a triple is a lot of fun and seems like second nature. But what about my parents? It was definitely tough not being able to walk out of my door and into their room down the hallway like I could at home. Being from New Jersey, it was tough not to be able to drive a few hours or take the bus to visit for the weekend. Luckily, I was able to keep in regular contact with my parents through frequent phone calls and video chatting. Transitioning into college life was

firstyear.wustl.edu

no easy, subtle task, but the experiences that I’ve gained from it are priceless. And though living as an only child at home versus at school is completely different, I have to say that I truly enjoy both.

Youngest Child Going to college, I had heard a lot of things from my older brother. I was going to need to meet these people, I needed to get into these classes, and it felt like I had the inside track. Little did I know just how different my experience was going to be. I quickly realized that I was going to need to find my own way. I had to carve out my own experience. It was nice to have advice coming in from my brother, but it was a different school and it was a different experience. He accepted that, but was always there to help me out with his own experiences and advice, which is always nice to have in the end.

Student from an All-Boys High School 7:30AM

Alarm goes off. Snooze button is my best friend.

7:45AM

Alarm goes off again. In one swift motion, roll out of bed, grab mismatching button down and tie from closet along with my stained khaki pants. Get into car.

7:53AM

Notice I only have one sock on. Meh.

7:58AM

Arrive at school, slip into classroom, and consume pop-tarts.

8:00AM

Learning commences.

Ah, the simple joys of going to an all-boys high school. My routine was simple — dictated by the direct and essentialist nature of the male mind (or maybe just sheer laziness). This is the lifestyle that defined my education: fast-pace learning, joking with the guys, a perpetual relaxed locker room feel. This was the way that my learning was, and how I thought it would always be. Classes at Wash U excited me for three reasons: I had freedom to choose interesting classes, I could officially call myself a college student, and my first class that first day was at 10:00AM. I rolled out of bed at 9:55AM, threw on some clothes (no tie!) and shuffled to class. I walked into that classroom and sat down, whipped out my laptop, and then…you know that moment when everything slows down and your stomach drops and everyone is looking at you? That’s what happened to me at 9:59AM that first Tuesday. My 20-person class consisted of me, and 19 members of the fairer sex. Here I sat in a stained undershirt and old sweatpants, worrying: Would they notice? Had I showered that day? Ugh, my hair looked like a grease explosion. Thus comes the moment of intense self-awareness. Then the lecturer walked in and began teaching. And with that, the self-aware moment faded, and I forgot all about the women learning around me. Does it really matter if you go to class wearing a new pair of jeans or the same sweatpants every day? (We all know pants never get 22

BEARFACTS 2012

dirty). Sure, the first couple of classes were distracting, but over time I forgot all about it. Coming from a same-sex high school, I suddenly found myself in an environment of heightened self-awareness (as well as a sudden heightened “awareness” of others). However, remember that when push comes to shove, it doesn’t matter: it’s class, so be comfortable and allow yourself to simply learn. (And for the record, sweatpants are still awesome.)

Student from a Large High School My high school graduation was a rather epic event. We were packed like sardines into a college arena, as we couldn’t all fit into our school auditorium. I remember thinking “Who’s that?” over and over again as my peers walked across the stage. With over 1,000 students in my graduating high school class, I wasn’t sure what to expect at Wash U. I definitely felt prepared for the adjustment but was worried my college experience wouldn’t be as new and exciting as I’d hoped. Was it going to be another four years of cliques, competition, and striving to fit in? Some aspects make Wash U a big school, and others make it small. Both undergraduate and graduate populations, multiple campuses, and an incredible number of student groups most definitely outsize my high school. Other aspects make it a small school: close-knit freshman floors, lasting friendships, and even seeing a few old high school peers can make Wash U feel safe and comfortable. Although similar in size, I found Wash U to be both alike and unlike my high school - in the best possible way. Teenage cliques and overly-competitive students were nowhere to be found, and I quickly became involved in numerous activities. I made lasting friendships but always had the opportunity to meet new people. Sometimes I found myself in small, fifteen-person classes, and other times in giant lecture halls. In other words, college is what you make it. Coming from a large high school made my adjustment relatively easy; I was used to meeting new people and embracing various opportunities. But there are also incredible opportunities for growth. Whether you’re involved in multiple student groups or simply enjoy hanging out with your freshman floor, college can seem both big and small. Really, it’s not size that matters but rather how Wash U becomes significant to you.

Close to my Family I remember the last Sunday gathering at my Grandma’s house before I left for college. All of my aunts and uncles were there, I was sitting in the chair I had sat in since I was in grade school eating my Grandma’s famous homemade beef soup, and everyone was happily talking over each other, engaged in multiple conversations. It was typical Sunday for my family. And while everyone was excited for me to go to college, I couldn’t help but feel upset that I was going to miss these weekly gatherings.

Leaving my family was the toughest part of my transition to college. I knew I would meet new people and make new friends, but I still wouldn’t have the comfort of my family nearby. Growing up, family was always the most important aspect of my life. I was as close with both my extended family as well as my immediate family. No matter how much my family had going on, we always made it to Grandma’s on Sunday.

most challenging experience of my life but it has also been the most rewarding (cliché, I know). The best advice I can give you, no matter what situation you are in, is to come to college with an open mind. Being open to new people and new experiences has allowed me to grow in ways I could never imagine and the Wash U community has always been there to provide support, encouragement, and of course. . . free food!

When the school year started, it was hard to hear about what ensued at family Sunday gatherings and I would feel upset about not being able to be at my Grandma’s. However, as I became more involved in the Wash U community and with my freshman floor, I started to feel like I was a part of a new kind of family: my Wash U family. The sense of community I felt at Wash U made me realize I wasn’t leaving my family. My family would always be there for me. Instead, I was opening myself up to a new kind of family and a new sense of independence that I could not achieve while having my biological family nearby. I still enjoy talking to my family on a weekly basis and occasionally calling to talk to everyone at Grandma’s on Sunday. While I still miss physically being a part of the Sunday gatherings, I feel like I am there in spirit and I know my family will always be there for me, no matter how far away they are.

First time Away from Home For most of my friends, going to college was like going to a longer, more independent summer camp. They were used to being away from home and their family. In the weeks before we all went our separate ways, they seemed calm and excited about the new journey we were all about to start. For me, going to college was the first time I had been away from home on my own for more than a few days. I was scared, to say the least. I didn’t know how to navigate this new territory. I had never been put in a situation where I knew no one and was pressured to form instant friendships. While everyone romanticized the idea of going to college, I dreaded the day I had to leave. The first few weeks of my college experience has been the most challenging time in my life thus far (and I’m not referring to schoolwork). I was challenged to feel comfortable in my new environment and to begin to accept it as my new home. My RAs and WUSAs made my transition as easy as it could have been by providing many opportunities to get off campus and bond with my freshmen floor. Over time, and with lots of personal effort, I began to see myself as a part of the Wash U community, a community I now call my home. Whether college is your first time away from home or summer camps has made you an expert at the going away process, there is a lot to learn from the people you will meet in your new home. I found the people around me to be the reason why I was able to finally feel comfortable calling Wash U my home. Coming to college has been the

firstyear.wustl.edu

A Note about Your Parent & Family Members The time before coming to campus is both stressful and exciting — offering a great change to your daily life as a student and young adult. Try to picture all of the emotions you are feeling at this moment, multiply them by some variable A (for Anxiety), and you might start to understand just how your parents are feeling. As Karen Levin Coburn, senior consultant in residence and co-author of Letting Go: A Parents’ Guide to Understanding the College Years, explains, “The summer before college is an exciting time, but it can also be a time of high stress. There is a desire for more freedom among incoming students, and this can lead to tension in the family. As the summer progresses, students often feel pulled between spending time with friends and time with family. They may also feel pressured by all the decisions they have to make and all the things on their ‘to-do list’ as the days fly by.” The important thing to remember, however, is that the more your parents understand and are made aware of what is going on in your life, the smoother this transition will be. As much as you need your parents’ support, they need your support in return.

Important Dates Parent & Family Orientation Thursday, August 23 - Saturday, August 25 Parent & Family Weekend Friday, October 26 - Sunday, October 28

In order to facilitate an open dialogue between you and your parents, the First Year Center publishes the Parent & Family Resource Calendar and plans Parent & Family Orientation to parallel the student orientation program during the first days of your arrival. The calendar will be sent out during the summer, along with other useful information for your parents. In August, Parent & Family Orientation will introduce your parents to the people and resources available for you, and will help them get an insider’s view of student life at Washington University. More information, including a tentative Parent & Family Orientation schedule, is available at firstyear.wustl.edu, so check it out!

A Message to Family Members First, you have not lost your teenager. At times, it may feel as though you have, but understanding that your students are simply looking to branch out from home, not separate entirely, is key to understanding them. Second, respect your students. They are in the process of attaining a new level of independence unparalleled in any other time in their lives. Respect that they would like to make their own decisions — offer your input but refrain from mandating things. It’s amazing how many families have argued over what color comforter to purchase, or how often you expect your children to call versus how often they intend on calling. Next, learn from your students. They can teach you things you may have never realized before. Be open to their new experiences, and you may have the delightful experience of learning a thing or two from them. Remember that Washington University is a place with students from everywhere. Therefore, your students will make friends of all backgrounds and beliefs. Listen as they share experiences about new friends. Support your students’ stepping outside of comfort zones while they are in an environment that encourages this.

BEARFACTS 2012

We caught you! That’s right. We know that even though the title of this publication is Bear Facts: An Arrival Guide for Students, you, being the loving, interested, and caring family member that you are, have happened upon this guide in hopes of gaining a little insight into the changing life of your student. Your motives are perfectly understandable, so rather than stopping you, we invite you to read this magazine and enjoy the following comments from students regarding what they wish their parents realized about their new independence.

Try to understand your studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s changes. You are sending them to college to gain knowledge and to experience new things in life. They will grow and learn, and they will change. Sometimes these changes are unexpected; they may change their majors three times and for a while they might not know what they want anymore. It is important to see them as the people they are becoming, and not who they were when they started, or where you think thye should end up. More information about on-campus addresses is available on page 66.

Also, keep in mind family is still important. No matter how far away you are, we students need to know that you still care about us. Your support is incredibly important to our success at school, and we need every ounce of it. Nothing will replace your love and support. Last, send care packages once in a while. We LOVE getting those!

firstyear.wustl.edu

My parents have always been an important part of my life. They were always there to take me to my sports games. They would stay up late to help me with my homework when I needed it. They would attend whatever after-school activity I had. The day I got my acceptance letter to Wash U, I knew my parents were proud and excited I was going to a great school where I would grow and learn so much. With my older brother graduating from WU that same year, it was basically one son checking out and the other checking in.

LETTERS FROM HOME by VARUN MEHROTRA

I took full advantage of that summer. I hung out with friends, went on vacation, did everything I could to make memories with the people I knew I wouldn’t be seeing for awhile. I didn’t feel the need to spend time with my parents, simply because I was going to be 45 minutes away from them. If I ever needed them, they would be right there. It wasn’t even going to be like I was leaving home. I could go home whenever I wanted! I knew they were so important in my life that nothing was going to change. I was so wrong. Move-in day went super smoothly for me. I participated in the Student Union: Leading Wash U Style pre-orientation program so I got to move in four days before most other new students. I got out of bed and was in no rush. We didn’t need to catch a flight, there wasn’t a long drive ahead of us, all we had to do was hop in the car and roll on down to Wash U. I knew if I forgot something, they could bring it. There was no rush at all; it seemed like just another day. When I got there, my pre-counselors, upperclass Wash U students, helped me move in. As all my stuff was brought up to Park 4 (my freshman floor), my mom was putting things away and organizing my room. By noon, everything was done and taken care of. My parents and I said our goodbyes, and they left. Anti-climactic, right? It was at that moment that the weight of college fell on my shoulders. I was alone. No one was there to tell me to eat, tell me to sleep, tell me to work. I was completely in charge of myself. I didn’t have to be anywhere till 5:00PM. I didn’t know what to do with myself, I just felt so alone. I immediately called my parents to tell them I loved them and that nothing was going on for several hours. I just wanted to hear their voices to make sure that they weren’t too far. I told them I didn’t know what to do until 5:00PM. My mom just replied, “Neither do we. Go have some fun.” I went outside and played some volleyball and got some food. By then, it was 5:00PM and I had to start my pre–orientation program. Everything quickly became a blur. Pre-o and Bear Beginnings went by so fast. My parents came and left, but I was so busy meeting people and getting involved I realized I was starting my own life and I would have to start making time with my parents if I wanted to see them. I was an adult now, and it was my job to take care of things. So the original plan of coming home whenever I wanted never really panned out. But, they were never far away. A short phone call or a text was all that was necessary to make sure everything was ok. Throughout the semester, I would have a few long phone conversations with my parents about everything at home and what was going on. We would make time to see each other for my birthday and their anniversary. We had dinner for special occasions. These moments, when they would take me away from campus, were the best. It gave me time to breathe, to relax and just be with my family. I realized that even though I was starting my own life and becoming an adult, my parents would always be there no matter the distance to make sure I could just breathe. 26

BEARFACTS 2012

For additional parent & family resources, visit firstyear.wustl.edu/parentandfamilyresources or parentprograms.wustl.edu.

Letter from Dad The day had finally arrived. Our van was fully loaded and not even an inch of empty storage space was to be seen. Although we were going to drop Varun at Wash U–only about 35 miles from our home in Wildwood, Missouri, preparations for this trip had been going on for few weeks as if it were a long voyage. My wife had packed and made sure every little item that our younger son might require was included. Of course she did not forget the mint Oreos, Varun’s favorite. It indeed was the beginning of a long voyage that Varun embarked upon in the fall off 2010. The first thought that came to my mind was that we were going to be empty nesters and, from now on, I would see him at home only during breaks and the frequency of those visits would also diminish as time progresses. This was not a good feeling. But then I started thinking of how I left my home in India over thirty years ago and came to the US to study and build a career. It was now Varun’s turn to lay the foundation of his future by getting a good education, developing skills which will be critical for his growth, making new friends and experiencing college life away from the comforts of home. It took us all of 45 minutes to drive to Wash U. We unloaded the van and helped him set up his room. It was now time to say “good bye.” Although we were somewhat emotional, I could sense excitement and eagerness in Varun. Perhaps he felt ready to face the new challenges and start the journey that will allow him to fulfill his life’s goal and ambitions. I knew he was in good hands and all the resources that he would need were right there for him.

Letter from Mom The Mehrotra family on vacation in Germany, Summer 2010

The entire senior year was difficult for me. Every time I was alone, I would tear up because I knew it was time for my youngest to leave home and go to college. Many times, he would see me doing dishes, tears rolling down my face, and come and hug me (I knew I would miss his hugs – they were very frequent and always meaningful) and say, “Mom, don’t cry. I will call you every day,” (not true). As we packed, we felt no urgency since he was only going to be 35 miles away. At a moment’s notice anything he needed could be dropped off (and excuse to see him sooner than later). My husband and Varun brought all the stuff from the van to his residence house room while I put it away. As I made his bed, with the fancy foam topper he wanted and the t-shirt quilt I made for him, tears were rolling out like rain and I felt this tug in my heart that said he is now gone from our everyday life, only to come home for a few weeks each year. It was the most difficult thing I have done in my life, to drive away from Wash U, after dropping him off. As we drove off, we were both quiet and all I could think was – his room will be empty, his voice will not be echoing in the house, and I will have no one to wake up in the morning and kiss. At his graduation party, everyone said to us, “Varun will be happy and successful at Wash U we should have nothing to worry about.” They were right.

firstyear.wustl.edu

Summer Programs Sometimes students find it challenging to keep all of our summer programs straight and understand the differences among them. Here is some insight.

ArtSci Summer Weekends ArtSci Summer Weekends offer students in the College of Arts & Sciences the opportunity to visit campus for a few days during the summer. While here, students register early for classes, meet their academic advisor, learn more about the ArtSci curriculum, and meet other entering and current Wash U students. Other activities include sessions about waht to expect as a freshman, life in a residential college, and late night fun. For more information and to register, visit college.artsci.wustl.edu/ artscisummerweekends. The cost is $225 and space is limited.

Engineering Summer Weekend Engineering Summer Weekend (ESW) is a two and a half day summer program hosted by the School of Engineering and Applied Science and the First Year Center. At ESW, you will meet with an academic advisor, hear from your major department, and get an early start on registration for your first semester at WU. In addition, you will meet fellow freshmen engineers, interact with upperclass engineering students, and speak with faculty and staff in the School of Engineering and Applied Science. You will also have an opportunity to explore campus and fun locations nearby. For more information and to register, visit firstyear.wustl.edu. The cost is $225. Space is limited, so please register early. Registration closes Friday, June 29th.

Freshman Summer Academic Program (FSAP) FSAP offers incoming students an introduction to the academic and social life of the University. Students take two courses, earning six units of credit. In addition, students will meet with their advisor and register for fall courses, learn their way around campus and the surrounding area, and make new friends. All classes taken during the summer fulfill distribution requirements. This program is open to all incoming freshmen. Space is limited so you must apply early. More information and an application may be found at fsap.wustl.edu.

TRANSFERmations TRANSFERmations is a summer weekend program designed for all transfer students. Students will have the opportunity to meet their academic advisor, register for classes, learn about housing options on and off campus, meet other incoming transfer students, find potential roommates, and sign a lease! For more information and to register, visit firstyear.wustl.edu. The cost is $225. Registration closes Friday, June 15th.

BEARFACTS 2012

Summer 2012 Dates All weekends run Thursday to Saturday ArtSci Summer Weekends June 21 – June 23 June 28 – June 30 July 12 – July 14 July 19 – July 21 Engineering Summer Weekend July 12 - July 14 Freshman Summer Academic Program (FSAP) Saturday, June 16 - Saturday, July 21 Transfermations Weekend June 28 - June 30

Things to Do Before You Arrive Registering for Classes A Quick Guide Each academic division at Washington University has a different registration process.

Many times, incoming freshmen and transfer students have questions regarding registration. Here is the breakdown of when and how students in the various academic schools register for classes. See pages 42-45 for more detailed information about your academic division and how to register.

College of Architecture Students in the College of Architecture should expect to register via mail/email during the summer. Over the summer, an advisor will contact you with more information. If you have questions or concerns, please contact Associate Dean Georgia Binnington, gbinning@wustl.edu, or the registrar for Architecture, Bruce Carvell, carvell@wustl.edu.

College of Art Students in the College of Art should expect to register via email during the summer. Over the summer, an advisor will contact you with more information. If you have questions or concerns, please contact Associate Dean Georgia Binnington, gbinning@wustl.edu, or Assistant Dean and Registrar Cris Baldwin, crisbaldwin@wustl. edu.

College of Arts & Sciences Students will have the opportunity to register for classes while attending one of the optional programs during the summer â&#x20AC;&#x201D; the Freshman Summer Academic Program, the Biology Summer Scholars Program, TRANSFERmations, or one of the ArtSci Summer Weekends (see page 28 for more information). If you do not attend a summer program, you will register during Bear Beginnings: New Student Fall Orientation in August. Questions regarding registration for classes should be sent to Sarah Littlechild, slittlec@wustl.edu.

Olin School of Business Students in the Olin Business School should expect to be contacted by their advisor and register for classes over the summer. Any additional questions about the registration process should be directed to Lanna Skadden, skadden@wustl.edu, or your fouryear advisor, whose contact information you will receive over the summer.

School of Engineering and Applied Science Freshmen who attend Engineering Summer Weekend in July will register at that time (see page 28 for more information). For all other freshmen, a detailed registration guide will be posted online in late June. Students will receive an email with a link to the site once itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s available. Students are encouraged to review this guide thoroughly. In early August, students will be allowed to begin the registration process at home and register for courses online. For transfer students who donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t attend TRANSFERmations, a letter will be mailed detailing the registration process. Students firstyear.wustl.edu

should contact Engineering Student Services with questions or for registration assistance at 314.935.6100 or engineering@wustl.edu.

AP/IB/Transfer Credits Washington University generally accepts AP scores of a 4 or 5 for credit. Some departments will give you credit based solely upon your AP score, whereas other departments give “contingencycredit” based upon your AP score and completion of a higher level course. Questions regarding International Baccalaureate (IB) and credit for college-level course work should be referred to your school’s registrar to determine appropriate placement and credit.

Placement Exams Students interested in taking math, foreign language classes, or general chemistry at Wash U are required to take placement exams. Most of these exams can be taken online during the summer.

General Chemistry Diagnostic Exam Students who plan to take general chemistry at Washington University are required to take the general chemistry online diagnostic exam prior to August 15th. The two-hour, timed exam is available online, chemistry.wustl.edu/diagnostic. You will need your six-digit WU student ID to access this website but no password is required. The web page also includes a series of tutorials for review, as well as practice problems and quizzes. It is recommended you review these materials before taking the online exam.

School-specific policies regarding AP and IB credits can be found at: College of Architecture samfoxschool.wustl.edu/student_resources/forms College of Art samfoxschool.wustl.edu/student_resources/forms College of Arts & Sciences college.artsci.wustl.edu/placement_credit Olin School of Business Talk with your academic advisor School of Engineering & Applied Science engineering.wustl.edu/ess/advancedplacement.aspx

College of Architecture Bruce Carvell carvell@wustl.edu College of Art Cris Baldwin

crisbaldwin@wustl.edu

College of Arts & Sciences Sarah Littlechild slittlec@wustl.edu Olin School of Business Cyndy Newell newell@wustl.edu School of Engineering & Applied Science Tobin Harris tobinharris@wustl.edu

Foreign Language Placement Unless you will be starting a language you have never studied before, you must take a foreign language placement exam. For students who are interested in pursuing the study of French, German, Italian, Latin, or Spanish, information about the placement exams is available online at the First Year Center website, firstyear.wustl.edu. Students need to complete the placement exams prior to arriving on campus.

Be sure to write down the scores of your placement exams and have them available when registering for courses.

For students who are interested in pursuing Arabic, Chinese, Greek, Hebrew, Hindi, Korean, Japanese, Persian, and Russian, the placement exams will be administered on campus during Bear Beginnings: New Student Fall Orientation in August. Detailed information will be provided when you arrive to campus.

Math Placement Students intending to take calculus at Washington University should take the math placement exam online prior to arriving on campus. Information about the exam and the exam itself are on the Math Department website, math.wustl.edu/placement.

Writing Placement All freshmen should plan to take Writing 1 during their first year of study to satisfy the first-year writing requirement. Students whose records indicate they need to take the Writing Placement Exam will be notified by letter during the summer. Semester placement 30

BEARFACTS 2012

Note: This information is for Architecture, Art, Arts & Sciences, and Business. The School of Engineering and Applied Science has its own writing requirements, which can be found at engineering.wustl.edu/freshmen/english.aspx.

is determined by the Writing 1 Office and is based on a variety of factors (participation in athletics, first-year programs, etc.). Students in some first-year programs (e.g., Mind-Brain, Pathfinder) take Writing 1 in the fall semester, while others (e.g., Text & Tradition) take it in the spring. Advisors will be given students’ semester placement information during the summer. For more information, about Writing 1 or about writing placement, visit the Writing 1 website, english. artsci.wustl.edu/undergraduate/writing1 or contact the Writing 1 Office, writing1@artsci.wustl.edu.

Your student ID (below) includes your name, ID number, and a photo of you. This is the card that you make meal point and Bear Bucks transactions with, swipe into your residential hall with, use for print access, etc. The white card below, issued by Residential Life, will swipe you into your suite and room. It can’t be used elsewhere on campus, but you should have both of these cards on you at all times!

eBilling Statements Once you have access to WebSTAC, please invite your parent or family members to view your e-statements. You will need to invite them under Billing Records, Pay/View My Bill, My Profile, then select Invite Other Payer. Your family member will promptly receive an email with an activation code and a link to the parent billing portal. Your family member will also need your student ID number to complete this process. Please note, the parent-billing portal is separate from WebSTAC and only allows them access to your billing information; all other student record information will remain private. For more information regarding eBilling, please visit the FAQ’s page, studentaccounting.wustl.edu.

Student ID Cards Your Washington University Student Identification Card may be small in size but it has the power to do many things. Your ID card is not only proof of being a student at Wash U, but it also holds your points for your meal plan, gives you access to buildings, computer labs on campus, and much more! Anytime you want to grab a bite or sit down for a meal with your friends, you’ll just swipe your ID card at the checkout line and the points you use will be automatically deducted from your meal plan balance. If you want to check out how many meal points are left on your account, you simply log into your WebSTAC account, and there’s a link to the balance of your individual meal plan. Students also have the option to use their WUSTL ID card for laundry services and snack and beverage purchases at selected vending machines. Students can go online through WebSTAC and add value to their Bear Bucks account at any time. Visit card.wustl.edu for more information. You will receive your student ID card when you arrive on campus; if you come to a summer program such as ArtSci Summer Weekend, Engineering Summer Weekend, or TRANSFERmations, you will pick up your ID in the summer. If you lose your ID or need it replaced, visit the University Registrar office in the lower level of the Women’s Building, room 50, or contact them at 314.935.5959.

Use your @wustl.edu Email!

It’s very important that you start using your @wustl.edu email address once you have it. It’s the main way you’ll receive a lot of information from the University.

WebSTAC, WUSTL Key, and University Email WebSTAC is the WUSTL website where you will register for courses, see your grades, check your meal plan points and Bear Bucks activity, and much, much more! WUSTL Key is the set of login credentials you’ll use to access WebSTAC and many other WUSTL online services. All entering freshmen and transfer students will receive notification in the summer from the University Registrar with information about firstyear.wustl.edu

WebSTAC, your WUSTL Key, and your University email address.

Online Alcohol Education Each student is expected to take an online alcohol education course before coming to campus for Bear Beginnings: New Student Fall Orientation. It provides reliable information for making responsible decisions about alcohol throughout your college experience. Even if you don’t drink, it can help you cope with a friend’s drinking. You will receive instructions from Student Health Services about how to log on to the alcohol education course via email this summer.

USING WEBSTAC WebSTAC is your point of access to your academic record at Washington University, and more. Using WebSTAC tools, you can add and drop classes, check grades, and request an official transcript, as well as review billing information and access Dining Services, Campus Card, and Residential Life program sites. The privacy of your student records is protected by law under the federal Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). Certain pieces of “directory information” on your record may be publicly available, such as your address and phone number, unless you have placed an information restriction on your record, which is your option under the law. For more information, check out the online Help at WebSTAC. The website is easy to access: visit webstac.wustl.edu and log in using your WUSTL Key and password. Here’s a brief overview of some of WebSTAC’s functionality.

This is the WebSTAC homepage. Unless you already used your WUSTL Key to log into the network from a different University website, you’ll see this page when you visit.

BEARFACTS 2012

›

Once you’ve logged in, an overview of all your University-affiliated information is available. The menu on the left also expands, enabling you to keep track of your classes, billing records, housing information, activity on your campus card, and more. We’ll highlight some of these features on the next page, but you should definitely take some time to explore the different menus and see how WebSTAC works.

› ›

Registration Worksheet Under Courses and Registration, click Registration Worksheet to launch a window that can help you prepare for registration and plan out your course schedule for the upcoming semester. This is a great tool for keeping track of the classes you’re interested in taking and also being able to see what your day-to-day schedule will be like, and a great way to discuss course choices with your academic advisor.

Course Listings To view course listings, click Courses and Registration , then Course Listings from the expanded menu. This will launch a window, like the one to the left, that allows you to browse all courses offered by the University in a few different ways. An easy way to look at the offerings is to click Listing under the By Semester menu. This option allows you to view courses in specific departments after you select a school.

› firstyear.wustl.edu

Your First Few Days Move-in Day Bear Beginnings: New Student Fall Orientation activities officially begin at 5:00PM on Thursday, August 23, 2012 with residential college floor meetings and transfer student meetings; however, all on-campus and University-owned housing is accessible for move-in on Thursday starting at 8:30AM. When you arrive on campus, you will be greeted by First Year Center staff who will give you directions on where and how to unload your vehicle closest to your residence house so you can check in. You will have 30 minutes at this location to unload and then you will be asked to park in a more permanent space on campus. More information on parking for Bear Beginnings can be found on the First Year Center website, firstyear.wustl.edu. At check-in, Residential Life and First Year Center staff will give you your room key and your move-in packet, which contains the Bear Beginnings schedule, your student ID, and your U-Pass.

Bear Beginnings: New Student Fall Orientation

Freshmen If you are a living on the South 40, you will want to enter on Shepley Drive, located off Big Bend Boulevard. Freshman check-in will be located in the lobby of your residential college. For details, visit reslife.wustl.edu.

Transfers Transfer students living on the South 40 will check in at Residential Life, located in South 40 House. For details, visit reslife.wustl.edu. If you are living in the Village House, Village East, Lopata House, Millbrook apartments, or in off-campus Residential Life buildings, checkin will be located on the North Side of campus in the Village House Living Room. You should enter campus on Snow Way Drive, located off Big Bend Boulevard.

Thursday, August 23 - Monday, August 27

BEAR BEGINNINGS IS YOUR OFFICIAL INTRODUCTION TO WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY Washington University’s New Student Fall Orientation, Bear Beginnings, officially begins Thursday, August 23, 2012, with movein day, residential college floor meetings, transfer student meetings, and Convocation. Bear Beginnings, held from August 23rd through August 27th, will aid you with your academic, social, cultural, and personal transition to Washington University and St. Louis. Our programs and events will provide you with an opportunity to learn about the University and meet your peers before classes begin on Tuesday, August 28th. During this time, you will have the chance to meet with your advisor and finalize your course schedule. You will also attend programs and events where you can explore what it means to be a Wash U student both inside and outside of the classroom while meeting others who are new to WUSTL. By fully participating in Bear Beginnings, you’ll have an opportunity to discover not only the campus community, but also the greater St. Louis community in which the campus resides. A select group of students, known as Washington University Student Associates (WUSAs), will be on campus on the day you arrive to begin to assist you with your transition into Wash U. The WUSAs will provide assistance during all Bear Beginnings activities and throughout your first year. They are here to help you with navigating campus; to act as upperclass guides and mentors; to provide academic information regarding dates, policies, and procedures; and to answer any and all questions you may have. You will be seeing them a lot during the year, so take advantage of their expertise and knowledge. All of us here look forward to meeting you in the fall! Please visit the First Year Center website at firstyear.wustl.edu for Bear Beginnings schedules, information on preparing for your arrival, and helpful

BEARFACTS 2012

If you’d like to check out the schedule prior to arriving on campus, visit the First Year Center website, firstyear.wustl.edu.

resources and links. If you’re still unsure, don’t be afraid to email newbears@wustl.edu or give us a call 314.935.5040 with any pending questions or comments! See you on Thursday, August 23rd!

First Year Reading Program Enter the FYRP Contest! fyrp.wustl.edu

Keep an eye out for your First Year Reading Program (FYRP) book, The Other Wes Moore: One Name, Two Fates, which will be arriving in your mailbox later in the summer. Chosen by a selection committee of students, faculty, and staff, the First Year Reading Program book is an interesting and stimulating read around which your first academic experience at Washington University will be based. Read the book before your arrival on campus and explore its themes in your mind. What do you think? What are your opinions? What would you like to ask your new classmates or professors? During Bear Beginnings: New Student Fall Orientation, you will participate in a discussion of the book, led by a member of the Wash U community, along with other new students. We urge you to approach the First Year Reading Program discussions in a spirit of openness. This is a unique and valuable opportunity to challenge yourself, share your ideas, learn about different viewpoints, and to meet and engage in dialogue with your classmates. There are no right or wrong answers, no grades, and diverse viewpoints and perspectives will be encouraged and respected. The more involved you choose to be, the more you will take away from this experience. Throughout the first semester, you will encounter themes from the book in classes, discussions, and engaging on-campus programming. For more information, check out the First Year Reading Program website, fyrp.wustl.edu. Happy reading!

Getting to campus Washington University is easily accessible by car, plane, train, and public transportation. You’ll want to take with your family this summer to plan out what the best way for you to arrive will be.

plane Lambert-St. Louis International Airport is about a 20 minute drive from campus and connects you with major cities across the country. The airport is served by Air Canada, Air Tran, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airlines, United Airlines, and US Airways, along with some smaller carriers. You can get to campus by taking either MetroLink or a car.

Train Union Station serves as a connection point for Amtrak, making it easy to reach Chicago and Kansas City. The station is about 15 minutes east of campus in downtown St. Louis.

Car Whether you’re driving from your house (wherever that may be) to campus or coming from the airport, campus is easy to get to by car. Located just off of I-64, Washington University’s suburban location is very car-friendly and many parking areas are located across firstyear.wustl.edu

campus. You can park anywhere on campus whil Bear Beginnings is in session, so you won’t need to worry about a parking pass unless you are a commuter or transfer student with a parking pass. You cannot, however, park in a red-zone spot at any time.

Arrival Information

Driving to campus for Move-In Day?

When you move in, you will be greeted by staff who will give you directions on where and how to unload your vehicle. You will have 30 minutes at this location to unload and then you will be asked to park in a more permanent space on campus.

If you’re living on the South 40, you’ll want to get directions to 1 Shepley Drive Clayton, MO 63105

For the duration of Bear Beginnings, you will not need a parking permit and you are allowed to park in any space available on campus except for designated red parking spaces. If you park at a meter, you must pay for parking. We encourage you and your family to park in the lot east of Brookings Hall during Bear Beginnings as this location is where events will end Thursday evening.

If you’re on the North Side, you’ll want to find directions to 6985 Snow Way University City, MO 63130

Freshmen living on-campus are not allowed to have cars. This regulation is taken very seriously and violations of this will have grave implications. For more information, visit parking.wustl.edu.

Some navigation systems may also recognize St. Louis as the city for both of the above addresses, but these are the official names of the cities Wash U sits in.

Transfer and commuter students who plan to bring a car to campus will have to purchase a campus parking permit. This can be done ahead of time online at parking.wustl.edu. You may also stop by Parking Services weekdays between 8:30AM and 5:00AM on Washington University’s North Campus. Directions to North Campus can be found on the Parking and Transportation website.

Where to Unload your car Wallace Garage

Shepley garage

You’ll unload here if you’re living in Brookings or Wayman Crow

Enter Here

Living on the South 40? On Move-In Day, you’ll enter from Big Bend Blvd. and proceed through the check-point, where you’ll get a temporary parking pass and directions to the unloading zone for your residential college.

This garage will offer some short term parking on Move-In Day.

Foot Path to main C ampus

»» Shepley Drive »» »» Wallace Drive ««

»» Big Bend Boulevard ««

»» Forsyth Boulevard ««

The Swamp

If you’re living around the South 40, you’ll be directed down to the Swamp where students will be waiting to help you unload your stuff. »» Wydown Boulevard ««

Arrows before and after street names indicate the direction of travel.

BEARFACTS 2012

PEOPLE YOU WILL MEET by jOrdan Zipkin

The day I arrived at Wash U, I can remember one sensation above all others: confusion. I was in St. Louis, Missouri, ready to find out which room would become my home for the next year. As soon as my car stopped, I was greeted by a few friendly faces who said they were WUSAs and helped me unpack. WUSAs (pronounced woosahs) I thought, okay, I can remember that. I then met RAs, RCDs, STCs, RPHEs, RPMs, and ESTers and yes, I was lost by all these acronyms. Who was important? What did I need to remember? I had only been at school 20 minutes and I was already more confused than I anticipated being. You will meet a lot of different people in your first day at school, but you will quickly discover what the acronyms mean and how each group is there to help you out. Lets start with the people you will see frequently during your first few days, the most important ones. Each freshman and transfer/exchange student floor has WUSAs (Washington University Student Associates) who are mainly sophomores and juniors. These students will be with you and your floor during orientation and throughout your entire first year. Their job is to ease the transition and act as an academic resource for you. These students are very friendly and can give you a different perspective on many of the questions you may have about school life, classes, or anything! You will also have an RA (Residential Advisor) who is a junior or senior student, living on your floor. RAs are essentially in charge of the floor, and while they strive to encourage floor bonding they also enforce Residential Life policy. RAs and WUSAs will work together throughout the year to organize fun events and activities such as study breaks, icebreakers, or to inform you about important academic deadlines. The RAs report to an RCD (Residential College Director), a professional staff member who lives in the residence college. The others are available to help you in a more direct role. STCs (Student Technology Coordinators) are the go-to people for tech issues. RPHEs (Residential Peer Health Educators) provide support and guidance for many of the social issues that arise in college. RPMs (Residential Peer Mentors) offer academic support for specific classes. EST (Emergency Support Team) are students who will be first on the scene if there are any medical emergencies. I understand that this is a lot to see and take in. Believe me when I say I did not understand all the acronyms until at least one month into school. The important thing to remember is that there are students around you who are here to help. They will not be offended if you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t remember their name, or the name of their group: they were new students once too. Ask them questions, befriend them, they can offer you advice on much more than their subject of expertise, and I assure you they are ready to help out. Trust me, it gets easier all the time!

firstyear.wustl.edu

LEARNING ON CAMPUS

IN THIS SECTION Life After Bear Beginnings; Advising at Wash U; Schools & Colleges; Surviving the Classroom; Academic Integrity; Combined Studies; Contemplating Your Major?; Career Center; Pre-Professional Advising; Disability Resources; The Writing Center; Libraries; Cornerstone: The Center for Advanced Learning; Study Abroad; University Registrar; Telesis & Blackboard; Getting a “B”

Action Items

→→ Check out all the First Year Center programs and events at firstyear.wustl.edu →→ Follow the First Year Center on Facebook and Twitter →→ Familiarize yourself with how to register for classes in your school →→ Explore the academic support services available

LEARNING ON CAMPUS →→ →→ →→ →→ →→ →→ →→ →→ →→ →→ →→ →→ →→ →→ →→ →→ →→

Section Contents Life After Bear Beginnings Advising at Wash U: A Balanced Approach Schools & Colleges Surviving the Classroom Academic Integrity Combined Studies Contemplating Your Major? Being Undecided May Be Your Best Decision Career Center Pre-Professional Advising Disability Resources The Writing Center Libraries Cornerstone: The Center for Advanced Learning Study Abroad University Registrar Telesis & Blackboard Getting a “B”

BEARFACTS 2012

Your first few days of Bear Beginnings are an adrenalineloaded wave of information and new faces. During this incredible transition period, Wash U prepares all incoming students for life in the classroom and in the residence houses, but there is no way to provide information about all the opportunities Wash U and St. Louis have to offer in just five short days. Once classes have begun, The First Year Center offers a plethora of programs and events to assist you with your transition into your new home at Wash U. These programs expose you to on-campus resources and answers questions you might have about various aspects of academic and campus life, as well as the St. Louis community. The article on the next page lists many of the exciting First Year Center programs and events waiting for you when you arrive on campus.

LIFE AFTER BEAR BEGINNINGS by Tyler Perez and Sean Janda

Washington University Student Associates WUSAs support new students through their academic and social transition to the University. They serve as mentors, academic resources, celebrate milestones (such as the end of a big exam), and remind you of important deadlines such as add/drop and registration. You might also see them around your residential college floor with a plate of brownies or hosting transfer & exchange monthly events such as Festivus and spring tie-dying. Bear Bulletin e-Newsletter The Bear Bulletin is an e-Newsletter freshmen receive throughout their first year. Some newsletters focus on important dates and events on campus; others suggest things to do and places to eat off campus (recommended by WUSAs), along with student and faculty spotlights. Be sure to watch for the first edition of the Class of 2016 Bear Bulletin in June 2012. Campus Connections These weekly informational sessions held on Tuesday evenings at 5:30PM introduce students to various campus resources such as academic mentoring, leadership opportunities, community service, the Career Center, Greek life, and more. Food is always provided! First 40 Sponsored by The First Year Center, Campus Life, and The Office of Residential Life, First 40 is a series of on- and off-campus social and cultural events held during the first 40 days of the fall semester. Freshmen Emerging Leaders Co-sponsored by The First Year Center and Campus Life, the Freshmen Emerging Leaders is a semester-long program held in the spring, designed to further the leadership development of first-year students. More information on how to apply will be available when you arrive in the fall. Freshman Finale A celebration held at the end of the first year to allow students to reflect on their freshman experiences and recognize outstanding members of the University community who contributed to their first-year success. Freshman Finale is April 23rd in Graham Chapel. Home Plate Local families are matched with students and provide home-cooked meals several times a year.

It’s also a great time to take your family to your favorite St. Louis restaurant and beg for a Target run!

Parent & Family Weekend The weekend of October 26 – 28, 2012, we will welcome parent & family members back to campus. Parent & Family Weekend is a time to re-connect with your family and explore both Washington University’s campus and the surrounding St. Louis community. Lunch and Dinner by the Dozen Students get to know faculty members in a series of relaxed, informal lunches or dinners hosted by The First Year Center. Service by the Dozen Faculty members will engage with small groups of students and participate in service opportunities both on and off-campus. St. Louis by the Dozen Faculty members take a small group of students off-campus to a favorite St. Louis locale where they will explore the area and grab a bite to eat.

firstyear.wustl.edu

Advising at Washington University - A balanced approach Academic Advisor Washington University is committed to providing students with the assistance and support needed to achieve their academic goals. To succeed in this approach, Wash U provides each student an academic advisor. Your academic division will match you with an academic advisor who will help you navigate the Course Listings book and assist you with choosing courses that correspond with your interests. Academic advisors can: ›› Explain requirements ›› Suggest courses that meet your needs and suit your interests ›› Let you know about special opportunities such as study abroad and Career Center events ›› Monitor progress towards the degree ›› Connect you with additional resources across campus Some schools also have a peer advising program. Although they are run in slightly different ways, all provide similar services: ›› An upperclass student contact for advice ›› A peer and/or group for outings, to meet other students, and explore St. Louis ›› A way to learn more about campus groups and activities.

Washington University Student Associate (WUSA) These upperclass students will be able to help you understand important academic policies, procedures, and deadlines and to assist you with the transition into the University. There are two WUSAs assigned to each freshman floor and WUSAs who work with commuter and transfer students. These fun and amazing students will guide you through Bear Beginnings: New Student Fall Orientation and then throughout the rest of your first year. They’re here to help you with anything and everything!

Schools & Colleges College of Arts & Sciences The College of Arts & Sciences (ArtSci) is the largest college at Washington University and offers a multitude of classes to suit your passions and interests. The College, as it’s called for short, offers summer programs and a strong advising program to help students with their transition to Washington University. They also offer an array of seminars and special programs that allow you to experience close interaction with profesors and fellow students.

Summer Programs The College of Arts & Sciences offers two summer programs — the Freshman Summer Academic Program (FSAP) and ArtSci Weekends. See page 28 for additional information on these 42

BEARFACTS 2012

phone 314.935.6800 online artsci.wustl.edu

programs, including how to register.

Freshman Programs and Seminars In early summer, Arts & Sciences students will be sent a packet of information including the Getting Started brochure, which includes information about special programs and seminars available only to freshmen. Read this brochure carefully and if a freshman program or seminar interests you, sign up right away online. In July, you will be notified if you were accepted into the program or seminar you selected. If you have questions, contact Sarah Littlechild, slittlec@wustl.edu. Over the summer, you should expect to:

phone 314.935.6315 online www.olin.wustl.edu

›› Receive the Getting Started brochure with information on freshman programs, the Freshman Summer Academic Program, ArtSci Summer Weekends, pre-matriculation credit, and placement exams (Spring) ›› Receive an email with information about your four-year advisor and advising appointments (August)

Olin Business School All incoming business students will be assigned an academic advisor and an Olin Peer Ambassador (OPA). The business school is committed to helping students complete registration early, with the help of their academic advisor. Over the summer, you should expect to: ›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ››

Receive registration materials Be contacted by your academic advisor Register for classes Be contacted by your OPA Submit an online bio Familiarize yourself with the Olin Business School by visiting www.olin.wustl.edu

For questions about advising or registration issues, contact Lanna Skadden, skadden@wustl.edu, and feel free to ask your OPA for more information.

School of Engineering & Applied Science phone 314.935.6100 online engineering.wustl.edu

The School of Engineering & Applied Science crosses boundaries in research and teaching, as well as providing strong student support and academic advising. Prior to arriving on campus, new students will be assigned a four-year advisor in the Office of Engineering Student Services and will speak with an Engineering Student Peer Advisor. During Bear Beginnings, students will meet with faculty from their academic area of interest for continued academic advising.

Summer Programs The School of Engineering & Applied Science offers a summer program, Engineering Summer Weekend. See page 28 for additional information on this program, including how to register. Over the summer, you should expect to: ›› Complete and return an academic interest form indicating

firstyear.wustl.edu

which major you might want to pursue ›› Receive an email with a link to the Engineering Registration Guide for Freshmen by late July ›› Review the Registration Guide thoroughly and contact your four-year advisor in Engineering Student Services for more information or help with questions about course registration or your first year ›› Register for courses online during your assigned registration time ›› Take necessary online math placement, foreign language placement, writing placement, and the online diagnostic chemistry exam, if applicable (see pages 30-31 for more information)

Hey! The math placement exam is

particularly important for engineering students.

The information in the Engineering Registration Guide for Freshmen covers much of what you will need to know as an incoming engineering student. Information includes descriptions of student groups, communication within the School, AP and transfer credits, as well as what courses are suggested for the different areas of interest within the School of Engineering & Applied Science. For any further questions, students should contact Ron Laue, ron.laue@wustl.edu, Melanie Osborn, osborn@wustl.edu, or your four-year advisor who will be happy to answer your questions.

Sam Fox School of Design & Visual Arts The Sam Fox School offers rigorous art and architecture education at both the undergraduate and graduate levels, within the unique context of an independent, nationally prominent research university. The school also boasts a unique combination of academic and intellectual resources.

phone 314.935.6500 online samfoxschool.wustl.edu

The Sam Fox School is composed of the following: ›› ›› ›› ›› ››

College of Architecture Graduate School of Architecture & Urban Design College of Art Graduate School of Art Mildred Lane Kemper Art Museum

As a student at Washington University, you will hear about the Sam Fox School, but don’t get confused; the College of Art and the College of Architecture are still distinct colleges with their own faculty, staff, and administration.

College of Architecture As an architecture student, you will be contacted over the summer by Associate Dean Georgia Binnington, the registrar Bruce Carvell, and by a peer advisor who will help familiarize you with the school. Over the summer, you should expect to: ›› Receive a Course Listings book for registration ›› Receive a letter with details for your August advising appointment ›› Send your course choices to your advisor, who will register you Any questions regarding registration details may be directed to Associate Dean Georgia Binnington, gbinning@wustl.edu, or Registrar Bruce Carvell, carvell@wustl.edu.

BEARFACTS 2012

phone 314.935.6200 online samfoxschool.wustl.edu

Key Points for Incoming Students: Students will be expected to have a laptop computer in their junior year for architecture course work. If you are a first-year student and wish to purchase a computer before arriving, make sure that it will be adequate through your junior year. Students are strongly urged to spend a portion of their summer with a sketchbook and practice their drawing skills. Drawing is an essential component of the freshman architecture curriculum and practicing during the summer months will make your transition a little easier. Dean Bruce Lindsey enthusiastically welcomes all incoming architecture students. He believes that architecture students should be ready for a “different kind of education, one that involves empathy, listening, patience, and commitment,” in addition to the study of transferable principles. The importance of the “design process” is emphasized to new students. This includes a constant search for better designs and sound decision making.

College of Art phone 314.935.6500 online samfoxschool.wustl.edu

The College of Art will provide a peer advisor who will contact you over the summer to answer questions about student life in the College of Art and at Washington University. Over the summer, you should expect to: ›› Receive registration materials and a Course Listings book ›› Hear from your advisor ›› Send your course choices to your advisor, who will register you. If you should have any questions about the College of Art, contact Associate Dean Georgia Binnington, gbinning@wustl.edu, the advisor for all first-year art students and transfers. Another resource is Assistant Dean and Registrar Cris Baldwin, crisbaldwin@wustl.edu. Dean Binnington has some advice for incoming students: ›› Students should arrive in the art studio ready to work ›› Read your syllabus and plan your schedule accordingly ›› Dean Binnington warns students that in art, “every class missed is work undone,” so students should make it their priority to attend every class ›› Make an effort to get to know the College of Art faculty

firstyear.wustl.edu

Congrats! At this point you probably cannot wait to experience the independent lifestyle that is college. However, with social independence comes academic independence. No matter what kind of high school you attended, your college classroom experience will be quite different. Professors will expect you to be on time to class, on top of your assignments, and they will not remind you of deadlines ad nauseam. Here are some helpful tips and tricks to surviving the college classroom.

Stay organized. While this is a tip to surviving college in

Surviving the Classroom by Jordan Gamble

general, it is especially helpful in the classroom. Start the semester off by putting the due dates for all of your assignments, quizzes, and exams in your calendar. This way you will be aware in advance of the weeks where you have a lot of overlapping assignments and the weeks where you have fewer assignments and are free to go out and enjoy St. Louis.

Read the class syllabus. The syllabus is the key to every class and will be referenced throughout the semester. Pay attention to each professor’s grading procedures, office hours, and teaching assistant (TA) help sessions. Get to know your professors. The professors at

Wash U are quite interesting and helpful people. Go to their office hours, participate in class, and say hi when you see them around campus. If you make the effort to get to know them they will get to know you, no matter how large the class is. Overall, professors are extremely friendly and want to see you succeed. Plus, then you’ll have some go-tos when the time comes to ask for references or letters of recommendation.

Ask for help. Whether you are doing well or struggling in a class, Wash U gives you the resources necessary to succeed. Go to your professor’s office hours or teaching assistant help sessions for extra assistance. If you can’t make those times, email your professor and set up a separate time to meet (they are usually very accommodating). Utilize Cornerstone’s walk in help hours and the various academic resources they provide. Eat well and get some sleep. You will do better

academically and you will feel better if you take the time to get the eight hours of sleep you need. Putting healthy fuel in your tank is also vital to feeling good and performing at your optimal level.

Relax. Sometimes the best thing to do when you’re stuck on

a paper, problem set, or have been studying for hours is to take a break. Giving your brain some rest time while you catch up with your friends or catch up on your favorite TV shows is vital to remaining sane.

Reward yourself. After you have completed a paper, presentation, or exam – give yourself a pat on the back and go do something fun. College will provide many new challenges but is essential to remember and recognize what you have accomplished. It will make you feel better and give you the motivation to continue to succeed inside and outside of the classroom.

BEARFACTS 2012

2011-2012 CLass Sizes

33% 41% 13% 8% 3% 2%

1-10 Students 11-24 Students 25-39 Students 40-64 Students 65-100 Students Over 100

Academic Integrity

Were you aware that these actions constitute a breach of academic integrity? ›› Placing false information on your résumé ›› Unauthorized collaboration on course assignments ›› Copying items from the Internet without proper citations ›› Changing data in your lab notebook ›› Rephrasing published or unpublished material without providing proper citation

DEFINITIONS Major: n. also used as a v.- your main

area of study; credit requirements vary from school to school and department to department. Your major, or majors if you pursue more than one, will be acknowledged on your official transcript. The second major does not need to be from the same school. Example: Sally Sue is double majoring in biology and accounting.

Minor: n. also used as a v.- your second

area of study; requires fewer credit hours than a major but you still get to explore that field. Your minor, or minors if you pursue more than one, will also be acknowledged on your official transcript. Your minor does not need to be from your main school. Example: John Jacob is majoring in biology and minoring in painting.

Dual Degree: adj. also used as a n.- a

student who wishes to receive two degrees must complete the degree requirements for both degrees. Check with the schools for requirements. Example: Jack is a dual degree (student) in Business and Arts & Sciences.

At Washington University, academic integrity is strongly valued. The expectations of Washington University may be different from your high school or previous institution, and it is not uncommon for new students to feel stressed or overwhelmed at some point during their first year. It is often in these situations that students violate the principles of academic integrity. The University takes the academic integrity policy very seriously. All violations will be reported on your graduate and professional school applications. To help avoid and manage the stress that may lead a student to violate these principles, many academic resources are available. Over the summer you will receive information regarding the Academic Integrity Policy in the Course Listings book.

The Official Statement of Offense Academic misconduct includes, but is not limited to, cheating, plagiarism, fabrication of data or records, unauthorized collaboration on assignments, misrepresentations of student status, and résumé falsification, or otherwise violating the Academic Integrity Policy. Knowingly making false allegations of academic misconduct against any student will itself be considered a form of academic misconduct. It’s a good policy to always ask your professors for clarification on their specific expectations before submitting any course work. It is always better to ask for an extension or simply turn in a late assignment rather than violate the Academic Integrity Policy. If you are confused about methods of citation or research techniques, check out the many resources listed in this book. There is always someone you can turn to for help.

Combined Studies Are you in the Olin Business School but want to unleash the inner artist in you? Are you in the Engineering School but think you have a knack for business? Well, good thing you are at Washington University. Despite having four separate undergraduate schools, Wash U does not limit students to just one area of study. Each of the four schools has different course requirements for its degree; however, these requirements do have room for you get an additional major/minor, or even a dual degree. In fact, it is not uncommon to meet a Washington University student with a double major and/or minor. If you desire to pursue a combined studies curriculum, you should: ›› Attend the combined studies program on Saturday during Bear Beginnings ›› Speak with the school(s) and/or department(s) that interest you ›› Seek guidance from your academic advisor, who is extremely knowledgeable about his or her school’s program

firstyear.wustl.edu

When I was a senior in high school, I knew pretty much what I wanted to study in college—I thought I was going to double-major in political science and economics and then go to either law school or graduate school (or both). So, I came to campus and took a couple of political science classes and an economics class my first semester. Although I enjoyed all three of those classes, I also really liked the other classes that I was taking, and I pretty quickly went from knowing what I wanted to do to being undecided. Now, a year and a half later, I still do not know exactly what I want to major in, but I know that, no matter what combination of majors and minors and other classes I end up with, I will have had the opportunity to explore a huge variety of different interests.

Contemplating your major? Being Undecided May Be Your Best Decsion by Sean Janda

Some people come to college knowing exactly what they are going to study. Unlike me, some of them even end up majoring in whatever they thought they were going to. Other students come to college with a couple of different things that they find interesting or maybe a vague idea of what they want to major. Other people come to college completely undecided. No matter where you find yourself personally, though, you will definitely have the opportunity to explore your interests and settle on the major or majors that are right for you. When I began to realize my interests were a lot broader than only economics and political science and that I was really enjoying classes in english and history and women, gender, and sexuality studies (WGSS) too, I started to think about majors I hadn’t even considered before. Now, I think I might be able to combine all of my interests into a more customized major through the Interdisciplinary Project in the Humanities (IPH), although I’m still playing with the idea of majors or minors in six or seven other areas as well. Although my areas of interest are all fairly connected, I know a lot of people who are studying much more unrelated fields. For example, one of my suitemates in majoring in political science and computer science, while another of my friends is studying economics, communication design, and public health. In fact, my roommate even switched schools, as he ended last year as a biomedical engineering major and began this year as a double major in WGSS and psychology. This freedom to explore multiple areas of interest without having to pick something right away is one of the great things about Wash U. Although each of the five academic divisions (Architecture, Art, Arts & Sciences, Business, and Engineering) has its own requirements, they are all structured in way that allows students to take classes across the board (and, in fact, in any other college as well). So, whether you happen to have a couple of fairly similar interests and you want to double major or whether you want to major and minor across three different schools, Wash U is structured to allow you the freedom to pursue whatever intellectual pursuits you wish. Even though I still do not have an answer (or, at least, a concise answer) that I can give whenever anybody asks what I want to major in, I do know that I’ve had the chance to explore enough to find the program of study that best suits my own interests and that, no matter what your interests are, at Wash U, you will have that same opportunities.

BEARFACTS 2012

By the Numbers

5 68 94 3,395

Schools & Colleges Major Programs Minors Professors

! ?

Career Center Career Center Main Office Engineering Art & Architecture

DUC, Suite 110 Lopata Hall 303 Steinberg Hall 005

314.935.5930 | careers@wustl.edu careercenter.wustl.edu

In the Business School?

The Weston Career Center is the dedicated to students in Olin Business School. Offices are located on the basement level of Simon Hall in Suite 24.

Whether you are a freshman or a transfer student, the Washington University Career Center is here to help you. The Career Center offers a variety of services and resources to help you find an internship, engineering co-op or full-time job, connect with employers and alumni, and prepare for graduate or professional school. The Career Center is open to all undergraduate students. No matter what the future looks like, the Career Center believes that one-on-one career advising is a critical component to your success. Meet with a Career Advisor early to develop your individualized plan. We can also help you find meaningful summer experiences — as early as freshman year — to test potential career options. To schedule an appointment with an advisor, call or stop by our main office.

Throughout the year, the Career Center offers career fairs, industryspecific events, workshops, networking events in cities around the country, and Road Shows to help you learn about different jobs and make connections. In addition, freshmen have an opportunity to 314.935.5950 | recruit@olin.wustl.edu www.olin.wustl.edu/aboutolin/Resources/wcc meet with Career Advisors in the spring during FRESHstart. This fun program allows students to hear about opportunities and resources available at the Career Center. Plus, it will give you a head start on planning for your summer. Lastly, all undergraduate students have access to CAREERlink, an interactive database of jobs, information sessions, and upcoming events. CAREERlink provides students with an opportunity to connect with employers, apply for on-campus interviews, and signup for events, workshops, and information sessions.

Pre-Professional Advising Thinking About a Future in the Health Professions? Many students at Washington University show a strong interest in dentistry, health care administration, medicine, MD/PhD, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and public health, just to name a few. Students interested in pre-health should discuss these interests with their academic advisors. Pre-health students will take a course load rich in the natural sciences. Requirements will vary by the students’ intended professional school. Students who are interested in a future in the health professions should email Liz Drury, prehealth@artsci.wustl.edu, with any questions and to get on the pre-health mailing list. The Pre-Health Team stresses the importance of reviewing all information sent to you via the listserv, in the Pre-Health Handbook, and on the Pre-Health website, prehealth.wustl.edu.

Are You Considering Law School? Law is a diverse field, offering opportunities in a wide variety of civil and criminal practice areas to those who choose this profession. If you believe law school may be in your future, your first year at Washington University is a good time to learn what steps to take to best prepare yourself for law school and a career in law. Use this first year to investigate possibilities for your major, recognizing that law schools do not favor any particular field over another. What’s important is to find an academic discipline you enjoy and can do firstyear.wustl.edu

well in, as grades are an important factor in law school admissions. Over the next four years, take classes that will hone your communication skills (oral and written) and require you to grapple with dense texts, as those are skills you will need as a lawyer. Sign up for the pre-law mailing list by responding to the email that will be sent to all freshmen in August. You will be asked to join the list by filling out an online form. Throughout the academic year, you will then receive weekly bulletins of events of interest to the prelaw community. Freshmen should also plan to attend the Pre-Law Information Session held early in the fall semester, where they will meet the pre-law advisors and get answers to some FAQs about preparing for law school. Information sessions are also offered each year for sophomores, juniors, and seniors. The weekly bulletin will alert you to those sessions. Pre-law advising is available for all students who are thinking about pursuing a law degree. You may meet with a pre-law advisor to talk about your plans for law school, but individual appointments are generally not necessary until junior or senior year. For more information about pre-law, to sign up for the listserv, and for a listing of advisors, please visit college.artsci.wustl.edu/pre_law.

Disability Resources Disability Resources (DR), located in Cornerstone: The Center for Advanced Learning, provides resources for students with disabilities and suspected disabilities. It is important for incoming students and their families to know that the laws governing disability status eligibility differ between high school and college. To be eligible in college, students must have an impairment that substantially limits them in a major life activity in comparison to most people. DR helps students determine whether they are eligible or not. DR is the official resource for students with learning, attention, visual, hearing, psychiatric, mobility, or medical disorders. Students can visit the DR website, disability.wustl.edu, to review the requirements for documenting their disability and requesting accommodations. Students should submit their documentation well before course registration to be sure there is no delay in getting accommodations once classes begin. The website lists available accommodations including extended time for exams, distraction-reduced exam rooms, books-on-tape, electronic and enlarged text, notes, American sign-language interpreters, transportation arrangements, and classroom and housing modifications. Accommodations are determined on a case-by-case basis.

The Writing Center The Writing Center, a free service, offers writing advice to all Washington University students. Tutors will read and discuss any kind of work in progress, including student papers, senior theses, graduate school application essays, and oral presentations. The average tutorial session lasts one hour. The Writing Center staff is trained to help you at any stage of the writing process, including brainstorming, developing and clarifying an argument, organizing evidence, and improving style. Rather than editing or proofreading, the tutors will emphasize the process of revision and teach you how to edit your own papers.

BEARFACTS 2012

phone 314.935.5970 email cornerstone@wustl.edu online disability.wustl.edu

Students are seen primarily by appointment, although walk-ins will be accommodated as the schedule allows. The Writing Center also offers workshops for student writers. You may want to consider signing up for workshops on the following topics: Writing a Research Paper, Writing about Literature, Writing an Essay Exam, and Writing an Application Essay for Graduate or Professional School.

online library.wustl.edu

Libraries At Washington University, you will find a plethora of resources for research papers, class projects, expanding your knowledge, or a fun read. Washington University’s main library, Olin Library, and the 11 school and departmental libraries, offer extensive collections of books, DVDs, journals, special collections, and other media that are supplemented by a constantly growing list of online resources that are available to students any place, anytime.

Mudd Field

Francis Field

Varsity Athletics

The buildings in blue identify where University libraries are, but there are many other places to study on campus like the Danforth University Center, residential houses, and academic buildings. The Swamp

phone 314.935.4981 email writing@artsci.wustl.edu online artsci.wustl.edu/~writing

If you like to study with some background noise, Whispers Café may be just the place for you. Others who enjoy peace and quiet can find solace in one of the many areas throughout Olin with padded chairs and desks or tables. If you need to write a paper or put together a presentation, the Arc, a high-tech center, has computers, scanners, and AV equipment for you. In addition, Olin Library houses group study rooms that are a great place for a group of students to work on projects or study with friends. The other campus libraries also offer attractive places to study. Can’t find what you’re looking for? The Washington University Libraries have ILIAD and MOBIUS accounts that allow you to borrow materials from other libraries across the country. Do you need a vast and efficient journal search? “Find It/Get It” allows students doing research to simultaneously search multiple user-designated databases. Another useful resource, ARES, allows students to access electronic course reserves materials such as articles and book chapters. During Bear Beginnings, you can take a tour of Olin Library or attend a presentation that shows you how to use the library’s resources effectively. See the library’s website for a map of all the campus libraries.

Cornerstone: The Center for Advanced Learning Be sure to check out Cornerstone: The Center for Advanced Learning. Located on the first floor of Gregg House on the South 40, Cornerstone provides services to Washington University students to help them excel academically. Services include peer mentors — students recommended by faculty because of their expertise and training — computer labs, advising, writing assistance, and many other useful academic resources. Cornerstone maintains a library of problem sets for many classes; these are excellent study tools. In addition, Cornerstone will help coordinate study groups upon request. These study groups — in addition to the Peer Led Team Learning (PLTL), Help Desks, and Summer/January Intensive Programs — can improve student understanding of materials in any subject. Cornerstone sponsors an MCAT study course for pre-medical students. Cornerstone also includes Disability Resources (more information on page 50) for students with disabilities or suspected disabilities. firstyear.wustl.edu

Every year, Cornerstone interacts more than 3,500 times with students, making it one of the most highly utilized services on campus. Whether you want an intensive preparation for organic chemistry, or are just looking for a learning style assessment and some quick advising, Cornerstone can be an invaluable part of every student’s academic life. Come in to meet your goals for academic success — improve your grade or master the subject!

Study Abroad Understanding other cultures, languages, and countries is important, whether you’re an environmental engineer, artist, architect, accountant, or historian. Washington University offers many ways to incorporate international study into your undergraduate program. Each undergraduate school has developed an array of high-quality study abroad opportunities that enhance the strengths of our undergraduate programs. We offer a variety of full-year, semester, and summer programs that allow you to earn credit toward your major or minor while studying abroad.

Sam Fox School of Design & Visual Arts samfoxschool.wustl.edu/node/4133 College of Arts & Sciences overseas.wustl.edu Olin School of Business www.olin.wustl.edu/academicprograms/BSBA/ InternationalStudy School of Engineering & Applied Science engineering.wustl.edu/intstudyabroad.aspx

Each year, Wash U undergraduates study in more than 50 different countries. In recent years, students have had unique opportunities to study with our faculty on summer programs in China, Ecuador, France, Italy, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Senegal, Spain and the United Kingdom.

University Registrar The Office of the University Registrar is responsible for data and services pertaining to the academic records of all Washington University students. Located in the Women’s Building, the office issues official transcripts, diplomas, and provides verification of student enrollment and degrees earned for all students on the Danforth Campus. The office also provides support for the entire Student Information System, which includes web applications like WebSTAC and Course Listings.

Telesis and Blackboard Telesis and Blackboard are web-based course content management tools that professors and instructors use to make information about classes available online. By using your WUSTL key ID and password, you can log onto either Telesis or Blackboard to check out class descriptions, calendars, syllabi, and assignments for some of your classes. Instructors may use Telesis or Blackboard to keep students updated on their grades and announcements. Both systems also have an online discussion board where members of the class can post comments about topics related to the course. You can check out Telesis at telesis.wustl.edu where you will find an Introduction to Telesis for Students worksheet that will help you with the system. Blackboard information is available at bb.wustl.edu.

BEARFACTS 2012

If you are facing the Women’s Building, enter from the set of doors on either side of the main staircase and then go left when you’re inside the building. The Registrar’s office is on the west side of the lower level.

GETTING A “B” by DIVYA VERMA

I went to a high school that offered exactly four AP classes, where the most advanced math was Calc I, and where only about 30 percent of each graduating class went on to attend four-year universities. It didn’t take a lot of effort to excel in my coursework. For all of my schooling prior to college, I never got anything but straight As. I knew transitioning to college would be difficult, but I figured with some hard work and a few study groups, I would have no problem maintaining my perfect grades. When I got to Wash U, I did really well for the first few weeks with a minimal amount of studying; I got As on quizzes and short papers, which made me think my plan would work out. And, I was simultaneously able to balance a social life and also explore campus and the surrounding area. But when the first set of midterms rolled around, I felt really overwhelmed. It was really hard to balance all of my classes. While I did really well in one class, a different class would slip. Then, I would rush to focus on another class, neglecting another. I couldn’t figure out how to balance all of my work. Everyone around me seemed to be doing better than I was and, at the same time, they all seemed to be having more fun as well. The end of the semester came, and with a lot of hard work, I was able to pull all of my grades up to an acceptable level. Although, I certainly did not get straight As. And, at first, I seriously felt like giving up. I figured that if I couldn’t do as well as I had expected, then I probably shouldn’t have chosen to go to such a challenging university. But as I thought more about my first semester, and talked to my parents and my academic advisor, I realized I hadn’t done too badly. And if nothing else, I had learned a lot about my study habits, my strengths and weaknesses, and most importantly, my interests. The classes at Wash U are certainly challenging, and while I will never have a perfect GPA, I know way more about myself and about the world than I did when I first got to college. I think I finally figured out that it’s less important to get straight As than it is to understand course materials and obtain new knowledge. And now, I realize that all I can do is continue to try my hardest and take classes that I love, which is so much more fulfilling than getting straight As.

firstyear.wustl.edu

LIVING ON CAMPUS

IN THIS SECTION WUSTL’s Repetitive Naming System; The Transfer Experience; The South 40; The Residential College System; Roommate Relations; Meal Plans; Dining on Campus; Home Plate; The Office of Residential Life; Shipping to Campus; Shopping and Packing; Student Entrepreneurial Program (StEP); Staying Healthy; Wash U Nightlife; The Wash U Party Scene; Finances; Student Technology Services; In Case of Emergency; Washington University Police Department; Parking and Transportation; Special Consideration: Commuting From Home or Off-Campus; Special Consideration: International Students; Special Consideration: Transfer Students

Action Items

→→ Complete your health forms and submit them to Student Health Services (SHS) →→ Transfer your prescriptions to the WU Pharmacy →→ Check for your housing assignment on WebSTAC in July →→ Contact your roommate to decide who’s bringing what →→ Notify Dining Services if you have special dietary concerns →→ Sign up for Home Plate →→ Consider shipping your belongings to campus or purchasing some of your school supplies once you arrive in St. Louis →→ Establish a budget →→ Share your student account billing statement with your parents or family members →→ Add money to your Bear Bucks account →→ Add the Washington University Politce Department phone number to the contacts in your phone: 314.935.5555

LIVING ON CAMPUS →→ →→ →→ →→ →→ →→ →→ →→ →→ →→ →→ →→ →→ →→ →→ →→ →→ →→ →→ →→

Section Contents Houses vs. Halls: Breaking Down WUSTL’s Repetitive Naming System The Transfer Experience Living on the South 40 Roommate Relations Meal Plans Where Can You Eat On Campus? Home Plate The Office of Residential Life Shipping to Campus Shopping & Packing Student Entrepreneurial Program (StEP) Staying Healthy Wash U Nightlife Wash U Party Scene Finances Student Technology Services (STS) Know “Where To Go” in an Emergency Washington University Police Department Parking & Transportation Special Considerations for Commuting Students International Students Transfer Students

One of the most important aspects of your first year at Washington University is the residential community you will join. The variety of living environments in our residential colleges will make it easy for you to live comfortably, study hard, and build friendships that will last throughout your college career and your lifetime. As a member of the residential college community, you’ll get to know others closely and become involved in numerous activities and organizations. You will be encouraged and supported in your intellectual development and your relationships with others — students, faculty, and staff. Washington University’s residential areas include 10 residential colleges on the part of campus we call the South 40, located at the southwest end of the Danforth Campus. Each residential college comprises one, two, or three separate houses that form a single community. Our residential colleges have social lounges, study rooms, personal computing labs, and recreation rooms. As you become more familiar with your residential college, you will find a dedicated group of people willing and able to help with your questions. Resident Advisors (RAs) are highly trained upperclass students who live in the residence houses, providing service to their peers as leaders, confidants, resources, and friends. In addition, each college has a Residential College Director (RCD), a professional staff member who manages the day-to-day operations. The RCD works with the RAs and interacts with students in the colleges. Each college also has its own dedicated housekeeping and maintenance personnel. The South 40 is a great place to begin your experience at Washington University, and to meet people and get involved. All first-year students are expected to reside on campus. While local students are not required to live on campus, most choose to do so. Living on campus is so much more than sleeping and studying. The South 40 is a “small town” with its own fitness center, dining facilities, technology center, meeting rooms, intramural fields, basketball and sand volleyball courts, recreation and game rooms, and music practice rooms. In addition, Bear Necessities, a gift shop; Paws & Go, a convenience store; the mailroom; and several student-run businesses are located on the South 40.

BEARFACTS 2012

Houses vs Halls: Breaking Down WUSTL’s Repetitive Naming System Imagine this: it’s the first day of classes and you finally feel like a real Wash U student. You leave your room in search of your classes with a campus map and your WebSTAC schedule clutched tightly in hand. Already late, you pray that there is at least one upperclassman around who can tell you how to get to Lopata. Unfortunately, the first lesson you learn as a WU student is that not only do most of the campus buildings look the same, but some apparently share the same name as well. To avoid this horrendous nightmare, here is a list of the places on campus that have similar names, and a description of the traits that distinguish them.

Danforth Campus vs. Danforth House vs. Danforth University Center Several members of the Danforth family have distinguished themselves and made lasting contributions that have shaped Washington University. In the fall of 2006, Hilltop Campus was renamed the Danforth Campus. The Danforth Campus includes main campus (academic buildings), the South 40, and the North Side residential area. Since undergraduates spend most of their time on the Danforth Campus, students don’t really use “Danforth” to refer to Wash U’s main campus. Danforth House on the South 40 is one of the freshmen residence houses. This is usually what students are referring to when they say “Danforth.” The Danforth University Center, usually referred to as the DUC (pronounced “duck”), offers dining areas, lounges, meeting rooms, and offices of several student services.

Brookings Hall vs. Brookings Residential College Brookings Hall, the big castle-like structure on the east side of campus, was completed in 1902 and served as the administration building of the 1904 World Fair. Today, it serves as an administration building for the University, housing the offices of the Chancellor, Student Financial Services, Undergraduate Admissions, and more. When people say the word “Brookings” by itself, they generally mean this location. Brookings Residential College is located on the South 40, adjacent to the Clocktower. Brookings Residential College includes Lien House and Gregg House. These residence houses are home to many of the South 40 amenities such as Washington University Police Department (WUPD), Ursa’s Café, and the StEP (Student Entrepreneurial Program) businesses.

Eliot House vs. Eliot Residential College Eliot House is what students generally mean when they say the word “Eliot” by itself. Eliot House is located on the South 40. William Greenleaf Eliot Residential College, named for the University co-founder, is hardly ever referred to by the name “Eliot.” firstyear.wustl.edu

Instead you will frequently hear the nickname WGE (pronounced “wiggy”) used for this residential college. WGE consists of Shepley House, Wheeler House, and Danforth House. It is located on the South 40.

Crow Hall vs. Crow Residential College Crow Hall, built in 1930, houses the Department of Physics in the College of Arts & Sciences. Crow Hall is unique because it is not subject to the Earth’s natural vibrations, and it contains a shaft that extends the full height of the building. When people say “Crow” they are usually referring to this location. Wayman Crow Residential College is located on the South 40. It consists of Dardick House and Nemerov House. The Habif Health and Wellness Center is also located here, inside of Dardick. People generally refer to this location by its full name, “Wayman Crow.”

McMillen Lab vs. McMillan Hall McMillen Lab is a chemistry building located near the Engineering complex and is connected to Bryan Hall by a lounge. People will generally say the entire name, “McMillen Lab,” when referring to this location. McMillan Hall is also located on the Danforth Campus. It houses departments such as Anthropology and Study Abroad. People will refer to this location as simply “McMillan” or by its full name “McMillan Hall.”

Lopata Hall vs. Lopata House Lopata Hall is the main entrance to the Engineering complex and is located across from Sever Hall and Duncker Hall. The CEC (Center for Engineer Computing) Linux labs are located here. Lopata House is located on the North Side residential area and is part of the Village. This “Lopata” is a plush residential area with spaces for cooking, meetings, games, performances, and other activities. It also has a suite of classrooms; there are sections of Writing I and other classes that meet in Lopata House. The spoken distinction between these two buildings is quite vague, so it is best to use context to determine what people mean when they say “Lopata.” Engineering school students will mean Lopata Hall, while everything else will usually refer to Lopata House. The best thing to do to avoid confusion is to ask!

Umrath Hall vs. Umrath House Umrath Hall, located on the Danforth campus, was originally a men’s dormitory known as Tower Hall. In 1929, the name was changed to John F. Lee Hall. In the 1950s, the building was once again renamed for Karl D. Umrath, a St. Louis businessman and philanthropist. The building was renovated in 2012 and now hosts a number of Arts & Sciences academic departments as well as the Campus Y. Umrath House is one of our newest residence houses on the South 40, and sits just west of South 40 Center. It is the home of the Social Justice Center, the Congress of the South 40 (CS40) Offices and around 100 first-year students.

BEARFACTS 2012

The Transfer Experience

by Anna Hilke

Beginning college as a freshman can be a challenging new experience. However, switching schools and entering as a transfer student presents a whole new variety of obstacles. You’re not a freshman, and you don’t want to be confused as one. You don’t have the same familiarity with campus, however, as most other upperclassmen. This can be a difficult, and sometimes awkward, place to be. When I was a new transfer student, my WUSA gave me three tips that helped me overcome these obstacles and greatly shaped my Wash U experience and I hope they will help you, too. First and foremost, get involved. You are lucky to have landed at Wash U where there are hundreds of opportunities to do this and, more importantly, a community that truly welcomes new members. You will benefit enormously from taking chances, stepping outside your comfort zone and pushing yourself to try new things. Apply for leadership positions, and reach out to others in the activities you decide to pursue. You won’t regret it. In getting involved at Wash U, I have gained both skills and opportunities that I would not have otherwise encountered. I have made close friends who I have met because of this involvement and come to find a home at Wash U because of them. Second, use your resources. You will be amazed at how supportive and accommodating the Wash U community is. Faculty, staff and fellow students truly want you to succeed and will do anything in their power to help you out. So, seek out the help that you need as early as possible and don’t be afraid to ask questions. As a starting place, use your WUSAs! They are eagerly awaiting your questions and live to dole out advice. Seeking out and using the resources available to you will provide for a smoother transition to campus and generally make your life easier. Last, but certainly not least, take advantage of the fantastic transfer community. Your peers, WUSAs, and Deans know the occasional struggles of transferring and are here to support you and help you get acclimated to the greater Wash U community. Attend the transfer events and allow yourself to become part of a tight-knit community. While I have certainly branched out since my arrival at Wash U, some of my closest friends remain those I met during Bear Beginnings: New Student Fall Orientation and at transfer events. Hold on to these relationships even as you get more involved in the Wash U community and be proud of your transfer status. I’m not going to tell you that it will always be easy. For most people, starting over at a new school isn’t. During my first semester, I sometimes experienced awkward moments, frustrations, and some lonely times. Even using these three tips, it can sometimes be difficult to have the new college student experience for a second time. However, through this experience, I guarantee that you will improve, you will get stronger, and you will learn a lot about yourself. Transferring to Wash U has been one of the best decisions I have ever made and certainly one of the most defining experiences of my life. I am confident you can get equally as much out of your time at Wash U if you are open to these new experiences, big changes, and growth.

firstyear.wustl.edu

The South forty Lee/Beaumont Residential College

Liggett/Koenig Residential College

Robert S. Brookings Residential College

Ruby/Umrath/ South Forty Residential College Wayman Crow Residential College

William Greenleaf Eliot Residential College

Hitzeman, Hurd, and Myers (HIG) Residential College Park/Mudd Residential College

Shandeling, Dauten, and Rutledge (JKL) Residential College

BEARFACTS 2012

Thomas B. Eliot Residential College

RESIDENTIAL COLLEGES Name

Founded

Capacity

Robert S. Brookings Gregg and Lien Houses

1999

Wayman Crow Dardick and Nemerov Houses

Shield

Format

Traditions

160 Freshmen 325 Total

Modern

Brinner (Breakfast for Dinner), Scorch on the Porch Grill-Out, ResCollege Dinners, Brookings Week, Making the Grade, We are the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Kings!

2004

175 Freshmen 310 Total

Modern

Crow Cakes, Bar-B-CROW, Wayman Crow Week

Thomas Eliot Eliot and Eliot B Houses

2010

150 Freshmen 306 Total

Modern

Gator Welcome/Welcome Back Week, Eliot Teas, Restorative Practices, Family-Style Meal with RCD & Faculty Families, Eliot Lawn Games Club, Community Service Projects

HIG Hitzeman, Hurd, and Myers Houses

1961

0 Freshmen 265 Total

Traditional Alphabet Bowl Flag Football Game, Brinner (Breakfast for Dinner), Progressive Dinner

JKL Shandeling, Dauten, and Rutledge Houses

1963

90 Freshmen 270 Total

Traditional Alphabet Bowl Flag Football Game, Fall BBQs in the Quad

Lee/Beaumont Lee and Beaumont Houses

1961

285 Freshmen 300 Total

Traditional BLeeBQ, BeauHaus, LeeBeau Cocoa, LeeBeau Love Week, MyTie Semi Formal, Concrete Wall Appreciation Day

Liggett/Koenig Liggett and Koenig Houses

1960

150 Freshmen 260 Total

Modern

Faculty Fellow-led Story Time, WeLKome Week, 100 Days Formal, miLK & Cookies with Faculty, trips to the Fabulous Fox Theatre

Park/Mudd Park and Mudd Houses

1989

192 Freshmen 336 Total

Modern

Fall Favorites and Fling, Dinner Derby, Mudd Cups for Green Cup, Holiday Extravaganza, Open Mic Night with Faculty Fellow Carl Craver, Fall Break Canoe Trip, Earth Day Camping Trip

RUSoFo Rubelmann, Umrath and South Forty Houses

1958

225 Freshmen 450 Total

William Greenleaf Eliot Danforth, Shepley and Wheeler Houses

1998

185 Freshmen 465 Total

Modern Whale Week, RUm-B-Que, Whale and Waffles, Dinner and a Movie, Graphic Traditional Novel Book Club, Sunday Sundaes

Modern

Casino Night, WGE Waffles, Super Bowl Party, Research Roulette with the Faculty Fellow

firstyear.wustl.edu

I, like many people, had mixed feelings about having a roommate. On one hand, I was excited to be living with someone my age; almost like a perpetual summer camp. However, I was still a bit apprehensive about the situation–here I am going off to a college, living with someone I’ve never met. What if he doesn’t like me? What if he snores REALLY loud? What if he thinks I’m weird? The day housing assignments finally posted online, I was excited. There would be the names of the people with whom I would be living for the next year. As I opened the web browser and looked at the name of my roommate, I was struck with a feeling of intense…. awkwardness. It hit me — I’m going to be living with a stranger. I wonder if he’s wondering the same things about me? I was excited though, and shook the awkwardness away, and did what any of us do when we are to meet a new person–Facebook. I logged onto facebook and saw I had a message. “Hey, check WebSTAC if you haven’t already. I’m your roommate!” I breathed a sigh of relief. I said my hello, which was then followed by him explaining that he’d be traveling over the summer and thus we should chat about roommate stuff later that week. We got to know each other pretty well, and the more I got to know, the more relieved I was. It seemed that the two of us would get along just fine. In fact, we were both planning on taking some similar classes! When we got to school, things were awkward a bit at first, as he had friends on campus already from his hometown and I had friends from WU summer programs I’d done. But we got to know each other pretty quickly from Bear Beginnings: New Student Fall Orientation events and even just talking. We got along well, but as time would tell, I found that being friends with someone was very different than living with a person. First, we found that some of our basic living styles were pretty different. For instance, he had a pretty functional level of clean whereas I would have bursts of cleanliness followed by bouts of seriously messy. Also, every time I would enter the room, I found it was either burning hot or freakishly cold. And so, the roommate contract became our godsend. We both made compromises and found it worked well. While comical in some areas, we found that having our expectations clearly spelled out allowed for us to know how to best accommodate the other. We found that (surprise!) the best way to change things we didn’t like was to talk about them! Making a roommate contract was probably the best thing possible. This open communication is definitely important, as in my roommate relationship. That’s what I have learned about this whole process–being roommates is all about compromise and give and take. And at the end of the day, going through the craziness of living with another person and laughing over the living quirks definitely marks a deep kind of relationship. We fight, laugh, and hang out, and I am lucky to call him one of my best friends. Having a roommate was definitely an adventure, and a great one at that. It’s a wonderful relationship but one that you have to work hard to make it work!

BEARFACTS 2012

Roommate relations by reggie gacad

Some Tips on Roommate Relations

›› Don’t come to college with the expectation of either loving or hating your roommate. Take things as they come and be flexible and willing to compromise. Be patient and exercise tolerance, but don’t let yourself be taken advantage of. ›› Don’t compare your relationship with your roommate to that of your friends. Each roommate interaction is unique and what works in one room won’t necessarily fly two doors down. ›› Approach differences in opinion and lifestyle as learning experiences. Don’t be quick to make judgments. Just because your roommate approaches certain aspects of life in a different way than you do, does not mean you will not get along. ›› Find a place away from your floor, on or around campus, where you can go when you need some alone time. The rush of college life is fun and exhilarating, but sometimes you may need to have time for you. ›› Don’t be afraid to let people who hang out in your room know when it’s time to leave. Your room is your personal space and you decide when people come and go. ›› Take the roommate contract seriously. You and your roommate may have similar interests, but this doesn’t mean you necessarily have similar living styles. Consider things like cleanliness (is the floor just another shelf or would you prefer it neat?), sleep (is background noise OK? Do you like to sleep in?), guests (so as to avoid coming home to a party you didn’t know about), and temperature (many people have preferences—try to find a compromise if yours contrasts).

Meal Plans All meals and food items bought on campus may be paid for with your meal plan that you purchase at the beginning of each semester. Your points are accessed through your WUSTL ID card — all you have to do is swipe your card and the designated points for the food you buy will be deducted. The meal plans at Washington University operate on a “declining balance” program, which offers you flexibility in your spending options. Points may be used at any dining location on main campus, on the South 40, in the Village, and for food and beverage purchases in Paws & Go or Millbrook Market, the two convenience stores on campus. Your points are awarded on a semester basis, and unused points expire at the end of the academic year. In the event that you run out, you can purchase your meals using the (optional) Bear Bucks account. Meal purchases remain tax-exempt when using Bear Bucks. Here is the breakdown of the meal plans that you can opt for in 2012-2013:

IMPORTANT NOTES ›› Freshmen must have a Gold or Silver meal plan during the 2012-2013 academic year. ›› Upperclass, transfer, and commuter students can choose any meal plan. ›› Residents of the Millbrook Square or Village East apartments must have the On-Campus Apartments plan or larger. ›› The Greek Housing meal plan is available only to those students returning to Greek housing for the 2012-2013 year. ›› The Off-Campus meal plan is available to students living off-campus or commuting to campus.

Plan name

points

price

Gold

3,806

$5,138

Silver

3,186

$4,418

Bronze

2,466

$3,700

On Campus Apartments

1,130

$1,664

Greek Housing

1,952

$2,878

Off-Campus

668

$1,028

To help you decide which plan is best for you, review the following descriptions of the main plans:

Gold Plan This plan is designed for the individual that requires more calories due to a very active life-style. If this describes you, then the Gold Plan is for you.

Silver Plan This is our most popular plan. This plan will

best meet the needs of those students who eat three meals a day and enjoy an occasional snack. This meal plan is the minimum required for first-year students, and is the most popular plan for our returning students. The “points” mentioned above are accessed through your WUSTL ID card. Just hand your card to the cashier and it will be swiped for the amount of your purchase. For more information, visit diningservices.wustl.edu.

What options are available for students with dietary Needs? Whether you’ve been a vegetarian for years, keep kosher, have a gluten allergy, or another dietary restriction, have no fear, your personal eating plan is easy to follow on campus, if you plan ahead. On the menu pages of the Dining Services website, diningservices.wustl.edu, you will find options for whatever you needs – kosher, lacto-ovo, lacto, vegan, and many eating plans. In addition, you will find the nutritional content of these items.

firstyear.wustl.edu

Where can you eat on campus? The Village Café: The Village. The Village Coffee Connection and Millbrook Market:

Offers international and grilled specialties, a changing menu, Kaldi’s coffee, and more. Open for lunch and dinner and brunch Saturday and Sunday.

The Village. Serves fresh pastries, breads, bagels, Starbucks’ coffee, and a convenience store option.

Holmes Lounge:

Ridgley Hall. This absolutely stunning café area has a relaxed atmosphere of fresh food and good company. Provides freshly carved meat selections, paninis, soups, pastries, and Kaldi’s coffee.

Delmar Boulevard

Forest Park Parkway

Snow Way Drive

Mudd Field

Francis Field Forsyth Boulevard Varsity Athletics

The Swamp

Bear’s Den (BD): South 40 House.

This is the most popular place on campus! Offerings in BD include grilled favorites at Grizzly Grill, Latin-inspired treats at ¡Oso Good!, Eastern-influenced World Fusion, pizza and pasta at Ciao Down, hot Kosher meals at L’Chaim, and the very popular Mongolian grill at Sizzle & Stir.

BEARFACTS 2012

Cherry Tree Café:

South 40 House. Favorite coffee drinks are available to accompany an early morning bagel or late night treat. The café also offers deli sandwiches, soups, and is home to WebFood on the South 40 — our online meal ordering system.

Paws & Go: The South 40’s mini-supermarket. Provides basic convenience items such as milk, cereal, fresh fruit, macaroni and cheese, ice cream, chips and salsa, cookies, crackers, spreads, etc.

Subway: Mallinckrodt Center. Across from the WU Bookstore. Subway offers fresh sub sandwiches, salads, and more. Sandwiches include a variety of breads baked fresh daily.

Stanley’s Cafe: Lopata Hall,

Lower Level. Offers a wide variety of lunch foods such as fresh sandwiches, salads, meat and veggie paninis, soups, and hot dogs, as well as baked goods and beverages.

Whispers Café: Olin Library. Provides an atmosphere for studying or relaxing with Kaldi’s Coffee, bubble tea, pastries, sandwiches, salads, and soup.

Café Bergson: Danforth University Center. It is the place to go for an early morning espresso, coffee, pastries, or breakfast sandwich. Later in the day, stop in for a smoothie, hot sandwich, and a cold beverage. Danforth University Center Servery: The main

dining location on central campus features four serveries: Trattoria Verde, Wash U Wok, 1853 Diner, and DeliciOSO. Also located in the servery is George’s Express, a pick-up point for our online ordering system.

Ibby’s: Danforth University Center. This full-service, sitdown restaurant offers a great atmosphere and Ibby’s unique menu offerings. It’s a great place to unwind at the end of the day. Steinberg Café:

Steinberg Hall. The café offers fresh salads, baked goods, soups, sandwiches, and features Kaldi’s Coffee.

Ursa’s Café: Lien House, Ground Floor. Late night dining on the South 40 with milkshakes, smoothies, crepes, marble slab ice cream, wraps, Kaldi’s Coffee, soup, sushi, and more. Also known for its great entertainment on Friday nights.

Hours of operation and additional information are posted on the dining website at diningservices.wustl.edu.

firstyear.wustl.edu

Home Plate Enjoy Dinner with a Local Family! Students sometimes miss the comforts of home. Being settled in at school does not mean you stop yearning for a home-cooked meal and the sounds of home. If you want to make a connection with a St. Louis family for home-cooking and friendship, the Home Plate program is just the thing. Sponsored by Risa Zwerling Wrighton, wife of Chancellor Mark S. Wrighton, Home Plate matches you with an area family with whom you can visit several times throughout the school year for informal meals and dinnertime conversation. Over 800 students participate in Home Plate and more than 300 families enjoy being host families. If you are interested in participating in this program, please visit the website at homeplate.wustl.edu or e-mail homeplate@wustl.edu.

The Office of Residential Life Residential Life, “ResLife,” coordinates students’ living arrangements. All freshmen live on the South 40, the residence halls on the southwest area of campus. Room and roommate assignments will be available for viewing by mid-July via WebSTAC. You will also receive your mailbox number at this time. Mailboxes are located in the South 40 Mail Center in Hitzeman Hall, and the Village House.

Shipping To Campus UPS and Federal Express deliver to the university, so you can send packages to your campus address. Just make sure to have your boxes arrive no earlier than one to two days before you do.

UTrucking, Inc. a student-run business University Trucking makes the tough and anxious transition from home to school easy. We have been Washington University’s onestop shop for student move-in needs for 34 years. For students living on the East Coast, items are picked up from your home and delivered right to your room. For students across the country, University Trucking receives your shipped items and delivers them to your door during move-in. University Trucking also rents residence house-sized refrigerators, microwaves, desk chairs, and safes. To sign up, visit utrucking.com. With questions, email info@utrucking.com or call 314.266.8878.

The Big Questions: Shopping & Packing Wondering what to buy for your room? Or what to avoid? There are great stores in the vicinity, such as Target, WalMart, and Bed, Bath & Beyond, so you may want to wait until you arrive to buy some of your room necessities. Some stores even allow you to choose and pay for your items in your hometown and pick up your purchases in St. Louis. The WU Bookstore and Bear Necessities, two oncampus stores, also have items for your room. Also, make sure to

BEARFACTS 2012

What’s my address? If you live on the South 40: Student’s Name CB #### 6515 Wydown Blvd. St. Louis, MO 63105-2215 If you live on the North Side: Student’s Name CB #### 6985 Snow Way St. Louis, MO 63130-4400 For example: William G. Eliot, Jr. CB 0000 6985 Snow Way St. Louis, MO 63130-4400 Your campus box number can be found with your housing assignment on WebSTAC.

Check the First Year Center website, firstyear.wustl.edu, for a St. Louis Shopping Guide to see which stores are located near campus.

talk to your roommate so you don’t end up with two of everything! Following these simple tips can really cut down on your travel load.

Residence House Room Facts: Average Room Sizes ›› Single ›› Double ›› Triple

8.5’ x 11.5’ 11.5’ x 14’ 11.5’ x 16.5’

All rooms include the following for each resident:

Note: painting is not permitted!

›› ›› ›› ›› ››

Bed and mattress (extra long twin, 36” x 80”) Desk and chair Dresser and closet space Telephone Central air

Rooms may also have: ›› ›› ›› ››

Mini-blinds Recycling bin Rising beds (allow for more storage space) Carpeting

What Should I Bring? Check out the packing list at the front of this book, on page 9. There’s a list of what you should bring to campus, as well as items to avoid!

WUSTL Campus Store LOCATION

Mallinckrodt Center, Danforth Campus

PHONE 314.935.5500 EMAIL wustl@bkstr.com ONLINE wubookstore.com

The Campus Store, located in Mallinckrodt Center, provides key academic resources and services to the University community. This is the place to purchase your course books as well as general and reference books. The Campus Store can special order books, too. Stocking a wide variety of Washington University licensed apparel and gifts, you can be assured of the finest quality and selection. You can also find school, art, and architecture supplies, as well as computer supplies and peripherals. The Washington University Campus Store gives back to Washington University in St. Louis by providing textbook scholarships and by supporting on-campus organizations, campus events, charities, and student groups. Keep it on campus and get everything you need at the Washington University Campus Store. Payment Options: The Campus Store accepts cash, checks (with WUSTL ID), Visa, MasterCard, Discover, AMEX, Travelers Checks, WUSTL Campus Store Gift Cards, and WUSTL Bear Bucks.

Purchasing Course Books The WU Campus Store knows that going to college costs more now than ever before and books are big-ticket items. That is why we work hard to offer convenience, flexibility, and options. We offer course material in several different formats: new, used, rental, and digital. For used books, shop early for the best selection. You can save 25 percent off the cost of new books by purchasing used books, but supplies are limited, and when the store is out of them, you will need to buy new copies. For further savings, students are able to RENT many of their textbooks. Renting is easy to do through the Campus Store or online at wubookstore.com. Up-front savings firstyear.wustl.edu

on the cost of textbooks can be applied to other required school supplies. If you have questions about textbook rental, go to rent-atext.com/faq. Digital books are now available at the Campus Store. Each semester, more and more books become available in this format. To see if a book is available digitally, visit the store or our website. Digital books can offer savings of up to 50 percent. If you want to find out more, go to Cafe Scribe at cafescribe.com, our digital book delivery partner. Other supplies and services ›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ››

Stamps and phone cards Daily parking passes Sustainable and fair-trade products Special orders for books Residence house supplies Snacks and drinks Health and cosmetic products Gift cards Balloons

Computer and Technology Department Located within the Campus Store, we carry an expanded selection of computer hardware, software, peripherals and supplies.

Hardware Apple As an Apple Reseller, the Campus Store stocks the latest in Apple laptops and desktops at Education prices (academic ID is required). Computers are available in-stock or configured-to-order. The iPad is available at the Campus Store, and we are still the place to go for all your iPod and iPhone accessories. HP The Campus Store offers a select HP configurations at educational discounts (academic ID is required) as a PC option on campus. Tablets In addition to the iPad, we also offer Acer Iconia and the Kindle Fire so you can read your purchased or rented e-textbooks at Cafescribe!

Peripherals and Supplies The Campus Store carries a complete line of mice, keyboards, laptop sleeves, bags and locks, and external hard drives. We also stock everything you need to get your work done, from printers, paper, and ink to flash drives and CD/DVD-Rs. We even carry Echo Smartpens and Wacom Tablets!

Software We offer the newest software available in academic licenses, including major releases from Microsoft, Adobe, Norton, and EndNote. MS Office is available for PC and Mac to students for a temporary price of $70 while Student Select licenses last; MS Office University will also be available for $99.99. Adobe Creative Suites can be purchased for as much as 80 percent off retail! Hundreds more academic software titles are available to be shipped through our website at wubookstore.com.

BEARFACTS 2012

LOCATION

Umrath House, South 40

PHONE 314.935.5071 ONLINE wubearnecessities.com

Bear Necessities Need to grab a notebook, pen, or some medicine? Looking for Wash U gifts or great Wash U attire for you or your friends? Check out Bear Necessities, a not-for-profit gift and convenience store, operated by the Women’s Society of Washington University in St. Louis, located on the South 40. The store specializes in Washington University logo apparel, school supplies, health and beauty aids, and yummy custom-made birthday cakes. It can also make balloon bouquets for any occasion. You can order gifts online, call and talk with a personal shopper, or shop between classes. All proceeds fund student projects and scholarships. Bear Necessities is NOT affiliated with the WU Campus Bookstore.

Student Entrepreneurial Program (StEP) The purpose of the Student Entrepreneurial Program (StEP) is twofold: provide students with the opportunity to earn firsthand experience by running their own business and providing the campus community with resources that would otherwise be unavailable. New business ideas are always welcome. Students interested in learning more about becoming involved in StEP are encouraged to contact Mary Zabriskie, mary.zabriskie@wustl.edu, and visit the StEP website at step.wustl.edu.

Bears’ Bikes bearsbikes.com

Bears’ Bikes rents quality bicycles to Washington University students, faculty, and staff (for the day, week, semester, or entire academic year). This service aims to provide students the convenience of having a bike without the inconveniences ownership of a bike can create. In addition, Bears’ Bikes offers full service on any bike brought from home, as well as merchandise for sale including helmets, cages, water bottle holders, etc.

Bear Discounts

beardiscounts@gmail.com | beardiscounts.com Bear Discounts sells a discount card that provides Wash U students, parents, and staff discounts at a large array of restaurants, stores, attractions, services, and more — all of which can be used an unlimited number of times throughout the year. In short, the Bear Discounts Card allows the Wash U community to save money at the places they go to most! Why pay full price when you don’t have to?

Bear Moments Photography

314.472.5825 | BearMoments@gmail.com | bearmoments.com

Gregg Walkway (above), which connects the South 40 with Main Campus via the Underpass, serves as home to many StEP businesses. You can also find Student Technology Services (STS), Uncle Joe’s Peer Counseling, and Cornerstone along this row of storefronts in the basement of Gregg House.

Bear Moments Photography aims to provide the Washington University community with quality photography to preserve the valuable memories made during the college experience. Photographers are present at many athletic events around campus as well as high profile theater shows. The pictures are available to view or purchase on BearMoments.com. Bear Moments also works with students, groups, or parents to create individual photo solutions. Any and all requests for specific athletes, actors, etc. are welcome!

firstyear.wustl.edu

Off the Row

314.329.5687 | offtherow.com Off the Row is the campus leader in screen printing, embroidery, and supplying Greek goods. Whether your freshman floor needs jerseys for the IM season, t-shirts for your friends birthday, or sweatpants for your club/group, Off the Row is your custom apparel company. Stop by our Gregg storefront or visit our website to turn your ideas into reality.

Swap (Sharing with a purpose) swapstl.com

SWAP (Sharing With A Purpose) is the first and only nonprofit StEP business. SWAP provides affordable and convenient room essentials (furniture, appliances, electronics, etc.) to Wash U students through our “garage sale” held during fall move-in week. All inventories are collected from Wash U students during the prior spring move-out, and all profits from the sale are donated to local St. Louis charities. Last year, SWAP donated almost $4,000 to Lydia’s House, a local nonprofit that aids victims of domestic abuse.

University Trucking, Inc.

314.UTRUCKING | info@utrucking.com | utrucking.com University Trucking Inc. provides shipping to and from school, appliance rentals, and storage over the summer. We rent roomsized refrigerators, microwaves, desk chairs, and safes. If you live on the East Coast, “UTrucking” can come directly to your home at the beginning of the year to pick up your belongings, and we will deliver them to your room during orientation. To sign up, go to our website, or call or email us with questions.

Urbancents urbancents.com

UrbanCents is an online group-purchasing website for the Washington University community that donates a percentage of each purchase to a local charitable organization. We feature weekly deals that provide students with the products and services that they want, at an unbelievable price. UrbanCents intends to fulfill the needs of the Wash U campus while always keeping in mind the city in which we live and the needs of the communities that surround us.

ushuttle u-shuttle.com

Ushuttle is a safe, low cost, and convenient transportation company for Washington University students, student groups, and departments. With access to a wide variety of vehicles ranging from coach buses to limousines, Ushuttle’s services include fraternity/ sorority formals as well as $10 Lambert airport vacation shuttle services. We focus on safety and reliability. When you’ve got somewhere to go, now there’s another option…Ushuttle.

Wash U Wash

314.272.0900 | support@WashUwash.com | WashUwash.com Wash U Wash provides a full wash, dry, and fold laundry service, as well as dry cleaning. We offer a variety of subscription plans ranging from full-year weekly delivery to student’s residence houses or apartments, to a one-time wash service for those who need assistance during the inevitable stressful times of a semester. We

BEARFACTS 2012

are the only University-recognized laundry and dry cleaning service, and we ensure high quality services and attentive customer care.

Wydown water wydownwater.com

Wydown Water provides hot/cold water coolers to the Washington University community. With monthly door-to-door deliveries, Wydown Water is the premier choice for superior, environmentally friendly, and delicious purified water.

Staying Healthy Student Health Services Health Tips for a Successful First Year: ›› Join the South 40 Fitness Center, a team, or an intramural (IM) or club sport (great ways to make friends, keep moving, and relieve stress) ›› Check out the foods marked “Connie’s Choice” and other healthy food choices served throughout campus ›› Get your flu shot this fall ›› Wash your hands! ›› Sign up for free stress management sessions through Health Promotion Services ›› If you are sexually active, get tested for sexually transmitted infections, including HIV, through Student Health Services ›› (Really) Consider less caffeine and more sleep

While we hope you never catch a cold or have a fever over the next four years, that’s probably not realistic. At some point, you may find that you are not feeling well or you need advice on some health-related issues once the school year starts. If so, you can visit Student Health Services (SHS) in the Habif Health and Wellness Center located in Dardick House on the South 40. The center has Medical Services, Mental Health Services, and Health Promotion Services in a state-of-the-art facility. All three services can help you with issues that may come up during your time at Wash U. Medical Services provides skilled routine medical care, preventive health care, evaluation, and treatment of acute illnesses and injuries, and lab and pharmacy services on-site. Mental Health Services provides counseling for individuals, groups, and couples, as well as crisis counseling. Psychiatrists are available to prescribe and monitor medications for several mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety. Health Promotion Services provides free consultation, programs, and information on issues including stress, sleep, alcohol and other drugs, healthy weight and body image, healthy relationships, and sexual health. Also, don’t miss out on the resource library.

Make sure you visit Student Health Services’ Incoming Students website to provide information that ensures you receive the best possible care while at Wash U. Visit shs.wustl. edu/incomingstudents.htm to complete forms and learn more about offerings at SHS.

If you find you’re not feeling well, you should seek treatment at SHS before attempting to go somewhere else. Staff members are committed to taking excellent care of students while supporting your academic experience at Washington University. Also, your Wash U student health insurance plan requires a referral any time care is not provided at SHS. SHS staff members hold all necessary degrees, licenses, and certifications to practice in Missouri. They have particular training and experience in working with university students. They are committed to the growth and personal development of each student within the university community. In addition, they provide consultation to various health-related student organizations and assist with training of faculty and staff who deal extensively with students. Read more about each service and staff member at shs. wustl.edu.

Students Help Peers with Health Issues Many Wash U students go through extensive training to serve as peer health educators on a variety of subjects. You are likely to meet firstyear.wustl.edu

a student involved as a Residential Peer Health Educator (RPHE) — typically a sophomore living in a residence hall and providing health education programming and confidential resource guidance — or as a member of one of the many student groups devoted to peer health education, including the Student Health Advisory Committee (SHAC), Phi Lambda Psi (Greek women’s health and wellness honorary), Pride Alliance or Safe Zones (LGBTQIA), Reflections (body image concerns), and Uncle Joe’s (peer counseling and resource center), and several groups devoted to sexual violence risk reduction and survivor support. Most of these groups will be available at the Activities Fair in early September to tell you more about what they do and how you can join them. In addition, you can find them online through Student Union’s website, su.wustl.edu.

Emergency Support Team (EST) Alan I. Glass, M.D., director of Habif Health and Wellness Center, is the medical director of EST, a student organization that serves as first responder when there is an emergency on campus. EST is on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week during the academic year. Students who join the team go through an intensive training process and become licensed Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) in the state of Missouri. All medical treatment provided through EST is confidential. To contact EST, dial 314.935.5555. For information on membership and more, visit su.wustl.edu/directory/1590.

Athletic Complex The Athletic Complex, or AC, has something for everyone. Located on the west side of campus, the AC’s indoor facilities include: basketball, racquetball and squash courts, a fitness center, 1/10mile two-lane jogging track, 25-meter pool, and weight room. The outdoor facilities include six tennis courts, a 400m track, and recreation fields. The AC is capable of accommodating various sports interests from intramural games to recreational play and instructional classes. It is open to any Wash U student, faculty, or staff member and is definitely an asset worth investigating. Get your first glimpse of all the AC has to offer during the many orientation activities or at bearsports.wustl.edu.

South 40 Fitness Center Want a great place to stay fit only steps from your room? Located in the South 40 Center above the dining area, the Center has flexible hours, a comfortable environment, and friendly and helpful student staff. It includes cardio equipment with personal televisions, a stretching/core area, a weight area with strength machines and dumbbells, and a lobby with day lockers to store belongings while exercising. In the dance studio, certified instructors from outside gyms offer a variety of aerobic classes, Pilates, and yoga. Other services available are one-hour massages, personal training, and equipment orientations. At affordable prices, memberships for the S40 Fitness Center, class registration and massage appointments are available at the center. For additional information visit the website, s40fitness.wustl.edu.

BEARFACTS 2012

Wash U Nightlife by reggie gacad

Coming to college, I found myself immersed in a culture that has allowed me to be successful not only academically, but also socially. The friends I made on my freshman floor were all very committed to their studies and extra-curriculars, so we would go on a variety of nighttime adventures in order to de-stress, some of which I have catalogued for you. Here are my top nine (top 10 seemed over-rated) late-night adventures: 9. Ginger Bistro on the Loop: My friends and I went to the restaurant Ginger Bistro in order to celebrate a triple birthday. As the eighteen of us looked over the menu, I noticed there was a drink called the “Kiddie Cocktail” known by many as a Shirley Temple. I turned to the waiter, pulled him aside to make a request, to which he pulled back, aghast at my request. “A ROUND of Kiddie Cocktails? …as in… eighteen of them?” Obviously. 8. Spontaneous Dance Party: One day late in the winter, my floor and I sat around studying for the next day of class, when suddenly, we found out that Wash U had given us a snow day. Papers flew everywhere as we erupted in cheers and excitement that quickly transformed into a techno/ break dance party in the common room. Full disclaimer: WU has called approximately one snow day in the past ten years. 7. City Museum and Light-Saber Battle: My friends and I got together and traveled to the wonderful City Museum for a night of child-like fun. We happened upon a bunch of light sabers and proceeded to have a battle in the dark with the light up light sabers. What ensued was an epic battle of intense awesome. However, apparently these were not meant for actual battle, and quickly broke. Then, we happened to find a series of foam swords so we continued to have an epic battle in darkness of night. 6. Ursa’s and Super Smash Bros: After big exams, my friends and I would head over to Ursa’s Café, located on the South 40, for a relaxing bit of food or hot chocolate, and we usually would play some of the board games that are there. However, once we found out that they have Super Smash Bros, we frequented so often that the workers knew us as the “Smash Boys” who would play until close. 5. Crepes in Central West End: The food was absolutely awesome and was followed by an epic impromptu photo shoot around the Danforth campus at midnight. 4. I Like Waffles: One late night, we decided to create a series of videos spawned as we created impromptu dance party music videos on the walls of just about anyone for just about anything. My favorite? “I like Waffles.” 3. Apples to Apples/Operation: A wonderful game of associations that leads to some INTERESTING responses at two in the morning. Yes, Helen Keller, you are spicy. This was quickly followed by the board game Operation. Verdict? I should not be premed. 2. Midnight Chicken & Waffles in the Village: This needs no explanation. 1. Backwards Hide and Seek on the South 40: A great way to know the ins and outs of the South 40, this wonderful game of Sardines was half spent finding awkward hiding places on campus, half spent feeling both awkward and ninja as people stared at you in the most bizarre of hiding spots. As you can see, my friends and I were kept pretty busy around campus. There’s so much to do on campus, from concerts and shows to parties and major events. I can guarantee you, that if you have a little creativity (and some absurd friends), you can find the Wash U nightlife out there just for you.

firstyear.wustl.edu

In your first semester at Wash U, you will face a number of choices. Socially, you’ll have the chance to focus on a new beginning, explore the unknown, and even redefine yourself. Simultaneously, you’ll be faced with many questions: How will I find closet space for all of my shoes? How will I share a room? What will people think of my posters? What will my RA think of my affinity for really, really loud music? How often will I need to do laundry? Who will my friends be? How will I make friends? Will I drink alcohol? Will I be accepted if I don’t? What is college partying like? These questions flew through our minds as we prepared to begin freshman year. In particular, some of us were concerned with alcohol use and policy on campus. During the first few days, most Residential Life staff immediately stressed that, according to Missouri law, it is illegal to purchase, possess, or consume alcohol if you are under the age of 21. So do RAs, administrators, and staff roam the hallways looking for students with suspicious looking red cups? Not necessarily. Washington University treats their students as adults, adults who need to make responsible choices. College may be the first place you will have the opportunity to make choices about alcohol. Before you get to campus, you need to consider your values and set some guidelines for yourself. Work hard and play hard does not mean study hard and “drink hard.” Being responsible does not include pre-partying, drinking games, or doing shots. Think about how you want to be seen by others and how your behavior will affect your community, the safety of others, and your personal safety. You may also wonder what the fake ID culture is like, if the use of fake IDs is widespread, and what the possible repercussions may be. Throughout our years at Wash U, we have been consistently made aware that fake IDs inevitably lead to trouble. The risk is not worth the excitement. At a minimum, you will be referred to the Judicial administrator. If found in violation, you will be sanctioned, which could mean you have to do institutional work service and pay a huge fine. However, that is not even the most important issue–you will have a judicial record. That means when you apply to internships, jobs, graduate school, apply for federal government employment clearance, or fill out applications for law or medical school, you will have to disclose the fact you were disciplined by the University and provide the details about the incident. So, how does Washington University deal with students who are not being responsible in their approach to alcohol use or are using fake IDs? Each situation in which policies have been violated is handled on an individual basis. Consequences for your actions may include meeting with your Residential College Director, talking with someone at Health Services, a referral to the Judicial administrator and, in most cases, contacting your parents. Furthermore, if you are caught in violation of Missouri law, you could have criminal charges brought against you. When you get to campus and are ready to attend that first party, have fun, but be aware of your behavior and the behavior of your friends and roommates, and know when it is time to step back or make a change.

BEARFACTS 2012

The Wash U Party ScenE by the 2012 first year center executive board

FINANCES Student Financial Services LOCATION

North Brookings Hall, Lower Level

Hours

Monday-Friday 8:30AM - 5:00PM

PHONE 888.547.6670

314.935.5900 Email financial@wustl.edu ONLINE sfs.wustl.edu

Student Financial Services (SFS) is a student resource for financial assistance information and general money management issues. Located in the lower level of North Brookings Hall, SFS provides services to help students manage their money wisely. These services and resources include: ›› Meet with the Counselor on Duty. If you have questions about financial assistance or would like help planning your budget, just walk in, call, or email to speak with a counselor. ›› Pay your Student Accounting Invoice. It may be more convenient to pay your bill to Student Accounting electronically. However, SFS is available to answer questions and accept payments, if needed. ›› Obtain an Interest-free Emergency Loan. An emergency loan may be helpful in some situations. Stop by the SFS office to discuss your situation with a counselor. ›› Visit the Scholarship Resource Center (SRC). As a current student, there are many opportunities to apply for outside scholarships to help with future year costs. For more information, visit the SRC located outside the SFS office, or search the SRC database at sfs.wustl.edu. ›› Research Student Employment Opportunities. If you are looking for a part-time job, use the SFS job board or visit sfs.wustl.edu to search for open jobs. ›› Establish a Budget. Use the Student Budget Planning Worksheet at sfs.wustl.edu to help plan some of your variable costs and get a clearer picture of the money you will need throughout the academic year.

Student Accounting Hours

Monday-Friday 8:00AM - 5:00PM

PHONE 800.758.0050 314.935.5274 Email student.billing@wustl.edu ONLINE studentaccounting.wustl.edu

Student Accounting is responsible for the distribution of accurate information relating to a student’s financial account at Washington University. The primary function of the Student Accounting office is to issue e-statements, receive payments, disburse refunds, produce 1098-T forms, as well as provide the means to help you understand various aspects of a student account. Students may access their billing information on the WebSTAC site at webstac.wustl.edu, under Billing Records, Pay/View My Bill. You may also invite your parents to view your billing statements under My Profile, Invite Other Payer; all other student record information will remain private. Invoices are generated on the last business day of the month for accounts with a balance. Students can view current transaction activity on WebSTAC under Billing Records, Account Inquiry. For more information, please review the FAQ’s page on their webpage.

Bear Bucks Account The Bear Bucks account is an optional, cashless system for purchasing select on-campus and off-campus services. These include undergraduate residential laundry services, select vending machines, various printing services, and all dining locations. Bear Bucks may be used at several campus businesses including the WU Campus Store, Edison Theatre, Bear Necessities, Wash-UWash, and a variety of student group events and activities. Select businesses off campus also accept Bear Bucks. Bear Bucks is accessed through your Washington University ID card, the same

firstyear.wustl.edu

card that you will use for identification, building access, and your meal plan! 98% of all undergraduate students have a Bear Bucks account. Students can initially purchase Bear Bucks on the housing application and manage their Bear Bucks account through WebSTAC. Funds remain available until you leave the University. Up to $1,000 may be billed to a student account through WebSTAC each semester. Additional funds may also be added to the account with a credit or debit card via Guest Deposit on card.wustl.edu.

Banking Options While it may be easier to maintain a relationship with the bank you use at home, many students find that it works in their favor to have an account with a local bank. Bank of America has a full-service branch located right on campus at the east entrance of Mallinckrodt Center (close to the Bunny). In addition, Bank of America ATMs are located on South 40, the Village, and by Seigel Hall.

Tips on Managing Your Money

Bear Bucks are accepted at the following places on or near campus: ›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ››

Bear Necessities Blueberry Hill Bobo Noodle House Chill CS40 Dough to Door Eclipse Restaurant Edison Theatre FroYo Green Bean Kayak’s Pin-Up Bowl Smoothie King Student Union Wash-U-Wash WU Campus Store Wydown Water

›› Record all checking account transactions as you make them ›› Reconcile your checking account at least once a month and check your online bank statement ›› Establish a savings plan, and try to set money aside for emergencies ›› Avoid unnecessary purchases, especially with credit cards ›› For help, contact a Student Financial Services counselor, at sfs.wustl.edu

A Note on Credit Cards A credit card can be convenient but be sure to use it wisely. Carry only the minimum number of credit cards you actually need. Be aware of your credit account balance at all times, make your monthly payments on time, and make sure you have a plan to pay off your charges before making a purchase using credit. To prevent being a victim of credit card fraud, you must do all you can to guard yourself and your funds. Always check to make sure you know exactly where your credit cards are, and consistently check the statements. In the event that your credit card is lost or stolen, immediately notify the credit card company.

Student Technology Services (STS) STS supports Washington University students in addressing their technology needs and services. STS primarily provides support services for the technology used by residential students. Those services include virus removal, high speed internet connectivity (both wired and wireless), telephone services (including emergency text messaging), cable television, printing, computer labs, and a variety of helpdesk answers for student questions. Our student technology coordinators (STCs) serve within the residential colleges as the “first face” of STS for student residents.

BEARFACTS 2012

LOCATION

Gregg House, Lower Level

Hours (helpdesk, academic year) Sunday-Thursday 12PM - 12AM Friday and Saturday 12PM - 6PM

PHONE 314.935.4688 (business)

314.935.7100 (helpdesk)

Email stsmanagement@wustl.edu ONLINE sts.wustl.edu

Services provided by STS Student Technology Coordinators Each residential college has a student technology coordinator (STC) who resides in the college and provides quick access to technology questions for residents. This person is the liaison between STS and students and can provide you with updated information about current and future technology initiatives. It is strongly suggested you get to know your STC as soon as you move in.

Lab Services There are computer labs in each residential college where students may get access to printing and to the Internet if they do not have personal computers. Students may print from their room to any network printer in the residential area. The STS website has directions for how to set up your computer to reach any printer so you do not need to worry about bringing a printer from home.

Student Telephone Services The University provides its own telephone and voicemail service to students living in University-owned housing. One telephone number and voice-mailbox per room or suite is provided. Domestic, long-distance anytime and anywhere within the United States costs three cents per minute. There are no additional fees, surcharges, or minimums for long-distance service. Students are strongly encouraged to keep their electronic records up-to-date with their current cell phone number. Information in the University’s student information system, WebSTAC, is used to contact students for academic, administrative, and emergency purposes. Students have the right to block disclosure of this contact information from publication in directories. Please visit the STS office if you have questions.

Cell Phone Service Expectations Five major cell phone providers have cell sites on or near the Washington University Danforth Campus. For current information about cell phone carriers and their presence on the Danforth Campus, please visit the Student Technology Services web page at sts.wustl.edu. If you do not currently have a cell phone plan, we recommend making cell phone arrangements while on campus during Bear Beginnings. The advantages of local cell phone service include: ›› A local telephone number will make connecting with the University and local services easier and less expensive. ›› A local carrier contact can answer specific questions about coverage and be responsive to issues while you are here. ›› Pricing terms are available to students and staff and that may be advantageous to other plans. For those families that already have a cell phone plan, we recognize it may not be best for your circumstances to make additional local cell phone arrangements. We do, however, recommend you check with your current cellular service provider for details and commitments for their coverage within the University residential area.

firstyear.wustl.edu

Technology Helpful Tips and Information for Students Technology and Copyright: Is Copying Ever Right? It is important to understand copyright laws apply to all intellectual works. We aren’t just talking about music and movies, but also software, photos, articles, and websites, for example. Only the copyright owner has the right to reproduce and distribute his or her work. Sharing copyrighted material without the owner’s permission is a violation of the law and can lead to serious legal sanctions. Washington University takes violations of copyright laws seriously, but it does so in the best interest of the students. Even if you don’t agree with the stance Washington University and other institutions have taken on this matter, it is in your best interest to refrain from engaging in this illegal activity. First of all, many of the methods used to share copyrighted material can cause serious problems to your computer, such as viruses and the installation of spyware software. Secondly, a blemish such as a violation of the law on your permanent record is less than desirable. If you are caught, you will be notified immediately and will have to speak with the appropriate authorities. File sharing is dangerous, both for your computer and yourself, and it simply isn’t worth it. For your sake and the sake of others, please find legal ways to acquire copyrighted material.

Safe Computing — Get Free Tools from STS Each student at Washington University may download a free copy of Symantec Antivirus for his or her computers. Also, STS provides downloads for Ad-Aware and Spy Bot. Each of these products will help protect you from viruses or other vulnerabilities that exist today, particularly from the Internet. Downloads are available from the STS home page, sts.wustl.edu. Students who use Microsoft Office should always set their computers to receive upgrades from Microsoft as they are released. You can set your computer for automatic updates so you won’t have to remember to do it yourself. The technicians at the STS helpdesk (in Gregg Store Front) can help you set this up, or the STC in your residential college may also assist you.

What to Bring with You!! Remember as you pack for coming to Washington University, to pack all the cables, cords, connections, manuals, and CDs for all the software installed on your machine. Remember to bring the information about your computer’s warranty (who to call) so you can get warranty service. STS cannot provide any hardware support for your machine (that may mean we violate your warranty) but we can assist you with getting connected to a vendor for help.

What if I Do Not Bring a Computer? Labs equipped with a printer, a scanner, and multiple computers are located in each residential college (see the STS web page for a complete listing). On the Danforth Campus, each school has a computing center. Plus, there are multiple computing locations within Olin Library including public computers on each level, the Arc Technology Center, and Whispers Café.

BEARFACTS 2012

Know “Where to Go” in an emergency Washington University in St. Louis is committed to protecting the safety and security of our community. Emergencies or disasters can happen at any time and usually occur without warning. When an emergency strikes at Washington University, our safe and prompt recovery will depend on existing levels of preparedness and a thoughtful response among students, faculty, staff, and visitors. When a crisis occurs You will have multiple ways to obtain information about the status of a crisis, when one takes place at Washington University.

Website: Visit the University’s website emergency.wustl.edu. New information will be posted to the site continuously. If there is no current emergency, the site will say so.

Hotline: You can listen to frequently updated voice messages by calling the university hotline: 314.935.9000 (5-9000 from a campus phone), or 888.234.2863 (out of area) Email: Check your email for updated information. Emergency text messages: Washington University

has established a service to have emergency text messages sent to your cellular phone. If you have not already done so, register at emergency.wustl.edu.

Keep your information current LOCATION

Lien House, Lower Level Enter on Shepley Drive

PHONE 314.935.5555 ONLINE wupd.wustl.edu

Washington University can only get emergency information to you if the university knows how to reach you. Confirm that your contact information is correct, including home phone number, cell phone number, email and campus address, and who to contact if you are ever injured. Confirm your information on the WebSTAC site at webstac.wustl.edu.

Washington University Police Department Top Safety Tips ›› Lock your room door whenever you leave and when you’re sleeping. ›› Never prop open exterior building doors. ›› Don’t allow people to tailgate (follow behind you) into your building. ›› Call the police at first sight of a suspicious person in the building. ›› Never leave your valuables unattended, even in common study areas. ›› Avoid walking or jogging alone, especially after dark.

The Washington University Police Department, also known as WUPD, is a law enforcement team that offers foot, bicycle, and car patrol 24 hours a day, seven days a week. WUPD officers possess the same authority on campus as St. Louis County police officers. According to Don Strom, chief of University Police, “We have a very safe campus, but no place is immune from crime. The key to reducing crime is responsibility: for oneself, others, and one’s personal property … most crimes committed are ‘crimes of opportunity,’ which can be avoided by taking some simple preventative steps.” To help you feel safe and secure on campus, Washington University has also developed initiatives to both enhance your personal safety and protect your property. Some of these programs include:

Emergency Telephones: The blue light emergency telephone system is a series of highly visible telephones strategically located throughout the Danforth Campus and extending into areas of University-owned off-campus housing. The telephones connect to the Washington University Police firstyear.wustl.edu

Department. Pushing the red button connects to WUPD and help is dispatched immediately.

Bicycle Registration and Lock Program:

Bicycles may be registered free of charge through WUPD. Kryptonite U-Bolt bike locks can be purchased from WUPD for $20. Students who purchase a lock are automatically entered into the Bicycle Registration program.

Whistle Alert Program: WUPD offers a metal whistle for its students, faculty, and staff. The whistle can signal for help and alert others to call the police. Whistles are available in the Communications Center of the Police Department. Upon receipt of the whistle, you are instructed to refrain from blowing it except for emergencies. STOP Tags: The most popular targets for both casual and experienced thieves are computers, in particular laptops. WUPD provides a low-cost option for deterring theft of your computer or other valuables by putting a patented security plate on your equipment that is so strong that removal of the security plate will alter the item, making it easy to identify, but without damaging it. Each plate bears a unique barcode and a toll-free telephone number to call in case lost or stolen equipment is found. Also, a permanent tattoo bearing the number is chemically etched into the equipment and all vital information regarding your equipment, such as make, model, serial number, and owner, is registered with STOP. Included with the purchase of a STOP tag is the Retriever Software system for laptop computers. This system, once registered, allows owners to “lock down” their stolen computer to prevent persons from accessing information stored on the computer. The system then posts a message on the screen informing whoever has the computer that it has been reported missing and sends a message to the software company to map the location of the computer. Operation ID: This program encourages students to record

the serial numbers of their valuables on an inventory card to give to a parent or a friend for safe storage, and to engrave their student ID number or driver’s license number on the property. WUPD has inscribing devices available in their office free of charge.

RAD Personal Safety Program: Rape Aggression Defense Systems is a 12-hour self-defense program for women and men that teaches awareness, risk reduction, avoidance, prevention, and basic techniques — all taught by certified instructors. For more information, call 314.935.5084.

Additional Services Bear Patrol: Bear Patrol is a team of students who patrol the Washington University campus at night and provide escorts to students, faculty, and staff. This service is especially convenient for escorts from Olin Library. Transportation: The University provides a variety of

transportation services, both on and off campus. For more details about these options, please see the Parking and Transportation section of this publication (page 81).

Fist Full of Fives: Both WUPD and EST (Emergency

Support Team) can be reached on campus by dialing 5-5555. Easy to remember, easy to use. From off campus or using your cell phone, dial 314.935.5555.

BEARFACTS 2012

(314) 935-5555 Put this number in your phone!

Lost and Found: WUPD administers the online Lost and

Found program. This site gives the campus community the ability to report lost property, view a list of found items, or register their personal items online. Faculty, staff, and students are encouraged to register their serialized property for ease of identification in the event the item is ever lost or stolen. This site can be found on the WUPD website.

LOCATION

North Campus, 700 Rosedale Ave.

Hours

Monday-Friday 8:30AM - 5:00PM

PHONE 314.935.5601 Email parktrans@wustl.edu ONLINE parking.wustl.edu

Parking and Transportation Parking Services Freshmen are not allowed to have cars on campus. This regulation is taken very seriously and violations of this will have serious implications. Transfer students should check with Parking and Transportation about having a car on campus.

Transportation Services The University also offers U-Pass, allowing student members of the University community for use with Metro, the St. Louis area transit provider, for free and WeCar, a car sharing service. For more information on both of these services, see page 104.

Special Consideration: Commuting from home or off-campus ITSA Students planning to live at home and commute to campus are automatically members of the In Town Student Association (ITSA). This organization will give you an opportunity to connect with other commuters. Look for more specific information about this group in future mailings.

Parking Passes Because commuter students do not live on campus, you are allowed to purchase a parking pass. Information about parking on campus may be found online at parking.wustl.edu. Once you have your student ID, you can go online and order your parking permit for the year.

Transfers At 5:00PM Thursday, August 23rd, you will â&#x20AC;&#x153;check inâ&#x20AC;? at the Transfer & Exchange Student Welcome held in Ridgley Hall, Holmes Lounge. This meeting is held before Convocation. This is where you will meet your Washington University Student Associate (WUSA), receive your WU student ID card, personalized Bear Beginnings: New Student Fall Orientation and academic advising schedules, and other important information. For more information, check the Bear Beginnings schedule online at firstyear.wustl.edu.

firstyear.wustl.edu

Special Consideration: International Students You will receive information from the Office for International Students and Scholars (OISS) throughout the summer. Make sure to read everything so you don’t miss important information regarding deadlines and government regulations.

Explore Program New students should plan to attend Explore, an orientation program for new international students. Explore will help you adjust to cultural differences and ease your transition to both the United States and to Washington University. The Explore Program, which begins on August 16, 2012, includes participation in a pre-orientation program. You will register for a pre-orientation program (see page 13) at the same time you register for Explore. Please do not submit a separate pre-orientation registration form to the First Year Center. This program is mandatory for all incoming international freshmen coming to Washington University from a high school outside the United States. International freshmen coming to Washington University from a high school within the U.S., transfer students, and exchange students are encouraged to take part in this highly beneficial program. For more information, or to register online, visit oisshome.wustl.edu/explore.html. You can also contact the OISS at 314.935.5910 or oiss@wustl.edu.

Special Consideration: Transfer Students Even though you have already experienced life at another university, many new discoveries and experiences await you at Washington University. Be sure to attend the orientation programs offered by both the First Year Center and your college or school. These programs will help smooth your transition and offer opportunities to meet other new students.

Do’s and Don’ts for Success as a Transfer Student Do . . . ›› use the knowledge and experience you learned from your previous school ›› keep challenging yourself ›› be very aware of timelines; you do not have the same amount of time to prepare for graduation as an entering freshman ›› make an appointment with your academic advisor right away ›› attend TRANSFERmations: Transfer Summer Weekend to meet other transfer students and register early (see page 28) Don’t . . . ›› think you already know everything about Washington University. Even though you have experienced college life, you 82

BEARFACTS 2012

are new to Wash U ›› hesitate to ask questions

Course Registration Registration procedures vary depending on which academic division you are entering; some schools register for courses during the summer. For further clarification, check out the section on registration found on pages 29-31 and 42-45. No matter which school you are in, be sure to retain syllabi and/or course information from your previous institution. This information will be important in the evaluation of transfer credit awarded at Washington University. If you have any academic questions, don’t hesitate to contact your school or department.

Transfer Living Options As a transfer student, your living options may include upperclass housing on the South 40 and on the North Side (Village/Lopata and University-owned on- and off-campus apartments). You may also choose to live in off-campus housing that is not owned or managed by Residential Life. For more information, visit reslife.wustl.edu. You can also call Residential Life Monday to Friday from 8:30AM to 5:00PM CST at 314.935.5050 or toll free 1.800.243.1853 or email at resinfo@restech.wustl.edu anytime you have questions. If you decide to live off-campus in non-Residential Life housing, check out the off-campus housing website, offcampushousing. wustl.edu. You will find information for both University-owned and non-university-owned housing. Many apartments are within a few minutes walk to the Danforth (main) campus. For more detailed information, contact the Apartment Referral Service (ARS) at 314.935.5092, email them at ars@wustl.edu, or contact Quadrangle Housing Co. at 314.935.9511.

Arrival Information Transfer students should plan to arrive in St. Louis on Thursday, August 23rd. If you are living in the residential houses on the South 40 go to the Residential Life Center in South 40 House where you will pick up your room keys, ID, and a Bear Beginnings: New Student Fall Orientation schedule. If you are living on the North Side or in an off-campus apartment, go to the Village Office in Village House to pick up your keys, ID, and Bear Beginnings: New Student Fall Orientation schedule.

Save the Date! Transfer & Exchange Student Welcome is Thursday, August 23rd at 5:00PM in Ridgley Hall.

If you are living off-campus, your first mandatory orientation event is the Transfer & Exchange Student Welcome at 5:00PM on Thursday, August 23rd. All transfer students, living both on- and off-campus must attend this event.

firstyear.wustl.edu

GETTING INVOLVED

IN THIS SECTION Keeping the Fresh in Your Freshman Experience; Campus Life; Student Government; A Day in the Life; When to Get Involved; School Spirit & Traditions; Community Service & Civic Engagement; Greek Life; Multicultural Groups; LGBT; Interfaith Campus Ministries Association; Co-Curricular Activities; Sports on Campus

Action Items →→ Add First 40 events to your calendar →→ Download the WUSTL Map app →→ Consider registering to vote in Missouri or research how to absentee vote in your home state →→ Check out all the ways to get involved on campus →→ Get excited for an amazing college experience!

GETTING INVOLVED →→ →→ →→ →→ →→ →→ →→ →→ →→ →→ →→ →→

Section Contents Keeping the Fresh in Your Freshman Experience Campus Life Student Government A Day in the Life School Spirit & Traditions Community Service & Civic Engagement Greek Life Multicultural Groups LGBT Interfaith Campus Ministries Association Co-Curricular Activities Sports on Campus

BEARFACTS 2012

As a college student, academics are your first priority. But also important are the activities you choose to engage in outside the classroom. Wash U knows your co-curricular life is just as important as your academic self. In this section, we’ve compiled a list of many of the opportunities available to you. Whether your interests lie in student government, Greek life, sports, religious organizations, or Quidditch, Wash U has something for you. With over 300 student organizations, you’re certain to find something that fits your interest. In the next few pages, you’ll be able to discover these exciting co-curricular activities, read about one student’s “typical” day at WU, see when in the year important auditions or applications may fall, and learn about a few of the fun school spirit and traditions waiting for you.

Keeping the fresh in your freshman experience

by becky greenberg

The first month at Wash U is exciting, overwhelming, and sometimes even scary. But it is also one of the most memorable times of your entire college experience. Whether you’re making friends or discovering new interests, we do our best to help you thrive. Think the fun ends after orientation? Not a chance! The First Year Center puts on numerous events to ensure that your freshman experience exceeds even your highest expectations. The First 40 committee’s signature programming is an excellent way to get to know the Class of 2016. To learn more, please visit first40.wustl.edu, but for now, here is a taste of what we have to offer: Wash U’s Day 1 Welcome will help you seamlessly integrate into your first day of classes. Need help finding a class? Ask any staff or upperclass student wearing a Day 1 t-shirt. Lacking a bit of energy on your first day? Stop by the Clocktower for treats on your way to and from the South 40. The First Year Center staff will be at various on-campus locations with maps, school supplies, and snacks, so make sure to stop by! Service First is the largest new student service project at Wash U and a great way to bond with your freshman floors. We help decorate and improve local public schools. This is a way to give back, all while forming lasting friendships. Every year we have close to one hundred percent participation, so get excited to make the most of this experience! You won’t want to miss The Big Bang at the St. Louis Science Center, the signature First 40 event. It’s a terrific time to engage with student groups and see their performances. Henna tattoos, photo booths, and Segways just add to the fun. Overall, it’s a terrific off-campus night for connecting with your classmates. One beautiful fall day, the sweet sound of orchestra will flow right through your window. Symphony on the South 40 brings the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra to perform just feet from your residential college. Make sure to take advantage of this unique opportunity to see some of St. Louis’ finest talent! Ready to take a break, get off campus, and just relax with your freshman floor? Then Saturday in the Park is perfect for you! Explore all that Forest Park has to offer, including numerous museums, a world-famous zoo, and 1,300 acres of greenery. Most importantly, be sure to attend all of the amazing Residential College events that your Residential Advisors (RAs), Washington University Student Associates (WUSAs), and Residential College Directors (RCDs) will put on. You may be attending a Cardinal’s game, hanging out at Six Flags, or seeing a local theater performance. Make the most of these unique events because they will generate some of the best memories of your freshman experience.

For a full calendar of all First 40 events, visit first40.wustl.edu.

firstyear.wustl.edu

Campus Life Through the Campus Life offices — Student Involvement and Leadership, Community Service Office, and Danforth University Center and Event Management — you can find countless opportunities to quickly get involved in meaningful co-curricular activities at Washington University. Whether your interest is in seeking election to a Student Union or CS40 position, finding a student group that reflects your interests or talents, learning more about becoming a member of a fraternity or sorority, or finding a community service project, we are here to help you find connections outside the classroom.

Learning to Lead At Washington University, we want to challenge you to understand what good leadership is all about and learn how to apply that knowledge to your experiences on campus. To support this effort, Student Involvement and Leadership invites undergrads to participate in several leadership development opportunities including the Leadership Summit, Redefining the Community Experience, and Women’s Leadership Experience. For more information on these programs, visit getinvolved.wustl.edu. Stop by and see us when you get to campus!

Student Involvement and Leadership Student Involvement and Leadership (SIL) is a great place to start your search for ways to get involved on campus. Throughout the year, SIL sponsors several programs to promote student involvement and leadership on campus. Within two weeks of your arrival, you will experience First Friday — a chance to celebrate the end of the first week of classes. As you make decisions about involvement on campus, the staff and resources in Student Involvement and Leadership will prove invaluable. SIL holds Advisor of the Day hours for all students to give you the chance to meet with staff and learn about ways to get involved and make the most of your co-curricular experiences.

Student Clubs and Organizations There is a club, cause, project, team, or group for every student at Wash U. Some students come to campus knowing exactly the ways in which they want to get involved, while others are looking for a chance to explore a new interest. Rest assured, there are countless opportunities for students to become involved at Wash U. Want to know more? Check out Student Union’s list of student groups and contact information by visiting su.wustl.edu/directory. An Activities Fair will be held in September and again in January. Approximately 300 student groups will be represented and members will be ready to share information about what they do and how new students can become involved.

BEARFACTS 2012

Phone 314.935.5994 Online getinvolved.wustl.edu

Save the Date! First Friday 2012 is August 31st.

STUDENT GOVERNMENT STUDENT UNION Student Union is Washington University’s undergraduate student government. The mission of Student Union is to create a vibrant campus community by advocating for the needs and interests of undergraduate students, developing and implementing both innovative and traditional programs, and allocating the student activity fee to unique and engaging activities, programs, and initiatives. There are many ways to get involved — visit su.wustl.edu for information.

CONGRESS OF THE SOUTH 40 Congress of the South 40 (CS40) is the programming board for students residing in the residential colleges on the South 40. CS40 creates an engaged and active community through a variety of interactive programs and events that it plans and co-sponsors each semester. Two of CS40’s traditions are the South 40 Formal and the Residential College Olympics (RCO). CS40 is made up of officers, boards, and college councils. CS40 also owns and operates a rental car for use by South 40 residents. Running for an officer or college council position or joining one of the boards is a great way to get involved in your residential area and on campus. We invite everyone to participate! Visit CS40.wustl.edu for more information or stop by one of our many events during Bear Beginnings as we welcome you to your new home.

SCHOOL COUNCILS All five undergraduate divisions (Architecture, Art, Arts & Sciences, Business, and Engineering) are represented by their own council. Each council exists as a channel of communication with its school administrators, a body to offer programming specific to the school, and as a social outlet for members of a particular school. Council officers are elected each year in both the fall and spring, and officer positions vary by school. Council events include Bauhaus, Vertigo, Art Prom, Olinpalooza, and orchestra and symphony trips.

CLASS COUNCILS Freshman Class Council elections are held during the first few weeks of school, so be sure to look for more information when you arrive to campus in August.

Each class (freshman, sophomore, junior, senior) elects an executive council of five representatives that include president, internal vice president, external vice president, secretary, and treasurer. Once the executive councils are in place, a Class Cabinet is appointed. Cabinet members act as council committee members and assist the executive committee with planning and implementing the many class initiatives. The primary goal of the class councils is to develop class unity through a variety of programming. Past events have included Freshman Finale, Halloweekend, Hunger Games Movie Premiere, Study Abroad Panel, Career and Internship Panels, community service projects, and many others.

firstyear.wustl.edu

I wake up at 8:30AM Monday morning, and get ready to go to school. After checking my Wash U email account and WebSTAC1, I hop in the shower, grab my books, and head to Whispers2 to meet my friend for a quick breakfast. When I get there, Maureen is working on recruiting WUSAs3 for her team for Dance Marathon4. We quickly eat a muffin and drink some coffee, and then I head to my Medieval Drama class in Cupples II5. My class lasts until 11:30AM, after which I head to the Career Center in the DUC6 for an appointment with one of the very helpful career advisors7. After my meeting about summer job opportunities, I meet my roommate, Teresa, for lunch in the DUC. Teresa and I met in a pre-o8 program and have remained close friends ever since. We now live together in one of the off-campus apartment buildings owned by Wash U9. We grab food from one of the several dinning options in the DUC, and then find a small table. After lunch, we walk to Olin Library10 to try to get some studying in before our next classes. In Olin, I see my friend Hannah, but don’t want to bother her because she is studying for the big Orgo11 test tomorrow. These are the times when I really enjoy being an English major! At 1:00PM Teresa heads for a lecture in LabSci12 and I head for another English class in Cupples I. On my way to class, I stop at Dunker Hall13 to pick up a graded paper from one of my English professors, and then speed to class before the 10-minute grace period14 ends. After English, I grab a cup of coffee in Holmes15 and drink it outside on Brookings Quad16, enjoying the nice fall weather. Once my drink has gotten cold, I head to the WU Bookstore in Mallinckrodt17 to pick up some note cards I need for my U College18 French course tomorrow. Then I head back to the library to write a paper and catch up in my reading for Medieval Drama. At 4:00PM, I walk to the WoBo19 for my modern dance class. I dance until 5:45PM, at which time I run down stairs to the First Year Center to say hi to some of my WUSA friends, change, and run under the underpass20 to the South 4021. I am meeting with my friend Alexa for dinner at BD22, but stop at the Clocktower23 where people are handing out StudLife24. I get to Bear’s Den, find Alexa, and grab a booth. Alexa is an RA25 in WGE26, and has to leave after dinner because she is flyering27 for the Rube Goldberg Club, which she is the president of. At 7:00PM, Alexa leaves to go flyering and I walk to the Village28 for rehearsal for the Cast ‘N’ Crew29 musical that I am choreographing. When rehearsal ends at 10:00PM, I walk by one of the fraternity houses30 on lower row to say hi to my friends, and then begin the walk home. On the way home, I see my friend Becky through the window of Kayak’s31, so I stop in to quickly catch up with her. I finally arrive back at my apartment on Waterman Blvd. at 10:30PM, a perfect time to begin studying. I turn on KWUR32 to listen to one of my friend’s show’s, grab a cup of coffee, and begin reading some of the 300 pages assigned to me for the next few days. These are the times when I really do not enjoy being an English major. At 1:00AM, and after about 120 pages of reading, my roommate and I make a late night run to the Loop33 for fro-yo, and then it’s back to studying until 2:00AM. I then prepare for tomorrow by laying out my clothes, packing my books, and ensuring that I’ve done all of my homework by checking my syllabi on Blackboard34. Thankfully, I haven’t forgotten to do anything, so I set my alarm clock, hop into bed, and am fast asleep by 2:20AM. Good night!

BEARFACTS 2012

A DAy in the life

by ilana greenberg

Worried about finding your way around campus? There’s an app for that! Check out the WUSTL Map app available in the iTunes App store.

1. The website where students can access their records, browse and register for courses, check grades, and much more. 2. The Café on the ground floor of Olin Library serves a variety of tasty snacks and beverages and is a great place to study and meet with friends.

3. Washington University Student Associates - the coolest kids in town who help new students with the academic and social transition to Wash U. Pronounced “woo-sa.”

4. A WU tradition usually held in November in the Athletic Complex to raise money for the Children’s Miracle Network. 5. One of two buildings on main campus named Cupples and is the oldest buildings at Wash U. 6. The Danforth University Center, referred to as the DUC, houses the Career Center, Office of Student Activities, the Community Service Office, Ibby’s Campus Bistro, Greek Life Office, LGBT Student Involvement and Leadership, and student media, just to name a few. It’s where most students have lunch, and many like to study. Check out the Formal Lounge on the second floor if you’ve always dreamed of studying in the Gryffindor common room. 7. The Career Center is located in the Danforth University Center and helps you find internships and jobs, provides resume assistance, and other useful services. 8. Pre-Orientation Programs; 18 optional, interest-based programs for new students that provide a variety of ways to meet lots of new people while exploring something in which you have an interest. 9. WU-owned apartments are a popular living option for juniors and seniors. All of the apartments are walking distance from campus and are generally spacious, modern, and clean. 10. Olin Library; The main library located in the center of the Danforth Campus. Olin is home to Whispers Café and includes lots of study rooms and space for quiet studying. 11. Organic Chemistry is a course that many pre-med students will take. 12. The Arts & Sciences Laboratory Sciences Building; Many large lecture classes are held in this building. 13. Duncker Hall, located on Brookings Quad, houses the Department of English in Arts & Sciences. 14. Despite their course listing times, classes really start 10 minutes after the hour, allowing students to take back-to-back classes. It also ensures that all Wash U students will be 10 minutes late for everything for the rest of their lives. 15. Holmes Lounge houses the Carvery, which serves sandwiches, wraps, soups, and offers a different prime cut of meat each weekday, as well as special events like “Jazz at Holmes.” 16. Brookings Quadrangle; The open space surrounded by Brookings Hall, Busch Hall, Ridgley Hall, and Cupples I Hall, where students hang out and eat on nice days. 17. Located at the center of the Danforth Campus, Mallinckrodt Student Center houses several offices and student meeting places, including Edison Theater, a full-service Bank of America, Kinko’s, FedEx, the WU Campus Bookstore, the Gargoyle concert venue, and several other student services. 18. University College is the continuing education and professional studies division of Arts & Sciences at Washington University in St. Louis. Students can earn bachelor’s or master’s degrees, associates’ degrees, certificates, take courses for personal enrichment, or study on a noncredit basis. 19. The Women’s Building houses all of the sorority suites (Wash U’s alternative to sorority houses), the First Year Center, dance studios, as well as the office of the University Registrar. 20. The underpass at Forsyth Blvd that student groups paint to advertise news and upcoming events. 21. The South 40, where most new students live, is the residential community located on the forty acres south of campus. 22. BD, or Bear’s Den, is the main dinning facility on the South 40, and offers an increadible range of delicious food. 23. The four-sided clock on the South 40 that is often used as a central meeting place. 24. Student Life; the student-run campus newspaper that is printed every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Plus it’s free! 25. Resident Advisor; An upper-class student that lives on your floor, whose job it is to help you acclimate to WU and maintain order on the floor. 26. Pronounced “wiggy”; the William Greenleaf Eliot Residential College includes Danforth, Wheeler and Shepley houses. 27. Many student groups and organizations hand out and post flyers around campus and the South 40 to advertise upcoming events. 28. A residential area on the north side of campus that includes Lopata House, Village House, Millbrook Apartments, and fraternity housing. 29. Cast ‘N’ Crew is one of three student theater groups, the others being All Student Theater (AST) and Thyrsus. 30. The fraternity houses are all are located in the northwest corner of campus. Often divided into the Upper Row, located east of the Athletic Complex (Kappa Sigma, Phi Delta Theta, Theta Xi, Sigma Chi, Sigma Nu), and the Lower Row, located by the Village (Sigma Phi Epsilon, Alpha Epsilon Pi, Beta Theta Pi, Tau Kappa Epsilon). 31. A popular coffee shop on the corner of Skinker Blvd. and Forest Park Parkway that serves great coffee and sandwiches. The “Cortina” is a must! 32. KWUR is Wash U’s fabulous student-run radio station. 33. The Loop is a prime shopping and dining locale located on Delmar Blvd., only a few blocks from north of campus. 34. Blackboard is the online course management system where professors upload readings and assignments. Students can also keep track of all courses on one calendar and contact professors and classmates.

firstyear.wustl.edu

When To Get Involved Many clubs, performing groups, and organizations welcome students throughout the year. Others require commitments or elections at certain times of the year. To help you prepare for the year ahead, here’s a timeline of what to expect and when. Performance Groups, like a cappella and improv, host auditions during the first two weeks of school. Look for fliers around campus when you arrive for more information about auditions. Cultural Shows, including Diwali, Lunar New Year Festival, Black Anthology, and Carnaval, are put on throughout the year by various student groups on campus. These shows often sell out Edison Theatre and offer skits, dances, and other performances by student groups. There are many ways to get involved, so be sure to look for these groups during the Activities Fair on Wednesday, September 5th to learn more about the shows and audition dates. Student Union (SU) is the student-led government of Wash U. New students can get involved with SU from their first semester on campus as senators, treasurers, or on Class of 2016 council. Elections for senators and treasurers happen each semester; class council is elected in September for the freshman class and then in March for subsequent years. su.wustl.edu Congress of the South 40 (CS40) is the student board that oversees life in the South 40 residential area. New students can get involved at the residential college-level by becoming a part of your college council or an assembly representative. CS40 is responsible for many events including CS40 Week, WUStock, and more. Dance Marathon (DM) is one of the major fundraisers on campus, raising money for Children’s Miracle Network of Greater St. Louis. This year’s DM is on November 3. You can register as a dancer and form teams with your floors or friends or can show up on the day of to participate in this twelve-hour dance party.

August September

October

November

December

January

Greek Life is something close to 30% of students chose to participate in while on campus. Men and women in the class of 2016 may go through recruitment in the spring; transfer students are welcome to go through recruitment in the fall. Business fraternities (DSP and AKPsi) welcome freshmen in their fall semester.

February

WUSAs are the students who guide you through your first year at Wash U. By around this time of the year, you may realize that you also want to help new students transition to college (we think it’s the best role on campus). The WUSA application process happens early in the spring semester. firstyear.wustl.edu

March

SU Spring Elections are held for the upcoming year’s executive council, class councils, senate, and treasury. Election packets are available in February and ballots are cast during the first week of March. If you missed the opportunity to run for a position in the fall, you can alwasy run again in the spring! Relay for Life is another major fundraiser on campus held on Francis Field each April. Similar to Dance Marathon, you can register to walk early to raise money with a team or arrive on the night of the event and participate in the Relay.

BEARFACTS 2012

April

May

school spirit and traditions

by munira boxwalla

It’s no secret that Wash U’s not the biggest school, but we’re loud, proud, and have so much Wash U love. All that Wash U pride can be seen in the amazing, exciting traditions that students take part in all over campus. Here are a few noted Wash U traditions that are a part of every student’s experience:

Convocation We get the ball rolling on the very first night: the first night on campus is a defining moment in any college experience. Here at Wash U, the first night begins with Convocation, the official induction of all new students into the Wash U community, including speeches by the Chancellor, a faculty member, and senior class student. Faculty, staff, as well as current students, all take part in this exciting event. Students sport their respective Residential College or transfer/exchange shirt (given to them at move-in) and attempt to out-cheer and out-pride each other. The Athletic Complex fills with cheering and Wash U spirit. The excitement continues as the evening ends in Brookings Quad with the taste of a famous St. Louis treat.

Red Alert Wash U is red-hot! Red Alert is Wash U’s fan-based, school spirit student group, which organizes school spirit for athletic events. This student group often provides pizza and prizes for spirited fans at athletic games. Red Alert members can often be seen sporting their Red Alert shirt (given away for free on move-in day!) at athletic events, guaranteeing them food, fun, and a great opportunity to show off their Wash U spirit and pride!

Walk In Lay Down (W.I.L.D.) One of the most anticipated events of each semester. W.I.L.D. is a student-sponsored, student-run concert held in Brookings Quad. Students get a day of free music, free food, and some awesome Wash U memories. Past performances include Guster, Ben Folds, Black Eyed Peas, Lil’ John, Lupe Fiasco, K’naan, and Passion Pit.

The Swamp Be prepared to get wet, maybe even soaked. The Swamp, located in the middle of the South 40, is home to a variety of events throughout the year. Students can often be seen playing pick-up games of just about any sport, and after the first snowfall, the Swamp is filled with students playing in the snow.

Moonlight Breakfast Midnight snack anyone? Each semester during reading week (the days prior to final exams), the South 40 and the Village open up late one night from 10:00PM to midnight for an array of breakfast goodies. Faculty and staff serve up free pancakes and waffles to students for a little food fun, as well as a much needed study break.

Residential College Olympics (RCO) Ready, set, go! This is an annual competition between the Res Colleges in a wide variety of events ranging from basketball, ultimate Frisbee, tug-o-war, to Twister and human chess. Find the event for you and go out to represent your Res College!

firstyear.wustl.edu

Thurtene Carnival Who says carnivals aren’t for college students? Thurtene is the largest and oldest student-run carnival in the country. A treat for all of Wash U, as well as the St. Louis community, the Thurtene Carnival comes to Wash U every spring semester. Held in the lot in front of Brookings Hall, there are games, shows, rides, and food. The carnival is put on by Thurtene Junior Honorary, the IntraFraternity Council, and the Women’s Panhellenic Association.

Cultural Events I came to dance, dance, dance, dance: Some of Wash U’s biggest student groups are the many cultural organizations that adorn our campus. Every year they put on large productions to raise cultural awareness on campus. Diwali, sponsored by Ashoka, the South Asian Student Organization, showcases South Asian culture every fall. Black Anthology is a student-written play that highlights and celebrates aspects of Black culture. ALAS, the Association of Latin American Students, puts on Carnaval to commemorate Latin American culture through theater and dance. Lunar New Year Festival showcases East Asian culture through skits and dancing. Tickets are often sold out quickly as many students anticipate these shows throughout the year.

Community Service Now serving St. Louis: Service First, held the Saturday of Labor Day weekend, is a service project partnering St. Louis community public schools with Wash U students. Students work with their residential floors to do service at a local school. Dance Marathon, held every fall, is a 12-hour dance party for both Wash U students and other St. Louis community members to raise awareness for the Children’s Miracle Network of St. Louis. Relay For Life raises money for the American Cancer Society and is a 12-hour event held on Francis Field to exhibit solidarity with cancer victims. Wash U’s Relay for Life is one of the biggest collegiate chapters!

School-Sponsored Events It’s time to socialize: Several of Wash U’s schools put on signature parties throughout the year. Every Halloween, Architecture puts on Bauhaus, their annual costume party held in the Brookings Lot. Vertigo is put on by the Engineering School, a dance party complete with a dance floor that lights up in time to the music as well as to the touch. The engineers themselves design the dance floor! Art holds Art Prom in the spring, where students come in all sorts of crazy costumes to fit the theme.

BEARFACTS 2012

Community Service and Civic Engagement Active civic and community involvement is a central part of Wash U’s student culture. Community service provides an outlet for you to make friends, develop leadership skills, explore St. Louis, broaden your perspective, and make meaningful contributions to our neighboring community. An abundance of opportunities is available, from one-day projects and philanthropy events to community partnerships that involve a weekly commitment.

Phone 314.935.9104 Online gephardtinstitute.wustl.edu

communityservice.wustl.edu

THE GEPHARDT INSTITUTE FOR PUBLIC SERVICE AND COMMUNITY SERVICE OFFICE The Gephardt Institute serves as the nexus for civic engagement and community service at Washington U, leading co-curricular service efforts through our Community Service Office (CSO) and supporting the integration of service into academic courses, international service, civic life and public service careers, and alumni service. As a new student, you can get started right away through CSO’s annual Service First, a tradition for freshman floors that will take place on Saturday, September 1, 2012. Service First provides an opportunity for over 1,000 new students to volunteer with local public schools, then learn about additional options to get involved at the Community Service Fair that follows. You can sign up to participate with your RA or WUSA when you get to campus. It’s easy to stay connected with community service opportunities through our email newsletter, Community Service Connection. Sign up at communityservice.wustl.edu/csconnection so you don’t miss an issue in the fall! You are also welcome to stop by the Community Service Office anytime if you have questions about getting involved. You can also be on the lookout for Community Service 101, a crash course on service in St. Louis that is offered a few times each semester. Check out the Community Service Office website, communityservice.wustl.edu, to learn about Each One Teach One, Wash U’s signature tutoring initiative, dedicated to connecting Wash U tutors with K-12 students in greatest need of support, Social Change Grants to develop innovative community projects, service trips, and University-wide blood drives. The Gephardt Institute website, gephardtinstitute.wustl.edu, also provides information about voter registration and local elections, academic courses that include service, Civic Engagement Fund grants for student-led community projects, and St. Louis nonprofit agencies seeking volunteer assistance. We are here to help you in your civic and service endeavors!

A NOte on Voting at Wash U You are joining the Washington University community during one of the most exciting times on campus, election season. Most of you will be eligible to vote on November 6, but it requires a small effort on your part. Fortunately for you and the rest of your Class, Washington University is prepared to make the voter registration process as simple and pain-free as possible. If you want to vote in Missouri firstyear.wustl.edu

(registration deadline is October 10th) or vote absentee in your home state, the Gephardt Institute for Public Service and the University are here to help you. During your first few weeks on campus your residential advisor will be able to help you register, and there will be a University-wide voter registration drive on September 18th. There will also be an assortment of other related activities ranging from forums on hot topics to election watch and get-out-the-vote events throughout campus. Take advantage of the opportunities – it is your duty to do so. Casting your ballot will be equally convenient. The polling location for residents of the South 40 (where you will be living) is Ursa’s Cafe, which you will pass every day on your way to and from class. As an alternative to waiting until the fall to register in Missouri, you can go online right now and register to vote absentee ballot in your home state. Just follow these steps: ›› Check today about voting absentee. Many states require that you mail in your absentee ballot at least several days ahead of the election. ›› Locate online information about voting in your state by searching for <state name> election board or <state name> secretary of state. ›› Check regulations for registering as an absentee voting and follow instructions for requesting the absentee ballot. ›› Turn in your absentee ballot well before the deadline! You can also find up-to-date information about voting and polling locations on the Gephardt Institute website at gephardtinstitute. wustl.edu. Remember, voting requires action, both on and before Election Day. Our generation has been labeled “the generation of change.” Data show that young voters in our age demographic have turned out in record numbers in recent elections. Let us continue to exercise our democratic rights and responsibilities by casting our votes again in November.

CAMPUS Y Learn. Lead. Serve. Join the Campus Y and be part of an organization that has been on campus for 100 years! The Campus Y has over 25 student-led programs that serve the Washington University community as well as the greater St. Louis community. Their programs span a wide range of issues and have something for everyone. The Campus Y organizes programs such as Safe Trick-or-Treat, an opportunity for school-age children to trick-ortreat throughout Wash U residential colleges, Greg Delos Y-Tutor, a program organized to help St. Louis students develop academically and to serve as role models and mentors, and W.A.G.S. (Working so Animals Get Support), a program that supports and socializes dogs and cats at local animal shelters, just to name a few. Another tradition at the Campus Y is the Alternative Service Break, which offers students an opportunity to immerse themselves in another culture through a week-long service trip to both national and international locations. Whatever you are interested in, the Campus Y is an excellent opportunity for students to find their niche. Visit our website or stop by our office in Umrath Hall, next to Mallinckrodt Center, to learn about all of our programs. 96

BEARFACTS 2012

Phone 314.935.5010 Online campusY.wustl.edu

Greek Life PHONE 314.935.5994 ONLINE glo.wustl.edu

SORORITIES ΑΦ ΑΕΦ ΑΟΠ ΔΓ ΚΔ

Alpha Phi Alpha Epsilon Phi Alpha Omicron Pi Delta Gamma Kappa Delta

ΚΚΓ ΠΒΦ ΧΩ

Kappa Kappa Gamma Pi Beta Phi Chi Omega

Recruiting Spring 2013

Fraternities ΑΕΠ ΒΘΠ ΚΣ ΦΔΘ ΣΑΕ ΣΑΜ ΣΧ ΣΝ ΣΦΕ ΤΚΕ ΘΞ ZBT

Alpha Epsilon Pi Beta Theta Pi Kappa Sigma Phi Delta Theta Sigma Alpha Epsilon Sigma Alpha Mu Sigma Chi Sigma Nu Sigma Phi Epsilon Tau Kappa Epsilon Theta Xi Zeta Beta Tau

Washington University in St. Louis is home to 12 fraternities and eight sororities, all of which help foster scholarship, service, and leadership, on and off campus. Approximately 27 percent of Wash U students are involved in Greek letter organizations and, through their affiliation, make positive contributions to campus and the greater community throughout the year. Greek students at Wash U manage to juggle the demands of the classroom with the expectations of their chapters. In fact, members of Wash U’s Greek system have a higher GPA than non-Greeks. If you think you would like to “Go Greek” at Wash U, freshmen have to wait until January when the recruitment process begins. There is limited recruitment for upperclass students in the fall.

Multicultural Groups Washington University prides itself on being a diverse and inclusive environment. In doing so, it also provides students with organizations and communities that appeal to many different cultural needs and interests. Washington University boasts innumerable groups aimed at ensuring a welcoming, engaging, and safe environment for its students. There is something for everyone here; many cultures are represented and celebrated. Just a few of the organizations related to diversity on campus include the Association of Black Students, Association of Latin American Students, Asian American Association, and Ashoka, Wash U’s South Asian Student Association. You can find more information about all the different groups and their activities by visiting the Student Union website su.wustl.edu, meeting with a staff member in Student Involvement and Leadership, or by viewing more information online at getinvolved.wustl.edu.

LGBT PHONE 314.935.8029 Email lgbt@wustl.edu ONLINE lgbt.wustl.edu

Spiritual organizations on campus include: ›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ›› ››

Association of Christian Truth Seekers Bhakti Yoga Club Baptist Student Union Catholic Student Center Chabad on Campus InterVarsity Christian Fellowship Lutheran Campus Ministry Overflow St. Louis Hillel at Washington University United Methodist Campus Ministry University Jewish Experience

Washington University is committed to providing a welcoming learning and living environment for all. The coordinator for LGBT Student Involvement and Leadership works with students, faculty, and staff to create such an environment, as well as advises undergraduate student organizations. Through student group advising, individual mentoring, leadership development, campus training, and social programming, the coordinator supports the LGBT community on campus.

Interfaith Campus Ministries Association Washington University in St. Louis is interested in the growth and development of the “whole” student, including one’s spiritual or religious life. There are many religious groups and opportunities for you on campus as well as a multitude of local worship places to explore. For a list of faith organizations and their contact information, visit wustl.edu/community/students/religiouslife.html. If you are interested in finding student groups involved in faithbased activities and programs, check out the online directory of recognized student groups at su.wustl.edu/directory.

firstyear.wustl.edu

My first semester at college was very different from anything I had experienced and was a little overwhelming – adjusting to a new room, making friends, getting accustomed to academics – and on top of everything, getting involved in co-curricular activities. In high school, we are told to get as involved as possible, and then some. Join clubs, take on leadership roles, and study for the SATs—that is the key to getting into college. Now that you are here, forget all of that.

Co-curricular Activities by Sam Cornblath

Transitioning into college is hard enough; so don’t over-commit yourself with a ton of co-curricular activities in your first semester. Trust me, you have plenty of time to figure out what interests you. Get acclimated to everything Wash U has to offer and enjoy yourself! Choose activities that interest you and then ease yourself into them. By doing so, you can figure out what you want to actively get involved in. It is also key not to join too many student organizations because you will spread yourself too thin. Take time to figure out which ones are the most important to you, and which you want to spend the next four years pursuing. At Wash U, there are a ton of opportunities to get involved. There are activities fairs in both the fall and the spring semesters that host student organizations looking for new students to join. Try new things! There is something for every Wash U student, and I definitely encourage you to sign up for whatever interests you. You’ll get a ton of emails from different groups to attend meetings but again, stick to the ones that you’re passionate about. Don’t stress about co-curricular activities, there is something for you out there. Take your time adjusting and don’t get bogged down by a feeling that you have to do it all. Wash U is an incredible place, so enjoy your four years here!

BEARFACTS 2012

The Fall Activities Fair will be held Wednesday, September 5th in Brookings Quad.

Sports on Campus VARSITY ATHLETICS Baseball Basketball (Men’s and Women’s), Cross Country (Men’s and Women’s) Football Golf (Women’s) Soccer (Men’s and Women’s) Softball Swimming & Diving (Men’s and Women’s) Tennis (Men’s and Women’s) Track & Field (Men’s and Women’s) Volleyball

As a founding member of the University Athletic Association, Washington University competes in Division III of the NCAA. Bears athletics have developed a very strong reputation both in our conference and nationally, winning 18 NCAA National Team Championships, 141 UAA Titles, and making 153 NCAA team appearances. Additionally, Wash U annually finishes in the top 10 of the United States Sports Academy Director’s Cup, an award that ranks the best athletics programs in each NCAA and NAIA Division Wash U’s student-only fan group, Red Alert, supports Washington University athletics by encouraging all students to come out to the games. Membership in Red Alert is free and you can sign up at the beginning of the year or at most of the athletic events during the year. Along with receiving free pizza and prizes from Red Alert, you will be promoting school spirit and cheering on your fellow classmates. For more information and updates on athletics as well as team schedules please visit bearsports.wustl.edu.

INTRAMURAL SPORTS Arm Wrestling Badminton Basketball Billiards Bowling Cross Country Field Goal Kicking Flag Football Free Throw Shooting Golf Home Run Derby Inner Tube Water Polo Kickball Racquetball Soccer Softball Swimming Table Tennis Track & Field Trivia Ultimate Frisbee Volleyball

Badminton Baseball Basketball (m/w) Crew Cycling Equestrian Fencing Field Hockey Golf Gymnastics Ice Hockey Lacrosse (m/w) Rock Climbing Roller Hockey Rugby (m) Running Sailing Coccer (m/w) Table Tennis Tae kwon do Tennis Triathlon Ultimate Frisbee (m/w) Volleyball (m/w) Water Polo (m/w) Winterguard Wrestling

Intramural (IM) sports are an enjoyable and relaxing way to get to know a lot of people through organized recreational activities. Intramural sports offers over 25 team, individual, and special events throughout the academic year for all members of the Washington University community. You do not have to have prior experience or be an athlete to participate in intramural sports. Participants may choose to play at a recreational or highly competitive level. Anyone with a WUSTL ID is eligible to participate in men’s, women’s, and coed events. Traditional sports such as flag football, volleyball, basketball, and softball are staples of the intramural calendar, while sports such as ultimate Frisbee, inner-tube water polo, and Euchre offer nontraditional options. The Intramural Office offers a free agent list for individuals in search of a team to play on, as well as managers who need extra players. Additionally, the Intramural Office is always looking for officials in basketball, flag football, soccer, softball, and volleyball. Intramural officials work in a fun and social environment (while making some money) with a flexible work schedule. For more information about participating in IM sports or student employment opportunities, please call 314.935.5193, visit the Intramural Office located on the 4th floor of the Athletic Complex, or check out the “Intramural Sports” tab at bearsports.wustl.edu.

SPORTS CLUBS Sports Club Board (SCB), one of the largest student groups at Wash U, is a Student Union-recognized student group of 35 different sports club teams. While the SCB oversees the clubs, each team is run independently by student athletes. In the 2011-2012 school year, there were sports clubs ranging from badminton to wrestling, serving over 650 students. Many students choose to participate in sports clubs, which are more competitive than intramural sports, but do not require as much of a time commitment as varsity sports. It is very easy to join a sports club, and if you do not find a team that interests you, you can start your own! Check out SCB’s website at scb.wustl.edu or contact Sean Curtis at 314.935.5193. firstyear.wustl.edu

ST. LOUIS IN THIS SECTION

The St. Louis Experience; Think Beyond the Bubble; U-Pass; WeCar; An Introduction to St.

Louis Neighborhoods

Action Items →→ Sign up for a U-Pass →→ Register for WeCar →→ Make a bucket list of all the exciting things you want to do in St. Louis over the next four years

ST. LOUIS →→ →→ →→ →→ →→

102

Section Contents The St. Louis Experience Think Beyond the Bubble U-Pass WeCar An Introduction to St. Louis Neighborhoods

BEARFACTS 2012

Washington University in St. Louis – it’s located in Missouri. How many people have you had to explain that to since you decided Wash U was the place for you? While some of your friends and family may confused about our location, St. Louis is an exciting and energetic city with a wide array of attractions and opportunities. Second only to Washington, D.C., St. Louis offers more than a dozen free museums and parks. The article on the next page will highlight a few of these attractions, explain how you can navigate the city, and introduce you to a few of our favorite neighborhoods.

The St. Louis Experience by Tyler Perez

Washington University in St. Louis. The “in St. Louis” is both important in defining the University and the experience new students will have during their time here. Even though I’ve heard the South 40 called the “Disney World of college residence halls,” breaking free of the mythical Wash U bubble allows students to experience all sorts of great opportunities! While on main campus, take the overpass across Forest Park Parkway on the north side of campus and walk a few minutes to Delmar Boulevard. This street, also known as “The Loop,” is a favorite of Wash U students because it’s easily accessible and has plenty of shops and restaurants to choose from. Some classic St. Louis restaurants on The Loop include traditional American eateries such as Fitz’s, Blueberry Hill, and Pi Pizzeria. Other restaurants vary from chains, like Chipotle, to traditional Indian or Middle Eastern cuisine. Meanwhile, the Pageant offers a constant stream of concerts and top name artists for Wash U students to enjoy. Directly east of main campus, across Skinker Boulevard, is Forest Park. This park is larger than Central Park in New York and is one of the largest city parks in the nation. In Forest Park, there are plenty of activities and places to see, and the best part is that they are mostly all free! The park is home to the St. Louis Zoo, Art Museum, Science Center, History Museum, and Muny Opera. There are also a ton of different outdoor activities. These include tennis, soccer, racquetball, a nine-hole golf course, and a skating rink in the winter. Another popular part of Forest Park that students use a lot is the bike and running paths that go all around the park. Forest Park provides an escape where students can enjoy the outdoors while taking a break from the hustle of school. St. Louis also has an excellent metro and bus service called MetroLink. This public transportation system is free for students who register for a U-Pass (see page 104 for more information). There are two Metro stops located on either side of main campus. Using the Metro, you can travel throughout the city with ease. The closest stop east of Wash U is the Central West End. This lively commercial area is home to many restaurants and stores. Farther east on the Metro are the Scottrade Center and Busch Stadium for students hoping to see the World Champion St. Louis Cardinals play a game! The last stop located on the Mississippi River is right next to St. Louis’ crowning glory–the Gateway Arch. Whether you choice to take a ride to the top of the Arch or not, it’s definitely a site to see! The area west of campus is the suburb of Clayton. This area has a drug store, a full-size grocery store, a movie theater, and restaurants all within walking distance of the South 40. A mall called The Galleria, Bed, Bath, and Beyond, Target, and Walmart are a few minutes away by car so you can easily pick up anything you may have forgotten to pack for school. While it’s great that Wash U provides so much that students may never feel the need to leave campus, going outside the Wash U bubble can be the best way to relax and enjoy time with friends. In the end, you’re in St. Louis, not Washington state or D.C., so make sure to enjoy the full Wash U experience by discovering the great city that surrounds it!

firstyear.wustl.edu

103

Think Beyond the Bubble… Great Students Make Great Neighbors!

Wondering how you are going to explore St. Louis or get your shopping done without a car? The U-Pass program provides free transportation passes to all full-time students. In addition to providing travel on the bus routes designed for our campuses, these passes are good for travel on any MetroBus or MetroLink train throughout the St. Louis metropolitan area, giving students greater access to participate in internship and community service opportunities and to take advantage of cultural and entertainment venues in the area. Bus service is also provided exclusively for travel around the Danforth Campus. The “Circulator” service operates on approximately 20-minute frequency, seven days a week from 7:40AM through 2:00AM, during the academic year.

EASY U-PASS ORDERING INSTRUCTIONS You will want to order your U-Pass before arriving on campus in August, if possible. Ordering early will ensure your U-Pass is included in your move-in packet. Specific instructions for new students regarding when you may begin ordering the U-Pass are available on the First Year Center website, firstyear.wustl.edu. Questions may be directed to parktrans@wustl.edu or 314.935.5601.

WeCar As an alternative to using public transportation, the University, in conjunction with Enterprise, WeCar, provides the WU community access to a car sharing program. Car sharing is when members of a community share a fleet of vehicles. You can have access to a vehicle, for an hourly rental fee, at your fingertips when you need one without all the hassle and expense of having a car on campus. All Washington U community members over the age of 18 with a valid driver’s license are eligible to participate in this program. To find out more about the WeCar and complete your registration, go to parking.wustl.edu/wecar.htm.

104

BEARFACTS 2012

THINK...

U-Pass

BUBBLE

Washington University is surrounded by vibrant neighborhoods made up of life long St. Louisans, working professionals, children and students. As students travel beyond the bubble of the Danforth campus they are encouraged to think about their neighbors and their place in the greater community.

OND THE BEY

Downtown St. Louis

Clayton

17 minutes by MetroLink In Downtown St. Louis, you’ll find the Gateway Arch, Busch Stadium (home of the 2011 World Champion Cardinals), and more.

6 minutes by MetroLink Home to the Clayton business district, this area has some great restaurants and parks you’ll want to check out. It’s also a great place to take a walk!

Delmar Loop

10 minute walk from Clocktower “The Loop” has a host of restaurants and shops for a wide range of interests including Thai and Middle Eastern food, as well as vintage clothing stores.

Forest Park

15 minute walk from Clocktower Forest Park is one of the largest urban parks in the country and majority of the activities inside are free! Check out the zoo, a Wash U student favorite. University City

Central West End

Forest Park

Midtown

Downtown St. Louis

Brentwood

mississippi River

Clayton

2 Central West End

10 minutes by MetroLink The Central West End has more restaurants and provides a great opportunity for you to get off campus. The Medical School is also here.

Midtown Brentwood

10 minutes by MetroLink Brentwood is a shopping area that includes some essential stores you’ll want to visit, including Target, the St. Louis Galleria, and even more great restaurants.

12 minutes by MetroLink Midtown is home to cultural landmarks like the Fabulous Fox Theatre and Powell Hall (St. Louis Symphony).

You’ll Also want to check out...

1 2

Richmond Heights Located 10 minutes by foot or 3 minutes by car from the South 40, this shopping center includes a grocery store, a place to get your hair cut, frozen yogurt, and more. Tower Grove This neighborhood, south of Forest Park, is home to lots of cool restaurants and parks, and the Missouri Botanical Garden.

firstyear.wustl.edu

105

See you soon! You’ve made it to the end of Bear Facts! We hope that this guide has helped you feel prepared for your arrival to campus in August and that you’re excited to see what’s in store over the next four years at Wash U. Be sure to keep an eye out for messages from students you’ll meet when you get to campus. WUSAs and RAs will be in touch this summer and have started groups on Facebook for each freshman floor so you can start connecting with your future floormates. You can also join the Class of 2016 group on Facebook to meet more of your peers, get questions answered, and stay up to date on news from The First Year Center and other campus offices as you get ready for college. Always feel free to reach out directly to The First Year Center (by now you’ve seen our contact information everywhere)–we’re here to help make your first year of college great. The pages that follow are meant as reference for you and your family as you transition to college. We put scissors along the pages we think are especially helpful to reference, so feel free to cut them out of this book and keep them with you as you make shopping trips and other preparations for Move-In Day. Good luck, have a great summer, and we can’t wait to see you!

The First Year Center Dean Sharon Stahl, Danielle Bristow, Katharine Pei, Kirsten Smith, Terri Brennan and the First Year Center Executive Board 2012

108

BEARFACTS 2012

CONTACTING YOUR STUDENT Parents and family members! Use this page to keep track of your studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s contact information while at Wash U. You can cut along the line on the left to keep this page in an easy-to-find location around your house or office. Name Room Residence House

Number

Mailing Address

See page 66 for more information

Street Campus BOx

St. Louis

6 3 1

Important Contacts First Year Center

firstyear.wustl.edu

314.935.5040

Residential Life (ResLife)

reslife.wustl.edu

314.935.5050

Dining Services

diningservices.wustl.edu

314.935.7098

Student Health Services (SHS)

shs.wustl.edu

314.935.6666

Student Financial Services (SFS)

sfs.wustl.edu

314.935.5900

University Registrar

studentrecords.wustl.edu

314.935.5959

2012-2013 Calendar Overview Fall Semester

Spring Semester

August 20

Fall Tuition and Fees Due

January 14

Spring Classes Begin

August 23

Move-in Day; Bear Beginnings

January 21

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

August 23 - 25

Parent & Family Orientation

March 10 - 16

Spring Break

August 28

First Day of Classes

May 2 - 8

Final Exams

September 3

Labor Day (No Classes)

May 17

Commencement

October 19

Fall Break (No Classes)

October 26 - 28

Parent & Family Weekend

November 21 - 27

Thanksgiving Break (No Classes)

December 13 - 19

Final Exams

firstyear.wustl.edu

109

110

BEARFACTS 2012

INDEX Academic advising Academic assistance Academic integrity Action items

29, 42 - 45 51 - 52 47 8, 11, 39, 55, 85, 101

Advanced placement exams

Alcohol education

Architecture Art Arts & Sciences

See advanced placement exams See College of Architecture See College of Art See College of Arts & Sciences

Athletic Complex

Banking

Bear Beginnings: New Student Fall Orientation

Bear Bucks

75 - 76

College of Art College of Arts & Sciences

29, 45 29, 42 - 43

Combined studies

Community Service Office

Community service

92, 94 - 96

Commuter students

Computers

68, 78

Cornerstone: The Center for Advanced Learning

51 – 52

Course Listings

Credit cards

Dietary needs Dining

20, 63 63 – 65

Dinner by the Dozen

Diplomas

Directions to campus

35 – 36

Disability Resources

50, 51

Dual degree

Bear Bulletin e-Newsletter

eBilling

Bear Necessities

Blackboard

Emergency Support Team (EST)

Business Campus Bookstore

See Olin School of Business

31, 75

Emergency

79 - 80

Engineering

See College of Engineering & Applied Science

67 - 68

Campus Connections

Campus Life

Campus Y

Career Center

Family member

Cell phone

Finances

75 - 76

Club sports

Financial aid

20, 75

First 40

41, 87

Co-curricular involvement College of Architecture

86, 88 – 89, 92 – 94, 97 – 99 29, 44 – 45

Faith-based organizations

See Interfaith Campus Ministries Association 24 – 27

First Year Reading Program

Fitness

firstyear.wustl.edu

111

Fraternities

See Greek Life

Freshman Emerging Leaders

Freshman Finale

Freshman Programs

Freshman Seminars

Gephardt Institute for Public Service

Greek Life Health forms Health Home Plate Housing IB

Interfaith Campus Ministries Association International baccalaureate International students

See Bear Beginnings: New Student Fall Orientation

Packing list

9, 66

Parent & Family Weekend Parking Peer mentors

92, 97 71 71 – 72 41, 66 56, 66, 67 International baccalaureate

Important dates

Orientation

8 18, 97

Placement exams Pre-Health Pre-Law Pre-orientation Pre-professional advising Registering for courses Registrar, University Religious organizations

30 13, 17, 82

Residential Colleges Residential Life, The Office of

Libraries

Roommate

Lost & found

Safety

Lunch by the Dozen

Mailing

Sam Fox School of Design & Visual Arts

47, 48

Meal plans

Minor

Move-In day

Multicultural

18, 97

Nightlife Olin Business School

112

BEARFACTS 2012

73 – 74 29, 43

30 19, 49 49 - 50 13 - 16 49 - 50 29, 42 - 45 52 See Interfaith Campus Ministries Association

Residential College Director (RCD)

Leadership

Major

34, 41, 42, 43, 51 – 52, 92

18, 72, 97

36, 81

Residential Advisor (RA)

Intramural sports

LGBT

School of Engineering & Applied Science

56, 61 56, 66, 67 62 79 – 81 44 29, 43

Service by the Dozen

Shipping

Shopping

9, 66 – 70

Sororities

See Greek Life

South 40 Fitness Center South 40 (S40)

72 56, 60

Sports

Weston Career Center

St. Louis by the Dozen

Writing Center, The

St. Louis Student Accounting Student Entrepreneurial Programs (StEP) Student Financial Services (SFS) Student government Student Health Services Student ID card Student Involvement & Leadership (SIL) Student organizations Student Technology Services Study abroad Summer programs Technology Telesis Textbooks

20 – 21, 73, 76, 102 – 103, 105

71 31, 75 – 76 88 88, 92 – 94, 97 – 99 76 - 77 52 28, 42 68, 76 - 78 52 67 - 68

59, 82 - 83 81, 104 48

U-Pass

81, 104

UTrucking

66, 70

Varsity athletics

Verification of enrollment

Voting

95 – 96

Washington University Police Department

79 – 81

WeCar

89, 92

WebSTAC

WUSTL Key

Transfer credits

Undecided

34, 41, 42, 92

69 - 71

Transportation

50 - 51

Transcripts

Transfer students

WUSA

31, 32 – 33, 52 81, 104 firstyear.wustl.edu

113

SEE YoU SOON! 114

BEARFACTS 2012

move-in Day 2012 thursDay august 23

BearFacts 2012

First Year Center Campus Box 1136 One Brookings Drive St. Louis, MO 63130-4899

NONPROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE PAID ST. LOUIS, MO PERMIT NO. 1256

BEARFACTS BearFacts A guide for students by students

Connecting People, Programs, and Resources