The Ultimate Involvement Guide 2019 - UConn

2019 | 2020

Things to Do | Places to Go | Ways to Get Involved

Welcome 1

Ways to Get Involved

Get Involved, Be Connected Spirit, Pride & Tradition Community Service & Public Engagement Community Outreach Student Governance Programming Activism Campus Media Cultural Centers Fraternity & Sorority Life Veterans & Military Mentoring Area Religious Communities Recreation

2 3 4 5 6 7 7 8&9 10 & 11 12 13 14 15 16 & 17

Things to Do

Major Weekends on Campus 18 Late Night 19 Entertainment 20

Places to Go

Off-Campus Student Services Transportation Student Union Dining & Nutrition Out & About Around Storrs Downtown Storrs

21 21 22 23 24 25

The University of Connecticut complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding non-discrimination, equal opportunity and affirmative action, including the provision of reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities. UConn does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, religious creed, age, sex, marital status, national origin, ancestry, sexual orientation, genetic information, physical or mental disability, veteran status, prior conviction of a crime, workplace hazards to reproductive systems, gender identity or expression, or political beliefs in its programs and activities. Employees, students, visitors, and applicants with disabilities may request reasonable accommodations to address limitations resulting from a disability.

For questions or more information, please contact the Associate Vice President, Office of Institutional Equity, 241 Glenbrook Road, Unit 4175, Storrs, CT 06269-4175; Phone: (860) 486-2943; Email: equity@uconn.edu; Website: http://www.equity.uconn.edu.

Getting your Campus Life Organized

Start Strong‌ Stay Strong Get Involved, Not Overwhelmed!

Effective Studying College Sleep Guide Reality of College Drinking Are You Struggling?

26 27 28 29 30 31

Advice from Student Experts

Student Profiles 32 - 34

Advice on Special Topics

Tips to help you transition into life at UConn 35 - 37

A Message from Student Activities Welcome to UConn! College life is a lot better when you are doing things in addition to your classes that are meaningful and fun, and when you are organized for success! That’s why we put together this magazine. It’s the ultimate guide for students new to Storrs. Virtually everything contained within can also be found on UConntact.uconn.edu – UConn’s online involvement portal. The magazine and UConntact include information about places to go on campus, fun activities, and how you can get involved in student organizations. We also included information about getting organized and staying healthy, as well as information about the things that worry new students, like being shy or feeling as though you don’t fit in.

If you need help getting connected, just reach out! We are here for you!

Student Union, Room 302 - 308, 314 studentactivities.uconn.edu getinvolved@uconn.edu UConn Student Activities @UConnStudentActivities @UConnActivities

First things first. Let’s get these myths out of the way...

MYTH: Don’t get involved your first semester. You’ll be too busy.

Actually, balancing your academics with employment and/ or involvement can help you manage your time and your life better. Being involved is a way to meet people and connect with like-minded students on campus, which will make you a happier person!

The co-curricular activities of college students have been proven to positively impact academic success and the overall college experience. Whether it is student organizations, club sports, or community service, getting involved allows you to enhance your education, meet new people, make lasting connections, and experience new and exciting activities across campus.

MYTH: There is nothing to do.

Not on our campus! There is always something to look forward to, whether it’s arts, music, comedians, films, recreation, or athletic events. There are also over 650 organizations to join and many places to meet people, from the coffee cafes to Late Night on the weekends in the Student Union.

MYTH: There is nothing to do but drink.

Since this is college, a lot of people think that the social atmosphere is going to be all about the booze. It doesn’t have to be that way. Whether you are interested in sports, art, music, comedy, theatre, cultural activities, or educational programs, you can find something to do that doesn’t revolve around alcohol. Many of our students rarely drink, and some don’t even drink at all. There are plenty of other students who like just hanging out and having fun with friends.

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It’s All About You - Connect with UConntact With over 650 active student organizations on campus, you will find something that meets your interests. Club sports, fraternities and sororities, cultural organizations, performance groups, and hundreds of other academic and social groups were created for and by students just like you. Our groups are committed to providing incredible experiences to students on campus. It’s easy to find out about different groups – Just visit uconntact.uconn.edu to begin searching! You can find groups by name, category, or keyword. Login with your NetID to see even more activities – including upcoming events!

Student Activities

Not sure where to start? Looking for more information before diving in? You can connect with student activities and an Involvement Ambassador by logging into uconntact.uconn.edu. These fellow students went through the same thing you are, trying to find their place on campus. They are now involved and making a difference, and would be happy to help you explore campus-wide involvement opportunities.

2 Ways to Get Involved

Involvement Fair

The Involvement Fair is an easy way to explore many of the exciting groups to get involved with on campus. Held on the 2nd Wednesday of every semester, this event invites you to come and learn about hundreds of programs and organizations you can be a part of during the year. From performance groups and academic clubs to cultural and volunteer organizations, drop in on the Involvement Fair and find out about the opportunities that await you. Bring a friend! Visit getinvolved.uconn.edu for more information. Don’t forget that uconntact.uconn.edu provides an online involvement fair 365 days a year!

Student Union, Room 302 getinvolved.uconn.edu getinvolved@uconn.edu UConn Student Activities @UConnActivities

@UConnStudentActivities

Spirit, Pride, & Tradition Programs

This program consists of the University’s Cheerleaders, Dance Team, and Mascot, and represents a long tradition of creating Husky spirit at UConn. These students promote spirit and pride in the institution among students and fans alike. They also represent UConn to constituents across the country while performing at athletic and non-athletic events on campus and beyond. spirit.uconn.edu UConn Cheerleading | UConn Dance Team Jonathan the Husky @TheUConnHusky | @uconncheerteam @uconndanceteam

Roadshows

Roadshows are sponsored by SUBOG and Student Activities to provide transportation for students attending UConn sporting events at Pratt & Whitney Stadium at Rentschler Field and the Hartford XL Center. Roadshows provide transportation only; students are responsible for securing their own game tickets. Roadshow tickets may be picked up from the Student Union Information Center for free. Roadshow tickets must be obtained at least 48 hours prior to the game. subog.uconn.edu/roadshows

Marching Band

The University of Connecticut Marching Band, known as “The Pride of Connecticut,” is made up of over 300 members that represent nearly every degree program at the university, from music, to engineering, to pre-med! In addition to performing at all home football games, the band also performs in parades and exhibitions throughout the Northeast and has travelled to select away games and bowl games. The UCMB embodies the spirit of the University of Connecticut both on and off campus, and it is one of the most acclaimed band programs in the United States. Open to all university students with musical experience, the marching band provides an excellent opportunity for the exercise and enhancement of musical skills. For more information about how to join the UCMB, visit uconnband.org and click “Join,” follow the band on social media, or contact ucmb.recruiting@gmail.com with any questions.uconnband.org @UConnBand

Ways to Get Involved 3

COMMUNITY BASED INITIATIVES AT UCONN Academic Course-Based Service Learning “Service Learning is a teaching and learning strategy that integrates meaningful community service with instruction and reflection to enrich the learning experience, teach civic responsibility, and strengthen communities.” - (The Carnegie Foundation) Service learning curricular projects are developed by connecting course objectives and defining community need in collaboration with a community partner. The resulting partnership is beneficial for everyone; students become actively engaged in the curriculum while working with communities outside of the classroom and communities benefit from projects designed specifically to address their real needs. The project activities vary widely in order to meet both student and community objectives. For more information about Service Learning go to sl.engagement.uconn.edu.

Service & Social Justice Focused Student Organizations

Students interested in service and social justice issues can also join one of UConn’s numerous student organizations.

Some of these student organizations are UConnPIRG, Habitat for Humanity, Red Cross Club, Eco Husky, Alpha Phi Omega, Amnesty International, and Idealists United. uconntact.uconn.edu

Engaged Scholarship and Research Engaged Scholarship and research connects UConn faculty and staff expertise, undergraduate and graduate students, to public issues. Engaged Scholarship is collaborative and a mutually beneficial exchange of knowledge and resources between academia and the community to further the public good. At the student level, Engaged Scholarship can enhance academic learning and knowledge by blending research, teaching, and service. At the community level, community residents, organization and policy makers work with UConn to identify relevant societal needs to jointly create solutions.

Careers for the Common Good

Careers for the Common Good is a collaboration between CO, Center for Career Development and the Human Rights Institute which promotes socially responsible professional options for UConn students.

4 Ways to Get Involved

career.uconn.edu/careers-for-the-common-good

Serve

Community Outreach (CO) offers hundreds of service opportunities for students throughout the year.

•One-Time Service Projects – One-time volunteer placements occur during the weekends at organizations throughout the state. These events not only provide opportunities to better meet the needs of community partners or assist with one-time events, the weekend events support students that have a busy weekly schedule! One-time events happen every weekend through Community Service Days and Special Projects and are a great way to meet new people, make a change and get involved!

•Alternative Breaks – Our weekend and weeklong trips provide groups of students with the opportunity to explore critical social issues, enhance individual growth, and prepare them for lifelong social action. Trips focus on topics such as poverty, hunger, gender and sexuality, healthcare, immigration, and more. Last year our 17 trips resulted in over 19,500 hours of service from the 368 students who participated.

Learn

Community Outreach offers a variety of educational events and trainings throughout the year aimed at increasing awareness, interest, and involvement of UConn students in current political and social issues. These include advocacy trainings, Get Out the Vote initiatives, conferences, dialogues, and various speaking engagements around topics related to service and community issues. There are several opportunities that encourage learning outside of the classroom environment by combining community service and academics. CO also looks to partner with student groups and departments across campus to provide opportunities to connect service and learning.

Change

During the 2017-2018 school year, students involved with CO contributed over 75,000 hours of service in over 180 organizations across the country and world wide!

Student Union, Room 302 communityoutreach.uconn.edu UConn Community Outreach

@UConnOutreach

•Semester-Long Programs – Over 1,200 students get involved with weekly service programs focused on health and human services, language and literacy, or youth development and education throughout the semester.

This is a great opportunity to meet dedicated students making change in our local community!

•Democracy and Political Engagement – CO offers a variety of events and dialogues aimed at increasing awareness and involvement of UConn students in current social and political issues.

•Jumpstart AmeriCorps – Eighty students work for a year engaging in meaningful service through building relationships and teaching preschool aged children to level the achievement gap and help every child succeed.

All eligible students that reach the three hundred hours requirement also receive an education award.

Lead

Each of CO’s service programs are facilitated by a student leader.

These positions sharpen your leadership skills and prepare you for future professional roles. CO leaders are part of a movement of students looking to strengthen their leadership skills while being part of an on-going service project aimed at supporting social change in the community in which the program is located. If you’re ready to lead with CO, just ask them how!

Have Federal Work Study?

If you are awarded Federal Work-Study, you can get paid to serve with Community Outreach by participating in service programs, office administration, public relations and/or transportation services.

Need A Ride?

CO provides transportation to and from the majority of its service sites for participants of Community Outreach programs. Together with your student leader, we will coordinate your round trip transportation.

Ways to Get Involved 5

Undergraduate Student Government

The Undergraduate Student Government (USG) at the University of Connecticut is the group for you if you have a passion for advocacy and leadership. USG serves as the official voice of the undergraduate student body and oversees funding for more than 500 student organizations.

USG has provided the platform to launch successful projects at UConn, as well as amplified the voice of students to pursue change on campus. Undergraduate students can run for office during the fall or spring semesters. Not interested in campaigning? You can still get involved by joining one of USG’s four committees: Academic Affairs, External Affairs, Student Development and Student Services! As a member of USG, you can represent your fellow Huskies in bodies involving UConn administration, the Town of Mansfield, and the State of Connecticut to improve University policy, increase sustainability, and enhance the student experience. If you want to make a difference on campus, USG a great way to do so!

Student Union, Room 219 usg.uconn.edu University of Connecticut Undergraduate Student Government @USGUConn

Graduate Student Senate

The Graduate Student Senate (GSS) is the body charged with representation of and advocacy for graduate students across all UConn campuses. Members hold positions on University committees that have an impact on graduate students. GSS plans many activities for the enrichment of graduate students’ experiences, including professional development, networking, and social events. In addition, GSS provides funding to graduate student organizations and maintains an interest-free short-term Emergency Loan Service to graduate students in conjunction with the Bursar’s Office.

6 Ways to Get Involved

Student Union, Room 213 gss.uconn.edu UConn Graduate Student Senate

SUBOG (Student Union Board of Governors)

SUBOG is the campus’ event planning organization. They are made up of students just like you! There are seven committees you can join. Chances are you will attend many SUBOG events while you are at UConn. Some of the events they plan are: the Husky WOW Block Party and Comedy Jam, concerts, movies, comedy shows, special events, lectures, as well as Homecoming, Winter Weekend, and travel to sporting events and other places off campus.

With all of this happening, there’s definitely something for everyone!

Student Union, Room 307 subog.uconn.edu SUBOG @SUBOGatUConn

UConnPIRG

As an activist organization dedicated to change, UConnPIRG empowers students to take leadership on social, political, and environmental campaigns advocating for the public interest.

They are a student-run, student-funded, non-partisan advocacy group that welcomes all with a passion for consumer protection, the environment, higher education, democracy, and more. In a political climate saturated by powerful special interests pushing their agendas unopposed, they use grassroots organizing skills and people-power to obtain real results for the public. They offer great opportunities such as community organizing training, a for-credit internship program, and lobbying at the Capitol and in Washington DC. Some issues they tackle include the cost of higher education, hunger and homelessness, and environmental protection. You can become a student leader - or even just volunteer from time to time - fighting for an issue important to you. Whether you have ten hours a week to volunteer, or ten hours across the semester, if you want to make an impact on your community today, UConnPIRG is a great group for you!

Student Union, Room 214 pirg.uconn.edu UConn PIRG @UConnPIRG

Ways to Get Involved 7

Nutmeg Publishing

The Daily Campus

The Daily Campus is a student-run newspaper with opportunities to get involved in writing, designing, copy editing, photography, video, web development, sales and marketing. One of the largest organizations on campus, The Daily Campus draws students from a variety of majors and backgrounds, not just journalism students. The environment is fun and fast-paced, but focused on education, so no experience is needed to join any of the departments. Look for copies around campus. Drop by the building any night for a tour.

1266 Storrs Road, Storrs dailycampus.com @the_dailycampus

8 Ways to Get Involved

Nutmeg Publishing is a student-run, and student-funded organization that is responsible for creating an annual publication that highlights student groups and signature UConn events. It is composed of two publications: Nutmeg Yearbook and Nutmeg Magazine. Each graduating Storrs bachelor’s degree student receives a copy of the Nutmeg Yearbook, which features everything from individual senior portraits to important highlights of that year at the University. The Nutmeg Magazine is a digital publication that features articles on student life and UConn culture.

Nutmeg Publishing is staffed by a diverse group of motivated students. Nutmeg offers undergraduates a variety of experiences in design, photography, writing, reporting, marketing, business, copy editing, and leadership.

Student Union, Room 212 nutmeg.uconn.edu UConn Nutmeg Publishing @UCONNnutmeg nutmegpublishing

UCTV

As UConn’s student-run television station, UCTV is the premier organization for students interested in video production. Get involved with any of our 7 different departments that range from conventional TV broadcasting of news and sports, to creative production of short films and buzz-feed type of videos, and also get paid to record/ live stream or recap cool campus events. If you’re looking to be behind the scenes, UCTV will teach you every aspect of video production, from how to operate a camera all the way to final edits. If you live to be in front of the camera, we have opportunities in anchoring your own show or acting in a video. Additionally, with multiple paid board positions, UCTV has opportunities regardless of your major or professional interests. Join UCTV to gain valuable experience while having a great time!

Student Union, Room 409 @UCTVCHANNEL14 TheUCTVChannel14

uctv14.com

WHUS

WHUS Radio is UConn’s sound alternative and center for media production and creativity. Maintaining both an FM signal and an online radio stream, WHUS broadcasts live music, talk, and news programming 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Students at WHUS also broadcast play-by-play coverage of UConn basketball and football games and the station is the exclusive broadcaster of UConn baseball, soccer, and hockey. WHUS provides free training for students in sound engineering, recording, podcasting, and audio/visual production. WHUS has camera and audio recording equipment rentals for those who have received training on our equipment. The station hosts concerts and events throughout the year for students and has an active staff of over 150 members.

Student Union, Room 412 whus.org 91.7 FM WHUS Radio @whusradio

Ways to Get Involved 9

H. Fred Simons African American Cultural Center

The H. Fred Simons African American Cultural Center (AACC) of the University of Connecticut was established in 1968 to support African American students in the pursuit of the coveted higher education academic experience. It is recognized that many African American students face unique societal and institutional challenges in developing to the fullest extent of their potential. The Center strives to assist students in overcoming these challenges and supports them in their adjustments to college life through the development of cultural awareness, academic excellence, leadership skills, social consciousness and personal success. The AACC is a warm, welcoming and intellectually challenging environment that contributes to the vitality of campus life for all students, their parents, faculty and staff.

Student Union, Room 407 aacc.uconn.edu @uconn.aacc H. Fred Simons African American Cultural Center

Asian American Cultural Center

International Student & Scholar Services

International Student & Scholar Services assists international students and visiting scholars with immigration services and cross-cultural support programs. International advisors are available to counsel international students on a variety of topics, such as enrollment requirements, working in the U.S., cultural adjustment issues, financial matters, and immigration questions pertaining to their stay in the U.S. Walk-in advising hours are offered Monday - Thursday, 1:30-3:30 pm. The ISSS lounge may be used for studying and social programs, and is an ideal meeting place for U.S. and international community members.

McMahon Hall - Main Floor, Suite 183 isss.uconn.edu UConn International Student & Scholar Services @UConnGlobal @UConnISSS

(AsACC) provides resources to enhance the University’s diversity commitment through recruitment and retention efforts, teaching, service, and outreach to the Asian & Asian American community on campus and beyond. The central goal of all the Center’s programming is to assist students in exploring and defining their cultural identities in multicultural America. The AsACC provides a supportive environment for students, faculty and staff that encourages academic excellence, personal development, community engagement, and professional leadership. The Center has a library, kitchen, lounge, conference room, and a main program room.

Student Union, Room 428 asacc.uconn.edu UConn Asian American Cultural Center

Observances to Remember •Asian American Heritage Observance: April 2020 •Black History Month: February 2020 •Hispanic Heritage Month: Sept 15 - Oct 15, 2019 •Sexuality & Gender Diversity Month: October 2019 •Transgender Day of Remembrance: November 20, 2019 •Women’s History Month: March 2020

10 Ways to Get Involved

@UConnAsACC

Puerto Rican/Latin American Cultural Center

(PRLACC’s) mission is to improve the status of Latinx and to promote awareness, understanding, and appreciation of the richness and diversity of Latinx and Latin American cultures.

PRLACC supports the University’s mission by providing services and leadership opportunities, fostering connections, and educating the University and the larger community about Latinx issues. Their programs seek to enhance and support student, faculty, and staff recruitment and retention, as well as enrich the multicultural climate of our community.

Student Union, Room 438 latinx.uconn.edu UConn PRLACC @UConnPRLACC

The Rainbow Center

The Rainbow Center (RC) has been serving UConn’s diverse communities of gender identities, gender expressions and sexual and romantic orientations since 1998! The RC facilitates education and training opportunities; offers leadership development and community engagement; and provides advocacy and support. Everyone is welcome to get involved. The RC’s community includes, but is not limited to those who are aromantic, gender non-conforming, bisexual, asexual, transgender, cisgender, lesbian, heterosexual, allies, genderqueer, gay, questioning, intersex, pansexual, and gender fluid. All Huskies are welcome at the Out to Lunch lecture series, Husky Safe Zone Training, workshops, and all events. Volunteers are welcome to join the F.A.M.I.L.E.E. mentoring program.

Student Union, Room 403 rainbowcenter.uconn.edu UConn Rainbow Center @uconnrainbowcenter

@RainbowCtrUConn @ucrainbowcenter

The Women’s Center

The mission of the Women’s Center is to educate, advocate, and provide support services for the achievement of women’s equity at the University and within the community at large.

More specifically, we promote an anti-racist feminist perspective, which includes an analysis of the intersectionality between various forms of oppression; challenges the power structure/status quo that reinforces inequality based on race and gender simultaneously; and foregrounds the understanding of how racial discrimination impacts the analysis of gender discrimination. They strive to create a community which celebrates women’s diversity, while actively confronting sexism through activism, and working for change through collaborations on various issues such as women in STEM, and programs such as the Violence Against Women Prevention Program, Elect Her, Eating Disorders Awareness Week, $tart $mart, and the Men’s Project.

Student Union, Room 421 womenscenter.uconn.edu UConn Women’s Center @uconnwomenscenter

@uconn_womensctr

Ways to Get Involved 11

UConn Fraternity & Sorority Life

Social fraternities and sororities have been an active part of UConn for over 135 years. Founded on the ideals of scholarship, leadership, service, and brotherhood/ sisterhood, they have a long tradition of fostering personal development. The UConn Greek community is comprised of nearly 40 social fraternities and sororities, and includes historically culturally-based and religious fraternities and sororities. To learn more about how you can join a fraternity or sorority, please visit the website or stop by the office.

Student Union, Suite 203 greeklife.uconn.edu @UConnFSL

Scholarship

Academic excellence is a vital aspect of fraternity and sorority membership at UConn. Programming, incentives, recognition, and ongoing support are provided to help members achieve academic success. Members of fraternities and sororities typically achieve higher grades than non-affiliated students.

Leadership

Developing leaders today for life after college is an important part of fraternity and sorority involvement. Members participate in many leadership development programs and conferences, and serve their organizations through officer positions.

Service

UConn fraternity and sorority members work hard to give back to the community through service and philanthropic initiatives. Annually, members contribute tens of thousands of service hours and raise hundreds of thousands of dollars for charitable organizations.

Brotherhood & Sisterhood

Fraternities and sororities are about building lifelong relationships that extend beyond ordinary friendships. Bonds of brotherhood, sisterhood, and siblinghood provide students with a home away from home, a sense of community, mentorship, and career networking with alumni.

12 Ways to Get Involved

Veterans may face unique challenges as they begin or return to their academic studies. The following provides a starting point to meet and greet other UConn veterans.

Veterans Affairs & Military Programs

The Office of Veterans Affairs & Military Programs provides services to student veterans and service members including Educational VA Benefits, special programs and events, staff support, and assistance. The main office and the staff’s offices are located in Hawley Armory (North Tower). There are additional study areas, computers, and a coffee maker, refrigerator, and microwave specifically for student veterans’ use.

ROTC

UConn has two ROTC (Reserve Officers’ Training Corps programs): Army ROTC and Air Force ROTC. These programs offer leadership courses and opportunities to become leaders in the Air Force and Army. Both are located in Hall Dorm at the center of the Storrs Campus. veterans.uconn.edu/rotc armyrotc@uconn.edu | afrotc115@uconn.edu

Hawley Armory, Room 101 veterans.uconn.edu UConnVAMP

Veterans Oasis

Located in the Student Union, Room 224, the Veterans Oasis serves primarily as a social lounge for our veteran population on campus to relax in between classes. Featuring cable TV, public access computers, and ample seating, the Oasis is a gathering place for student veterans at UConn.

Student Union, Room 224

Ways to Get Involved 13

The Defining Photo

There are over 30 peer education programs on campus offering counseling and support, advocacy, programs for specific majors, and general academic support. Here is a sampling of some of the programs designed to assist students who are new to Storrs.

Asiantation Mentoring Program

(AMP) The Asiantation Mentoring Program is a peer education program that helps incoming Asian & Asian American students adapt to their new college environment.

Students are paired with continuing students who will be resources to assist them through their first year and beyond.

A variety of workshops are offered in topics such as academic success, career preparation, and outreach opportunities. asacc.uconn.edu

F.A.M.I.L.E.E.

Fostering Academics, Maturity, Independence, Leadership, Empowerment & Excellence) The F.A.M.I.L.E.E. Mentor Program pairs new students with continuing students during their first or transfer year for group activities and one-on-one mentoring meetings. This program is run by the Rainbow Center. rainbowcenter.uconn.edu

First Year Experience Mentors

UConn’s FYE program is comprised of course offerings and services that foster student success, development, transition, and leadership. First and second year students at the University study and engage in exploration, learning, and research in small 19 seat seminar sections. FYE courses are collaborative, community-based offerings that provide active and experiential learning. FYE courses have built-in support systems including knowledgeable instructors and dedicated undergraduate peer leaders (FYE Mentors) who mentor the 19 students in their section. FYE Mentors get to know the 19 students in their FYE class to help support them and serve as a resource as they transition into UConn. If you want to learn more about the FYE program or how to become an FYE Mentor, check out their website! fye.uconn.edu

14 Ways to Get Involved

METAS Program

The METAS (Mentoring, Educating, and Training for Academic Success) Program is a peer-mentoring program designed to assist first-year and transfer students with their college transition; learn about resources and opportunities at UConn; attend educational, cultural, and social events; and meet other students who are going through similar experiences. latinx.uconn.edu

PA2SS

Preparing African American Students to Sustain Success (PA2SS) is a one-credit peer mentoring class designed to assist first-year and transfer students with their transition to the UConn community.

Experienced students serve as mentors and liaisons to campus resources, services, organizations, events and opportunities.

The PA2SS class supports the mission of the African American Cultural Center through promoting cultural preservation, quality leadership and academic excellence through a unique approach to cultural advocacy, academic support and community outreach. The class is open to all students. aacc.uconn.edu

Q Center

The University of Connecticut’s Quantitative Learning Center (Q Center) is a resource to elevate the proficiency of students taking quantitative intensive (Q) courses across the undergraduate curriculum. They provide direct assistance to students via peer tutoring, review sessions, and the creation of innovative learning tools. Free drop-in peer tutoring is available Sundays to Fridays in the Homer Babbidge Library. qcenter.uconn.edu

The UConn Sexperts

The UConn Sexperts is a peer education group within Student Health and Wellness. They advocate for student wellness by providing sex education and stress management strategies to the campus community. This nationally award winning program is open to first year students to help develop their leadership skills throughout their UConn experience. healthed.uconn.edu

All are invited to participate in the worship and activities of these faith communities. It is the Area Association of Religious Communities’ (AARC) belief that a spiritual journey is an integral part of a liberal arts education and that the various religious communities can assist with the journey. ccp.uconn.edu/area-association-of-religious-council-aarc

Apostolic/Pentecostal

Congregational Storrs Congregational Church (United Church of Christ) storrscongchurch.org

Episcopal St. Mark’s Episcopal Chapel stmarkschapel.org

Spirit & Truth Apostolic Church stac-ct.org

Jewish

Baptist

UConn Hillel uconnhillel.org

The Bridge thebridgestorrs.org

Christian Athletes in Action uconnicf.org Chi Alpha uconntact.uconn.edu/organization/XA chialpha.com Cru cruatuconn.org Generation of Hope Ministry facebook.com/GenerationofHopeMinistry InterVarsity Christian Fellowship facebook.com/UConnIV Reformed University Fellowship uconnruf.wordpress.com St. Paul’s Church stpaulswired.org Young Life UConn Leadership facebook.com/UConnYL

Chabad at UConn jewishuconn.com

Lutheran Hope Lutheran Church hope-lcms.org

Muslim Islamic Center at UConn icuc.weebly/com Muslim Students Association uconntact.uconn.edu/organization/uconnmsa

Non-Denominational Storrs Community Church storrscommunitychurch.org

Quaker Storrs Friends Meeting storrsfriendsmeeting.org

Roman Catholic FOCUS: Fellowship of Catholic University Students focus.org St. Thomas Aquinas Chapel & Center stmary-stthomas.community

Unitarian Universalist Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Storrs uufstorrs.org

United Methodist First United Methodist Church methodistchurchmansfield.org

Ways to Get Involved 15

The New Student Recreation Center Grand Opening This Fall Plan to be at the Grand Opening of UConn Rec’s new home!

Conveniently located in the epicenter of campus, across from the UConn Bookstore. It’s a place to play, to socialize, to relax, and to have fun!

recreation.uconn.edu @UConnRecreation

@UConnRec

The New UConn Rec Center will feature: •Four fitness zones •Five fitness studios •Climbing Center with a climbing wall and bouldering wall •An Aquatics Center with a lap pool and recreational pool •Outdoor Adventure Center •Four court gymnasium •Two court multi-activity gym •Racquetball Courts •Three lane track

BodyWise Fitness Program

BodyWise offers over 100 hours of Group Fitness Programs weekly, including spin, strength, cardio, dance, yoga classes, and more in our fitness studios. Small group TRX and PACK functional exercise training classes are also available.

UConn Adventure Center

Operates the Cycle Share program during the fall semester, after spring break, and during the summer. The Adventure Center rents equipment and gear for camping, hiking, biking, climbing, cross-country skiing, and more. It also plans over 80 unique wilderness experiences each year throughout New England and beyond, as well as week-long adventure programs to destinations like the Grand Canyon.

16 Ways to Get Involved

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Special Programs

UConn Rec hosts and partners with other campus organizations to run a wide range of events and promote campus traditions. Highlights include annual events held during Spring Weekend like the OOzeball tournament, Bubble Soccer, and Glow Up the Night 5K; partnering with Alumni in running the annual Huskies Forever 5K race; and partnering with the Hartford Marathon Association in running the annual Road Dogs race.

Club Sports

UConn Club Sports provide athletic opportunities for students to enhance their college experience. Club Sport teams represent UConn in many competitive environments from traditional sports like soccer, hockey, volleyball, lacrosse, and rugby, as well as opportunities to compete in skydiving, gymnastics, ultimate Frisbee, cycling and much more.

Clubs are provided with access to facilities as well as financial support. For complete information on participating in one of our Club Sports, go to recreation.uconn.edu and click club sports.

Intramurals

Over 200 hours of intramural programming are supplied during the school year. Intramural Softball is played in the summer. There is a wide variety of leagues and tournaments.

Teams include traditional sports like basketball, soccer, and flag football along with badminton, dodgeball, tennis doubles, ultimate Frisbee, water polo, volleyball, beach volleyball, and ice hockey.

For more information, schedules, or to form or join a team, go to recreation.uconn.edu and click intramural sports.

Ways to Get Involved 17

Husky Opening Weekend for New Students (WOW)

August 23 - 25, 2019 Husky WOW celebrates the beginning of a new academic year during opening weekend. There is an incredible array of activities to connect you to the University and get you excited to be here! Discover academic, co- and extra-curricular resources which will prepare you to excel both in and out of the classroom. WOW events are the perfect way to get to know the campus, make some friends, and have some fun! huskywow.uconn.edu UConn Student Activities @UConnActivities

Family Weekend

October 11 - 13, 2019 This annual UConn tradition is for the entire family to enjoy. Invite your family back to campus to join us for one day or the entire weekend, there are plenty of activities going on across Storrs. Highlights include student performances, a major event at the Jorgensen Center for the Performing Arts, specialty meals through UConn Dining, and so much more! familyweekend.uconn.edu UConn Student Activities @UConnActivities

Homecoming

October 13 - 19, 2019 Homecoming is a time for the entire UConn community to show Husky pride. Come and enjoy the floats at the parade, go on rides at the carnival, cheer on the King and Queen as they are crowned, and end the week with the Lip Sync! homecoming.uconn.edu SUBOG @SUBOGatUConn

Winter Weekend

February 2020 Ever see a One Ton Ice Cream Sundae? You’ll want to make sure you get there early! This UConn tradition has been at Storrs since the 1970’s and continues to be a huge hit. Winter Weekend boasts several days of events including comedians, concerts, and activities that are sure to cure those winter blues! Check our website for additional details! subog.uconn.edu SUBOG

@SUBOGatUConn

Spring Weekend

April 23 - 25, 2020 Spring Weekend is an annual end-of-the-year celebration here at UConn. The weekend is jam-packed with on-campus events and activities. Past highlights have included a food truck festival, nationally touring comedians, an on-campus skydive, and so much more! The weekend is capped off with one of UConn’s best traditions, Saturday’s OOzeball mud volleyball tournament! springweekend.uconn.edu UConn Student Activities @UConnActivities

18 Things to Do

Visit the Student Union on Friday & Saturday nights from 9pm to 1am! Late Night is always free and is a fun and exciting way to spend the end of your week. Each weekend has a theme, and there are always interactive activities, food, giveaways, and prizes. Late Night aims to provide a new experience at the Student Union every weekend, so join in on the fun!

•Participate in interactive activities such as bumper cars, laser tag, and obstacle courses •Personalize your own t-shirt, baseball caps, and bamboo plants •Get creative by engaging in a variety of craft events like pottery and paint night!

•Sing karaoke, play games, get massages, compete in a variety of gameshows, and so much more!

•Socialize with hundreds of other Huskies every weekend •Be sure to take advantage of our loyalty programs to get free gear and exclusive items! latenight.uconn.edu

@UConnLateNight

UConn Late Night

Things to Do 19

Jorgensen Voted Best University Performing Arts Center in the Hartford Courant’s CTNow, Jorgensen presents 30 to 35 diverse performances each season by nationally and internationally acclaimed artists and entertainers; from comedy, world music and jazz, to classical music, dance, and children’s events, as well as intriguing art exhibits in the Jorgensen Gallery.

Past events have included: •Kristin Chenoweth, The Avett Brothers, Trevor Noah, Amy Schumer, Jay Leno, John Mulaney, Kodo Drummers, 2Cellos, The Piano Guys, Punch Brothers, Gladys Knight, Straight No Chaser, and The Boston Pops For those interested in a deeper cultural dive, extracurricular opportunities include master classes throughout the season; a First-Year Experience course taught by Jorgensen Director, Rod Rock; pre-concert lectures, post-performance Q&As, and convocation classes for the Department of Music; as well as student employment and internship opportunities. jorgensen.uconn.edu 860-486-4226 @Jorgensen_UConn

Amy Schumer

Trevor Noah

SUBOG

Connecticut Repertory Theatre (CRT) Connecticut Repertory Theatre is the producing arm of the University of Connecticut’s Department of Dramatic Arts.

CRT produces under a year-round contract with Actors’ Equity Association, and serves as a cultural center for Connecticut and the New England region. CRT productions are directed, designed by, and cast with, visiting professional artists, including Equity actors, faculty members, and the department’s most advanced student artists.

2019-2020 Season Highlights: •Main Stage Productions: The Cherry Orchard, Shakespeare in Love, The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, Little Shop of Horrors •Studio Works Series Productions: The Wolves, Men on Boats crt.uconn.edu Connecticut Repertory Theatre @CTRepTheatre

20 Things to Do

SUBOG is a student-run group that plans programming for UConn students. Check out their website and follow all of their social media accounts to keep up to date on all of the exciting events coming up!

Past events have included: •Comedy Shows: Adam Devine, Kevin Hart, Aziz Ansari, Demetri Martin, Michael Che, Vanessa Bayer, •Concerts: J. Cole, Steve Aoki, Kid Cudi, Wiz Khalifa, Brad Paisley, Schoolboy Q, Fetty Wap, Khalid •Lectures: Jeff Bauman, Josh Radnor, Coach Carter, Brandon Stanton, Evan Peters, Stephen A. Smith •Trips: NYC/Broadway, Boston, Six Flags, Movie Premieres •Special Events: Stuff-a-Husky, Food Truck Festival, Carnival, Open Mic Nights, Student Talent Shows •Roadshows to Pratt & Whitney Stadium at Rentschler Field and the XL Center •Homecoming, Winter Weekend featuring One Ton Sundae Student Union Theatre Movies: • Thursday - Saturday: Various Showtimes • All movies are free!

See the full movie lineup at subog.uconn.edu/movies subog.uconn.edu SUBOG

@SUBOGatUConn

Off-Campus and Commuter Student Services

Off-Campus Housing Fair

Student Union, Room 315 offcampus.uconn.edu

Commuter Appreciation Weeks

OCCSS serves as an advocate and resource for all students commuting to campus from near or far. Services include: lease and rental information, rights and responsibilities as a renter, parking and transportation, personal budgeting, local resources, and how to be a good neighbor.

UConn Off-Campus Student Services

Each year Off-Campus and Commuter Student Services hosts two Off-Campus Housing Fairs. The Off-Campus Housing Fairs will be held in November 2019 and March 2020 in the Student Union Ballroom. The fair is a wonderful opportunity to meet property managers/landlords, check out local rentals, find roommates and win exciting prizes!

Commuter Appreciation Week takes place each year during the first full week of October and April. This year, Commuter Appreciation Week will be held: October 7-11, 2019 and April 6-10, 2020. Join in the fun, food and programming during this time!

Commuter Lounge

The Commuter Lounge is located on the first floor of the Student Union in Room 108. It includes a large screen television, day lockers, information racks, refrigerator, microwave, sink, and comfortable chairs for relaxing or studying. It’s a great place to study, meet other commuters and hang out with friends.

UConn, Storrs Bus Route Information (HuskyGo): transpo.uconn.edu *apps available for iPhone and Android

Shuttles Available

Storrs, CT - UConn Health

Cycle Share

You can rent a bike through UConn Recreation to get around on campus or around town. recreation.uconn.edu/cycle-share

Weekend Shuttle Service (HuskyGo) Two convenient routes run on weekends: Friday: 10pm - 1am Saturday:11am - 1am Sunday: 11am - 7pm

Accessible Van Service

To obtain service or to discuss whether you qualify for the service, please call 860.486.4991. transpo.uconn.edu UConn Transportation Services

Places to Go 21

Cultural Centers

•African American Cultural Center - Room 407 •Asian American Cultural Center - Room 428 •Puerto Rican/Latin American Cultural Center - Room 438 •Rainbow Center - Room 403 •Women’s Center - Room 421

Doug Bernstein Game Room

Located on the first floor in Room 109. Check out the ping pong tables, pool tables, arcade games, and much more!

Food & Dining •Union Street Market •One Plate Two Plates •Bistro on Union Street •UConn Dairy Bar Too •Dunkin’ Donuts •Subway

Lounges

Whether you have time in between classes, need to catch up on studying, or want to meet up with friends, there are three large lounge areas and numerous seating areas throughout the Union. Public computers and a printer are located in the first floor lounge.

22 Places to Go

Student Union Theatre

Weekly movies at the theatre!

• Thursday - Saturday: Various Showtimes • All movies are free Schedule: subog.uconn.edu/movies

Union Central Exchange

Check out the convenience store located above the Union Street Market! It is your one-stop shop for many food, snack and toiletry items.

Veterans Oasis

The Veterans Oasis serves as the primary social lounge for our veteran population to unwind among people with similar experiences. The Veterans Oasis is located in Room 224, next to the convenience store.

Wireless Internet

You can hook up to the internet for free throughout the building. studentunion.uconn.edu UConn Student Union

@UConn_SU

The Department of Dining Services This award winning department plays a vital role on the UConn, Storrs campus. It serves more than 185,000 meals per week in eight dining units, as well as offering excellent food and service throughout campus in seven coffee shops, Union Street Market Food Court, two restaurants, four Grab & Go’s, two ice cream shops, and two bakeries, one strictly gluten free.

UConn’s Web-Nutritional Analysis Dining Services offers a web-based nutritional analysis of food served in all of the dining units and retail operations. The menus reflect real-time current menus that will be served on a particular day and are available for viewing up to seven days in advance. Any changes made to the menus are updated immediately.

Access Nutrition Information: •Website: dining.uconn.edu/nutrition/ •Mobile app: my.uconn.edu/ •Mobile site: nutritionanalysis.dds.uconn.edu/mobile/

Dining Services Residential Dining Units are certified with the Green Restaurant Association

Food Trucks •Food for Thought Food Truck: UConn Food Truck @UConnFoodTruck •UConn Dairy Bar Ice Cream Truck: UConn Dairy Bar Truck @UCDairyBarTruck dining.uconn.edu

UConn Dining Services

@UConnDining

Dining Services collaborates with the Department of Wellness and Prevention Services to provide healthful food choices, nutritional education and additional support for students’ individual dietary needs.

Special Dietary Needs Kosher and Halal Meals •Kosher meals are offered at the Gelfenbien Residential Dining facility (Towers). NOSH, the Kosher Kitchen located in Gelfenbien, is certified by the Kashrut Commission of Greater Hartford and all kosher dishes are prepared under the close supervision of a resident Mashgiach. NOSH is open to anyone who chooses to eat Kosher.

•Halal (Muslim) menu offerings are available at Gelfenbien, Monday through Friday for anyone who chooses to eat Halal.

Gluten Free *Designated a #1 gluten-free friendly University in the country!

•Gluten-free dining options including baked goods from our own gluten-free bakery, are offered in all our dining facilities, including retail.

•The eight residential dining units have a designated and well stocked gluten-free zone in their dining areas which includes refrigerators, freezers, separate toasters, and other gluten-free menu options.

•All foods on the lines that contain wheat, gluten, and other allergens are labeled.

•Dietary counseling is available through the university’s health center.

Places to Go 23

bit.ly/2IAik0O

24 Places to Go

Get Down(town)

When it’s time for a break from your studies, head to Downtown! Located across the street from the School of Fine Arts, there are over 75 businesses located within an easy walk from campus. For a full listing of all the shops, restaurants, and other amenities visit: downtownstorrs.org/explore

Take A Hike

The Town of Mansfield has an extensive network of parks and preserves with many miles of trails. Right in downtown, enjoy over 2 miles of hiking trails within the 135 acre Albert E. Moss Sanctuary. The trailhead is found behind UConn’s Mansfield Apartments on South Eagleville Road. At the opposite end of Downtown Storrs is another great hiking option, Whetten Woods. This preserve, owned by Joshua’s Trust, features a little over a mile of trails and connects Dog Lane to Farrell Fields, E. O. Smith High School’s playing fields, behind the Storrs Post Office.

Be A Part of It

The Mansfield Downtown Partnership hosts several community events each year that are free and open to the public. Check the Partnership’s Event Calendar (downtownstorrs.org/calendar) regularly for listings of events throughout the year. From weekly jazz nights to the summer concert series, puppet shows to poetry slams, art exhibits to authors’ visits, there’s always something fun to do Downtown!

•Celebrate Mansfield Festival Sunday, September 21 | 2:00 - 8:00 PM | Paterson Square Celebrate the people, businesses, and organizations that make Mansfield unique!

More info: downtownstorrsfestival.org

Eat Local

Storrs Farmers Market is open every Saturday from May through October on the front lawn of the Mansfield Town Hall (4 S. Eagleville Road, across the street from Price Chopper). Everything sold at Storrs Farmers Market is grown or produced right here in Connecticut, so the offerings change with the season. storrs farmersmarket.org mansfieldct.org/mdp | downtownstorrs.org Downtown Storrs @DowntownStorrs

•Mansfield Pup Crawl Saturday, October 5 | 9:30 AM | Paterson Square Take a guided walk through Downtown Storrs with four-legged friends! This walk will begin and end on the Betsy Paterson Square with fun and educational stops along the way. Walk takes place rain or shine.

•Winter Welcome Saturday, December 1 | Downtown Storrs Welcome in the new season with carolers, treats, and a visit from Santa Claus!

Places to Go 25

Earning your degree is a marathon, not a sprint. You need to get yourself organized, stay on track, and regroup when necessary. In movies, college students are often portrayed as staying up all night to study, cramming for exams, eating fast food—sometimes in the middle of the night, and wasting a lot of time. That may work in movies, but that will not help you get the most out of your time at UConn. Setting self-care, social, and extra-curricular goals is sure to enhance academic progress and success. Take some time very early in the semester to consider the following topics:

Self-care

•Eating: often enough, healthy food, enjoying food with friends •Hydrating: getting enough water •Sleeping: getting ready for sleep, getting enough sleep, sleeping at consistent times •Exercising: working out regularly to manage stress, working out with friends or participating in recreational sports

Social

•Keeping in touch with family •Spending quality time with friends who are not at UConn •Spending quality time with Husky friends •Making new friends in your major •Combining eating and exercise activities with friends

Extra-curricular

•Working •Fully participating in a student organization •Volunteering your time for a good cause

Good luck as you work to get organized so that you have the best chance at success!

FYE: First Year Experience UConn’s FYE program consists of course offerings such as FYE University Learning Skills Seminars, FYE Learning Community Seminar, and topic-specific First Year Seminars.

All of these and other services provided, foster student success, development, transition, and leadership. First and second year students at the University study and engage in exploration, learning, and research in small 19-seat seminar sections. Some goals of FYE courses are to connect students to invaluable resources on campus, to build community and friendships, and to promote greater self-awareness. fye.uconn.edu

26 Getting your Campus Life Organized

Working While You’re a Student Though many students work while in college, some students, families, and educators believe that working during the academic year serves as a distraction from what should be a student’s top priority: their academics.

But studies show that students who work up to 30 hours a week do just as well or even better academically than those who don’t.

Part-time work allows you to: •Perfect time-management skills necessary for academic success •Reduce your need for student loans •Gain career-related experience as you clarify goals, acquire skills and self-confidence, and build a network For more information about jobs at UConn, Work Study, and the rights of student workers on campus, go to: studentjobs.uconn.edu

Residential Life Welcome to your new home! We are here to support you as you establish independence through exploration of your identities and values. We want to help you communicate effectively and develop friendships and healthy relationships with a variety of people.

Learning Communities Learning Communities give you access to courses, activities, and field trips designed to help you have a meaningful experience, starting in your first semester.

Seniors who lived in learning communities report they learned about amazing opportunities, had great experiences to talk about in interviews for internships and jobs, and developed strong relationships with supportive faculty. reslife.uconn.edu

Academic Achievement Center The Academic Achievement Center (AAC) assists undergraduates in attaining their academic and personal goals by providing Walk In Coaching Hours, UConn Connects, Supplemental Instruction (SI), and workshops, which enhance academic strategies. The AAC provides individualized support to all students regarding strategies for deeper learning, attention and time management, exam preparation, and more in Rowe 217. Numerous leadership and mentoring opportunities exist for undergraduates within the AAC where students can participate in an on campus internship to earn 3 credits. achieve.uconn.edu

It is important to remember that there is such a thing as too much involvement. We want you to enjoy a healthy and productive college experience. That means taking into account all of your commitments, from academics to family, to work, and everything in between, when making decisions about getting involved at UConn.

Student First

Being a college student is like having a full-time job. Your first priority during your time at UConn should be academic achievement. At UConn, this means more than just attending class and turning in homework. It means actively engaging with the disciplines you study, thinking critically, and gaining knowledge through research and practical experience.

Co-curricular involvement should never take precedence over the academic aspects of college life.

Balance

This focus on academics does not mean that you should spend all of your time studying. Productivity takes a huge dip when people are unhappy, stressed out, or bored. Joining programs that you are passionate about is a way to keep

UC-SHaW Time Out Tuesday

Integration

How do you take on your courses, actively participate in involvement opportunities, and still have time for yourself?

The thing to remember is that each aspect of college life (classes, work, friends, clubs, etc.) is not a separate, isolated entity. Instead, these aspects link to create an integrated educational experience. For example, get to know your professors and fellow students outside of class. Create study groups. Join clubs or participate in service projects that are related to your major. Of course, not all of your activities will relate to your major. You’ll want to attend athletic events, concerts and movies, and participate in activities provided

by UConn Recreation in our new Rec Center. All of these activities combined will make your UConn experience a healthy, productive, and special one.

Active Minds

Wind Down Wednesday

UConn Rec

yourself happy, not stressed out, and certainly not bored.

Also, graduate schools and employers are on the lookout for people who excel academically and are involved in meaningful activities outside the classroom.

Meditation & Neurofeedback

Yoga for Stress Relief

Pet Therapy

UC-SHaW = UConn Student Health and Wellness

Getting your Campus Life Organized 27

EFFECTIVE STUDYING Best study practices for learning styles Auditory

Visual

-Record lectures and listen later -Use your own words to speak aloud the information you are studying -Use word associations to remember facts

-Reference videos and visual presentations -Use flashcards -Color code, highlight and underline when reading or taking notes

Read-Write

Kinesthetic

-Take detailed notes -Create bulleted lists from the information you have in your notes -Dissect charts or diagrams and write out the information

-Use flashcards -Study with others and share information -Schedule short blocks of study time

Studying tips and tricks Organize your notes

Eat properly

Use specific notebooks, binders or a color-coded system for each class.

Always start the day with breakfast.

Healthy food is your brain’s fuel.

Create a study zone

Take breaks

Find a place where you can concentrate and has minimal distractions. Stay away from electronics on which you can access social media.

Getting up and moving around every so often will help you stay focused and able to concentrate.

Get familiar with the syllabus

Listen for highlighted information

Review it early and often so you know what is coming up.

Pay attention to information that the professor emphasizes or repeats.

Find a study group

Study daily

Studying with others can help to understand the material in different ways and from different view points.

If you can teach each other the information, you have learned it!

Don’t leave studying to the last minute, and avoid cramming for a test.

Begin your paper well in advance and work away at it until it is due.

campusbooks.com/blog/study-habits-best-worst-types-learners/ | worldwidelearn.com/education-articles/exam-study-tips | learningguide.org/learningstyles

28 Getting your Campus Life Organized

Getting your Campus Life Organized 29

Not interested in alcohol or other drugs?

You’re in good company!

64% of students new to UConn did not consume alcohol in the past 2 weeks

24% of UConn students prefer not to have alcohol at parties

76%

of UConn students prefer not to have drugs at parties

If you do choose to drink, consider the following strategies to reduce your risk of experiencing alcohol-related harms: Of UConn students surveyed,

85% indicated eating before or during drinking

68% indicated keeping track of the number of drinks they’re consuming

52% indicated sticking with only one kind of alcohol

41% reported having a friend let them know when they’d had enough

Don’t leave a sick friend If someone seems dangerously intoxicated or shows signs of alcohol poisoning, call 911.

Charge your phone Charge your phone before going out and be sure you always have it on in case of emergencies.

39% indicated alternating non-alcoholic beverages with alcoholic ones

38% reported setting drink limits in advance

Protect Our Pack Transportation Have a designated driver or set up driving arrangements before going out. Never get in the car with a driver who is under the influence.

Always have a friend with you.

Don’t walk home alone. Look out for other Huskies, so we can all keep our community safe.

Walk away If you are under the influence and you feel angry or violent, walk away.

Information and data taken from the National College Health Assessment Survey, Spring 2017; AlcoholEdu, UConn, Fall 2018, Part 2; Core Alcohol & Drug Survey, Spring 2018

30 Getting your Campus Life Organized

Are you struggling but don’t want to ask for help?

Are you saying: “I’m fine! It will pass! It’s no big deal! I’m sure there are others who need help more than I do. Everyone’s got problems. It’s no one’s business.”

Their staff members are highly committed to helping you make your way through school without having to manage the additional burdens of mental health concerns all by yourself.

These are some of the reasons UConn students give as to why they live in quiet desperation. Many students decide that struggling is just how it goes, completely falling apart is the way to go before asking for help, not living life satisfied is acceptable, there is cultural shame for sharing personal problems, or difficulty is just my unfortunate fate.

Is the “quiet desperation” person, you? If it is, you can change this path by talking to one of their competent mental health staff members or joining one of their groups to aid your self-understanding and to help you resolve your personal concerns. Although they will work with you in crisis, the primary goal is to assist you before your concerns develop into more serious problems. Stop by and find that it is a friendly, helpful place and a safe, confidential, and supportive environment to do the work you need to do to be a successful student and a happy and healthy person! It is easy to get started, it is rewarding to get help, and it is fabulous to finish feeling better than you started. studenthealth.uconn.edu UConn Student Health

The fact is, for everyone, the campus environment can be challenging as well as exciting. It can also be highly stressful since social and emotional concerns can interfere with feeling well personally and doing well academically. So, it is good to know that UConn Student Health and Wellness (UC-SHaW) offers a range of mental health services.

Getting your Campus Life Organized 31

Hear from fellow students who have overcome obstacles and grown through involvement at UConn.

Leah Calitri

Major: Political Science

How I got involved: My involvement on campus started with club lacrosse. Since I had been playing lacrosse for years back home, I knew that I wanted to continue playing in college at the club level. Club lacrosse was the first club I joined here, which ultimately helped me feel more comfortable. Starting with a club or sport that I was involved in throughout high school made the transition easier. Since I have stayed dedicated to Club Lacrosse since freshman year, I am excited to become president starting in Fall 2019.

During the Fall 2016 involvement fair, I also put down my email on various clubs that matched my career and volunteer interests. Some of these groups were similar to ones I had joined in high school, such as Big Brothers Big Sisters, and others were new, like Pre-Med Society. Ultimately each group was a way to meet new people and expand my worldview. As the semester went on, I decided which clubs were worth my time versus the ones I did not enjoy. My sophomore year, I started looking for on-campus jobs. I was looking for a meaningful position that would further my career development outside of UConn. As an Involvement Ambassador, I improve not only the leadership abilities of my fellow student leaders through workshops, but also my own capabilities. My favorite part about the job is helping students start new organizations and then supporting them in reaching their goals on campus.

Advice for Students New to UConn: My advice to new students at UConn would to be first, attend the involvement fair during the

fall! When at the fair, I would encourage new students to speak to clubs that spark their interests. Putting one’s name down on too many clubs, then revisiting which ones are truly interesting is easier than trying to track down clubs after. Try to attend the first meetings for each of these clubs before making decisions about which ones to drop or stick with. Clubs should not feel like an obligation, but like an opportunity. Once a part of a club, try to join a committee or volunteer for events they have to meet more people and feel more connected.

Seda Sahin

How I got involved: I came to UConn as a first-generation college student from a family of

immigrants. Because of this, I felt that UConn provided so many more opportunities than I had access to growing up. I was so excited to learn about all the organizations on campus, and how to further my education by getting involved in community-based learning. This is how I started tutoring incarcerated adult students my freshman year through Second Chance Educational Alliance (a program run through Community Outreach), and have continued to my junior year as its Program Director. This made me realize how many unique organizations are at UConn, and I was so excited to explore other areas such as participating as a CNA on a medical service trip to the Dominican Republic, where we assisted in providing medical resources to under served populations.

UConn granted me the ability to start organizations on campus and intertwine what I have learned on campus from my own courses and experiences to pass onto others.

Advice for Students New to UConn: Coming from my background, it is easy to compare yourself to your peers. From my time at UConn, I have realized that it is important to stay Major: Molecular and Cell focused on your personal goals and not let yourself get in the way of your own growth.

Biology Everyone has a place at UConn, I think it is important to keep yourself busy and find your personal little community on such a big campus. All it takes is putting yourself out there and do things that you are genuinely interested in! UConn has provides you with countless resources and support to get involved with whatever you are passionate about!

32 Advice from Student Experts | Special Topics

Caesar Valentin

How I got involved: My time at PRLACC has easily been what has made my UConn experience what it is. It’s where I met most of my friends and found my home on this campus. The students in there always greet me with hugs and hellos, and the faculty does the same. If I didn’t get involved, I wouldn’t have developed into who I am. It gave me my home away from home, and it gave me a job, introduced me to professors, etc.

PRLACC was everything I needed and I made it what I needed too.

Advice for Students New to UConn: College is hard. You’re going to have to study, and you’re going to have to do so consistently. This does not mean you can’t have fun, it’s realistic to do both. The thing is time management. Without it you’ll fall apart, so choose a method to keep your life in order and enjoy your education!

Major: Political Science and Philosophy

Ashleigh Jepson

How I got involved: I arrived at UConn the spring semester of my freshman year. As a

transfer student, I struggled to believe that I would still have the ability to make friends and have the college experience I had hoped for. While the first semester was difficult, starting sophomore year I was determined to make my next few years at UConn the best they could be. That fall, I tried out for Club Soccer. This new group of friends that had a similar interest as me gave me the confidence to expand my horizons. I decided to take my interest to the next level and applied to work at Club Sports. This allowed me to see the behind the scenes effort that goes into making Club Sports at UConn so successful, and it gave me a smaller, more close knit group of peers. After 3 years, I became secretary and captain of the Club Soccer team, and I still love my job at Club Sports. If I had allowed the fact that I was a transfer student to discourage me from having confidence in myself, my UConn experience would have looked much different.

Advice for Students New to UConn: Don’t change who you are just to try to fit in, and have confidence in yourself. Finding friends who have similar interests as you comes when you Major: Allied Health Sciences have the confidence to truly be who you are! It is intimidating at first but finding the time to get involved in something you are passionate about, and pushing yourself out of your comfort zone will help you find your group at UConn. You came to UConn for a reason, so do everything you can to make it the best years of your life.

Shauna Bolton

How I got involved: I started by just attending Late Night my freshman year. It was a great way to spend time on the weekend. It allowed my friends and I to do a lot of cool stuff like mechanical bull rides and Virtual Reality that we couldn’t do anywhere else on campus.

Every time I went to Late Night, I enjoyed myself and loved being there. So, when I saw that Late Night was hiring, I didn’t hesitate to apply. Now, I am a member of the UConn Late Night staff, and I love it! Being involved in the planning of Late Night, working with the other Late Nighters, and being able to bring activities to the campus for other students is something I really enjoy and definitely enhanced my time here at UConn.

Advice for Students New to UConn: Find out what’s out there! Check out the Involvement Fairs, read the Daily Digest, and just explore all the things in the Student Union (the Cultural Centers, USG, SUBOG etc.). UConn is a very inclusive and inviting community, so don’t be afraid to test things out and find the organizations you want to be a part of.

Major: Exercise Science

Advice from Student Experts | Special Topics 33

How I got involved: I initially came to UConn as an out of state student and I was committed to being a UConn Athlete. After becoming overwhelmed with my demanding school/ practice schedule and having to turn down opportunities for my major, I decided to leave UConn Athletics in the late spring of my freshman year. From that moment onward, I knew I wanted to become more involved within the UConn community. I applied to work at several Cultural Centers and landed a job at the Rainbow Center during my sophomore year. I was the lead event coordinator and promoter for the Rainbow Center’s Annual Drag Show. I got to work with a team to recruit and scout local performers for our show, as well as connect with international performers and their agencies. During my junior year, I applied for a second job that would be more related to my major and I started working for the Department of Student Activities as a student graphic designer.

Advice for Students New to UConn: Be flexible with whatever life throws at you. Don’t come into college with a plan that is set in stone on how you think you are going to succeed during your academic career. I thought I was going to play sports all four years Major: Digital Media and of college, get a degree, and that was it. But I changed my path to a different one that just Design felt more appropriate for the experiences I wanted to have in college. Now I have two wonderful jobs, am a full time student, and I could not be happier.

Skylar Agnello

Jordane Virgo

Major: Nutritional Science

Emily Troy

Major: Sociology

How I got involved: Once I arrived at UConn Avery Point as a freshman, I was dedicated to redefining myself and finding what I was good at. I was a part of the Husky Ambassadors program, where I could work with the University as well as surrounding town programs.

The combination of giving tours of the campus and doing community outreach gave me great insight. When I came to Storrs I wanted to continue to capitalize on the opportunities outside of class. While I was new to the campus and didn’t know many people, I was able to get involved thanks to connections I had made. I have served as the Schola2rs House Learning Community’s floor mentor, worked with kids in Hartford through Husky Sport, attended conferences, and spoke on panels. While academics are my number one priority, I won’t let it be the only thing I get out of this University.

Advice for Students New to UConn: Take nothing for granted – especially being a college student. You may never get the opportunity to make a lasting impact like this again. If you try and fit in with ideals and values you don’t personally agree with, you will never find your path. While it is not easy to juggle school, work, and involvement, enjoy doing things you are passionate about. I encourage you to make the most of the opportunities offered here.

They have given me long-term character development while giving me an everyday purpose!

How I got involved: I got involved by going to the involvement Fair and joining the College Diabetes Network. I was a transfer student and I transferred in the spring semester, so I didn’t know anyone and felt pretty lonely. I had been type 1 diabetic for 6 years at that point and that was the first time I had gotten involved with other people with the same illness. By joining that club, I met my own little family that always has my back while I am on campus. They have been with me through the rough times of transferring and navigating a new school. It helped me get involved on campus and I met some of my best friends through it. Two years later, I have become the vice president of the club and I hope that I can help someone else feel more involved in the campus family.

Advice for Students New to UConn: My advice for new students is join every club and study group and every possible thing you are interested in! It may seem overwhelming at the beginning, but you don’t have to stay in everything you sign up for at the beginning. It will give you the option to explore different clubs, and that way you won’t have any feeling of regret like you should have signed up for something. Try and push yourself out of your comfort zone a little bit because you may find something you really like.

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Tips to help you transition into life at UConn.

ARE YOU WONDERING HOW TO START A CONVERSATION? For some people, talking to others seems easy and natural.

To others, it can cause stress and nervousness. If you get nervous thinking about starting a conversation, you need a strategy. First of all, being a good conversationalist means being relaxed, being a good listener and being a good observer… take note of what the people around you talk about and what interests them. Most people like to talk about themselves, so that is a good place to start. Simple, friendly, open-ended questions are a key to keeping things moving. Have a few opening questions that can be readily adapted. For example, “How was your weekend?” can be adapted to, “How was the concert…” or “your test?” Or try talking about recent sports, political or social events. If you don’t make a connection and the conversation dies, don’t worry. It is important to try, and sooner or later you will click with someone and conversation will get easier. Just remember to be patient with yourself. Slow and steady progress is still progress!

ARE YOU SHY? It’s natural for some people to get nervous about jumping into the social scene. Don’t try to overcome shyness all at once… do it gradually. A good way to start is to do one thing that is “braver” than you usually do in your typical activities. Make eye contact with someone, smile, and say “hi.” Ask a question in class. As you get used to these activities, create new ones. It’s also a good idea to get involved in activities that have structure and help you to talk to others, guided by leaders helping the conversations along. You will meet others who are involved and have a chance to have conversations when you are training or meeting, going to projects and talking about common experiences. It’s okay to be a quiet and reserved person.

But we don’t want you in your room on your computer all the time--we want you with us at programs and taking part in clubs and organizations!

ARE YOU NERVOUS ABOUT GOING ALONE? Few things make people more nervous than the thought of being alone in public for a meal or an event. Be assertive with your friends. Say, “Hey, I want to go to this movie, anyone want to go?” or, “Is anyone going to dinner soon?”

Most people are drawn to confident people, so if you are asking these questions in a strong way, people will come with you. You can also take the honest approach, and do it in an assertive way: “I have to go to this program for class and I don’t want to go alone. Anyone want to go?

I’ll go with you when you have to go to something.” If you do have to go to something alone, go with confidence!

Walk strong. Bring a book to read or a notebook to write in… pretend to be doing observation for a class. And after a few times doing this, you will find that you are actually stronger and braver than you think!

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ARE YOU A TRANSFER STUDENT?

ARE YOU A FIRST GENERATION STUDENT? Are you the first in your family to go to college? While your family is surely proud that you’re leading the way, it is also hard to be ‘first.’ You probably have lots of questions, and may feel that there isn’t anyone to help you figure things out. There is no need to feel alone! There are lots of staff on campus who want to help all students -- and many of them were first generation students, too! All you need to do is ask. A good place to start is the Dean of Students Office (DOS). They can connect you to resources all over campus.

Stop by the DOS in Wilbur Cross or give them a call.

ARE YOU A COMMUTER STUDENT? It can be hard to have time in between classes and not be able to hang out in your room because you would have to drive back home to get to it! You need to find a “home base” when you are on campus. A good place to start is in the commuter lounge in the Student Union. There are lockers, tables and a TV. There are lots of other nooks and crannies on campus in which you can study, have a bite to eat, relax or socialize in between classes. It’s also a good time to visit professors. Consider putting in a few hours at a part-time job on campus… or a few hours a week at one of our 50 volunteer sites. Whatever you do, don’t hang out in your car in between classes! Off-Campus Student Services, Student Union Room 315 (offcampus.uconn.edu), is a great resource for everything from how to get involved as a commuter to landlord issues.

ARE YOU A RETURNING ADULT STUDENT? Most students come to UConn right after high school. If you choose to return later in life, you might feel invisible. You don’t have to! Think about taking your friends and family members to the art, music, theater, or athletic events. Not only will you have fun, but you can connect your new college life with your established life! When it comes to student organizations, be assertive about your needs so that you can stay involved and make a difference. Many of our groups meet late at night when you might not be around. If you have to miss meetings, ask to meet with the president for coffee to catch up on what you missed.

Perhaps you can chair a committee of people who can meet at a different time.

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It’s not easy being an experienced college student, but also feeling like a first year student on campus. Depending on where you transferred from, Storrs can feel small and cozy or large and overwhelming. One way to get off to a good start is to take an FYE class designed just for transfer students. It will be comforting to be with people who are experiencing the same things you are. Beyond that, just jump into campus life! Start a study group with people in your major, join a student organization, and get to some athletic events. You’ll be an experienced Husky in no time.

DID YOU COME FROM A REGIONAL CAMPUS? Welcome to the Storrs campus, Huskies! It can be hard to feel like you are a new Husky when really you have been a Husky for at least a couple of years! So, now that you are here with us, you can continue participating in the things that you were involved with at your regional campus or start fresh and try out new things. Check out our student organization database at uconntact.uconn.edu. Jump right in so you don’t miss anything!

DO YOU NEED TO WORK TO SUPPORT YOURSELF IN COLLEGE? It can be hard to get involved when you have to support yourself. But working is a type of involvement. Working can help you gain valuable teamwork and time management skills, and it shows folks that you mean business about your education. Some jobs on campus have opportunities for students to “move up” and take on leadership roles. You should also enjoy life as a Husky by going to sporting and cultural events, and perhaps you can even find time to join a student organization. But don’t ever think that working means you aren’t getting as much as you can out of your education.

ARE YOU AN INTERNATIONAL STUDENT?

You are probably going through some culture shock! But there are many other students who are going through the same things as you are and you just need to find them!

Stop by the International Center, McMahon Hall - Main Floor. They have information about the services and requirements for international students. It is a great place to meet other students and find out where to go and how to get to places. They have international coffee hours, game nights, and bus trips. Check out the student organization data base on the Student Activities, UConntact website uconntact.uconn.edu; there are over 35 student organizations representing a wide variety of countries, cultures, and religions. Your education here will not stop outside of the classroom… the whole campus is waiting!

ARE YOU A STUDENT WHO STRUGGLES WITH ALCOHOL OR DRUGS? ARE YOU A VETERAN? It can be a huge transition from the formality of military life to spontaneous and laid back college life. There are other students who are experiencing what you are.

Meet like- minded individuals in our Veterans Student Organization. For more information about Veterans Resources visit veterans.uconn.edu.

ARE YOU A FORMER HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETE? It can be a huge transition from being a high school athlete to becoming a college student. Unless you are a college varsity athlete, you are probably thinking that you will have to let go of your love of the game. But you don’t! We have 39 Club Sports, and these teams compete with other college teams. We also have dozens of recreational teams that compete with other UConn teams on campus. Check out recreation.uconn.edu.

ARE YOU A STUDENT WHO IS LGBTQIA+ ?

Lesbian. Gay. Bisexual. Transgender. Queer. Questioning.

Intersex. Asexual. Ally. It can be difficult coming to a new school, especially when you are part of the LGBT+ community, but the Rainbow Center at UConn is supportive of all Huskies! There are several ways for LGBTQIA+ students to get involved and find support on campus. One of your first stops on campus should be the Rainbow Center (4th floor, Student Union), where there are regularly scheduled social, educational, and advocacy programs. For more information on additional campus involvement opportunities, including the Queer Collective, check out the student organization data base at uconntact.uconn.edu.

If you are considering help for drug or alcohol use, you will be able to find the support that you need. Student Health and Wellness (studenthealth.uconn.edu) offers a variety of resources through both its Health Promotion and Mental Health lines of services. There are also AA and NA meetings right on campus. And don’t forget that there are dozens of events every day that are alcohol and drug free.

ARE YOU A STUDENT IN RECOVERY? It’s true that some students think that college is one big party, and this makes it harder for students who are choosing to abstain from drugs and alcohol, but still want to have a good time and meet new people. You should check out the Student Health and Wellness’ UConn Recovery Community (URC) located in the historic Cordial Storrs House on Route 195. You will find their hours at urc. uconn.edu, along with information on the programs and services offered to students who are in recovery. The URC is a community of students in recovery from alcohol and other drugs, who support each other and engage in fun activities together. There are many students involved with Wellness and Prevention Services, so you will be sure to meet lots of great people.

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The Department of Student Activities enriches the intellectual, ethical, and social development of our students by engaging them in community involvement and leadership opportunities. We are committed to providing excellent programs and services that promote student self-governance, respect for diversity, civic responsibility, and life-long learning.

studentactivities.uconn.edu

UConn Student Activities

@UConnStudentActivities

@UConnActivities