2010 Student Affairs

DIVISION of

STUDENT AFFAIRS

COMMITTED TO THE OVERALL DEVELOPMENT OF EXCEPTIONAL STUDENTS

Greetings from the

DIVISION OF STUDENT AFFAIRS, and thanks for your interest in our work with the exceptional students on the College of Charleston campus.

One of the most difficult parts of my duties as the Executive Vice President for the division is explaining what we do in Student Affairs. I once heard an explanation that seems to make it easier for some: We are the professionals who are charged with the responsibility of taking care of our thousands of students during the 150+ hours a week when they are not in class. Obviously, this is an enormous undertaking, but our love, dedication and support of students make the challenges somewhat easier.

Our primary goal is to support the academic mission of the College of Charleston by providing information regarding programs and services that support and enrich the educational process. While we serve in a common purpose as partners in the learning process of our students, the Division of Student Affairs is committed to working collaboratively to integrate individual student training with student emotional, social and moral concerns.

Within Student Affairs, we take seriously from day one our role in the development of our students. The College of Charleston offers each student a variety of ways to grow as a person, and we like being a part of that growth. We use a myriad of programs and services to help us reach many goals in our daily work for and with students.

We work with students socially, psychologically, spiritually, physically and in so many other ways. It is when students and we professionals work together that our desired outcome of student development happens.

I appreciate your interest in finding out more about who we are and our role here on campus, and we hope this publication will identify and provide some insight into the level of expertise and resources available at the College of Charleston. Even further, we hope it highlights our steadfast and strong belief in and love for our students.

Whether you are a prospective or current student, parent or friend of the College, we stand ready to assist you as needed. And, if you would like to find out how you might assist us, please visit giving.cofc.edu, or contact the Annual Fund (843.953.7362).

With your support and ideas we can reach our financial goals and help change the lives of our students.

Again, thanks for your interest in our division, and let me know if we can ever assist you in any way.

Victor K. Wilson Executive Vice President for Student Affairs Stern Student Center – 3rd floor P: 843.953.5522 F: 843.953.5403 E: wilsonv@cofc.edu studentaffairs.cofc.edu

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Table of Contents

Campus Recreation Services (CRS)………………………………………………………5 C.A.R.E. (Crisis Assistance Response and Education)…………………………………7 Career Center………………………………………………………………………………9 Center for Civic Engagement………………………………………………………… 11 Center for Disability Services………………………………………………………… 13 Community Relations…………………………………………………………………… 15 Counseling and Substance Abuse Services (CASAS)……………………………… 17 Dean of Students………………………………………………………………………… 19 Greek Life………………………………………………………………………………… 21 Higdon Student Leadership Center…………………………………………………… 23 Multicultural Student Programs and Services……………………………………… 25 Public Safety……………………………………………………………………………… 27 Residence Life and Housing…………………………………………………………… 29 Student Affairs Technical Support (SATS)…………………………………………… 31 Student Health Services………………………………………………………………… 33 Student Life……………………………………………………………………………… 35 Upward Bound…………………………………………………………………………… 37

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Campus Recreation Services Campus Recreation Services (CRS) provides a wide range of activities that help students have a well-rounded, positive college experience. Research by the National Intramural-Recreational Sports Association illustrates this point with its finding that participation in college recreational sports and activities was listed as a key determinant of college satisfaction and success. Other findings reveal that students who participate in a number of campus recreational sports programs and activities scored higher on the Satisfaction with Life Scale than did either light users or non-users. They also were found to be more socially oriented than other students. (2002 Recreational Sports Research Report, National Intramural-Recreational Sports Association) SPORT CLUBS

OPEN RECREATION

OUTDOOR ADVENTURE

For some, playing one intramural game a week is not enough. Students who are motivated to practice three times a week and compete on the weekend – either at home or away – often participate in the sport clubs program. Club members develop their skills and love of the game through organized practices, clinics and competition.

Students can take charge of the day and choose when they wish to play or exercise during leisure time. Open recreation hours are scheduled throughout the day to help meet the demands of a busy schedule.

The list of sport clubs at the College of Charleston continues to change and grow.

The opportunity to participate in a familiar activity or to learn a new sport is available to all students.

The first step in becoming physically fit is to get started. An easy way to begin, and perhaps make a new friend or two in the process, is to join one of these programs.

During the fall semester, several overnight trips and instructional sessions are available.

They include: an exhilarating weekend climbing the popular routes on Crowders Mountain just outside of Charlotte, or traveling by sea kayak to Capers Island, one of the barrier islands off the coast. Camping on the beach is a highlight of this trip. No experience or equipment is required for those interested in joining the fun.

FITNESS AND INSTRUCTIONAL PROGRAMS

INTRAMURAL SPORTS Students ompete against other students from the residence halls, fraternities or sororities, or those who have formed their own teams. There is an “A” and “B” league for each competition.

CAMPUS RECREATION SERVICES F. Mitchell Johnson Physical Education Center 30 George Street OFFICES 206-207 Silcox Gym P: 843.953.5559 campusrec.cofc.edu

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C.A.R.E. | Crisis Assistance Response and Education Central to C.A.R.E.’s mission is educational outreach, where the focus is on building awareness and promoting risk reduction. Campus and community partnerships are supportive and know how to help, while offering an array of programs and opportunities through which our students stay informed and get involved. Whether we are coordinating events during Campus Safety Awareness Month, or speaking to classes and organizations throughout the year, we remain dedicated to building support that will create communities where there is no violence and there are no victims.

VICTIM ASSISTANCE Becoming a victim of a crime can sometimes happen no matter how careful we are. Students who live on campus or in the community are active in all facets of community life and certainly are no exception.

When college students become victims, there may be issues surrounding the crime – indecision and fear of reporting, self-blame or fear of what others will know and do if they report it – that prevent them from reaching out for assistance. Even when victims do file a police report, getting help to deal with the non-counseling aftereffects – such as missed classes or exams, locating resources or having someone help them through the maze of a

court process – often seems too complicated and time consuming.

That’s why there is a C.A.R.E. victim assistance program. We know that some students will choose to file a police report, some may need information and their questions answered before they decide to report, and some, for personal reasons, cannot and will not report.

We’re here to provide services to all victims, no matter what they choose to do, so that they can regain their balance.

all” approach offers students the opportunity to address their immediate and long-term needs without having to endlessly repeat the circumstances, or waste time searching for information or remedies. Two full-time nationally certified victim assistance specialists staff this program. Appointments and walk-in services are available daily and emergency response is available by pager on a 24-hour basis. All interactions with C.A.R.E. are private, and assistance is provided within a framework that is attentive, sensitive and knowledgeable.

Specifically designed for College of Charleston students, C.A.R.E. has been in operation since 1989. Our “one-call-does-it

WHAT C.A.R.E. DOES No matter where an incident occurs, regardless of whether or not a report was filed, if there is a situation where help is needed, C.A.R.E. specialists: • can explain the reporting process and assist with filing a report with the appropriate law enforcement agency.

• will work to reasonably accommodate any possible disruption to class attendance, class work, academic schedule, or to initiate necessary changes that may result from the victimization.

• can serve as the spokesperson within the College community so that privacy and dignity are maintained in all aspects of intervention and assistance and, as necessary, serve as liaison with individuals off campus.

• offer immediate crisis intervention and initial support.

C.A.R.E. 67 George Street P: 843.953.3390 PAGER: 843.724.3600 care.cofc.edu

• help locate resources to meet specific ongoing needs.

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Career Center The Career Center is one of the first stops students make when they come to the College of Charleston.

The staff helps them develop the tools they’ll need to market themselves – to prospective employers or graduate/professional schools.

FINDING A NICHE

SELF-ASSESSMENT

Making decisions about majors and academic courses will have an impact on career choices. But part-time jobs, internships, service learning and volunteering also play an integral part in preparations for the future. That is why we recommend that students visit the Career Center early and often.

Self-assessment is the starting point for choosing a major or a career. It is much better to search for a career that fits, rather than try to fit the individual into a career that seems interesting on the surface. If students know their strengths and weaknesses, then they will be on firm ground when selecting a career.

During the academic year, we offer seminars on such topics as résumés, internships, job searches, choosing a major and networking, and can recommend the appropriate time to begin a job search or make plans for graduate or professional school. We also schedule individual appointments to help students choose a major, select a career path, or explore graduate and/or professional schools.

PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE The Career Center staff can direct students and alumni who are thinking about graduate or professional school to available resources.

• Strong Interest Inventory helps identify fields, occupations and areas of study that match interests.

• Myers-Briggs Type Indicator matches personality to work and learning environments.

• FOCUS is a computerized career guidance system that provides personalized career and educational planning information that will help in the decision-making process.

Here are some websites that provide online access to career assessment inventories. Some of these are free while others require payment.

ON-CAMPUS AND OFF-CAMPUS EMPLOYMENT

• www.personalitypage.com

The Career Center keeps a database of part-time, full-time, and seasonal employment opportunities. Contact our office to get access to CISTERNonline, a real-time Web-based recruiting system.

• www.self-directed-search.com

ADDITIONAL EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES Volunteering, internships, co-operative education, informational interviewing, networking and shadowing are other ways to explore career options and prepare for the “world of work.”

• www.keirsey.com • www.careerkey.org CAREER CENTER Lightsey Center – room 216 P: 843.953.5692 F: 843.953.6341 careercenter@cofc.edu careercenter.cofc.edu/

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Center for Civic Engagement Service is an important part of the College of Charleston experience. Aside from improving the quality of life of the people you touch, volunteering can actually make learning come alive. The experiences you’ll have will also reinforce the importance of being actively involved in your community.

CENTER FOR CIVIC ENGAGEMENT The Center for Civic Engagement staff connects students, faculty and staff with local nonprofit service opportunities that range from one-day events to year-long mentoring programs. In addition to the numerous projects that develop throughout the year, there are several annual events in which everyone can serve both the College and the community: • Welcome Back Week Service Project.

Each fall, incoming freshmen kick off the new year and make new friends by participating in an exciting service project.

• Volunteer Fair. Held during the student organization fair, this event gives students a chance to meet directly with the staff of local nonprofits that represent a range of available service opportunities.

• Dash for Trash. Student teams scour downtown Charleston in a litter-collecting scavenger hunt. Litter is assigned point values (recyclable cans = 2 points, dog “litter” = 10 points, and so on). The team with the biggest haul wins a prize – and the whole community wins, too.

• Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week. The service and educational events raise awareness about the issues of hunger and homelessness in the Charleston community and provide resources that help students get involved and take action.

• MLK Challenge. Students unite in a day of service to commemorate the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. Student teams are given $75, a van and six hours to creatively complete a challenging project for the community.

• Homecoming Service Project. In collaboration with the Office of Student Life, we work to unite the campus, build school pride and connect with our community during the exciting events of Homecoming week.

BONNER LEADERS PROGRAM Bonner Leaders are outstanding students who commit themselves to leadership through service and making positive change across campus and in the community. This four-year scholarship program connects real-life work experiences in area nonprofit organizations with powerful leadership development training and education. The experience helps students transition from volunteer to leader in their community.

• Alternative Break Program. During breaks, students travel to national and international destinations to perform community service. As they work, they explore exciting places and make new friends. Because all trips are planned and led by students, there are always new projects and locales.

• Volunteer Corps. Joining Volunteer Corps is one of several ways that students can get involved on an ongoing basis. It’s a student-run club focused on planning and completing service projects in Charleston and the larger community. Meetings are held at the Community Service Center and are open to anyone interested in volunteering.

CENTER FOR CIVIC ENGAGEMENT Lightsey Center – room 203 P: 843.953.5838 E: volunteer@cofc.edu bonner@cofc.edu servicelearning.cofc.edu

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Center for Disability Services The Center for Disability Services is committed to ensuring equal access to all programs and services provided by the College for students with disabilities (learning disabilities, attention deficit disorders, physical or psychological disabilities). Students who have disabilities that require accommodation should apply for services as soon as they have been accepted to the College of Charleston. Because students are sometimes diagnosed with disabilities during the time they are at the College, they may apply for services at any time during the course of their college career.

SNAP SERVICES Students Needing Access Parity (SNAP) Services provides assistance and guidance to students with a documented disability. Once they have been approved for services, SNAP provides: • individual advising and registration.

• reasonable and appropriate accommodations specific to individual needs based on the psychoeducational assessment or medical documentation.

• communication with instructors, upon request, in order to heighten their awareness of individual student needs and to seek appropriate accommodations.

• a testing site for students who need testing accommodations.

• alternative courses to the math/ logic and foreign language requirement, if need is documented by psychoeducational assessment or medical documentation. (If math is considered to be an essential component of the student’s major, alternatives to the math/logic requirement may not be used.)

• assistive technology, which includes Reading software (such as Reading Made EZ and Kurzweil), speech to text software (Dragon Naturally Speaking, JAWS, for ex.), magnification software (such as ZoomText), textbooks and other printed materials in alternate formats, video magnifiers and MathTalk software

You can find information about the application process for SNAP Services on our website.

NOTE: Services provided will vary depending upon the type of disability, the documentation provided and the essential components of the courses the student is taking.

CENTER FOR DISABILITY SERVICES Lightsey Center – room 104 P: 843.953.1431 TTY: 843.953.8284 F: 843.953.7731 E: SNAP@cofc.edu disabilityservices.cofc.edu ST U DE N T AF FA I RS : LIVE. LEARN . G RO W.

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Community Relations The Office of Community Relations is the bridge that connects the College of Charleston with the Charleston community. We strive to become a real partner in mutual interests of joy and concern, and encourage all neighbors to live in harmony with each other. We can be a resource if you need help with issues involving the College.

Would you like to know more about what is happening on campus and in the community? We help coordinate the efforts of the city’s Town and Gown Committee, which is made up of representatives from neighborhood associations, municipal offices and local colleges.

• Are you a student who needs help dealing with a neighbor?

• Are you a member of the local community who lives near the College of Charleston?

We invite students and members of the surrounding neighborhoods to come to us for help. Our goal is to resolve situations amicably for all parties.

PAL (PEER ASSISTANCE LEADERS)

ABSENCE MEMO/ABSENCE POLICY

The College of Charleston, Charleston Southern, Trident Technical College and the city have collaborated on a wonderful and exciting new program referred to as PAL. The idea behind PAL stemmed from the desire of some college students to prevent their peers from being victimized or harmed as a result of their engaging in behavior which raises their risk level. Members of PAL help their peers avoid negative situations involving alcohol and crime.

When students encounter emergencies, need to be away from campus or become ill, the absence memo office at 67 George Street provides a network to notify professors, appropriate campus offices and organizations. This service is available when a student has missed class for a variety of reasons and is an excellent resource for students to notify faculty as to why they are not in class.

COMMUNITY RELATIONS AND ABSENCE MEMOS 67 George Street P: 843.953.3390 F: 843.953.2290 E-mail for absences: absencememo@cofc.edu studentaffairs.cofc.edu/community ST U DE N T AF FA I RS : LIVE. LEARN . G RO W.

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Counseling and Substance Abuse Services Counseling and Substance Abuse Services (CASAS) uses group and individual counseling, training, instruction, assessment, consultation, outreach programming and crisis intervention services to support and increase students’ persistence and success at the College of Charleston.

COUNSELING

SUBSTANCE ABUSE

BETTER THINGS TO DO

Counseling is a confidential, supportive relationship that can help students better understand themselves and their feelings, behaviors and relationships with others. The following are some examples of the types of problems and concerns that students bring to counseling.

On college campuses there is a clear relationship between alcohol and drug misuse and poor grades, incidents of sexual assault, episodes of violence, and accidents.

You’ll find, however, that most students do not abuse alcohol or drugs – at the College of Charleston and elsewhere.

• Lack of confidence or poor self-esteem

The College has taken the position that students have a right to a safe and healthy environment. The Office of Substance Abuse Services, to which students may be referred if substance abuse seems to be a problem, offers on-campus counseling resources for assessment, education, and/or treatment.

There is so much going on in the city of Charleston, and at the College, that nobody should have trouble filling up their nonclassroom hours with worthwhile and fun things to do. As an alternative to high-risk behavior, check out Better Things To Do™ (www.cofc.edu/betterthingstodo). There are links to many useful resources, access to online screenings, options for alcohol and substance-free social and recreational opportunities and ideas for getting involved.

• Finding, helping with, or ending a relationship • Getting along with others • Puzzling or distressing emotional states • Self-defeating behaviors • Controlling the use of alcohol and drugs • Determining life’s purpose and direction • Making better decisions • Evaluating possible learning disabilities or attention deficit disorders Counseling services is staffed by qualified mental health professionals and advanced graduate student interns, who have backgrounds in counseling, social work and psychology. All counselors are licensed in their respective fields.

Substance abuse services also provides informal presentations and discussions on alcohol and drugs to classes, organizations and student groups. Topics include how to talk to friends about their drug or alcohol use, safe drinking, and research on the effects of marijuana use.

NOTE: Counseling and Substance Abuse Services is open Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Walk-in hours are 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. For after-hours emergencies, contact Public Safety at 843.953.5611 to have the on-call counselor paged.

COUNSELING AND SUBSTANCE ABUSE SERVICES Robert Scott Small Building – 3rd floor P: 843.953.5640 Counseling Services: counseling.cofc.edu Better Things to Do: betterthingstodo.cofc.edu ST U DE N T AF FA I RS : LIVE. LEARN . G RO W.

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Dean of Students “At the core of the College of Charleston community are individuals from diverse backgrounds whose lives are intertwined in support of the uplifting of the human condition through comprehensive studies. As with all communities, there is a moral code of ethical behavior that binds participants together and a body of official rules and regulations that defines personal freedoms and responsibilities. The latter is codified in our Honor Code and Code of Conduct. They apply to all members of the college community and are intended to promote an atmosphere of trust and fairness in the classroom and in the conduct of daily campus life.” Student Handbook The Office of the Dean of Students is a resource for students, faculty and staff.

This office advocates for students when appropriate, assists students in need, recognizes student achievement and holds students accountable for their actions. Staff, faculty and students in collaboration with the dean create, review, disseminate and enforce the College rules and policies that are set forth in the Student Handbook.

The dean helps students who have inquiries about College policies and procedures and also coordinates the Honor System at the College.

HONOR SYSTEM As members of the community, students at the College of Charleston are expected to evidence a high standard of personal conduct, and to respect the rights of other students, faculty, staff members, community neighbors, and visitors to the campus. They also must adhere to all federal, state and local laws.

Students are bound by honor and by their enrollment at the College to abide by the specific policies of the Honor Code and the Code of Conduct, and to report any violations.

STUDENTS OF CONCERN COMMITTEE (SOC) The SOC is a campus resource established to receive, collect, consider, and when it deems appropriate, act upon information regarding behavior of concern that a student or group of students is exhibiting.

An example might be: • behavior that presents safety issues for the student or others.

• conduct that might be a violation of the Code of Conduct or any such conduct that might hamper the student’s ability to achieve essential academic requirements or meet expected standards of conduct.

issues; the Office of the Dean of Students then contacts each student for whom a F.A.S.T. report has been filed.

VOTER REGISTRATION The Dean of Students and many others on campus work to make sure that young people, especially college students, are heard in upcoming elections. We want to make sure that they are registered and can vote so that local, state and national political candidates will pay attention to college students and the issues that matter most to them. Students are encouraged to come to the Office of the Dean of Students to pick up a South Carolina voter registration form and learn about state registration rules or how to file an absentee ballot.

• behavior that might be evidence of emotional distress or a health condition.

FACULTY ASSISTING STUDENTS IN TROUBLE (F.A.S.T.) Through F.A.S.T., students are identified who are having academic, financial or personal problems that might hinder their successful college experience. A faculty member can refer a student with a problem to staff who specialize in dealing with such

DEAN OF STUDENTS Stern Student Center, rm. 306 P: 843.953.5522 F: 843.953.5403 deanofstudents.cofc.edu

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Greek Life More than 1,200 College of Charleston students choose to be “Greek.”

Joining a Greek organization can be the very best experience in life! Sororities and fraternities help students: • find their niche at the College of Charleston.

• get academic assistance.

• become involved in other student and community organizations • develop their leadership and social skills.

Joining a fraternity or sorority requires that students make an educated decision about joining an organization that offers lifetime membership.

The process for joining a Greek organization is called “Recruitment” or “Intake.”

FRATERNITIES National Pan-HellenicCouncil (NPHC)

SORORITIES Interfraternity Council (IFC)

National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC)

Panhellenic Council (NPC)

• Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

• Alpha Epsilon Pi

• Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.

• Alpha Delta Pi

• Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.

• Kappa Alpha Order

• Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

• Chi Omega

• Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc.

• Kappa Sigma

• Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.

• Delta Delta Delta

• Phi Gamma Delta

• Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.

• Delta Gamma

• Pi Kappa Alpha

• Kappa Alpha Theta

• Pi Kappa Phi

• Kappa Delta

• Sigma Alpha Epsilon

• Phi Mu

• Sigma Chi

• Sigma Delta Tau

• Sigma Nu

• Zeta Tau Alpha

• Sigma Phi Epsilon

OFFICE OF GREEK LIFE 97 Wentworth Annex P: 843.953.6320 F: 843.953.0851 greeks.cofc.edu

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Higdon Student Leadership Center Leadership skills are life skills.

The Higdon Student Leadership Center is for students who are looking for opportunities, activities and experiences that will help prepare them for leadership roles in society.

The programs offer an interactive “learning laboratory” for life-skill development, while they stimulate a desire for further exploration. All leadership activities are designed to promote positive citizenship and develop responsible student leadership on and off campus. Assisting students in their overall development is an integral part of the leadership efforts implemented through the center’s programs.

Our programs offer a combination of formats.

• environments of 20 or fewer participants • medium-sized programs with 50-60 participants • large-group activities with 200 or more participants We expect students to: • understand the concept, development and application of leadership.

• recognize the academic side of leadership through specific courses.

• describe and identify leadership styles.

• identify leadership traits and behaviors and learn how to integrate them into everyday situations.

• become familiar with the vocabulary of leadership.

• clarify, internalize and live one’s own values.

• apply concepts from one learned experience to another.

• benefit from constructive external evaluations .

Leadership Seminar. First-year students learn more about themselves and their particular leadership style. Develop leadership skills, participate in leadership activities, and meet other student leaders and administrators. Topics under discussion include models of leadership, FISH Philosophy, conflict management, diversity and professional business etiquette.

Cougar Excursion (sophomores, juniors and seniors serve as facilitators for incoming freshmen). In late July, approximately 80 incoming students attend a three-day retreat at an off-campus site. Cougar Excursion helps students begin the transition to the College of Charleston. Participants meet other students and discover ways to become involved in oncampus activities. They also develop the kinds of strategies and leadership skills that will ensure that their first-year experience is positive and productive.

The LeaderShape Institute® for the College of Charleston. Join 60 students for a handson multidimensional curriculum presented by volunteer facilitators who devote a week to helping develop leaders. While each of them has experience working with young adults, they are all highly respected in their own profession and serve as excellent leadership role models for students. In addition, prominent guest leaders from various professions spend an evening with participants discussing tough issues that leaders face on a daily basis.

Leadership College of Charleston. Participants are chosen through an application and group interview process. If selected, they will learn from community leaders about the types of issues that are resolved through dynamic leadership qualities that are often developed through experience. Students will network, interact with leaders in the business community, government and service organizations, and explore internships or employment opportunities. The group meets at least once a month throughout the academic year.

Annual Fall Leadership Conference (October) This is a free, one-day conference for students who want to increase their skill base or leadership knowledge. The conference features an educational session in the morning, lunch, and a keynote speaker.

Student Activism and Leadership Achievement (SALA) Award recognizes students whose leadership, accomplishments and contributions have brought distinction to the College of Charleston.

The Student Leadership Center conducts workshops and on-campus presentations for special “niche” populations. Students explore leadership as it relates to groups with unique needs, goals and challenges. The Leadership Resource Library has material on leadership styles and theories, self-assessment leadership inventories and team-building activities.

Dance Marathon. This student organization sponsors the largest student-led philanthropic event on campus each year. Members of the Dance Marathon organization help other students raise money throughout the year in a variety of ways. All proceeds benefit the Medical University of South Carolina Children’s Hospital.

The culmination of their efforts is a 15-hour overnight event complete with bands, games, dancers and great food to celebrate everyone’s hard work. At the end of the night, everyone performs a group “morale dance” for the patients’ families, and the total amount of money the students raised is revealed.

HIGDON STUDENT LEADERSHIP CENTER 69 Coming Street P: 843.953.6356 F: 843.953.6456 slc.cofc.edu

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Multicultural Student Programs and Services Embracing diversity, understanding differences and respecting change.

students for leadership roles on campus and in the community.

The Office of Multicultural Student Programs and Services (MSPS), is housed in the Multicultural Center. It is a welcoming and comfortable place to spend time working, studying and socializing with other students. We work cooperatively with students, faculty and staff to develop programs, which assist students from admission to graduation. As a member of the College of Charleston family and greater community, we work cooperatively to create a welcoming campus climate, which fosters recruitment and retention of a diverse and inclusive student body and future workforce.

Workshops, off-campus retreats and seminars are some of the means for building leadership skills.

SPEEDY CONSOLIDATION AND TRANSITION PROGRAM (SPECTRA) An incoming freshman who is a person of color, first-generation college student, or a member of a historically underrepresented group, might be interested in participating in SPECTRA, our fourand-a-half week summer residency program.

SPECTRA is a very successful program that helps students make a smooth transition from high school to college. Students take courses that will provide the skills and strategies necessary for success in college coursework, and attend structured group seminars, workshops, events and activities. And, of course, while living on campus for the duration of the program, participants will spend time with a diverse group of residence counselors, tutors and mentors.

SOUTH CAROLINA ALLIANCE FOR MINORITY PARTICIPATION (SCAMP) The SCAMP program, funded by the National Science Foundation, represents diversity and undergraduate excellence in the areas of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (S.T.E.M.). The College of Charleston is one of 12 member institutions in South Carolina whose goal it is to increase the quality and quantity of undergraduate minority students (African Americans, Native Americans and Hispanics) completing baccalaureate degrees in the sciences, or mathematics. In addition, participants in the SCAMP program will know what to expect should they choose a career in the sciences, technology, engineering and mathematics, and be better prepared for it. Go to msps.cofc.edu for in-depth information about the SCAMP program.

SUPPORT SERVICES MSPS is the place to go for academic and personal counseling, liaisons, advocacy, peer mentoring, referrals, leadership training and community-service opportunities.

SAFE ZONE This Alliance for Full Acceptance (AFFA) grant program provides a safe, positive environment for members of the LBGTQQ community. It also serves as a bridge between the LGBTQQ community and members of the straight community who are receptive to issues that affect their community.

LIAISON IMPARTING SKILLS NURTURING AND KINDLING STUDENT SUCCESS (L.I.N.K.S.) The L.I.N.K.S. mentoring program pairs upperclassmen with newly admitted freshmen or transfer students. These experienced veteran students can give academic assistance in core subject areas and share the skills they have developed at the College. Likewise, students of different cultural and ethnic backgrounds can learn from one another through shared experiences.

MULTICULTURAL STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS Of the more than 150 registered student organizations at the College, many represent the interests, beliefs and ideologies of a variety of student groups. Examples include: Black Student Union, National Pan Hellenic Council (NPHC), fraternities and sororities, Aya Hwe M’, Asian Student Association, Student Union for Multicultural Affairs (SUMA), Alpha Kappa Psi Professional Business Fraternity, Spanish Club, Jewish Student Union, Gay-Straight Alliance.

LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT The Office of Multicultural Student Programs and Services collaborates with the staff at the Higdon Student Leadership Center to prepare

MULTICULTURAL STUDENT PROGRAMS AND SERVICES 207 Calhoun Street P: 843.953.5660 F: 843.953.5676 E: msps@cofc.edu msps.cofc.edu ST U DE N T AF FA I RS : LIVE. LEARN . G RO W.

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Public Safety The first priority of Public Safety staff is the safety of students and the campus community. The Department of Public Safety is comprised of more than 68 dedicated men and women, almost half of whom are sworn state law enforcement officers certified by the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy. These professionally trained men and women are on duty 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, providing a safe, orderly and secure environment where students can learn, the faculty can teach, and the staff can support the College’s learning and teaching environment.

engraver from public safety. Once you’ve completed the form, Public Safety will keep the original on file and give you a copy.

Then, if any of your valuables are stolen and pawned at any shop in Charleston, Berkeley or Dorchester counties, Public Safety can track the item through the pawn shop database.

The Department of Public Safety is organized into two major components: campus police, and fire and EMS. The former is comprised of uniformed patrol, investigations, communications and crime prevention. Fire and EMS is comprised of fire safety – which is staffed by three resident deputy state fire marshals – and a student-run emergency medical service.

If a computer is stolen and pawned at any shop in Charleston, Berkeley or Dorchester counties, Public Safety can track it through the pawn shop database.

The department also oversees a number of programs that serve to protect people and property.

CougarAlert In case of an emergency, the College of Charleston can notify students, faculty, staff and parents of a campus crisis within minutes. The CougarAlert system is used only in the event of a campus crisis or emergency. It enables the College to communicate through: • voice messages to home, work and cell phones.

• text messages to cell phones, PDAs and other devices.

• written messages to e-mail accounts.

• messages to teletypewriters and telecommunication devices (TTY/TDD) for the hearing impaired.

When the College sends an emergency message through CougarAlert, the return e-mail address is cougaralert@cofc.edu;

caller ID will be displayed as 843.725.7246 (the College’s emergency information hotline).

EMERGENCY CALL BOXES There are orange call boxes throughout the campus that connect directly to campus police in an emergency.

Go to parkingservices.cofc.edu/map.html to check the locations of call boxes. Direct questions about the emergency call boxes to campus police.

REPORTING A FIRE ON CAMPUS Report all emergencies to 843.953.5611.

Always call from a safe location and remain calm! Don’t hang up until the dispatcher has all of the information.

Provide the dispatcher with the: • type of emergency (fire, medical, police assistance, etc.).

Similarly, students, faculty and staff can register their computers with the Department of Public Safety. They can use an engraver or an indelible ink pen to permanently mark their computers; the indelible pen marking can only be seen under a black light.

BICYCLE REGISTRATION As mandated by City of Charleston Ordinance 19-101, all bicycles must be registered at the City of Charleston Police Department Records Desk (180 Lockwood Boulevard).

The fee is $1.00. Or, you may register a bicycle at campus police headquarters. The information necessary to register a bicycle – model number, serial number, make and year – will be kept on file. The loss or theft of a bicycle should be reported immediately. The recovery/return of a lost or stolen bicycle is more likely if the bicycle has been registered.

NOTE: Bicycles that are improperly secured or left unsecured are confiscated and taken to Public Safety headquarters.

• location of emergency (address, name of facility, floor, room number, etc.).

• call-back number.

PROJECT IDENTIFICATION The best way to protect property is to permanently mark all valuables – TV, stereo equipment, cameras, tools, golf clubs, microwave, telephone, etc. You can use your College of Charleston ID to check out the

PUBLIC SAFETY 81-B St. Philip Street parking garage, 1st floor P: 843.953.5611 (emergency number)

P: 843.953.5609

EMERGENCY INFORMATION HOTLINE P: 843.725.7246 publicsafety.cofc.edu emergency.cofc.edu

(non-emergency number)

F: 843.953.5132 ST U DE N T AF FA I RS : LIVE. LEARN . G RO W.

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Residence Life and Housing Students who live on campus will find themselves squarely in the middle of things – close to all the goings-on on campus and within walking distance of city-sponsored events. They learn how to share “home” with a few hundred other students, and live in close quarters with someone they may meet for the first time on move-in day. Choices include the very new (Liberty Street Residence Hall), somewhat older (College Lodge), singlesex (Craig Residence Hall) or coed (McAlister Residence Hall).

Each resident is assigned a roommate through a matching process. Our assistant director for housing assignments and staff review applications and student profiles to match students with the best possible roommate.

The assistant director is also available to work with students throughout the year regarding roommate conflicts and room changes.

• Residential living. We encourage students to become actively involved in the programs and events we offer for their benefit.

Program topics range from environmental awareness to choosing a major to multicultural awareness, for example. You can also participate in activities such as floor and hall cookouts and pizza parties.

• Facilities services. Our on-campus facilities include same-sex and coeducational residence halls (with suite-style and apartment-style floor plans), and 31 historic houses for upperclassmen and women.

They are set up to accommodate one, two or three students per room.

• Live-in staff. A number of professional and graduate staff members supervise the residence halls. In addition, upperclassmen, specially trained as resident assistants and house managers, oversee individual floors and houses.

SERVICES AND AMENITIES Residence life and housing provides the following in our residence halls and/or houses:

ACCESS TO STUDENT ROOMS Residence life and housing staff members reserve the right to enter a student’s room at any time as long as they are acting in their official capacity on behalf of the College. This policy applies whether or not the student is present at the time of entry. Residence life and housing staff are required to conduct monthly health and safety inspections, and inspections of the rooms/halls when they are closed for winter and spring break.

• air conditioned buildings • bicycle racks • cable television hook-up (per bedroom) • furnished bedrooms • furnished common rooms (where applicable) • high-speed Internet access (per resident) • insect and pest control • laundry facilities (residence halls and historic houses)

ACCESSING THE INTERNET FROM A RESIDENCE HALL Cougar ResNet is a 24/7 high-speed Ethernet Internet service that is available to every student in a College residence hall. Cougar ResNet provides wired and wireless technology that allows quick access to information.

REASONS TO LIVE ON CAMPUS 1. Living on campus for a year is less expensive than living in an offcampus apartment.

2. Commuter costs such as transportation, gas, mileage, are reduced.

3. Close to friends and classmates 4. In the center of campus life 5. Food at your fingertips 6. FREE cable TV 7. FREE daily newspapers 8. FREE high-speed Internet connection 9. FREE utilities 10. FREE laundry services 11. Fully furnished rooms/suites 12. Many floor plans to choose from

Visit it.cofc.edu for information on bringing a computer to the College as well as computing facilities on campus.

LAUNDRY FACILITIES Residents of all major residence halls and designated houses have access to free washing machines and dryers.

OFFICE OF RESIDENCE LIFE AND HOUSING 40 Coming Street P: 843.953.5523 F: 843.953.6590 reslife.cofc.edu

• 24-hour staffed front desk in all major residence halls ST U DE N T AF FA I RS : LIVE. LEARN . G RO W.

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Student Affairs Technical Support (SATS) Where would we be without technology? And where would we be without technical support? With an eye to the future, SATS ensures that the Division of Student Affairs is positioned to use technology to the fullest by providing the best resources and services to the division.

WHAT ELSE DOES STUDENT AFFAIRS TECHNICAL SUPPORT DO? SATS responds to technical help requests that come from departments throughout the division, facilitates student technology needs, and creates and updates Student Affairs Web pages.

The services SATS provides are in addition to the campus-wide support and services that Information Technology provides.

STUDENT AFFAIRS TECHNICAL SUPPORT ALSO: • represents the division on technologyrelated projects.

• acquires and maintains hardware and software for the division.

• sets up and supports webinars.

• supports the absence memo system so that professors receive up-to-the minute reports on student absences.

• helps in the disaster recovery process, should it become necessary.

• sets up laptops and projectors for use in important presentations.

TECHNOLOGY COORDINATOR Stern Student Center, Room 311 P: 843.953.6084 F: 843.953.5403

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Student Health Services For most people, the main focus during their college years is on developing a healthy mind, body and spirit. To that end, regular health maintenance and the use of available health care in a timely and cost-effective manner are very important.

Student Health Services (SHS) is staffed by experienced board-certified physicians, nurse practitioners and registered nurses who are dedicated to providing early diagnosis and treatment of conditions that might arise in the student population. Care is completely confidential and each patient must sign a written release before SHS staff can disclose medical information. Visits to SHS are included in tuition, but patients are responsible for fees for referrals, laboratory tests, certain immunizations, medical supplies and prescriptions. If students happen to be in Charleston during the summer but aren’t taking classes, they still can use the clinic if they pay a summer fee.

MEDICAL CARE CAN BE VERY EXPENSIVE. We strongly urge everyone to have adequate health insurance. There is an optional health insurance plan available to students who are not otherwise covered.

This policy requires referrals from SHS to health care providers in the community.

NOTE: Students who are covered by an HMO should make sure they are covered while away from home.

You can get insurance information by: • visiting the vendor’s website at www.studentinsurance.com • stopping by student health services for more information.

• calling SHS. We will mail more information to you.

NOTE: All students are required to complete a health form and show proof of immunization.

Download health forms from stuhealth.cofc.edu or contact SHS and one will be mailed to you.

Clinic hours are 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Students can call SHS or stop by the clinic to make an appointment.

In case of an emergency after hours or on weekends, call Public Safety (843.953.5611) if on campus, and 911 if off campus.

STUDENT HEALTH SERVICES 181 Calhoun St. P: 843.953.5520 F: 843.953.6377 stuhealth.cofc.edu

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Student Life John F. Kennedy Jr. said that 50% of a student’s education takes place outside the classroom. We believe that’s true. On this campus, there are more than 100 clubs and organizations that represent a variety of interests.

Getting involved couldn’t be easier!

STERN STUDENT CENTER The Theodore S. Stern Student Center is the epicenter of campus life at the College. It’s a onestop-shop for e-mail kiosks, a food court, game room, swimming pool and satellite fitness center, study lounges, and meeting and program spaces.

STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION (SGA) sga.cofc.edu SGA is the recognized student government association for undergraduates. Every student who enrolls at the College automatically becomes a member. Elected officers and senators provide a strong voice in articulating student concerns and take an active role in enhancing student life at the College.

COUGAR ACTIVITIES BOARD (CAB) cab.cofc.edu CAB is THE organization for great entertainment on the College of Charleston campus. Run for students, by students, CAB provides educational, informational and social programs for the campus community. Offerings include concerts, films, speakers and cultural events. The board is comprised of the following six committees: special events, marketing, community issues, films, coffeehouse and Fun Fridays.

COUGAR MEDIA NETWORK www.cisternyard.com Exciting things are always happening at the Cougar Media Network! Those students who devote their time to Cougar Media Network organizations develop a variety of skills, such as graphic design, photography, news and feature writing, radio and television production, online publishing and advertising.

The George Street Observer (GSO) has been the official student newspaper at the College of Charleston since 1935. The GSO has a circulation of 2,000, and is distributed weekly throughout the College community. An online edition is also available. Whether it’s reporting the news, or covering athletics events, student activities, or entertainment, the GSO is where to go when you want to know what’s happening around campus. www.georgestreetobserver.com CofC Radio was one of first college stations in the country to embrace webcasting. The station is managed by students and features a variety of programs hosted by student DJs. CofCRadio showcases local talent and independent artists. www.cofcradio.com Cougar Television is the College’s official television station. Student staff members produce news and original entertainment programs and broadcast them on campus. CTV gives students the chance to showcase their talents, whether they are in front of the camera or putting everything together behind the scenes. ctv.cofc.edu Miscellany is a student-produced literary and art journal. Students submit their original artwork, poetry, photography and prose for consideration for inclusion in the publication. miscellany.cofc.edu

PARTIAL LIST OF STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS AFRICED CofC Alliance for Planet Earth Fraternity, Inc. Alpha Phi Omega Alternative Spring Break

Americans for Informed Democracy Anime Association Anthropology/Sociology Club

Arabic Club Atheist Human Alliance Aya Hwe M’ Bahai Club Baptist College Ministry Best Buddies Biology Club Black Student Union Boxing Club Campus Crusade for Christ Catholic Student Association Center Stage Chi Omega Chucktown Trippintones Charleston 40 Club of Hospitality and Tourism CofC Amnesty International CofC N.O.W. College Democrats College of Charleston Teaching Fellows College Republicans Collegiate Middle Level Association Cougar Activities Board English Club Film Club French Club Gay-Straight Alliance Geological Society German Club Habitat for Humanity Historic Preservation Club Honor Board Honors Student Assoc.

Indian Cultural Exchange International Club Italian Club

Japanese Club Jewish Student Union MESSA National Society of Collegiate Scholars One in Four Pagans at College of Charleston Phi Sigma Pi Philosophy Club Physical Education and Health Club Political Science Club Polyphony Portuguese Language Club Presbyterian Student Association Pre-Veterinary Society Psychology Club Russian Club South Carolina Student Legislature Shotokan Karate Club SIFE Sigma Pi Kappa Spanish Club Student Alumni Association Student Ambassadors Student Finance and Investment Club Student Port Club Student Science Society Student Sports Medicine Association Student Union for Minority Affairs (SUMA) Table-Top Gaming Club Visual Arts Club Volunteer Corps

STUDENT LIFE Stern Student Center – 4th floor P: 843.953.5726 F: 843.953.1423 studentlife.cofc.edu

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Upward Bound Laying the foundation that leads to success The Upward Bound Program at the College of Charleston, sponsored by the College since 1975, is a college preparatory program designed to generate in its participants the skills and motivation necessary for success in education beyond high school.

Eighty-two participants in grades nine through 12 are selected from area high schools in Berkeley, Charleston and Dorchester counties. Academic, career, social and cultural experiential learning opportunities are provided during the academic year and summer. Participants attend 18 Saturday sessions at the College of Charleston during the academic school year.

A six-week summer, residential component is held on campus. Both sessions consist of core academic subjects infused with college tours, academic counseling, tutoring, career exposure, service learning and cultural enrichment activities.

APPLICANTS MUST MEET CERTAIN CRITERIA. • Neither parent has completed a four-year college degree.

• Family income qualifies the student for free or reduced lunch.

• The student has a demonstrated academic potential and need.

Parents of program participants must join the Parent Advisory Board (PAB) and work with the Upward Bound staff in an advisory capacity to help build success for all students. The board meets monthly to discuss, plan and implement innovative ideas that increase their knowledge base, and thus stimulate effective communication and decision making with their children.

UPWARD BOUND 25 St. Philip St., Rm. 121 P: 843.953.5469 F: 843.953.4902 upwardbound.cofc.edu

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A special thanks to all of the College of Charleston students who participated in this project.

Division of stuDent AffAirs p. 843.953.5522 e. studentaffairs@cofc.edu studentaffairs.cofc.edu The Division of Student Affairs at the College of Charleston is dedicated to the facilitation of the cultural, social, emotional, physical, ethical and intellectual development of all students so that they may become responsible and effective individuals.