New Student Resource Guide

MAP

NEW STUDENT EXPERIENCE

Welcome to Rhode Island College! We are so glad you are here. The Office of New Student Programs is here to welcome, acclimate, and support new students and their families through programs such as Orientation, Anchors Away Day, RIC 100, and more. Orientation Leaders gain leadership development as they guide new students.

Orientation sessions are offered in the Summer and Spring semesters for incoming students and families. These programs are designed to set new students up for success and assist with the transition into college life. Students can plan to meet classmates, learn about helpful resources, how to actively engage with the campus community, connect with faculty, staff, and student orientation leaders, work with an advisor to create their class schedule, and start mapping their future at RIC!

> First-Year Students can look forward to attending a comprehensive two-day program, including an overnight in the Residence Hall if you will be living on campus.

> Transfer Students can plan to attend a robust one-day program designed for new transfer, readmitted, and second bachelor’s degree students.

> Family members of students can look forward to an in-person program designed specifically for them so they can be just as informed as our students about the many resources, opportunities, and services available throughout the campus community.

Anchors Away & Welcome Week is a series of welcome events at the start of the semester to continue welcoming, educating, and preparing new students for life at RIC.

Convocation is when the new class comes together to be officially welcomed into the academic community.

RIC 100 is a one credit class for first year students to continue support with the transition to college life, covering topics of wellness, cultural competency, time management, academic success, campus engagement and resources led by an instructor and a peer mentor.

*Student athletes take COLL 101, see next column.

The course COLL 101 is designed for student athletes to develop skills necessary to succeed in the classroom and in athletics. Topics include time management skills, study skills, college resources available, NCAA requirements, academic integrity, diversity issues, academic support, and college finances.

Community Standards & Student Handbook:

Rhode Island College is a proudly diverse campus that values difference, equity, inclusion, and justice. It is these values and a holistic approach to education that prepares students to become citizens of the world with a commitment to the welfare of others. This Student Handbook provides information about policies, procedures, regulations, and activities at the College that each RIC student should be familiar with. We strive to maintain an environment that respects the rights of all individuals in the community.

the handbook can be found here : ric.edu/documents/student-handbook

Sexual Violence Prevention Training: Over the summer, new students will engage with online learning modules to prepare and inform them for life at RIC, in addition to attending Orientation. We want to ensure all students are aware of the College’s strategies to prevent violence from taking place on our campus. So that our entire campus community remains educated and informed, you’ll be required to complete two online trainings as part of your New Student Orientation: “Sexual Assault Prevention” and “Title IX Rights and Protections.” All new students are required to complete these trainings by August 21, 2024.

how to get started :

•Scan the QR code

•Use your RIC email to sign up

questions ? Reach out to Dr. Ashley Ruderman-Looff, Director of Institutional Equity, arudermanlooff@ric.edu

STUDENT ENGAGEMENT

College is a collection of experiences – what happens in and out of the classroom, the friendships, advocacy and activism, living and learning on campus, developing a sense of self, and the many worlds and networks that open to you as a student.

The key to being successful and feeling fulfilled during your time at RIC is to balance all these ways to be engaged. What’s wonderful is that because there are so many pathways to feel engaged, you can tailor it to you and your interests.

Here at RIC we offer opportunities that honor the social, emotional, professional, and intellectual development of our student community.

You belong here, and the more we can connect you to co-curricular and extra-curricular programs, to your peers, to your interests and passions, and to the school itself, the more you will feel that you do belong here.

Whether you commute to RIC or live in one our residential spaces, you can engage with a variety of opportunities and possibilities, and with a little luck, RIC will start to feel like your home away from home.

There are over 50 student organizations you can join to be a part of something larger. We have a vibrant Student Community Government that celebrates student voice and an active activities calendar with social events, pop-ups, athletic games, lectures, performances, celebrations, and info/resource fairs.

There is an office for almost anything you might want to explore – leadership opportunities, service learning, civic engagement, scholarships, identity development, mentorship, and loads of student employment opportunities. We invite you to get engaged with your RIC experience!

Your Student ID Card

The student ID card is more than your official RIC photo identification card. It serves as your Meal Card when you sign up for a meal plan, your door key for entrance to your residence halls, your Adams Library card, and your pass for entrance into the Recreation Center.

It is a great cashless alternative to pay for everything including food, beverages, photocopies, laundry, printing, textbooks, merchandise, vending products, and student events.

Your ID also serves as an unlimited bus pass for the entire RIPTA system and provides free entrance into the Museum at Rhode Island School of Design (RISD).

You can deposit money on your campus points account through the get funds website:

get.cbord.com/ric/full/login.php

You can also deposit money on your campus points using cash at one of our Value Port stations located at:

•Browne Hall lower entry

•Student Union main level

•Main level of Adams Library.

OFFICE OF STUDENT ACTIVITIES

Home to registered student organizations, including fraternities and sororities and leadership development programs, the Office of Student Activities is committed to purposeful and inclusive opportunities for all students that consistently challenge and support student success.

No matter your interests, we have opportunities for you to deepen your personal and academic experience through events, organizations, volunteer work and more. RIC students who get involved find themselves developing more relationships, learning more about teamwork and cooperation, and overall having fun.

Rhode Island College student organizations provide endless leadership and networking opportunities to create a more well-rounded co-curricular experience. RIC has over 60 student organizations from culture and identity groups, sororities and fraternities, spiritual groups and more. There is something for everyone and if not, you can start a new organization on campus.

THE UNITY CENTER

The Unity Center houses identity-specific resources for students of color, LGBTQ+ students, students that experience gender disparity, students with compromised citizenship status, first-generation students and students seeking interfaith services.

At the Unity Center you’ll find:

> A communal lounge furnished with couches and large bean bag chairs

> Full functioning computer lab open extended hours with free printing

> Snack pantry

> Lending library

> Community refrigerator for commuter students

> Private meditation/prayer room that also serves as a lactation space.

Our mission is to work with our campus and community partners to create a climate where all students belong and have equal opportunities. We offer programming and workshops that center student leadership, affirmation, social justice and self-care.

Be sure to stop by our office located on the 4th floor in the Student Union. We look forward to working with you.

CENTER FOR HEALTH & WELLNESS

The Center for Health and Wellness is made up of RIC Health Services, RIC Counseling Center and Learning for Life. The Health and Counseling offices are located in Browne Hall and they provide confidential services and support for all RIC students, including part-time and graduate students at no extra cost. Both offices offer in-person and telehealth appointments.

Health Services

RIC Health Services is committed to providing high quality, accessible and cost-effective holistic medical services in a non-judgmental atmosphere that values diversity and individuality, staffed with nurses, nurse practitioners and a physician. You can schedule an appointment online from the medicat patient portal accessed through your MyRIC account or call Health Services at 401-456-8055.

Updating Your Immunizations

> All students need to be up to date with vaccinations, due 8/1/24 for the Fall semester, 1/1/25 for the Spring semester.

> Prior to registration, all health records including Health History, Physical Exam and Immunizations can be emailed to healthservices@ric.edu.

> Enter immunizations into the medicat patient portal accessed through your MyRIC account.

Counseling Services

RIC Counseling Center supports our diverse student body to fully develop their intellectual, emotional and social potential. Through high-quality professional and confidential services, we aim to reduce distress, promote emotional wellness, enhance life satisfaction and improve overall well-being.

The H.O.P.E. Line - 401-456-HOPE - provides students with 24/7 access to mental health services with a licensed clinician.

ric.edu/health-services

401-456-8055

healthservices@ric.edu

browne hall, suites 100 & 120

monday - friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Center for Health & Wellness

AT A GLANCE

HOURS

During academic year: Monday - Friday: 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Summer Hours: Monday - Friday: 7:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Off-hour medical emergencies: Call 911 or Campus Police at *8888

IN DISTRESS?

Call 456-HOPE (401-456-4673) for 24/7 mental health support

APPOINTMENTS

Appointments can be made by phone or online: Call 401-456-8094

Online ric.edu/health-services

Location: Browne Hall, Suites 100 & 120

AVAILABLE SERVICES

For more information about services, call 401-456-8094 or visit ric.edu/health-services

RESIDENTIAL LIFE & HOUSING

MOVE-IN DATES

FALL 2024

First Year & Transfer Students

Friday, August 23

Returning Students

Saturday, August 24

SPRING 2025

Visit: ric.edu/student-experience/living-campus

SECURE YOUR SPOT BY PAYING YOUR HOUSING DEPOSIT ONLINE AT MYRIC

Visit: my.ric.edu > Campus Finances > Make A Payment

Make sure you check your RIC email after you deposit and complete a housing preference form! Assignments will be completed by August 1.

RESIDENCE HALLS

Sweet Hall

• Sweet Hall houses first year students on 4 floors. Sweet is co-ed with double rooms. Each bathroom is privately shared by 3 rooms (6 residents).

• Sweet Hall is RIC’s only traditional corridor style hall-perfect for getting to know your new neighbors.

Thorp Hall

• Thorp Hall consists of suite style living with each suite housing eight residents in single rooms. Bathrooms are shared between two suites.

Brown Hall

• Brown Hall is newly renovated featuring Super Singles! Brown is suite style with 6-12 residents in each suite.

Penfield Hall

• Penfield Hall is RIC’s Apartment style hall with 2-4 residents per suite. There is a study lounge on each floor for residents to use.

Weber Hall

• Weber Hall consists of suite style living with each suite housing 10 residents in single rooms. Weber Hall has the biggest main lounge in the Residential Village--perfect for events and hanging out! wear

MOVING TIPS

, and drink lots of water! only bring what you need to start – you can always bring more later! move-in day is busy and tiring, but it’s so exciting! we are here to help!

LEARNING 4 LIFE

The mission of Learning 4 Life (L4L) is to connect students to on and off-campus resources and opportunities.

> Any RIC student is welcome at Learning 4 Life. Students served by L4L are empowered to overcome life obstacles on their journey to graduation, such as access to basic needs, managing competing priorities and navigating campus systems.

L4L’s team of staff and trained peer mentors (Navigators) support and advocate for students. Scan the QR code to get started with L4L and connect with a Navigator.

> At the Food 4 Thought Pantry and Lounge we serve all RIC students who are experiencing food insecurity. There is no fee to access the pantry, we simply request you provide your student ID card. We are committed to protecting your privacy if you visit us or contact us for resources. The pantry is stocked with canned goods, pasta, pasta sauce, mac and cheese, peanut butter, jelly, snacks and more. Some toiletries are available.

MILITARY RESOURCE CENTER

The Military Resource Center (MRC) provides comprehensive support for military-affiliated students from admission through graduation to facilitate the achievement of academic and career goals.

Our office provides comprehensive support for veterans and veteran-dependent students.

programs they need to be successful at RIC and beyond.

> Inform/educate the campus, community and prospective students. ric.edu/mrc 401-456-8449 mrc@ric.edu

student union, room 205

monday - wednesday, and friday

from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

thursday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

summer hours are monday - friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

CAMPUS POLICE

Rhode Island College Campus Police is a component of the College’s Department of Security and Safety. Its mission, while multifaceted, is simplistic in nature and centered upon a single goal: to provide for the safety of life, personal and institutional property, and to enhance the educational process. Our goal is accomplished through the enforcement of all local, state and federal laws and statutes, as well as the various policies and procedures established by the college administration and the Council on Postsecondary Education.

Blue Light Emergency Phones There are 54 outdoor emergency phones located on or near the exterior of all residence halls and most college buildings.

> They are also located on the campus walkways.

> There are 31 elevator phones in various campus buildings.

> We have 40 refuge phones on each floor of the residence halls.

> Locations of our emergency blue-light phones can be viewed on the campus map (see first two pages in this booklet) and are marked with a symbol.

*

> Outdoor emergency phones are housed in blue Lexan cases, are mounted directly to buildings or stanchions, and have a blue light above them.

> These phones can only be used for emergency calls and have a direct speed calling button with an automatic identifier so that the Campus Police Dispatch will know your locations when the call is answered.

> When getting acquainted with the campus, try to note the locations of these phones.

Everything To Know About Parking

Rhode Island College provides free parking passes to our campus community.

> Under current parking procedures, parking lots on campus have been assigned to specific groups of the campus community and will have a sign indicating which lot is for who.

> You will also see that each parking pass is color-coded differently. Commuter students: Gold; Resident students: Navy; Administration: Green; Faculty/ staff: Burgundy

commuter students may park in designated commuter lots, open lots and approved on-street parking.

all resident students with vehicles must get a new navy colored permit and park only in L Lot during the day. After 5 p.m. resident students are allowed to park next to the Recreation Center until closing.

disability parking : Student temporary disability parking permits can be requested by contacting the Disability Service Center at 401-456-2776.

no overnight parking is allowed except in parking lot L for resident students only.

401-456-8034

alumni & visitor’s center, by mt. pleasant ave. entrance

TO REQUEST A PARKING PASS, SCAN THE QR CODE ON THE RIGHT

Please be advised that by state law campus parking tickets are now $85 per violation. Campus Police will ticket violators for parking in unauthorized lots. Tickets will also be issued to vehicles that have no permit on their car.

ATHLETICS

RIC Athletics is defined by its commitment to achievement both on the field and in the classroom. With 21 NCAA Div. III varsity teams, as well as intramural and club sports, RIC student-athletes are anchor strong.

Intercollegiate Athletics

> Participation in intercollegiate athletics is open to all eligible, full-time matriculating students.

> It is highly recommended that prospective freshmen contact the head coach of the sport they are interested in, either directly or through their current coach, well in advance of attending the college.

> Transfer students should contact RIC’s compliance office in addition to the sport’s head coach.

> The fall varsity schedule consists of men’s cross country, golf, volleyball and soccer; and women’s cross country, soccer, tennis and volleyball. In addition, baseball, softball, women’s golf and lacrosse, and men’s tennis have non-traditional fall seasons.

> In winter, men’s teams include basketball, indoor track and field and wrestling.

> Women’s teams include basketball, gymnastics, swimming and track and field.

> Spring offerings include baseball, men’s tennis and track and field and women’s golf, lacrosse, softball and track and field. Both men’s and women’s soccer, women’s tennis and women’s volleyball have non-traditional seasons in spring.

Constructed specifically to support the academic and life skills success of the college’s almost 400 studentathletes, it contains a designated study and reading area that can accommodate nearly 80 studentathletes. It also houses the recently completed Passarelli group study lounges and offices for athletic alumni engagement, special events and compliance.

athletic administration: 401-456-8034

compliance & eligibility: 401-456-9882

academic support: 401-456-1952

sports medicine: 401-456-8161

WOMEN’S SPORTS basketball: 8156

cross country: 2889

golf: 9928

gymnastics: 8215

lacrosse: 4616

soccer: 8260

softball: 8259

swimming: 2890

tennis: 1954

track & field: 2889

volleyball: 8641

RIC Athletic Facilities

THE ATHLETIC CENTER

The 80,000-square-foot facility includes a five-lane, twenty-five-yard, L-shaped swimming pool; a five-lane, 1/10-mile indoor track; three multi-use courts for basketball, volleyball and tennis; a fitness center, including cardio and strength areas; a student lounge with WiFi and television; locker room facilities; a multimedia room; a wrestling facility adaptable for other events; a multiuse studio for aerobics and yoga; offices for coaches and a suite to host fundraising-related initiatives.

> The center and its programs are available to enrolled undergraduate and graduate students.

> The facility is also available to faculty, staff, alumni and the community on a membership fee basis.

> The Club Sport Program currently includes the following established club sport opportunities: equestrian, men’s volleyball and ultimate frisbee. For more updated information, or if you are interested in starting a club sport, go to goanchormen.com, where you’ll also find a list of activities and hours.

THE MURRAY CENTER

This state-of-the-art, multimillion-dollar intercollegiate complex is the nexus of RIC athletics. The complex houses the main sports medicine facility, a varsity weight room, the main equipment/laundry room, home and visitor locker rooms, a video room, a welcome center for recruits, the RIC Athletic Hall of Fame and a national tournament-grade competition venue for basketball, gymnastics and volleyball, as well as offices for administration staff and coaches

PONTARELLI

FIELD

This is the home of Rhode Island College Baseball. This venue includes a press box, seating for 1,000 spectators, a concession stand, restrooms, a cuttingedge message board and electronic scoreboard, and a picnic area for fans. An indoor hitting facility is open year-round for RIC Baseball student-athletes.

THE DAYNA A. BAZAR SOFTBALL COMPLEX

This is the home of RIC Softball. This venue includes a press box, seating for 850 spectators, a concession stand, restrooms and a cutting-edge message board and electronic scoreboard.

ALUMNI

STADIUM

The college’s outdoor varsity competition complex contains the Anchorman Field. The complex is the home of RIC Soccer and Lacrosse and has seating for 4,500, a concession stand, restrooms, a cutting-edge electronic scoreboard and a brand-new artificial turf field.

THE

TENNIS CENTER

MEN’S SPORTS baseball: 8258 basketball: 8075

cross country: 2889

golf: 8007

soccer: 8251

tennis: 1954

track & field: 4617

wrestling: 4615

* All on-campus calls begin with 401-456

This venue includes seating for competition and six all-weather, outdoor courts that are utilized by both the men’s and women’s tennis programs.

THE VARSITY PRACTICE COMPLEX BOB BLACK TRACK

The Varsity Practice Complex Bob Black Track Comprising five acres of natural grass, the practice grounds bordering the campus southern boundary support a natural grass field usable for soccer and lacrosse in addition to an Olympic-quality throwing center for track and field and the brand new Black outdoor track complex.

The Student-Athlete Success Center

THE RIC ACADEMIC EXPERIENCE

At Rhode Island College, we take seriously the education needed to prepare our students with the flexibility of mind necessary to succeed in a changing and uncertain future.

At the heart of that flexibility is the liberal arts core of a Bachelor’s degree. At RIC we identify that core as “General Education.”

In our General Education program, you will be given choices of a wide range of courses in the liberal arts, including literature, history, science, social and behavioral sciences, philosophy, language, art, and mathematics.

Through the study of these different disciplines, you will not only hone your critical thinking through exposure to the way that different scholars engage with the world, but the content will help you build the firm foundation necessary for success in our programs and as engaged, educated citizens.

Regardless of your major, your college career will start with the First Year Experience, which includes a First-Year Seminar. In this seminar, a dedicated professor and scholar will engage you and your peers in a small discussion-based class on a topic they are passionate about, while guiding you in expanding collegiate skills that will help you succeed at the College, skills like reading scholarship, engaging in academic discussion, and taking part in research yourself.

In First-Year Writing, professors will help you hone your writing skills, crucial to your studies in the next four years. And you’ll explore a course in Mathematics, which will help build your quantitative analysis skills crucial for success at RIC and beyond.

The College also offers a variety of courses which fulfill the RIC 100 requirement; RIC 100 is an introduction to our community, as well as to study and other skills (financial, stress management, etc.) which will help you succeed as a college student!

Rhode Island College is proud of the five different “schools” which make up our college:

> the school of the Faculty of Arts and Sciences

> the School of Business

> the Feinstein School of Education and Human Development

> the Onanian School of Nursing

> the School of Social Work.

As a student at RIC, depending on your major, you will join one of these academic communities.

Each of these schools has a “Dean” who is the academic and administrative leader of their school, including providing support to the “Chair” of each department.

The “Chair” of each department is a professor elected by their peers to lead the department and is a good person to start with if you have questions or concerns related to your major.

Each department is made up of scholars who are active researchers and educators in their fields, and who have achieved the highest academic degrees available in those fields (usually a PhD). These professors will be your RIC mentors and guides as you study, and one faculty member in your major will serve as your faculty advisor.

> If you maintain at least a 3.5 GPA (the equivalent of a B+/A- average) over your first semester, you will be invited to join the 3.5 Society, which is an honor society that celebrates your success!

ACADEMIC ADVISING

All undergraduate students at RIC are assigned an academic advisor. Students may work with a professional and/or faculty advisor, depending on their major. In most cases, students with an assigned major meet with faculty advisors (professors in their major’s department).

Each department assigns advisors to new students shortly after Orientation. The College requires students to meet with their advisor at least once per semester, but it is a good idea to check in regularly.

Exploring majors (aka “undecided”) students, as well as first-year Nursing-intended, first-year Elementary and Early Childhood Education Intended, first-year Medical Imaging Intended, and first-year School of Business majors meet with professional advisors in the Office of Academic Advising.

Advisors can help students understand their academic requirements for a timely graduation, talk through their goals and student experience, get connected to campus support services, and engage with the larger campus community.

To help students connect with an academic advisor (as well as faculty and staff), the college uses Starfish (ric.edu/student-resources).

Every student has their own Starfish account. Check with your specific advisor when you are assigned, as some departments do not currently utilize Starfish.

401-456-8083

academicadvising@ric.edu

adams library, lower level

OFFICE OF ACADEMIC ADVISING

> Exploring Majors

> First-Year, Intended Nursing Majors

> First-Year, Intended Medical Imaging Majors

> First-Year, Intended Elementary and Early Childhood Education Majors

> First-Year, School of Business Majors

> Students navigating Academic Standing

FACULTY ADVISING

> All other majors within their respective departments

> All Transfer students

ACADEMIC SUCCESS CENTER

Tutoring is available to all students for a number of different disciplines to ensure success. Our tutors are dedicated and trained to assist students and identify their learning needs, develop new strategies for effective study habits, and build successful techniques for continued progress.

Need a little help with your studies? Find it at the Academic Success Center! Services provided by the center include the Math Learning Lab, Writing Lab and peer, subject based tutorial services ready to help you meet your goals of success.

The staff is set up to support students in any stage of the learning process. Workshops are provided throughout the year for building healthy habits of mind, such as time management, organization, and study strategies like test taking, note taking and reading.

All tutoring services are offered to students at no additional cost, available in-person or via virtual appointment, and booked through one convenient online scheduler.

1. Go to ric.mywconline.com

2. Register for an account.

3. Select tutoring Area: Subject Tutoring, Math Learning Lab or Writing Lab

4. For subject and math tutoring, click: Show All ‘Limit to’ option to select your course.

5. Choose time slot.

6. Fill out required fields and create appointment.

ric.edu/academicsuccesscenter 401-456-8083

tutoring@ric.edu

ACADEMIC SUCCESS CENTER & SUBJECT TUTORING

The Academic Success Center is a space on campus where students meet with tutors and with one another to build skills in time management, methods for organization, and approaches to test preparation. Subject tutoring is available for a variety of courses including Biology, Computer Science, Modern Languages, Nursing, Psychology and others. Tutoring format is in person or virtual.

MATH LEARNING LAB

Peer math tutors are available for math content up through Calculus III as well as techniques to study and learn math. Tutoring is also available for the math placement exam and the math portion of the SAT, ACT, GRE, and PRAXIS. Tutoring format is in person or virtual.

THE WRITING LAB

The Writing Lab works with writers to explore and develop their ideas, to become aware of the needs of their readers, and to learn the rhetorical and syntactical strategies necessary for effective communication. We have three types of writing sessions.

FACE-TO-FACE & VIDEO SESSIONS

For face-to-face sessions, students select a specific session time in WCOnline to meet with a writing tutor in the Academic Success Center. Video sessions are synchronous Zoom-like meetings with a writing tutor booked through WCOnline. Student writers upload their writing and supporting materials prior to the virtual meeting.

E-TUTORING SESSIONS

E-tutoring is asynchronous, meaning there is no direct contact with a writing tutor during the session. Student writers upload their writing and supporting materials to WCOnline. Around the end of the appointment time, the student will receive comments through email. If you do not receive feedback, please reach out to us as tutoring@ric.edu so we can make sure to get the tutor’s comments to you.

We serve as interested readers or a second set of eyes” for various writing genres, including research essays, resumes, cover letters, PowerPoint presentations, discussion board posts, creative writing and more.

CENTER FOR SCHOLAR DEVELOPMENT

The Center for Scholar Development is home to the Ronald E. McNair program, the Upward Bound program, the Preparatory Enrollment Program and the Student Support Services programs.

Student Support Services Programs: The SSS programs were awarded to RIC in September 2020; there is both a classic SSS program and a SSS STEM program. The objective of the SSS programs is to support eligible undergraduate students through their collegiate experience and toward the path of graduation. The services these programs provide are academic and personal counseling, tutoring, career and financial planning, and graduate school preparation. Students eligible for SSS identify as first-generation, low-income, or students with a documented disability.

Benefits of SSS are the following:

> Access to SSS grant aid scholarships (1st and 2nd year students).

> One-on-one advising and counseling.

> Assistance with the financial aid process.

> Work with SSS tutors. Seminars and workshops with your SSS community.

> Advice through the graduate school application process.

> Cultural events and leadership activities.

If you would like to learn more about the SSS programs, please email sss@ric.edu

The Preparatory Enrollment Program (PEP) provides a comprehensive approach to supporting and advising students in order to enhance your experience during your first year at RIC.

The program works with incoming first year, first generation students from RI during the spring of their senior year of high school on their transition to college.

The program prides itself on being student centered by focusing on individual strengths and goals. Here at PEP, we encourage you to come as you are and excel!

If you would like to learn more about PEP, email kkafo@ric.edu or call 456-8062.

McNair Scholars Program: Are you a trailblazer looking to push the limits of your undergraduate research? Do you dream of pursuing a graduate education and earning a doctorate degree, but are concerned about financial barriers and representation in the field? Look no further than the McNair Scholars Program!

The McNair Scholars Program supports low-income, first-generation college students and students who are underrepresented in graduate school. Our program aims to facilitate your participation in undergraduate research and encourage the pursuit of graduate education. You’ll have the opportunity to work with a faculty mentor to develop a research proposal and design a research project to complete in a paid summer research internship. You’ll also receive invaluable advice and support from the McNair Program throughout your academic career and the graduate school application process. As a scholar, you will have access to a supportive community of mentors and peers who will be there to cheer you on every step of the way.

If you’re a RIC student who meets the following criteria, you’re eligible to apply:

> Identify as either a low-income, first-generation college student, or you’re a member of a group that is underrepresented in graduate education

> Demonstrate a strong interest in obtaining a Ph.D. degree

> Completed at least 59 credits and have a minimum of 3 semesters left until graduation

> Earned a minimum of a 3.0 cumulative GPA

> A citizen or permanent U.S. resident

Don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity to take your academic career to the next level! Apply for the McNair Scholars Program to unlock your full potential.

To learn more about the McNair Program, please email McNairprogram@ric.edu

CAREER DEVELOPMENT CENTER

The Career Development Center partners with students as they begin their academic journey by offering services, programs, and resources to support their career goals. The Career Development Center assists with career exploration, job and internship strategies, and applying to graduate school through individual counseling sessions, workshops, and online resources.

The Career Development Center has various online tools available like ‘What To Do With This Major’ and ‘TypeFocus’ to help students explore opportunities related to their major, and ‘Vault Career Intelligence’ provides career guides and industry trends.

The Center also offers workshops and programs to enhance students’ job search skills, such as résumé writing and networking. Big Interview boosts their confidence for job interviews, and Handshake makes finding internships and job opportunities easy.

The Career Development Center also collaborates with employers to provide events like Job & Internship Fairs and Employer Info Sessions. Our programming, featuring alumni and employer partners, aims to help students launch their career and Connect to Success. Whether it’s career exploration, preparation, or launching into their career, we’re here to help students every step of the way!

We’ll Help You Make a Plan

STEP #1: DECIDING

Career exploration is your first step. TypeFocus, our online tool, will help you assess your values, skills and interests to reach informed decisions about a major and career. It is easy and convenient to use.

Handshake, RIC’s career management platform, provides access to Vault-Firsthand, an online career library packed with career guides, industry trends and company profiles.

We have many more resources available 24/7 online. Connect with a career counselor and your academic adviser to develop your career plan.

STEP #2: PREPARING

Via Handshake, we offer workshops and programs to develop your competitive job search skills and strategies (e.g., résumé and cover letter writing, effective interviewing, networking and developing your LinkedIn account).

Additional tools include Portfolium, an e-folio platform that translates and highlights classroom and experiential learning into workplace skills for employers to view.

Working on campus can be a convenient way to gain experience, build a great network and stay engaged. Student Employment is coordinated through our office. If you have a federal work-study award, you will find a wide range of opportunities, both on campus and at off campus, non-profit organizations. This can be a way to earn your award and gain experience. For example, you could conduct tours at RIC as part of the Admissions team or improve literacy through the America Reads program. There is a range of opportunities on campus: over 1,200 students work on campus!

401-456-8031

careerdevelopment@ric.edu

adams library, level 1

monday - friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. wednesday, 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Big Interview, our online job interview preparation platform, allows you to practice responses to key interview questions and build your confidence.

Employers seeking full-time, permanent and part-time employees and interns connect with our students through Handshake

STEP #3: LAUNCHING

We work closely with employers to create events that connect you directly to their opportunities. Job and internship fairs, employer info sessions, and virtual career coffee chats are just a few examples of this programming.

LET’S MEET! PICK A DAY AND TIME ON HANDSHAKE (LEFT) OR STARFISH (RIGHT)

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY & HELPDESK

The Rhode Island College Information Technology Services (ITS) department provides the campus community information technology services, including student systems, wired and wireless networks, telephones, event management systems, cyber security systems, email, classroom and lab services, learning management systems, lecture capture, training and many other technology related services.

The Rhode Island College Information Technology Services (ITS) department provides the campus community information technology services, including student systems, wired and wireless networks, telephones, event management systems, cyber security systems, email, classroom and lab services, learning management systems, lecture capture, training and many other technology related services. Information Technology Services offers services for the campus administrative systems, information security and the college Help Center.

the help center is a single point of contact for information and assistance with classroom, desktop, network and telephone technologies. The Help Center also provides audiovisual service and support for the campus.

The college has a walk-in computer lab for students to use specialized software and printing. The walk-in lab is available for students in Adams Library.

microsoft office 365 is available to enrolled students with access to the online versions of Word, PowerPoint, Excel and OneDrive cloud storage.

Students will also have the ability to download the full version of Microsoft Office on up to five devices.

Log in to your Microsoft online account using your RIC email and password.

Once logged in, you will have the option to download the latest version of Microsoft Office

Rhode Island College provides internet access to our residential students through Apogee: myresnet.com. Wired and wireless options are available.

Internet access for gaming and entertainment systems (Xbox, PlayStation, Apple TV, Roku) and mobile devices such as tablets and phones can be easily registered on the Apogee network.

PROJECT EXCEL

Project ExCEL is a community for students who are bilingual, multilingual or took ESL classes in the past and are looking for language support. In Project ExCEL, students can receive one-on-one attention with academic questions and also join the larger multilingual student community at RIC.

DISABILITY SERVICES CENTER

The Disability Services Center (DSC) is the central location on campus for disability-related needs. DSC staff coordinate accommodations for students with disabilities, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act, and support them in achieving their academic goals. Services include individual consultations, referrals to on- and off-campus support services and assistive technology.

The Disability Services Center serves students with all types of disabilities, including:

> ADHD

> Autism Spectrum Disorder

> Blindness/low vision

> Deafness/hard of hearing

> Learning disabilities

> Medical or chronic health disabilities

> Mental health disabilities

> Physical or mobility disabilities

> Temporary disabilities (such as concussions or significant injuries)

Accommodations are determined on a case-by-case basis. Examples include:

This program supports multilingual students and language learners through:

ACADEMIC SUPPORT

> ExCEL Courses

> Referrals to tutors and other RIC academic support services (the Math Learning Lab, the Writing Lab, etc.)

> Peer study groups

> Academic networking between peers

> Personalized advice for navigating RIC administrative services (Financial Aid Office, Bursar’s Office, advising)

NON-ACADEMIC SUPPORT

> ExCEL Student Mentors

> Campus resources (Counseling Services, Learning for Life) via referrals

> Resources on and off campus (food, housing, etc.)

> Peer to peer social networking

> Other multilingual students at RIC call/text 401-764-4947

laura faria-tancinco, lfariatancinco@ric.edu

> Testing accommodations

> Housing accommodations

> American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters/ CART providers

> Assistive technology

> Physically accessible classrooms

> Reduced course load with full-time status and permission to audio record lectures

Incoming students with disabilities who are seeking accommodations should contact DSC to self-identify and register with the office.

BURSAR

The Office of the Bursar provides information related to tuition rates and fees, as well as payment options and billing deadlines. All student account payments and refunds are processed through this office.

Bills are generated each month and published on the student’s billing portal. An e-bill notification is sent to the student’s RIC email address when statements are published. Authorized users may be added as payers to access and receive e-bill notifications.

to access the billing portal:

•Log into MyRIC •Campus Finances > Make a payment > Make a Payment/View Bills

to set up an authorized payer:

From the billing portal select MY ACCOUNT on the left Select PAYERS and proceed

BILL/PAY SCHEDULE

> Charges are assessed per semester based on registration and student status.

> Please be sure to review your billing statements for specific due dates and other important information.

> Refunds are issued through our banking partner Bank Mobile Disbursements.

> Students will receive information regarding setting up a refund preference.

> Most students opt for direct deposit into their existing bank account, as this is the fastest and easiest method to receive funds.

FALL July mid-August 5 payments (July - Nov)

December

5 payments (Dec - April)

April start of each session 4 payments (May - June)

THE OFFICE OF FINANCIAL AID

Rhode Island College’s Office of Student Financial Aid administers an extensive program of scholarships, grants, loans and part-time employment opportunities to help RIC students achieve their educational goals.

Demonstrated financial need is the primary factor used in the awarding of financial aid, although some scholarships are given each year in recognition of academic achievement or special talent. Financial need is the difference between the cost of attendance and the Student Aid Index (SAI) as determined by the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

In addition to the direct expenses (below), you will need to plan to cover books and supplies, as well as travel, personal and, if you commute, living expenses off campus.

Many students/families find it easier to pay college expenses on a monthly basis rather than all at once at the start of each semester. For more information about the college’s monthly payment plan visit the Bursar’s Office section of this packet on page 19. For more information on affording Rhode Island College visit: ric.edu/financialaid

residents of MA, CT, ME, NH, VT, Long Island and metro

Next Steps To Finalize Your Award

Eligible financial aid applicants will receive a financial aid award notification through your Rhode Island College email account.

In order for the Office of Student Financial Aid to finalize your financial aid award offer, students must do the following:

1

Access and review your award using your MyRIC account. There you may accept or decline the award or any portion of it and confirm your understanding of the conditions of your financial aid package.

The Hope Scholarship

2

3

Students selected for a process call verification may be required to submit additional documentation. Financial Aid awards will not be finalized until requested documentation has been received and reviewed.

If your financial aid award includes Federal student loan(s) and you wish to utilize the loans to assist in paying your tuition account, you will need to log into your MyRIC to accept the loan(s). Additionally, you will be required to complete a Master Promissory Note (MPN) and Loan Entrance Counseling. These requirements are completed online at studentaid.gov.

Note: Almost all forms of financial aid require students to be enrolled at least half-time in a degree or certificate program.

ric.edu/financialaid

401-456-8033 tty/tdd via ri relay

1-800-745-5555 for hearing impaired

financialaid@ric.edu

building #3

monday - friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

The Rhode Island College Hope Scholarship is a pilot program that provides last-dollar tuition and mandatory fee payments to eligible in-state students at RIC for their junior and senior years, if they are in good academic standing and on track to graduate or to earn an approved certificate in a total of four years.

The scholarship covers mandatory fees and tuition for up to two years but it does not include room and board, textbooks, program fees for some majors, course fees for some specific courses, meal plans or travel. Transfer students are not eligible.

Students do not need to apply for the scholarship and appeals may be granted for developmental coursework, approved medical or personal leaves, National Guard or other reserve unit service within the United States military, and disability accommodations.

eligibility criteria for the hope scholarship

Live in Rhode Island (qualify for in-state tuition)

Start at RIC as a first-time first-year student

Enroll & remain enrolled as a full-time student each fall & spring semester

Complete the FAFSA annually

Maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.5

Declare a major by junior year

Stay on track to graduate in four years

Earn 60 credits by July 1 prior to junior year (hard deadline)

If you have any questions or need more information, please contact Hope Scholarship staff or visit us online: hope@ric.edu or ric.edu/hope

THE OFFICE OF THE REGISTRAR

A registrar is the head of a university’s record-keeping department. It’s the job of the registrar to keep track of class schedules and a record of students’ grades.

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) (20 U.S.C. § 1232g; 34 CFR Part 99) is a federal law that protects the privacy of student education records. The law applies to all schools that receive funds under an applicable program of the U.S. Department of Education.

The term “education records” is defined as those records that contain information directly related to a student and which are maintained by a school or by a party acting for the school. Under FERPA, a school is not generally required to maintain particular education records or education records that contain specific information. Rather, the school is required to provide certain privacy protections for those education records that it does maintain. Also, unless there is an outstanding request by a student to inspect and review education records, FERPA permits the school to destroy such records without notice to the student.

FERPA affords students at Rhode Island College (the “College”) certain rights with respect to their education records.

These rights include:

1. The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days after the day the College receives a request for access. A student should submit to the Registrar’s Office a written request that identifies the record(s) the student wishes to inspect. The Registrar’s Office will make arrangements for access and notify the student of the time and place where the records may be inspected.

Written requests should be submitted to: Registrar’s Office

Rhode Island College Building 4 (B4)

600 Mount Pleasant Ave Providence, RI 02908

Or emailed to: records@ric.edu

2. The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the student believes are inaccurate, misleading or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy rights under FERPA. A student who wishes to ask the College to amend a record should submit a written request to the Registrar’s Office, clearly identify the part of the record the student wants changed, and specify why it should be changed. If the College decides not to amend the record as requested by the student, the College will notify the student of the decision and the student’s right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the student when notified of the right to a hearing.

3. The right to provide written consent before the College discloses personally identifiable information (PII) from the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. (For more information, see the section entitled “Disclosure of Education Records.”)

4. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the College to comply with the requirements of FERPA.

The name and address of the office that administers FERPA is:

Family Policy Compliance Office

U.S. Department of Education

400 Maryland Ave., SW Washington, DC 20202

What falls under Directory Information?

Additionally, the College may disclose, without consent, the following “directory” information about the student:

> Name > Address

> Student number

> Telephone number

> Email address

> Date and place of birth

> Honors and awards

> Dates of attendance

> Class level (freshman, sophomore, junior, senior or graduate)

> Enrollment status (full-time, part-time or not enrolled) Major and/or minor

> Graduation date

> Degrees

> Students have the right to refuse to allow any or all such information about the student to be designated as directory information. Students can log in to MyRIC and update their FERPA restrictions for directory information. Otherwise, students must notify the Registrar’s Office in writing of such a request.

> The College maintains a record in the student’s file listing to whom personally identifiable information was disclosed and the legitimate interests the party or parties had in obtaining the information. This does not apply to school officials with a legitimate educational interest or to directory information.

What does not?

> Race

> Gender

> Social Security number (or part of an SSN)

> Grades

> GPA

> Country of citizenship

> Religion

What about the student’s parents?

When a student reaches the age of 18 or begins attending a postsecondary institution regardless of age, FERPA rights transfer to the student. Parents may obtain non-directory information with a signed consent from the student sent to the Registrar’s Office.

More information can be found: ric.edu/returning-students/ferpa

401-456-8213

records@ric.edu

building #4, lower level

monday - friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

summer hours:

monday - friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

ONLINE RESOURCES

MyRIC

•Accessed from ric.edu, MyRIC is your online portal for academics, information and services.

•You can use MyRIC to view the course catalogue and register for classes, access financial aid awards, pay tuition bills, view the academic calendar, and more.

Starfish

•An online resource created to help you succeed as a student.

•You can connect with your professors, assigned advisor and other RIC faculty and staff.

•Browse campus resources, book appointments with Starfish users, and see their direct contact information.

Blackboard Ultra

•Starting with the Fall 2024 semester, all academic courses at RIC will use Blackboard Ultra as the online learning management system (LMS).

•Ultra is a simplified LMS with a universal course design, bringing coursework, collaboration, and communication into one easy-to-navigate space.

•You can easily find your course syllabus, instructor information, online assignments Ultra includes a messenger tool, course announcements, and an activity stream to keep you updated with important information and connected with your instructors. Additionally, Ultra provides a calendar that helps you prioritize tasks efficiently. Connect via MyRIC.

WC Online

•WC Online is the platform used to book tutor appointments for the Writing Lab, Math Learning Lab, and subject area tutoring for inperson or virtual tutoring (at no cost to the student).

Vector Solutions

•Vector Solutions is an online training platform for learning modules that pair with New Student Orientation

Adirondack

•Adirondack is the student housing portal

•Log in to find your housing assignment, suitemate and roommate information, and sign your housing contract

Netutor

•Netutor is a 24-hour tutoring platform for times when the Academic Success Center is closed, or to access tutors for subjects not currently covered.

Handshake

•Handshake is a career management platform to search for job postings, make appointments with career counselors, and view events.

Medicat Patient Portal

•The Medicat Patient Portal provides access for students to upload their health records, immunizations, and physicals Visit ric.edu/student-resources for direct links and more information.