New student guide 2017

THE NEW

STUDENT GUIDE

2017-2018 EDITION / PRESENTED BY OUDAILY

What to Bring/Leave page 8

Student Life page 26

Advice for Freshmen page 42

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STAFF

Kelli Stacy, editor-in-chief

CONTENTS 6 Move-In Days

30 Essentials of Norman

8 What to Bring/Leave

32 Construction

Jadyn Watson-Fisher, news managing editor Levi Wiltfong, design editor George Stoia, sports editor Abbie Sears, print editor Emily McPherson, copy manager

11 Residential Colleges 33 Academic Calendar

Shane Byler, visual editor

CHECK US OUT ONLINE AT OUDAILY.COM

4

14 Four Types of R.A.

36 Off-Campus Activities

18 Meal Plans

40 Money and Budgeting

20 Parking on Campus

41 Discounts for Students

22 Mental Health

42 Advice for Freshmen

26 Student Life

45 Sooner Glossary

OU Daily’s New Student Guide is a publication of University of Oklahoma Student Media. Nick Jungman, director of student media, authorized printing of 4,500 copies

by University Printing Services at no cost to the taxpayers of the State of Oklahoma.

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The University of Oklahoma

Religious Studies Program The Religious Studies Program welcomes you to OU! Our courses are a great way to broaden your horizons!

Explore our freshman and sophomore course options while meeting General Education requirements.

We have courses in Intro to Religious Studies, Comparative Religions, Buddhism, Islam, Hinduism, Judaism, Christianity, and Native American Philosophy.

For more information, see our website at http://rels.ou.edu.

MOVE-IN DAYS Starting college is stressful as it is, but adding in move-in day can make it worse if not done right.

Here are some tips to help relieve the stress of starting college. story by Lauren Owen

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LET HOUSING AND FOOD DO THE WORK FOR YOU

It might seem like a pain to move in at your scheduled time, but it definitely helps down the road. Housing and Food helps move boxes into your room, leaving more time for you to participate in the fun events planned.

First things first, head down to the Lloyd Noble Center with your university-issued student ID (the Sooner Card) for drive through check-in. Going to check-in means you can wait out the paperwork while sitting in your air-conditioned car.

After you check in, you will be escorted to your respective residence hall where volunteers and staff will unload your car and bring your things up to your dorm room. Once your car (or cars) is unloaded, you will be ushered away to park.

After parking, you will hop on a shuttle and make your way back down to the dorms.

Remember to come at your appointed time so the shuttles will take you to your correct dorm. The times the shuttles run depend on what residence hall you selected, so please keep this in mind.

Once you’ve made it back to your dorm, you’ll be given a key and it’s time to start unpacking.

KEEP CONSTRUCTION IN MIND

For people who don’t live in or around Norman, you might think it should be easy and you can stick the address into your GPS and get here. That’s not the case.

Thanks to ongoing construction on Lindsey Street, the fastest and easiest way to reach the LNC is by exiting Interstate-35 onto State Highway 9 East and turning north onto either Chautauqua Avenue or South Jenkins Avenue.

Another option would be to exit Interstate-35 onto South Route 77 which leads to North Flood Avenue.When you get to Lindsey Street, turn right and then head south once you reach Chautauqua.

Whatever course of action you take, be sure to get to the Lloyd Noble Center on time. Leave early to give time for any unexpected construction or detours. At the end of the day, you’ll be glad you did.

TIP:

If you’re not sure if you’ll use it, don’t bring it.

Students who live on campus:

Are close to Are more likely to graduate Walk to Live in a safe and classes campus activities secure environment and graduate sooner Are more engaged and connected Have higher GPAs Have off-campus Report greater personal freedom, on-campus Have access to convenience academic communities growth and development

Residential Colleges Dunham College and Headington College are smaller communities within the larger university community where sophomores, juniors and seniors can have their own neighborhood and create unique traditions, stimulate creativity and build lasting memories and lifelong relationships.

cross development This new community for upperclass students scheduled to open in fall 2018 will include dining facilities, such facilities as a black box theater, gym, fitness club and creative maker space, a parking facility and retail spaces.

traditions square OU’s original apartments are an exclusive upperclass-student community dedicated to providing high-quality living while continuing the residence life experience for students.

The University of Oklahoma is an equal opportunity institution. www.ou.edu/eoo

@Live_OU_ Live OU @Live_OU

WHAT TO BRING, WHAT TO LEAVE BEHIND Everyone wants to be prepared for college, but it’s easy to overdo it.

You don’t want to pack more than you’ve got room for or will ever use.

Obviously you’ll want to bring sheets, blankets, toiletries, laundry supplies and clothes, but here are other things most new students don’t think of. story by Jadyn Watson-Fisher photos by Shane Byler

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TO BRING:

Mattress Topper - You’ll have a bed, but sometimes they’re just not as comfortable as the one you have at home. Bringing a mattress pad or a memory foam mattress topper helps add some cushion. They also help keep your bed clean, too.

Handheld Steamer - It’s impossible to keep all clothes from wrinkling. Instead of packing an iron and foldable ironing board, bring a handheld steamer. It uses distilled water to create steam and remove wrinkles out of your clothes.

They’re easier to use, and you’re less likely to burn yourself.

Cleaning Supplies - Your dorm gets dirty and bathrooms can be gross, so make sure to bring some basic cleaning supplies to keep your living space relatively clean. Lysol wipes, Magic Sponges and Scrubbing Bubbles are lifesavers and safe to use on most surfaces. Believe me, you and your roommate will thank me later.

TO LEAVE BEHIND:

T-Shirts - As much as you might want to bring a lot of t-shirts to college, don’t. Just bring your favorites and what you know you will wear.When you walk around campus during Welcome Week, you’re likely to pick up quite a few free shirts to replenish your stash.

Things you can’t bring on a plane - OU doesn’t have rules about not bringing scissors or only bringing things that are less than 3.4 ounces, but realistically, you probably shouldn’t bring things that create smoke or have an open flame. Don’t bring incense because that stuff is strong and your neighbors probably won’t enjoy it as much as you think.You may be able to bring a candle warmer and a candle that has low scent, but talk it over with your roommate. Alcohol is not allowed on campus, so leave that at home.

Pets aren’t allowed in the dorms, so Buddy needs to stay home.

Stuff your roommate is already bringing - Communicate with your roommate before Move-In Day to determine who’s bringing what.

There’s no need for both of you to bring a TV and a microwave. Two fridges, however, can be useful.

They are available for rent from the university, so you don’t have to pack one.

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RESIDENTIAL COLLEGES story by Kendra Mann photos by Pablo Angulo

MEAL PLANS

8 Meals/Week ($1,439/semester; $2,878/ academic year) 12 Meals/Week & 250 Meal Plan Points/Semester ($2,198/semester; $4,396/ academic year)

LIVING SPACES While freshmen have to live in certain dorms their first year at OU, once they get through year one, housing options increase.

For those who enjoy living on campus, but want to live in a newer, more luxurious space, the residential colleges are a perfect thing to look forward to sophomore year and beyond. Experience campus life surrounded by fellow students and OU faculty who can help you navigate the intricacies of college and finding careers.

Most of us living on campus are away from our families for the first time and trying to figure out our career goals, and working toward them requires all the help and support that we can get. Sometimes we don’t know who to ask, or how to go about getting the guidance we need. This is when living in a residential college comes in handy.

Dunham and Headington are the two residential colleges on campus. They are residences for students on campus with OU faculty members — often professors and their families — acting as a “house mom and dad” for students. The purpose of the colleges is to create a

growth-promoting environment where students have direct access to intellectuals in a relaxed atmosphere.

The two colleges are architecturally indistinct from one another; however, each college has separate faculty fellows and student councils. There is room for approximately 300 student fellows to live in each of the colleges.

Each has its own dining hall, study lounges, library, music room, classrooms, seminar rooms and storm shelters.

Because the colleges have their own dining halls, students who choose to live here have separate meal plans than the rest of those living on campus, too.

As a part of the Residential Colleges Achievement Program, students can take classes specific to the college they are living in. This allows each fellow to participate and collect merits from achievements earned through intramural sports, extracurricular activities, social and intellectual events and forcredit courses.

Even though the residential colleges are available for upperclassmen only, they are something for freshmen to look forward to.

One Bed Single Dimensions: 9’x15’ ($5,099/semester; $10,198/ academic year) One Bed with Bath Dimensions: 17’6” x 18’ ($5,999/semester; $11,998/ academic year) Two Bed Double Dimensions: 12’8” x 17’ ($3,999/semester; $7,998/ academic year) Two Bedroom with Living Dimensions: 20’8” x 23’5” ($5,299/semester; $10,598/ academic year) Three Bedroom with Living and Bath Dimensions: 33’6”x 22’3” ($5,499/semester; $10,998/ academic year)

TIP:

Compare oncampus housing costs with offcampus options.

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St. Thomas More UNIVERSITY PARISH & CATHOLIC STUDENT CENTER The Catholic community for students, faculty and staff at the University of Oklahoma.

MASS TIMES

Celebration of Sacraments Music & Liturgy Eucharistic Adoration Daily Rosary Weekly Sunday Suppers Mission Trips FOCUS Bible Studies Retreats Service Projects Speakers & Visiting Scholars

SUMMER:

MONDAY-FRIDAY 5:15 PM

DURING ACADEMIC YEAR: WEDNESDAY

7:00 PM COLLEGE NIGHT 9:00 PM LATE NIGHT LITURGY

SATURDAY VIGIL

5:00 PM (CANCELED ON OU HOME FOOTBALL GAME DAYS)

SUNDAY

Parents of new students!

8:30 AM 11:00 AM 5:00 PM

OU MEMORIAL STADIUM

Lindsey St.

are invited to join us for a special noon Mass and Welcome Lunch on Friday

RESIDENTIAL COLLEGES

Jenkins Ave.

You and your students

HEADINGTON HALL

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*R.A. is an abbreviation for “resident assistant,” a trained peer leader who supervises your dorms.

* .

A .

R F O S E P

Y T R U FO

reekmore

Brian C story by

The Chill Friend

Citations are a thing of myth in your hall.

Have a party during quiet hours and don’t bother picking up your room, because this resident assistant just goes with the flow.

The Ghost

Have a question or need some help? You can search high and low, but this resident assistant will never know.

The Warden

With great power comes great responsibility, sure, but some resident assistants let that get to their heads.

Pretty soon they will make that power known by handing you a citation.

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Looking for someone to walk with you to class or wait for you to get off work so you can grab lunch and gossip? This type of resident assistant is here to be your best friend, whether you want one or not.

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WE VALUE INTEGRITY. OUR STUDENTS DO, TOO! Aug. 21-28

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Protect your investment.

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Integrity Matters.

Go to integrity.ou.edu for the “Student’s Guide to Academic Integrity”, information about OU’s student led system and for more information about academic integrity at OU.

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unlimited class access to any of our 60+ classes a week. Take advantage of this one week event!

The University of Oklahoma is an equal opportunity institution, www.ou.edu/eoo.

For accomodations on the basis of disability, call (405) 325-3053.

Live Healthy & Happy Clinic Health Promotion Lab Pharmacy Physical Therapy Women’s Center X-Ray

Quality health care for illness and injury Board-certified physicians Full-service pharmacy to fill or transfer prescriptions Prevention education programs Convenient on campus location

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Health Services

Goddard Health Center | 620 Elm Avenue | Mon-Fri, 8 ᵃᵐ - 6 ᵖᵐ | (405) 325-4611

For accommodations, please contact Health Services at (405) 325-4611. The University of Oklahoma is an Equal Opportunity Institution.

Boomer Sooner Savings!

Be sure to use rate code BOOM for special savings for your next stay

Book online at cc.nced.com or by phone at 405-447-9000!

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CHOOSING YOUR

There are many choices when it comes to choosing the perfect meal plan for keeping you fueled and ready for long hours and latenight study sessions.

Picking the plan that is right for you can be a difficult and stressful task. story by Brian Creekmore photos by Zheng Qu

MEAL PLAN

There are more than 20 dining options, each of which accepts OU meal plans. Meal plans are linked to the student ID — the Sooner Card — and vary in type and value. Basically, meal plans are made up of meals, meal exchanges and meal points.

Meals are specifically used at the buffet-style Couch Restaurants — it has the country’s only allyou-can-eat Chick-fil-A — which has an entrance fee of either one meal or $12.50.

Meal exchanges are meals used at locations other than Couch Restaurants. These have a replacement value of $8. Essentially, meal points are dollars that can be applied by using the Sooner Card like a debit card, as each point is worth $1.

With all that in mind, here are the various dining different options for freshmen living in the Cate, Couch,Walker or Adams Centers:

15 Meals/Week + 0 Meal Plan Points/Semester 12 Meals/Week + 250 Meal Plan Points/Semester 10 Meals/Week + 400 Meal Plan Points/Semester 8 Meals/Week + 550 Meal Plan Points/Semester 6 Meals/Week + 700 Meal Plan Points/Semester The Headington Hall restaurants, Einstein Bros.

Bagels and Qdoba do not accept meal exchanges, as residents there have their own plan. The same goes for Xcetera! — the much-loved convenience store in Walker Center. Couch Restaurants, the eateries in Cate Main and Crossroads in the Union let you choose your payment method.

You can use both meal points and meal exchanges in the food court in the Union, but you can only use meal exchanges

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after 2 p.m.

There are enhanced meal plans at an extra cost if you need more meals per week or points per semester. There are also commuter meal plans and meal plans for upperclassmen. Thankfully, there are many options, so it’s up to you to decide which best suits your eating habits.

For those of you who are really indecisive, OU allows you to change your meal plan a few weeks into classes. So, if you start to hate the decision you made, you get a second chance.

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Free Student Checking account with free Mobile Banking, Mobile Deposit and Mobile Bill Pay Financial Education Seminars Earn rewards through Pocket Points® and their Visa®/Debit Card $750 Lloyd Iverson Scholarship offered each semester Low cost credit builder and computer loans available

Join today at www.oufcu.com * Certain restrictions apply. Please visit OU Federal Credit Union’s website at www.oufcu.com, call us at 405-325-2211 or contact an OU Federal Credit Union representative for further information and full disclosures.

PARKING ON CAMPUS Sometimes it feels like there are more students than there are parking spots. Whether you live on campus or commute from home, parking can be one of the most difficult things to master if you don’t have a plan. The more vacant of the lots tend to be that way because they are a far walk or shuttle from campus. The better spots almost always seem to be filled. You might find yourself driving to the least desired spots more than you want to, but following these steps can help take away some of the stress of parking. story by Lauren Owen photos by Zheng Qu & Matt Viriyapah

LOOK AT THE OU PARKING MAPS

Knowing where to park is half the battle. Go to the Parking Services website to find a color-coded map of where to park. The key at the bottom can show who can park where. There are colors for multi-purpose, housing and commuter. Be mindful of the map, pay attention to where you are allowed to park and determine what lots will work best for your needs. Trust me: you don’t want to pay for tickets on top of your books.

USE THE WEEKEND TO YOUR ADVANTAGE

Most students head for home on the weekends, leaving more parking options open on Saturday and Sunday.

If you are returning back to campus after a trip home, give yourself plenty of time to commute back. Get here early to get the best spots.

READ THE SIGNS

Always check signs entering a parking area or spot to make sure your parking pass covers it. Don’t accidentally park in the faculty spots or priority parking.

Some spots allow anyone to park there during certain times, so long as you have a parking permit.Watching out for these signs can help you avoid getting a ticket.

TAKE EARLY CLASSES

No one really wants to have early classes, but if you are commuting back and forth, it will help you get closer parking spots. Commuters can also park at the Lloyd Noble Center for free.

It is a great option for those who don’t want to pay for a parking pass.Walking from the LNC back to campus can be a bit much, but there are shuttles that can take you to campus.You can pick up a free bus pass at the OU Parking Services Office.

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TRY ENVIRONMENTALLYFRIENDLY OPTIONS

Riding bikes and walking are two great ways to avoid the hassle of parking. It’s a lot cheaper than dealing with a car and you will also get great exercise. Should bad weather occur, daily parking passes are available.

EXPLORE OFF-CAMPUS PARKING OPTIONS

There are various nearby offcampus options that are either free or significantly cheaper than an OU parking pass. Be sure to explore these if you are commuting — preferably before classes start to ensure you have a plan.

GIVE YOURSELF PLENTY OF TIME

This applies to everyone who parks: memorize your schedule and allow yourself plenty of time to get from one place to the next. If you use the map app on your smartphone, you can usually estimate how long it will take to walk to class and can plan when you need to leave. Timing is key. Plan for unforeseen circumstances and you will be set to go.

UTILIZE YOUR PHONE

Following OU Parking Services (@ OUParking) on Twitter or using the OU Innovate app helps you find the best spots. The Twitter account posts updates every weekday morning from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. on the status of the lots.

OU Innovate allows you to pay for day passes and check the fill percentage of lots.

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MENTAL HEALTH

RESOURCES story by Madison Albertson photos by Pablo Angulo

Here are a few phone numbers to keep in mind in case you ever find yourself in a situation where you need outside help: University Counseling Center 405-325-2911 The center is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and offers emergency services in case of an urgent crisis. A list of qualifying instances can be found at www.ou.edu/ucc.html.

National Hopeline Network 1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433) or 1-800-442-HOPE (1-800-4424673) Suicide prevention, awareness and education are available 24/7.

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255) OU Advocates Dial 911 (on campus) or 405-6150013 (off campus or by cell) and ask for OU Advocates regarding sexual assault issues.

Always remember to call 911 if there is an emergency.

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College is one of the most exciting times in your lives. It’s an unfamiliar place with new faces and experiences around every corner.

OU offers plenty of opportunities to get involved on campus, and the academics are incredible. Being at OU is an awesome experience that shouldn’t be taken for granted.

Unfortunately, college life often causes a lot of stress. So many new things can become too much to handle; you find yourself scared, confused and lost. School work, finances, clubs, greek life and thoughts about the future can lead to overwhelming feelings that you don’t know how to deal with.

Mental illnesses like depression and anxiety can become a harsh reality for students during your time in

college.Your new location, independence, academic pressure and busy lifestyle may bring on thoughts and feelings that are heavier than you’re used to coping with.

If you find yourself facing thoughts or feelings that you have never experienced — fear, panic, desperation or anger, for example — OU offers various resources to help. There are places you can go where you won’t have to worry about being judged or stigmatized.

Always remember you are not alone. The Goddard Health Center offers counseling and psychiatric services to OU students.Whether you think you are dealing with a more serious mental disorder or you simply need someone to talk you through a stressful time, the counselors at Goddard are a wonderful resource.

starting school can be tough. take time to manage your stress!

write about it

Organizing your thoughts through writing can help with problem-solving or be a form of emotional release, so write stories, poetry, or even pick up a journal! listen to music

Upbeat music increases feelings of optimism; slower music can help you feel soothed and relaxed. p l ay w i t h a p e t

Petting an animal can increase levels of stress-reducing Oxytocin, while reducing levels of the stress hormone Cortisol.

Yay for fluffy! ta k e s l o w , d e e p b r e at h s

Deep breathing increases your brain’s supply of oxygen and promotes a state of calmness.

get moving

Dance or take a walk. Exercise releases endorphins than can boost your mood, so shake it out!

s p e n d t i m e i n n at u r e

Taking in the smells, sounds, and sights can help direct your focus away from your worries. e x p r e s s g r at i t u d e

Instead of all of the things that are going wrong, try to force yourself to focus on a positive experience or memory. It doesn’t make the bad go away, but it can help you get through it! laugh

Laughter releases mood boosting endorphins so find a show, comic, or a friend who can get you chuckling.

ta k e a n a p

make art

When you don’t get enough sleep. you are more likely to feel impatient and agitated, which can increase stress. Sometimes the world seems like a better place after a nap.

Paint, draw, or even just color! No matter how you choose to do it, art allows us to be quiet and still focus on something other than our worries.

m e d i tat e

ta l k t o s o m e o n e

Meditating can help clear away negative emotions and bring a sense of peace and balance.

Whether it’s a friend, a family, member, or even a hotline, venting to someone you trust helps you feel safe and understood.

Don’t deal with stress alone. Talk about it, get help for it, and remember - you deserve to feel better.

STUDENT LIFE Ready to get involved on campus? STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS Find something new to do through There are more than 550 various clubs and events. student-run organizations at OU. The story by Madison Albertson organizations are based on just about photo by Pablo Angulo any interest or religious belief you can think of. Even if you don’t find an organization that catches your specific interest, you can always start one.

Getting involved at OU is easy with all of the organizations waiting for new members.

FRATERNITY AND SORORITY LIFE

Most students have heard of fraternities and sororities with formal recruitment used to meet others and determine what house you’d fit in, but did you know there are ones that allow you to find a home with similar interests to you? If traditional Greek life doesn’t suit you, the Independent Greek Council as well as the Multicultural Greek Council are organizations that can get you exactly what you need.

CAMPUS ACTIVITIES COUNCIL (CAC)

CAC is an organization that ensures activities across OU are inclusive. It hopes to build a stronger campus community by making sure every event is accessible to all. Some of the events they organize include Soonerthon, Howdy Week and the Oklahoma Creativity Festival. These events, among others, help bring students together as CAC tries to build a stronger OU.

STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION (SGA)

Have you ever wanted to be an advocate for the OU student body?

Being in the Student Government Association can help. SGA will get you heavily involved at OU in hopes of building the campus leaders of tomorrow. If you want nextlevel leadership training, then this organization is definitely for you.

AFRICAN AMERICAN STUDENT LIFE If you wish to leave a legacy at OU, joining African American Student Life can help you do so. They hope to help students graduate and make the

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most of their academic careers while here. The Black Student Association, as well as nine African American Greek life chapters, desire to assist students with personal growth and becoming the leaders the community needs.

AMERICAN INDIAN STUDENT LIFE

Focusing on the education of Native Americans, American Indian Student Life brings forth students ready to be leaders in their community. They offer mentoring for incoming freshmen, cultural events such as Heritage Month and promote community enrichment.

ASIAN AMERICAN STUDENT LIFE

Asian American Student Life provides a community for the many Asian and Pacific Islanders who reside at OU. Asian American Student Life also has a hand in other campus groups, including sororities and fraternities. This is to ensure that all Asian and Pacific Islanders are comfortable and have cultural support during their time at OU.

LATINO STUDENT LIFE

Latino Student Life is designed to bring forth the Latino leaders of tomorrow. The Day of the Dead is one of the biggest events and is just one of many cultural activities used to bring a comfortable lifestyle for Latino students.

Participating in sororities and fraternities, as well as community service, allows students to grow as leaders.

GENDER + EQUALITY CENTER

The GEC provides support for women and those in the LGBTQ+ community.

Help lines and informational sessions on sexual assault and its prevention are available each year.

LGBTQ+ PROGRAMS

No matter your sexual orientation or gender identity, the LGBTQ+ community wishes to give students a voice in the Norman and OU community. Students who are not part of the community may become an LGBTQ+ or Greek Ally. These allies are well-informed and ready to challenge inequality in the community.

They hope to make sure everyone feels welcome and safe while here at OU as they discover their true selves.

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Epic Pops DISCOUNTS FOR OU STUDENTS, FACulTY & STAFF!

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Housing and Food Services is a department in OU’s division of Student Affairs. The University of Oklahoma is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Protected veterans and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply. ou.edu/eoo. *Students must work a certain number of hours to earn a free meal.

FOOD THAT FUELS YOUR LIFE

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ESSENTIALS OF NORMAN

Getting anywhere in Norman Walmart - 601 12th Ave NE, is hard enough with all the Norman, OK 73071 construction, but if you don’t Starting at one of the residence know where you’re going, it’s halls, take Asp Avenue north, then turn even harder. Here’s a list of all the right onto West Lindsey Street heading important places you should know: east until you reach 12th Avenue story by Katrina Crumbacher Southeast heading north. Just after you photo by Noor Eemaan pass East Main Street, Walmart will be on your right.

Walmart Neighborhood Market 2551 Classen Blvd, Norman, OK 73071

This is smaller than Walmart Super Center, and it’s a little bit closer. Start at one of the residence halls and take Asp Avenue north. Turn right onto West Lindsey Street until you reach Classen Boulevard. Turn right and follow the road until you get to 12th Avenue Southeast/Classen Boulevard where you’ll turn right. Take a left at East Constitution Street and Walmart is at the top of the hill.

Target - 1400 24th Ave NW, Norman, OK 73069

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The fastest way to reach Target from the residence halls is by heading south on Asp Avenue, west on Timberdell Road, south on Chautauqua Avenue, then west again upon reaching Imhoff Road. From there, you can take

South Highway 9 heading west, then head north on Interstate-35. Take the Robinson Street exit, and follow the signs for Interstate Drive. Target will be on your right.

Target is part of the University Town Center, which also features Academy Sports and Outdoors, Five Guys Burgers and Fries, Pei Wei, T.J. Maxx, Ulta and Zio’s Italian Kitchen.

Sooner Mall - 3301 W Main St, Norman, OK 73072

Sooner Mall is the closest mall to campus. They have everything from Bath & Body Works to Eddie Bauer.

There’s also Dillard’s, JCPenney, Old Navy and Sears inside.You can follow the same directions for Target, except you should take the Main Street exit.

Keep left at the fork, and turn left heading west on Main Street. Sooner Mall will be on your right.

Campus Corner - just north of campus

Campus Corner is your place for doughnuts and coffee in the morning, sushi for lunch, Italian for dinner and much more. There are also clothing stores and even a comic book shop. If you’re looking for a night out, there are several pubs and live music venues.

Target

Walmart

Sooner Mall

Campus Corner

Walmart Neighborhood Market

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CONSTRUCTION

IN NORMAN The city of Norman has and will always be beautiful and vibrant.

Despite its beauty, many areas are under construction. Therefore, do not be alarmed when you encounter major detours and bumpy roads when you arrive in Norman this fall. story by Robyn Craig photos by Zheng Qu

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Norman’s Lindsey Street has undergone a facelift under the Lindsey Street Bond Project since October 2016. The eightphase project consisted of creating a new interchange with the reconstruction of the Lindsey Street bridge and I-35. The new bridge provides a single-point urban interchange that makes traffic move at a more efficient pace.

The project includes the widening of I-35 along with a new two-loop interchange on Highway 9, also to help ease the flow of traffic.

Lindsey Street from 24th Avenue SW to Berry Street is being widened to allow for easier traffic flow and drainage when storms arrive. There are also plans to add trees and greenery by the road.

The project originally had a completion date of early 2017, but it faced roadblocks during different construction phases. A new completion date is scheduled for Sept. 2, just in time for the beginning of football season.

Although the construction of the project will continue onward

until September, don’t fear driving down Lindsey Street.Various businesses, including restaurants, remain open along the road.

As construction occurs on Lindsey, other parts of Norman are also receiving a makeover, specifically major roads Norman residents use on a regular basis.

The city-wide resurfacing project consists of some streets being repaved along with replacing sidewalks. These streets include Imhoff Road from Classen Boulevard to 24th Avenue SE and Lindsey Street from Pickard Avenue to Jenkins Avenue. One other road was completed earlier in the year.

While the city of Norman has major construction projects occurring, OU will be completing its own projects to help improve the campus for students throughout the year. This includes road repavement around campus and the completion of the football stadium.

Although the city of Norman might look quite messy at the moment, when each project is completed, it will help make the commute for OU students much easier.

FALL 2017

ACADEMIC CALENDAR Aug. 21 Aug. 21 Aug. 25 Oct. 23 Dec. 8 Dec. 18 Jan. 12

Fall classes begin First day for late registration fee of $20.00 Last day to register Advanced registration for next term(s) begins Final day of full term fall classes Winter intersession classes begin Final day of winter intersession classes

Final Exams Dec. 4-10 Final exam preparation period Dec. 11-15 Final exams Dec. 19 Final grades due Holidays Labor Day Sept. 4 Nov. 22-26 Thanksgiving Vacation

ADD/DROP (changes in schedule, retaining a least one course) Aug. 21-Sept. 1 100 percent reduction of charges on dropped courses Aug. 21-Sept. 1 No record of grade of dropped course(s) Aug. 25 Final day to add a class Sept. 1 No reduction of charges on dropped courses after this date Sept. 5-29 Automatic grade of W for dropped course(s) for graduate students Oct. 2-27 Grade of W or F for dropped course(s) for graduate students Sept. 5-Oct. 27 Automatic grade of W for dropped course(s) for undergraduate students Oct. 30-Dec. 8 Petition to college dean to drop course(s) (instructor’s signature and grade of W or F required)

The University of Oklahoma

The Schusterman Center for Judaic and Israel Studies

Welcome Back Students!

Visit our website at judaicstudies.ou.edu for a list of our upcoming events, courses and scholarship opportunities

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Trout Ave

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JUST 15 STEPS TO CAMPUS

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THINGS TO DO

OFF CAMPUS story by Jadyn Watson-Fisher photos by Shane Byler

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Coming to college can be daunting at first. The campus is huge, and in addition to trying to find your classroom inside of a large building, there are thousands of people to interact with and lots of organizations with which to get involved. The newness, however, will wear off after a couple of weeks, and you’ll be ready to get out of your dorm and do something.

Even us introverts, who would rather stay in and watch Netflix or read a book every weekend, can get cabin fever.

Here are some of the best places in the region to take a day, or weekend, trip.

I’m from Tulsa, so I will always gravitate home, but it’s got a lot more to offer than just my family and dog.

Downtown has evolved into a hub with great food, coffee and entertainment.

See concerts at the BOK Center, Brady Theater or historic Cain’s Ballroom.Visit the Philbrook and Gilcrease museums, the Tulsa Air and Space Museum or stand at the “Center of the Universe.”

Take the highway further south and experience the Oklahoma Aquarium.

Tulsa is the second-largest city in the state and is a great place to spend a weekend. It’s only a two-hour drive, and there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy yourself.

A trip three hours north will take you to Great Salt Plains State Park. It’s known for its scenery where guests can camp, swim, fish and dig for rare hourglass crystals. The park, where it gets its namesake, is known for the barren landscape made up of leftover salt from an ocean that once covered Oklahoma. For those who want to keep their Instagram up to date with all their adventures, the Great Salt Plains is also known for its photographic qualities.

If you want to go in the opposite direction, take a trip south to the Wichita Mountains. There’s nothing like hiking to the top of a mountain.

It’s not crazy hard either, so if you’re like me and haven’t exercised in a while, it’s still doable. On the way back, stop in Meers. It’s considered an unincorporated community, about a mile wide, but it has a great restaurant with traditional “Okie” food.

For foodies like me, a trip to Eischen’s Bar was on the list of places to try. The dining saloon is usually packed, so you might have to wait until a table clears out before you can find a seat. After sitting down and being greeted by a server, your best option is a full fried chicken.We waited approximately 20 minutes to get our food and it was well worth the wait.

It was fresh and tasted great. If you’re a fried chicken person, I would recommend taking the hour drive out to Okarche.

Keep in mind the establishment only accepts cash or check.

Oklahoma City, like Tulsa, has more options than you probably realize. The Oklahoma City Zoo is a great place to explore if you want to get out, but don’t want to drive far or expend a lot of energy. The NBA season begins toward the later half of the semester, and buying cheap seats for an Oklahoma City Thunder game at the Chesapeake Energy Arena is usually a fun idea. I mean, who doesn’t want to see Russell Westbrook record another triple-double? If sports aren’t your thing, a visit to the Myriad Botanical Gardens is affordable and beautiful. The architecture and indoor ecosystem featuring beautiful plants and flowers is a sight to see. Plus, students get a discount with a valid ID. OKC features shops and restaurants of all kinds, so you’re bound to find something you like. There’s the Bricktown Brewery, a personal favorite, Fuzzy’s Taco Shop — it’s much larger than the one in Norman, and Kitchen No. 324, among others. There are plenty of bars and clubs, but for those not yet 21, there’s a movie theater and Brickopolis, which

features putt-putt and laser tag.

Lastly, if you want to get out of Oklahoma, go to Dallas.You can see where President John F. Kennedy was assassinated or the Dallas Holocaust Museum Center. The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden and Klyde Warren Park are perfect for those who love nature. A good option for adrenaline junkies is Six Flags Over Texas, which is located right outside of Dallas in Arlington, Texas.

These are just a few options for an outing off campus.You’re only in college for four years — OK, some might be here for five — so take in the world around you. This isn’t a comprehensive list, and I’m sure I missed a lot, but that’s what you’re here for. Go out, have fun and explore. Don’t leave OU without experiencing all that you can.

561 Buchanan Ave. Norman, OK 73069

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MONEY AND

BUDGETING The first year of college can be tough. It’s the first time you’re away from your family, learning about time management, forcing yourself to class and realizing you don’t have an endless supply of money to spend. Learning how to budget and becoming more financially aware is helpful for being successful in college and preparing for your future.

Here are a few suggestions on budgeting and information about free stuff at and around OU. story by Kendra Mann photo by Zheng Qu

FOOD

Food can get pretty expensive, and this might be the first time that you have to start grocery shopping by yourself. Luckily, there are many free food options to take advantage of on campus.

Student organizations often host free events on campus for students, providing free food and snacks. Many student groups at OU hold weekly events, potentially providing you a free meal multiple times a week. The events are often publicized, so pay attention any time you see sidewalk chalk informing you of one. It could be an opportunity to save some extra money and give you a chance to make new friends.

ACTIVITIES & STUFF

On the occasion you have some extra time and want to do something free and fun, OU provides multiple free activities for students.

Meacham Auditorium shows a free movie for students every weekend.

This is a great chance to see a movie with friends without having to spend money. The movies are chosen by student affairs, and are usually just out of theaters.

Pay close attention to emails you receive. Email is the primary way students are informed of activities taking place on campus. For example, many students receive an email toward the end of the week announcing events and athletic games students can attend over the weekend.

form of monthly income. Next, assess the expenses that you have to pay for, such as bills, rent, gas, groceries and anything else determined a necessity.

Then, subtract the expenses you have to pay from your income. Use the money you have left over as you see fit. Microsoft Excel has a great budget template that does the calculations for you — all you have to do is list the amount.

The university also provides each incoming student their own financial adviser.Your money coach is there to advise you on how to manage money and budget. They are assigned to you for your entire academic career at OU, and they help review potential earnings for your future goal and career. If you want to speak with someone directly about your expenses, you can login to your ONE account and make an appointment.

APPS

The great thing about technology is there are apps you can download to help manage your money.

MINT helps you budget your money, like the excel spreadsheet, but is quick and simple.You have the option to connect your bank account to it, so it keeps track of what is put in and taken out of your account. It also shows a percentage of what you are spending the most money on.

Depending on the bank you have, there are apps that notify you every time money is taken out of your account. This ensures you are aware HOW TO BUDGET of all account activity. Some banks Managing money is essential to are known to deactivate debit and making wise decisions that prepare credit cards if suspicious spending is you for long term goals. Having a long- occurring — spending that is unusual term budget sounds a little intimidating, or occurring simultaneously in any but it’s actually quite simple. cities — which can make traveling a First, determine the amount of hassle. Be sure to call your bank before money you have or will receive, you take a trip to inform them of your whether from a paycheck, grant plans to ensure your card won’t be money, an allowance or any other deactivated.

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DISCOUNTS

FOR STUDENTS The notion of a broke college student rings true for a lot of people. But don’t worry, stores and restaurants offer discounts to students for this reason. Here are some of the top discounts you might not know about. story by Jadyn Watson-Fisher

TIP:

Follow @FreeFoodatOU for updates on free food on campus.

SUPPLIES AND NECESSITIES

Amazon offers the student version of its Prime membership for $50 a year.

It seems like a lot, but you get free 2-day Prime shipping, Amazon’s video streaming service and other discounts.

The free shipping usually pays for itself within the first few orders and can be especially useful if you find a textbook cheap and need it fast. If you haven’t already had a Prime account, you can sign up for a six-month free trial before paying for a full year. Be careful, though — if you forget to cancel your subscription, Amazon will automatically charge you when your six months are up.

Students can sign up for a discounted Sam’s Club membership and get special deals on college essentials like laundry detergent, plates and of course, food.

CLOTHING

Stores such as Asos, Banana Republic, Madewell, J.Crew, Kate Spade and TopShop offer anywhere from 10 to 15 percent off full price merchandise when you show your student ID or shop using a student email address.

TECHNOLOGY

If you need to buy new electronics, Apple has an education pricing program where students can get discounts or rebates when they buy, including up to $200 off a new MacBook. Dell, Lenovo, Microsoft and Sony also have specific deals for

students.

For those who will need the Creative Suite, Adobe offers student pricing on the Creative Cloud subscription.

FOOD

Many restaurants offer discounts for students. Show your student ID to get a free drink at Chick-fil-A and Chipotle or 10 percent off at Subway, Buffalo Wild Wings and Arby’s.While most locations offer these discounts, make sure to ask if the one you’re at is a participating restaurant.

ENTERTAINMENT

Show your student ID at AMC Theaters on Thursday and get a special rate. Cinemark also has deals for students who show their student ID. Users can get Spotify Premium for 50 percent off when you sign up with a student email address.

CAMPUS CORNER

Various merchants on OU’s famous Campus Corner offer discounts specifically to OU students. Apothem, Blush Boutique, New York Pizza and Pasta, O’Connell’s and coolgreens are just a few places that offer deals. Check out the Campus Corner website for the full list.

This is not a comprehensive list of all the places you can receive discounts just because you’re a student — there are many more. If you don’t know if a store or restaurant offers one, just ask. Some places might surprise you.

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ADVICE

FOR INCOMING FRESHMEN The Daily’s editorial board got together and brainstormed 20 things we wish we had known when we were freshmen. Hopefully, these tips will help you have a successful and fun college experience. story by OU Daily Staff photos by Shane Byler & Siandhara Bonnet

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1. It’s OK if you don’t know your major or if you change your major.

Choose a major that will lead you to a field you want to spend your life in — don’t be pressured to choose something specific. OU also has advising for students who need help choosing a major.

2. You are not defined by your major or what you’re involved in. OU has 21 different colleges and 171 different majors — you don’t have to let your major limit you from making friends with students outside your major.

3. There are countless clubs to join — there is one for you! Visit Student Life on the third floor of the Oklahoma Memorial Union to learn about how to get involved.

4. Know when to get advised — you don’t want to be here longer than you have to because you didn’t take the right classes. A good way to remember this is to get advised for your spring semester before the OU/Texas game.

5. Go to office hours — it does not make you a nerd. If you’re struggling with a concept, it really helps to talk it through one-on-one with your professor. It also helps your professors get to know you, which is important down the line when you need letters of recommendation for scholarships or programs.

6. Always check your clutter and junk mail folders. There will be multiple times important emails — such as football tickets — will end up in your clutter/junk mail. Additionally, don’t ignore OUMM emails. They may be annoying, but many of them contain important information.

7. OU has 27 WEPA printers set up in various locations around campus, including in Bizzell Memorial Library and in some dorms.You can print from your laptop, phone or flash drive and pay with Sooner Sense,WEPA credit or

a credit or debit card.

8. Meal exchanges aren’t accepted at restaurants in the Union until 2 p.m. On the weekend, Crossroads is the only dining option available in the Union. Crossroads is also the only 24/7 restaurant on campus. Couch Restaurants — OU’s largest dining option — is open 7 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Monday through Friday. It’s open on weekends from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Cate is another dining option on campus, which is closer to the dorms. There are other restaurants on campus, as well, such as Qdoba and Raising Cane’s.

9. Carry your student ID (but not on a lanyard — nobody does that in college).Your student ID gets you into sporting events, buys you food and gets you into your dorm.

10. You and your roommate don’t have to be best friends, you just have to get along well enough to live together. At the beginning of the year, your roommate is a great person to go explore OU with, but if you’re not compatible as friends, that’s OK Just make sure you are kind, courteous and communicate openly with the person or people you live with!

11. It’s OK to be an introvert, and it’s OK be an extrovert. If you want to stay in on the weekend, do it. Don’t let anyone make you feel bad about it, but go out every now and again.You’ll probably have more fun than you think.

If you’re a fun-loving extrovert, have fun and embrace it, but say no occasionally.

You need rest and alone time, too.

12. You can download the Microsoft Office suite for free when you register with your OU email, so don’t worry about buying it.

13. Get a job so you can learn to budget money and gain valuable experience.Visit jobs.ou.edu to find a job that best fits you. There are plenty of options. There are also lots of businesses on Campus Corner that

hire students and are walking distance from campus.

14. Be careful what you post on your social media accounts. Employers really do check what you post, and you wouldn’t want to be denied a job or internship just because you made a tasteless joke or posted a picture of you doing something illegal.

15. OU has an awesome scholarship hub called CASH (Centralized Academic Scholarship Hub). It puts all OU-based scholarships — from your department, your college and the university in general — in one place.You have from October 1 to February 1 to apply.

16. Don’t sweat your GPA — it only matters in grad school and for scholarships. No employer is going to ask what your GPA was. It’s important to do well in school, but don’t make yourself sick with stress over a number that ultimately will have no effect on your life in the long term.

17. Keep in mind that struggles are a part of life, and you certainly will

experience new struggles in college.

However, struggles help you grow, and growing is one of the most important things you will do while in college. That said, if your problems begin to affect your functioning in school, at work or in your social life, you may want to explore OU’s mental health resources.

18. Lynda.com is a great resource for students. The website has a myriad of tutorials, mostly about computer programs, that are free for students. All you have to do is enter your OU email and log in with your 4x4, then you have thousands of video tutorials at your fingertips.

19. Watch out for the bike lanes on the South Oval. Bicyclists often ride quickly and without looking out for pedestrians.

20. The Daily — OU’s independent student newspaper — comes out twice a week (Mondays and Thursdays). Keep up with campus news by reading the paper, reading stories online at oudaily. com or following The Daily on social media.

COLUMNISTS WHO CONTRIBUTED TO THIS ARTICLE:

Kelli Stacy, editor-in-chief

Jadyn Watson-Fisher, news managing editor

TIP:

Get involved in groups such as OU Student Media. Student Media consists of the OU Daily, Sooner Yearbook and OU AdForce. To apply go to studentmedia.ou.edu.

Emily McPherson, copy manager

George Stoia, sports editor

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The UNIVERSITY of OKLAHOMA Residential Colleges

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APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE ONLINE ou.edu/residentialcolleges

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SOONER GLOSSARY THE BIZZ:

Shorthand for OU’s main study spot, the Bizzell Memorial Library.

THE CAF:

THE MONT:

A popular 21st birthday spot just north of campus. Known for their swirl — part margarita, part sangria — and queso.

Heaven first semester, hell PANHELLENIC: second semester. Home to ChickThe governing body of the sorority system. fil-A, great burgers and midafternoon regrets.

POMPING: CANE’S: Pushing tissue paper through Fried chicken joint located chicken wire — a lot of chicken inside Adams Cener.Where wire. Used to decorate floats for you’ll be eating at 2 a.m. every the homecoming parade.

Saturday night.

RUF/NEKS: C’ROADS: OU’s official hype-men. They Shorthand for Crossroads, a drive the Schooner on the football restaurant in the Union and the field when the Sooners score. only food place on campus that’s SGA: open 24/7.

Student Government THE DAILY: Association. This falls somewhere OU’s student newspaper. between a student council and Congress.

DBO: A term of endearment for OU SOVAL: President David Boren.

Shorthand for “South Oval.”

HOMECOMING:

There’s no dance, but there is a party. Still — “you can dance if you wanna, you can leave your friends behind.”

THE HUFF:

Formerly the Huston Huffman Fitness Center. Students still refer to the Sarkeys Fitness Center as the Huff despite the name change.You can play basketball, lift weights and attend fitness classes here.

IFC:

UNITY GARDEN:

This is a collection of important words to know if you are going to be hoofing it across the OU campus. Students have developed a whole new linguistic trend consisting of shorthand and abbreviated versions of buildings and places. Campus dialect has developed over the course of decades and is the culmination of thousands of students from various walks of life and social niches, so it’s not entirely consistent and doesn’t always make sense.

It may benefit you to read and memorize this lingo so as not to walk around confused or annoyed by the strange sounds you hear from your fellow students. This list won’t define every unfamiliar utterance you may encounter during your time at OU, but hopefully this guide will give you an idea of what the Sooner language looks like and will function as your own personal Rosetta Stone for college life. story by OU Daily Staff photo by Shane Byler

The sunken-in area on the South Oval. Formerly known as the Passion Pit.

UPB:

Union Programming Board.

It’s a student group that plans activities in the Union.

THE WARREN:

Where OU students go to the movies. It’s located about 20 minutes from campus, but the experience is well worth the drive.

XCETERA!:

Interfraternity Conference.

Convenience store located in This is the governing body of the Walker Center. It’s a little pricey, fraternity system. but where else are you going to THE LIBRARY: get ramen during dead week?

This is a bar. Don’t plan to study here.

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NO. 1 IN THE STATE OF OKLAHOMA Highest ranking ever achieved by an Oklahoma Law School in U.S. News & World Report rankings

NO. 2 MOOT COURT COMPETITION PROGRAM IN THE NATION The Blakely Advocacy Institute

NO. 18 IN THE NATION FOR FIRST-TIME BAR PASSAGE U.S. News Academic Insights

8 CONSECUTIVE YEARS BEST VALUE LAW SCHOOL IN THE NATION National Jurist

The University of Oklahoma is an equal opportunity institution. www.ou.edu/eoo