New Student Orientation
Within Reach Without Limits
WELCOME
TO YOUR FIRST WEEK
YOU GOT THIS!
It’s natural to feel anxious your first week of college. Don’t worry! Our faculty and staff are always here to help you. Below is a list of tips to help you get started!
Go to class and review each syllabus, the outline of course requirements and expectations.
Talk to classmates. College is about friendships, too, so start looking for study partners and building connections.
Purchase or rent textbooks as soon as you can. If you wait, you are at risk of falling behind.
Don’t be afraid to talk to faculty. All faculty have office hours (posted on their syllabus) where you can talk or ask questions. You can also email to schedule an appointment.
Weeks of Welcome is the perfect time to get connected to your campus. Student organizations will be recruiting new members and you can collect new LSUA swag and check out all that we have to offer.
ACADEMIC COLLEGES
College of Business
318.473.6414 / Chambers Hall / Room 106
» Department of Accounting & Finance
» Department of Management & Marketing
College of Health & Human Services
318.473.6466 / Coughlin Hall / Room 101
» Department of Allied Health
» School of Education
» School of Nursing
College of Liberal Arts
318.473.6581 / Mulder Hall / Suite 380
» Department of Communications, Languages, & Arts
» Department of English, History, & Humanities
College of Science, Technology, & Mathematics
318.473.6591 / Mulder Hall / Suite 312
» Department of Biological Sciences
» Department of Chemistry & Physics
» Department of Mathematics & Computer Science
College of Social Sciences
318.473.0131 / Mulder Hall / Suite 303
» Department of Criminal Justice & Civic Sciences
» Department of Psychology
STUDENT SERVICES
LSUA staff, faculty, and student peers are devoted to every student’s experience from admissions to graduation with a full range of services and resources.
Counseling Services
College life can be rough and sometimes you don’t know what to do. Take advantage of free professional counseling by scheduling an appointment.
www.lsua.edu/counseling
Children’s Center
The Children’s Center on campus is available to students, faculty, and staff with childcare needs. Please reach out if you’re interested in enrolling your child part-time or full-time.
www.lsuakids.org
ADA/Disability Services
If you have a diagnosed condition that requires accommodations, schedule an appointment with the Disability Services Coordinator. This includes, but is not limited to: learning disabilities, physical disabilities, mental disabilities, or temporary disabilities, such as broken bones.
www.lsua.edu/ada
Job Openings & Internships
Local businesses are often seeking LSUA students for jobs or internships. Whether you need additional funds or professional experience, connect with the Center for Career Development to see what’s available.
www.lsua.edu/career
FACULTY & ACADEMIC RESOURCES
LSUA faculty are here to help students throughout their academic career. Our faculty members are committed to seeing students successfully complete their respective programs and earn a degree.
When students need to meet with a faculty member, they can check for their office hours. These will be listed on the syllabus received for each class as well as on their office door. Students are welcome to stop in during these posted times or can request an appointment time.
Library Resources
The James C. Bolton Library has a variety of student resources such as private study rooms, computers, copiers/printers, laptops, headphones, scientific and graphing calculators, and phone chargers. Additionally, students can find many resources by browsing the collection.
www.lsua.edu/library
Tutoring Center
The Tutoring Center provides academic support in various general education subject areas, including writing, algebra, biology, calculus, statistics, accounting, trigonometry, chemistry, Spanish, physics, and more. The following tutoring sessions are available for all LSUA students: one-on-one, small group, inperson, and virtual/remote.
www.lsua.edu/tutoring
Supplemental Instruction (SI)
In addition to regular class meeting times, some courses offer supplemental instruction from students that have completed and excelled in that specific course. Sessions can better prepare students for tests, assignments, and projects.
ADVISING
Since you are officially a member of the freshman class, you should have already met with an advisor to set up your schedule for the upcoming semester. You are assigned an advisor based on your major. If you change majors, you may have a new advisor. You’ll see your advisor updated on the right side of your myLSUA portal to reflect this change.
In future semesters, you will meet with your advisor to create a schedule and be approved to register for classes. The advising period opens mid-semester, a few weeks prior to registration. Please note that the advising period is when your classes are selected. Registration is when you manually add the classes to your schedule.
It is important you are advised and have your classes selected before registration officially opens, because classes fill up quickly.
Near the end of your degree program, you will transition from a professional advisor to a faculty advisor to assist with career planning or other post-graduation plans. When in doubt, connect with your advisor for any questions or concerns! To set an advising appointment, contact your advisor via your myLSUA portal.
National and Institutional data shows that students that attempt 15 credit hours each semester have higher retention rates, higher GPAs, higher graduation rates, and save money.
VIBRANT EVENTS & ACTIVITIES
The key to getting the most out of college is to take advantage of as many facets of student life as possible, while still keeping up with your academic commitments. That’s why LSUA offers many ways to get involved. Studies show that students who are active in campus life have higher grades in the classroom and are less stressed than their non-active peers. LSUA hosts special events throughout the year that have grown into student favorites.
LSUA is home to multiple student organizations, honor societies, and events for various fields of interest. Be sure to attend the General’s Expo during Weeks of Welcome to learn more about student organizations on campus and how to join.
View the complete list of student organizations online!
lsua.presence.io
INTERNATIONAL PROGRAMS
The Office of International Programs (OIP) prepares students to succeed in an increasingly interconnected global environment. OlP promotes international education, provides advising for international and study-abroad students, hosts campus-wide events, and serves as a vital link between LSUA students and various cultural communities worldwide. OlP encourages all students to broaden their academic experiences and enhance global learning across all disciplines through the Study Abroad Programs.
International Student Orientation
All current and new international students must attend the International Student Orientation to obtain guidance for each academic year. International students will have an opportunity to meet faculty and staff and learn about useful services and resources. Other important topics in the orientation session include immigration guidelines to maintain international student status, campus safety, and health insurance.
International & Multicultural Student Association (IAM)
The International and Multicultural Student Association (IAM) is one of the largest student organizations on campus. IAM is open to all LSUA students whether you are a domestic or an international student that admires other cultures or has an international background from around the world. IAM encourages a sense of identity and embraces unity through sharing and experiencing global diversity.
www.lsua.edu/international 318.473.6552 ncox@lsua.edu
FIRST YEAR EXPERIENCE
The Office of First Year Experience assists new students with practical resources, transformational strategies, and engaging workshops that help ease the transition from high school to university life. Our programs have been designed exclusively for first-year students to promote student engagement and excellence.
LSUA 1001: Seminar for Academic Success
LSUA 1001 is a for-credit, 3-hour course that is open only to freshmen and designed to connect you to your campus and community through activities, service-learning opportunities, and lectures that help you become successful college students. On average, students that complete this course have higher GPAs and are more successful in their subsequent courses.
Each LSUA 1001 course has a primary professor along with a Peer Mentor. The Peer Mentors are upperclassmen who help develop course activities, attend campus events with their LSUA 1001 students, and serve as a resource for any questions or issues that may arise in your first year.
CAMPUS SAFETY
University Police patrol campus 24 hours a day, seven days a week in order to keep our students safe. UPD is available to assist students in both emergency and nonemergency situations. Students will be notified via text message if an emergency or crisis occurs on or near campus. Make sure your phone number is current in your myLSUA portal (student tab).
If you receive a ticket on campus, it can be paid at the Office of Accounting in Abrams Hall. Unpaid tickets may result in a hold placed on your account. The University Police main office is located at 8210 Tom Bowman Drive.
HEALTH CENTER
Located on the first floor of Coughlin Hall, this walk-in health center serves students on campus. Most services are free for students and insurance is not required. Services provided for: sore throat, sinus and ear infections, flu symptoms, nausea and vomiting, minor cuts, urinary tract infections, cough and cold, medical testing, physical exams, vaccinations, and in-house testing
influenza, and tuberculosis. Schedule an in-person appointment by calling or visiting the Health Center online.
FINANCIAL AID
FAFSA
The FAFSA must be completed every year. It is recommended that you file as early as March for priority funding. The FAFSA can be completed as early as October 1 for the next academic year that begins the following August.
LSUA’s FAFSA Code: 002011
Payment Plans
Monthly payment plans are available for remaining costs after all aid is applied. Students can sign up for a payment plan in their myLSUA portal under the student tab. There is a $35 setup fee and then monthly payments that will vary based on the registration timeframe. Register early to avoid increased payments!
www.lsua.edu/financial-aid
NetPartner
Remember to check NetPartner often. You will need to accept any financial aid awards here. If you are missing documentation, that will be listed here as well. NetPartner is accessed through MyLSUA, under the Student tab.
Important Deadlines
» August 21: Payment Deadline for Fall
» September 1: 100% Refund Deadline
» September 11: Last Day for Bookstore Credit
SCHOLARSHIPS
Academic Scholarships
Academic scholarships are awarded based on a student’s composite ACT score and high school grade point average (GPA). All students are automatically considered for an academic scholarship upon admission to the university. 100% online degree-seeking students are not eligible. Visit the online Scholarship Calculator at www.lsua.edu/scholarships to see eligibility for merit-based awards.
Foundation Scholarships
Foundation Scholarships are made possible by various donors who are eager to support LSUA students. Awards are based on each donor’s specific criteria, and amounts vary. The 2026 - 2027 Foundation Scholarship Application will open on September 1, 2025, and close on December 31, 2025. To apply, please visit lsua.awardspring.com.
External Scholarships
External scholarships are financial aid opportunities provided by sources outside of our university. These scholarships are awarded by organizations, businesses, foundations, and other external entities, providing students with the opportunity to reduce or eliminate the need to borrow or work to fund their education. To view verified external scholarship opportunities, please visit www.lsua.edu/scholarships
THE OAKS RESIDENCE HALL
At LSUA Residential Life, we believe that where you live can make all the difference in how you succeed. That’s why we’re committed to creating a residential experience that supports academic achievement, personal growth, and lifelong connections. Students who live on campus are more likely to stay in college, graduate on time, and actively engage in their campus community. It’s more than just a place to sleep; it’s a launchpad for success.
Our on-campus housing is thoughtfully designed to create a supportive, vibrant environment where you can flourish. Whether it’s late-night study groups, mentorship from resident staff, or friendships that last a lifetime, living on campus offers you unique opportunities to grow both academically and personally.
*You must apply for housing or an exemption unless you are a resident of Rapides, Avoyelles, or Grant Parish (both are available online.)
**All students who live on campus are required to have a meal plan.
BARNES & NOBLE BOOKSTORE
The LSUA Bookstore is part of the Barnes & Noble network of college bookstores. Our bookstore is your one-stop shop for all things LSUA! In addition to textbooks, students can shop for apparel and spirit items, gifts, snacks, class supplies, and more.
Textbooks
The bookstore provides all textbooks and recommended reading materials submitted by each professor for all courses. Options are provided for students to purchase or rent new, used, or digital textbooks. To ensure the lowest prices possible, the store honors a price-match program when comparing with Amazon.com and BN.com. At the end of the fall and spring semesters, the bookstore provides an opportunity to sell back used textbooks.
Laptops & Tablets
Laptops and tablets are available for purchase in-store or from the website. Cash, credit cards, and bookstore credit are all accepted.
Hours of Operation
Monday - Friday: 8 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Saturday & Sunday: Closed
Extended hours occur the weekend before each semester.
Financial Aid
Students can use excess financial aid as bookstore credit up to $2,000 to purchase books.
DINING SERVICES
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner options are available in the Magnolia Café located in the Student Union, Monday through Friday. Brunch and dinner are available on Saturday and Sunday in the Magnolia Café. The Café features daily specials, soup and salad bar, sandwich station, grilled items, and more! All residents living on campus are required to have a meal plan. Plans are also available for commuter students. Check out other dining options on campus such as Starbucks, located on the first floor of the library. There are also on-the-go options available in the market section of the Magnolia Café. Dining dollars can be used at any of the dining facilities when a meal plan can’t be used for items, like coffee or snacks.
Commuter meal plans
25 Meals: $222
50 Meals: $433
100 Meals: $850
Resident meal plans also available to commuters. All commuter meals are valid for one academic year
Resident meal plans
170 Meals w/ $500 Dining Dollars: $1,955 per semester
200 Meals w/ $200 Dining Dollars: $1,899 per semester
Unlimited Meals: $1,914 per semester
Resident meal plans will expire at the end of each semester. Residents will have until the end of business on the fifth day of class to change plans. Residents will be emailed a reminder before the start of classes.
Hours of Operation
Magnolia Café:
Monday - Thursday: 7 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Friday: 7 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Saturday - Sunday: 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. & 3 p.m. - 6 p.m.
Starbucks: (Located in Library) Monday - Friday: 7:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Burger 318: (Meal Plans Accepted) Monday - Friday: 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Dining Dollars
» Available to students ONLY and valid for one academic year (fall, spring, summer)
» Accepted at any Chartwells location including Magnolia Café, Starbucks, Burger 318, and Magnolia Café Market
» Any student who purchases $100 in dining dollars will receive a bonus $25
LSUA offers a fun, competitive environment for student athletes through distinguished coaching, premier facilities, and seven different NAIA athletic teams. The Generals are no stranger to success with multiple teams that have won conference championships or advanced to national tournaments. LSUA has also been recognized as a Five-Star GOLD institution, the NAIA’s highest honor!
LSUA is a member of the Red River Athletic Conference within the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA). The Generals joined the RRAC in 2014. Red River Athletic Conference
MEET TANK!
TANK, the bull terrier, serves as the official mascot for the Generals. If there was one thing General George S. Patton loved more than his military career and leading American forces into battle, it was his pet bull terriers, of which he had several throughout his life. General Patton traveled with his bull terriers during World War II. Students voted to name the mascot TANK in 2018.
IET SERVICES
If you need technology assistance, IET Services is there to help. Our IET professionals are highly qualified in various technological areas to help serve students and campus. IET Services are located in Bo Nipper Technology Center (across from The Oaks Residence Hall).
MyLSUA
MyLSUA contains all the navigation you need to get to Self Service, email, Moodle and more. Here, you can find your advisor, review your class schedule, find tutoring hours, and stay up-to-date about what is happening on campus.
Self Service
Self Service is located within MyLSUA and is the portal for all things related to classes. Here, you can search for classes, register, and see your mid-term and final grades.
Moodle
Moodle is the learning management software used by LSUA. All courses are located within Moodle as are the class assignments, files, discussion forums, and more. You’ll need to check Moodle often to stay ahead in your classes.
Computer Labs
Computer labs are available across every campus building. Some labs double as classrooms, and all classes have priority over the lab. Be sure to check the lab schedule before entering the room. A complete list of locations, computers, and hours can be found at www.lsua.edu/iet . Always remember to log out after each use.
WiFi
WiFi is available throughout all of campus. You can connect to: LSUA Wireless. Enter your LSUA username and password and accept the security agreement.
Mobile vs. Desktop
Some online platforms and features are not available on a mobile device as compared to a desktop. We do not recommend trying to take a quiz or submit an assignment on Moodle from your mobile device.
CAMPUS AMENITIES
Campus life isn’t limited to just student organizations and athletic events. There are also several places on campus where you can relax, study, or just spend time with friends.
» E-Sports Lounge
» The Outpost
» Tennis Courts
» Library
» Fitness Center
» Disc Golf Course
» Volleyball Court
INTRAMURALS & WELLNESS
Student teams can compete in sports or access fitness classes tailored for different experience levels. Students can reach better health through physical fitness, stress relief, and engagement across campus.
» Flag Football
» Disc Golf
» Volleyball
» E-Sports Gaming
» Weight Training
» Softball
» Soccer
» Basketball
» Run Club
» And much more!
The Honors Experience at LSUA presents a distinctive opportunity for eligible students to acquire invaluable skills that will aid them in establishing, pursuing, and realizing their long-term aspirations. It fosters a close-knit community where students can cultivate friendships, receive mentorship, and access tutoring services to support their academic endeavors. Additionally, qualified candidates are eligible for scholarship opportunities.
Contrary to simply increasing workload or academic rigor, the Honors Experience offers supplementary avenues for learning through hands-on experiences. It emphasizes the development of critical thinking, collaborative work, and visionary leadership—qualities that are highly sought after by employers and graduate programs, transcending beyond mere academic achievement. www.lsua.edu/honors
High Impact Practice Seminars (HIPS)
HIPS classes are designed to provide students with hands-on learning experiences that go beyond traditional instruction. These one-credit courses emphasize active engagement, real-world application, and close mentorship to help students build valuable academic and professional skills.
Students have the opportunity to develop new skills and gain an advantage in their future careers. The LSUA Center for Opportunity, Research, and Experiential Learning (CORE) promotes holistic development across all disciplines through inclusive mentorship and engaging activities. CORE provides students with opportunities to take one-credit-hour courses that combine experiential learning and lecture in a high-impact and fun classroom setting. www.lsua.edu/core
Undergraduate Research
Students have many opportunities to engage in research at LSUA. Students can present their research at Scholar Day, a campus-wide feature event, or get featured in The Oak Leaf, LSUA’s official academic publication.
AUXILIARY SERVICES
Auxiliary Services is located in Abrams Hall. This department consists of a number of services including parking and LSUA ID. You’ll be provided one free LSUA ID on your orientation day. You can purchase a replacement ID for $25 and update your information with Auxiliary Services. You will need your LSUA ID to access athletic events, utilize library resources, and use your meal plan at the Magnolia Café.
Identification cards (OaKard) can be obtained in Abrams Hall, Room 120 and online.
Parking
All students, faculty, and staff who park a vehicle on campus must register their vehicles with Auxiliary Services and obtain an LSUA parking permit. Parking permits must be fully visible from the driver’s side, rear window of the vehicle. Students issued a permit are responsible for any violation involving the vehicle for which the permit is issued.
For more information about parking on campus visit:
www.lsua.edu/parking
STUDENT PARKING
Lot 1
» Coughlin Hall
» Science Building
» Chamber Hall
Lot 5, 6, 7
» Abrams Hall
» Student Union
» Children’s Center
Lot 9
» Mulder Hall
» Bolton Library
» The Quad
Lot 11, 22
» The Fort / Fitness Center
» Baseball & Softball Fields
WHAT IF?
What if I am being sexually harassed or discriminated against?
The University is committed to providing a safe, welcoming environment for all students, faculty, and staff. If you believe you are being sexually harassed or being discriminated against, you can contact a confidential advisor or file a complaint online. A formal complaint can be made through the website or by contacting the Title IX Coordinator.
What if I am struggling with my mental health?
College can be a challenge. If you are struggling with your mental health, please reach out and make an appointment with a counselor.
What if I need to drop a class?
You will complete a form online. Go to your myLSUA portal and click “drop form” under the student tab. Keep in mind that dropping a class might have an impact on financial aid and your progress toward graduation. It is always best to consult with your advisor and financial aid first.
2025-2026 ACADEMIC CALENDAR
AUGUST
25 Full Session/1st Session: Payment Due
Full-Session/1st Session: Classes Start
27 1st Session: Last Day to add or drop a class in Self-Service / Last Day for 100% refund
28 1st Session: Students dropped for non-attendance
SEPTEMBER
1 Labor Day: Full-Session: No Classes. All Campus Offices Closed
3 Full Session: Last Day to Drop or Add a Course in Self-Service
4 Full Session: Students dropped for non-attendance
8 Full-Session: Last Day for 100% Refund
12 Full-Session: Last Day to Drop without a ‘W’
22 1st Session: Last Day to Drop with a ‘W’
OCTOBER
1 Spring 2026 Graduation Application Due
6 Spring 2026 Advising Begins for Continuing Students
12 1st Session: Final Exams-Classes End
15 1st Session: Grades Due at Noon
16-17 Fall Break for Students and Faculty. No Classes. Campus Offices Remain Open.
20 2nd Session Starts / Payment Due
Spring Registration Opens for Continuing Seniors
21 Spring Registration Opens for Continuing Juniors
22 2nd Session: Last Day to Drop or Add in Self-Service / Last Day for 100% Refund
Spring Registration Opens for Continuing Sophomores
23 2nd Session: Students dropped for non-attendance
Spring Registration Opens for Continuing Freshmen
24 Spring Advising & Registration Opens for Newly Admitted Students
29 Full-Session: Mid-Term Grades Due in Moodle
NOVEMBER
7 Full-Session: Last Day to Drop with a ‘W’
17 2nd Session: Last Day to drop with a ‘W’
26 Thanksgiving Break Full-Session: Classes end at Noon. Campus Offices remain open.
27-28 Thanksgiving Break Full Session: No Classes. All Campus Offices Closed.
DECEMBER
5 Full Session: Classes End
7 2nd Session: Final Exams-Classes End
8-12 Full Session: Finals Week
10 2nd Session: Final Grades Due at Noon
16 Full Session: Grades Due at Noon
18 Summer & Fall Commencement
24-31 Christmas Break. All Campus Offices Closed.
JANUARY
1 Christmas Break. All Campus Offices Closed
2 Campus Reopens
12
14
Full Session / 1st Session: Payment Due
Full Session / 1st Session: Classes Start
1st Session: Last day to drop or add in self service / Last day for 100% Refund / AEA Due
15 1st Session: Students dropped for non-attendance
16
Full-Session: Last Day to drop or add in self-service
18 Full-Session: AEA Due
19 Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday. Full-Session: No Classes. All Campus Offices Closed.
20
Full-Session: Students dropped for non-attendance
26 Full-Session: Last day to add with form / Last day for 100% Refund
30
Full-Session: Last Day to Drop without a ‘W’
FEBRUARY
9 1st Session: Last Day to Drop with a ‘W’
16 President’s Day. Full-Session: No Classes. Campus Remains Open.
23-27 Full Session: Mid-Terms
23 Summer and Fall Advising for Continuing Students begins
MARCH
1 1st Session: Session Ends
2 Summer 2025 / Fall 2025 Graduation Applications Due
4 1st Session: Final Grades Due
2-6 Spring Break. No Classes. Campus Remains Open.
9 2nd Session: Payment Due / Classes Start
11 2nd Session: Last day to add or drop in Self-Service / Last day for 100% Refund / AEA Due
Full Session: Mid-Term Grades Due
12 2nd Session: Students dropped for non-attendance
23 Registration for Summer and Fall Opens for Continuing Seniors
24 Registration for Summer and Fall Opens for Continuing Juniors
25 Registration for Summer and Fall Opens for Continuing Sophomores
26 Registration for Summer and Fall Opens for Continuing Freshmen
APRIL
2 Easter Break Begins: No Classes. All Campus Offices Open.
3 Good Friday. Full Term: No Classes. All Campus Offices Closed.
6 Full Session: Last Day to Drop with a ‘W’
2nd Session: Last Day to Drop with a ‘W’
26 2nd Session: Session Ends
29 2nd Session: Grades Due by NOON
MAY
1 Advising & Registration begins for newly admitted First Time Freshmen
Full Session: Last day of classes
4-8 Full Session: Finals Week
12 Full Session: Grades Due by NOON
14 Commencement
MAIN CAMPUS MAP
Field
Brumfield Caffey Annex (Ballroom, Sentry Room)
Martin Family Student Success Center
Mulder Hall (Richard Gwartney Theater)
Science Building
Soccer Field
Soccer Practice Field
Softball Field 30. Student Support (Bookstore, Career Center, Testing Center)
Student Union (Magnolia Café, Live Oaks Room, Esports Lounge)
Tennis Court
The Fort (LSUA Athletics, The Outpost, Weight Room)
The Oaks Residence Hall
University Police
Utility Plant
Volleyball Court
ALMA MATER
The path life enduring lies with stately grace, Under oaks and pines securing, our home LSUA
To thee our source of wisdom our hope and future shine, To thee, our Alma Mater we’ll be forever thine.
As we journey onward, the knowledge we obtain And the lessons here imparted eternally remain.
To thee our source of wisdom our hope and future shine, To thee, our Alma Mater we’ll be forever thine.
Josh Blakesley 2009