Family guide 2018

2018-2019

Guide nwmissouri.edu/parent

Welcome to the

Bearcat Family

Dear parents of our newest Bearcats, It is my pleasure to welcome you and your student to the Bearcat family! At Northwest Missouri State University, we have an incredibly special culture and much for which to be proud as we approach the 2018-19 academic year. Our mission is focusing on student success – every student, every day, and our faculty and staff are committed to helping your student build the skills they need to ensure they are “career ready, day one” upon completing their degree.

Profession-based learning is our priority at Northwest.

We offer real-world, hands-on learning experiences that boost the relevance of subject areas, assignments and co-curricular activities, starting with the first semester of your student’s freshman year.

Bearcats are champions in and out of the classroom, too. Since 2009, Northwest academic and athletic teams have won 43 national championships. I challenge you to encourage your student to be involved in one of the more than 150 student organizations and take advantage of University engagement and development opportunities.

Furthermore, I invite you to attend Northwest’s Family Weekend Sept. 14-16 and Homecoming activities during the week of Oct. 8-13. These are great opportunities to experience the Bearcat culture and spirit firsthand.

At Northwest, Bearcats are resilient, Bearcats are champions and Bearcats are successful. We talk often about Being a Bearcat – we learn, connect, care, practice civility and show pride. I am excited to meet the class of 2022 and pleased to have your student join our Bearcat family.

Focused on student success,

John Jasinski, President Northwest Missouri State University

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Table of contents

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First-Year Experience 5 University Seminar 7 Academic Advising 7 Academic Success Coaching and Recovery 7 Academic Support 7 TRIO 7 Library support 7 Student Success Center 7 Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) 8 Student Account Authorization 8 Accessibility and accommodations 9 Textbooks and laptop programs 9 Campus living and involvement 10 Residential life staff 11 Receiving and sending mail 11 Commuting to campus 11 Living on campus 12 What to bring 13 Visitation rules 13 Insurance 13 Involvement and activities 14 Student Services 17 Financial 18 Wellness Services 20

First-year experience Northwest’s First-Year Experience is a holistic approach in transitioning to college life. Students have a common experience starting with the Summer Orientation Advisement and Registration (SOAR) program, Advantage, University Seminar, first-year advising and more. These programs work collaboratively to build a foundation for a successful academic career.

Students also customize their college experience by working with advisors, faculty and mentors to access services to be successful and discover their own journey.

Today, your student will receive a copy of their course schedule, meet current and new students, and learn about resources available to aid in their success.

Advantage is a continuation of summer orientation and takes place during the first few days on campus. As a first-time freshman, your student is required to attend and will have opportunities to meet new students, learn more about campus, be entertained and get settled in to their new environment.

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First year path to student success

ADVANTAGE Transitioning to Northwest

Advantage schedule Thursday, Aug. 23 Move-in Day Residence hall orientation Friday, Aug. 24 University Seminar class Required programming Saturday, Aug. 25 University Seminar class Required programming Sunday, Aug. 26 University Seminar class Convocation Monday, Aug. 27 Fall classes begin

Bearcat Tip

If students have a job, they should request off work during Advantage as attendance is required at events each day.

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Academic Success

TRIO

University Seminar is a required one credit-hour course taken in the first semester that is designed to help students transition to college and achieve success.

Library support

University Seminar

Students with interest in the following themed sections may rank their preference at SOAR. • Global perspective • Leadership development • Community engagement

Academic Advising Northwest provides all undergraduate students with personalized advising that ensures their individual major and career goals are aligned and supported. Academic advisement is decentralized in academic departments/ schools and includes a combination of professional and faculty advisors. The personalized advising approach supports students as they transition and includes: • assistance with course selection and student registration • connections to campus resources • introduction to profession-based experiences to support their major

TRIO is a federally-funded program designed to support firstgeneration and limited income families.

Northwest’s library provides a unique and modern learning environment that meets the individual needs of students.

Each floor offers a diverse learning space designed to accommodate personal learning preferences. Library services include: • Text a librarian • Check out equipment for classroom projects • Reserve study rooms • Schedule an appointment with a research librarian

Student Success Center The Student Success Center (SSC), located on the second floor of the B.D. Owens Library, is the centralized hub for academic success at Northwest and focuses on transitioning, advising, supporting and connecting students to maximize their academic potential. The SSC supports student learning and contributes to growth and development from orientation to graduation.

Students who are exploring majors will be supported by a University studies meta-major advisor who uses a student’s interests, strengths and skills to assist in the exploration and connection to potential majors.

Academic Success Coaching and Recovery Select students may work with a success coach to provide additional support.

Academic success coaching is required for students in the Assist Program and academic recovery. This may also be available for optional enrollment, if space is available.

Academic Support • Tutoring is offered individually and in small groups through appointments and designated walk-in hours.

• Supplemental Instruction uses peer-led study groups for traditionally challenging courses.

• The Writing Center is an extension of the Department of the Language, Literature and Writing and helps students become better writers.

• Additional academic support opportunities include the Math Lab, Chemistry Study Room and more.

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Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act

(ferpa)

Northwest complies with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act which provides guidelines about storage and release of current and former student records. Information including, but not limited to grades, remains confidential between the individual and the University, and will not be released to a third party without the written consent of the student. If a parent has questions concerning a grade their student received in a particular class, the parent should first visit with the student.

Certain information about the currently enrolled student – name, age, address, phone, email address, place and date of birth, major, participation in activities and sports, weight and height of athletes, dates of attendance, degrees and awards received, the most recent educational institution attended, including photographic, video or electronic images – is considered public information. If a student does not want this information released, they should contact the Office of the Registrar within 10 days of the beginning of the term.

Student Account Authorization Notes

Students can authorize online access to their parents or other third-party individuals. Two separate authorizations must be completed to view account information and online payment as well as allow offices to give verbal information to authorized individuals and online access to grades and financial assistance.

For more information, visit nwmissouri.edu/parents/account.

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Accessibility and accommodations Did you have an IEP or 504 plan or documented disabilities in school? Northwest is committed to providing quality support services to all students.

To take advantage of accommodations, your student must contact the accessibility coordinator at 660.562.1639 or pjp@nwmissouri.edu and submit request for accommodation as far in advance of their arrival to campus as possible.

An excellent transition resource for students with disabilities is available at moahead.org/guidebook/guidebook.html.

Textbooks and laptop programs Did you know that at many colleges, students need to provide their own computer and pay an average of $600 a semester for their books?

Like any major employer, we provide your student the tools and technology they need to be successful.

• Primary textbooks are included - Saving your student more than $1,200 per year.

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Fully loaded laptop and on-campus technical support - $2,400 value

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For computer specifications, visit nwmissouri.edu/admissions/laptop/

Bearcat Tip

Students should back up electronic assignments on the Cloud storage account provided by Northwest.

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Campus living and involvement

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Residential life staff

Commuting to campus

Complex and hall directors Complex and hall directors are professional staff who manage residential buildings and oversee residential staff.

First-year students commuting to campus are required to attend Advantage, a continuation of orientation from Aug. 23-26. This offers first-year students the opportunity to meet new people, learn more about campus and become acclimated to the Northwest community. Mark your calendar!

Resident assistant Each floor has a resident/student assistant (RA/SA) who will acquaint your student with the hall community and University policies.

For information about residential hall policies, visit nwmissouri.edu/reslife/Fine_Print.

B.R.I.D.G.E.S. B.R.I.D.G.E.S. are undergraduate students living in the residence halls who facilitate education about diversity and promote an enriching environment by providing programming and resources to stimulate an active interest in other cultures.

Receiving and sending mail The University’s Mail and Copy Center delivers U.S. Postal Service mail to each residence hall Monday through Saturday. Packages that are sent parcel post (UPS, FedEx, DHL, etc.) are delivered to the Materials Distribution Center and distributed to the residence halls within one day of arriving on campus.

Notes

Any express, priority or overnight packages are delivered to the residence halls the same day they arrive on campus.

Mailing address: Northwest Missouri State University Student’s name Student’s room number and residence hall 800 University Dr. Maryville, MO 64468 11

Living on campus Your student has most likely submitted their $50 housing prepayment, application and secured a room for the upcoming year. If not, they will need to log in to CatPAWS and complete this process as soon as possible to secure their spot in the residence halls.

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Items in the room

(all items must remain in the room)

One twin bed per person

One closet per person Overhead light One dresser per person

Active Cable TV outlet Air Conditioner Heater

One desk and chair per person

Active computer network outlet for each person

Things you may want to bring • TV • Hair dryer • Wrinkle release spray • Umbrella • Plates, bowls, cups, silverware • Coffee maker • Loft (prohibited in Hudson, Perrin, South Complex and Tower Suites) • George Foreman grill • Microwave oven (700 watts or less) • Small refrigerator (not to exceed 5 cubic feet with 2.5 amperage)

Bearcat Tip

Don’t let your student bring their whole closet! Encourage them to pack light as they will be home for a visit before you know it.

Visitation rules In the residence halls, visitation by members of the opposite gender is permitted during open and designated hours.

• Week day visitation hours for freshmen residence halls are 9 a.m. to 1 a.m. Friday - Monday • 24-hour visitation begins at 9 a.m. Friday through 1 a.m.

Monday • Each residence hall has the option to decrease the number of visitation hours

Insurance The University does not assume responsibility for the personal property of students. Therefore, all such property brought on campus is at the student’s own risk. Residents who desire protection of personal belongings should check on coverage provided by family policies or make arrangements to purchase their own policies. Students are responsible for insuring the notebook computers that are provided by the University against fire, theft and water damage, if they choose.

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Campus involvement Office of Student Involvement Northwest students have an opportunity to network, gain leadership skills, build creative skills and enhance the Bearcat experience through involvement in student organizations.

Level of involvement

Success Rate

90.39%

1 organization

88.90%

91.75%

3 organizations

4 organizations

92.04%

Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion The purpose of the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) is to provide academic, professional and personal support to underrepresented populations and help them succeed through mentorship and student-led organizations.

Northwest encourages your student join organizations and attend events that enhance cultural diversity at Northwest.

DEI works to ensure all students, faculty and staff feel comfortable having healthy conversations about diversity, equity and inclusion.

Bearcat Tip

Freshmen should plan to attend the Organizational Fair on Sept. 5 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to learn about the different organizations on campus and how to get involved.

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Notes

2 organizations

96.51%

Campus involvement

Hughes Fieldhouse

Robert and Virginia Foster Fitness Center New in 2015, the Robert and Virginia Foster Fitness Center gives your student the opportunity to live a healthy lifestyle and participate in a variety of activities including cardio and weight-lifting equipment, group exercise classes and personal training. Admission to the Fitness Center is included in the cost of tuition. More information can be found at nwmissouri.edu/fitnesscenter.

Opening in fall 2018, the Hughes Fieldhouse offers an indoor flooring system, 100-yard practice turf, 300-meter indoor competition track, spectator seating and meeting rooms. This allows for indoor practice facilities for Northwest athletic teams and the Bearcat Marching Band, community recreation teams, student events and profession-based learning activities.

Notes

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Campus involvement

sTUDENT EMPLOYMENT

Northwest employs roughly 950 students in 1200 on-campus jobs during the fall and spring semesters. Approximately one-third of these students are paid through federal workstudy awards. The on-campus positions fill quickly, so your student will want to begin looking for positions online at nwmissouri.edu/hr/student/jobs.

Northwest also has a Career Pathing program that allows students to advance in their position and earn higher pay while participating in personal and professional development. If your student does not get an on-campus position, the Maryville community offers many employment options for Northwest students.

Career Services

Northwest provides resources, events and opportunities for students, parents, employers, faculty, staff and alumni to bring talent and opportunity together.

Encourage your student to participate in the events and take advantage of resources to ensure they are career ready, day one. Example services include: • Career counseling/assessment • Résumé critiques • Internship opportunities • Interview skills • “Mock” Interview Days • Career Days • On-campus interviews • Profession-based experience

Notes

Bearcat Tip If your student plans to apply for jobs, make sure they bring their Social Security Card or passport. Don’t forget interview clothes!

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Student Services

Residential dining and all-access meal plans CAMPUS DINING Whether your student eats every meal on campus or just grabs a bite now and then, they will love the value, variety and convenience of a meal plan. Campus dining is available seven days a week.

Silver Base Plan $1,785

*

• Unlimited access to Bearcat Commons, seven days a week

5-Day Plan $1,640

*

• Unlimited access to Bearcat Commons, Monday–Friday

Gold Base Plan *

$1,935

Platinum Base Plan $2,085

*

• Unlimited access to Bearcat Commons, seven days a week

• Unlimited access to Bearcat Commons, seven days a week

• $150 Resident Dollars

• eight guest meal passes

• five guest meal passes

• $300 Resident Dollars

Bearcat Tip

Campus Dining employs a licensed dietitian to work with students about healthy eating options or dietary needs.

Students can make an appointment by calling 660.562.2555.

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Student Services Financial FAFSA The Free Application for Federal Student Aid should be completed each year if your student is in need of additional financial support. This can be done at fafsa.ed.gov beginning Oct. 1 each year.

Important financial conversations to have with students Before your student begins their first year at Northwest, it is encouraged that you discuss the importance of being fiscally responsible. For example, your student may need to learn how to • Budget money • Use a credit card responsibly • Pay bills • Balance a bank account • Use a debit card • Write a check

Responsible spending Your student may have selected a meal plan that includes declining residential or dining dollars. This means the money is already credited to their account and declines as they use it at campus retail locations including Starbucks, Chickfil-A, Einstein Bros., Zen, Papa John’s as well as vending machines, concession stands, Northwest tailgates and the Provisions on Demand (P.O.D.) convenience stores.

Even if students did not choose a meal plan with dining dollars included, students and parents may add dining dollars throughout the year.

Bearcat Tip

Students are encouraged to utilize their meal plans responsibly to avoid unnecessary charges to their account.

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Student Services Safe Ride Home program The Safe Ride Home program is a safe and timely transportation service within the city limits of Maryville, Missouri, offered by students, for students at Northwest Missouri State University. The program provides a shuttle system so students can travel to various retail stores in Maryville throughout the week.

Northwest also offers a taxi service for late night transportation when students are in situations that they feel are unsafe.

University Police The primary responsibility of Northwest’s University Police is for all law enforcement, emergency management, behavioral intervention and safety on campus.

Residential Life works closely with University Police to provide students with a safe living environment.

All exterior residence hall doors are secured 24/7 with an electronic access system. Resident assistants conduct rounds throughout the building each night to ensure that policies are enforced and the residence halls are is safe. University Police provides escorts by request if students feel unsafe walking alone.

Notes

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Student Services

Wellness Services Wellness Services is employed with licensed staff and delivers high-quality care to Northwest students.

Services are included in the cost of tuition and include: • Outpatient clinical services • Counseling • Nutrition services • Health education and promotion • Public health services Please refer to the wellness handout in your folder for more information.

Bearcat Tip If your student has a serious or chronic, physical or mental health condition, please contact Wellness Services at 660.562.1348 and work together to ensure your student has the resources needed to be successful.

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Notes

Notes

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Notes

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nwmissouri.edu/parents Student Success Center studentsuccess@nwmissouri.edu 660.562.1695 24 24

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