Family Calendar 2015-2016 by UFStudentAffairs

2015-2016 CALENDAR

SEASONS OF ADJUSTMENT

- FAMILIES’ GUIDE TO THE FIRST YEAR EXPERIENCE -

WELCOME GATOR FAMILIES The next few years will be some of the most exciting periods in your studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life. The staff in the Division of Student Affairs believes that parents and family members play a significant role in helping students adjust to the challenges of their first year. This is also a critical time for you as a family member. For years, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve supported your student, helping him or her make it to this point because of your guidance and encouragement. Now that your student is in college, you may wonder what your role will be. You can continue to be there to advise your student on academic choices, career paths, ways to get involved in one of the many student organizations and how to take full advantage of the resources the university has to offer. The best way to do this is to stay informed by joining the Gator Parent & Family Association. Membership is free, simply activate your membership online at http://bit.ly/JoinGPFA. The Association will provide you with a monthly electronic newsletter and invitations to special events during Family Weekend and throughout the year. I also encourage you to follow the Gator Parent & Family Association on Facebook for updates and news of interest. The Family Chat program is another great way to stay connected and informed. These live online chat sessions are bimonthly and designed to answer your specific questions and promote discussion about UF and common transition concerns you or your student may experience. To learn more, please visit dso.ufl.edu/nsfp. Finally, we are able to provide this calendar due to the generous contributions to the Family Fund from parents and family members. Learn more about how you can support the Family Fund at floridafund.uff.ufl.edu/FamilyFund/ We hope this calendar will help you identify when your student may be having difficulty adjusting and may benefit from your extra support and/or from campus resources, such as U Matter, We Care. Best wishes for an exciting and enjoyable first-year experience at the University of Florida. Go Gators! Dave Kratzer Vice President for Student Affairs

FOR THE GATOR GOOD

Some people dream about making the world a better place. Gators are out there doing it. Every day. Through intellect and effort, Gators pull together, inspire each other and move the world forward. The Division of Student Affairs is dedicated to your Gatorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s success as well as the development of skills necessary for post-college success. We believe that the unique UF out-of-class experience should include opportunities for leadership, service, engagement, and self-discovery. We approach every day with a singular purpose. One thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bigger than ourselves. Because we are Gators. Always. This calendar highlights some of the Student Affairs initiatives around the UF campus.

SEPTEMBER FIRST DAYS

The excitement of college should be settling into a healthy, balanced routine of academics, work, social activities and rest. Self-care is vital to academic success. Diet, exercise and regular sleep help maximize concentration and memory which are essential to academic performance.

Often, the first few weeks of college can feel like an enormous amount of free time. Encourage your student to stay on top of his or her coursework. Many families find it helpful to spend some time talking about differing expectations with

regard to communications. It is important to talk about your preferences and help your student find a balance that encourages appropriate independence for this stage in his or her life, while maintaining good family connections.

M 1

• EREV ROSH HASHANAH

• VOLLEYBALL VS. FSU • SWIMMING & DIVING ALL FLORIDA INVITATIONAL

• VOLLEYBALL VS. KENTUCKY • EREV SUKKOT

• ROSH HASHANAH

• SUKKOT

• ROSH HASHANAH

• EREV YOM KIPPUR

• CAREER SHOWCASE • SUKKOT

• FAMILY CHAT, 2 p.m. • LGBTQ ASSEMBLY, 6 p.m. • COLLEGIATE VETERANS SUCCESS CENTER RESOURCE FAIR, 11 a.m.

• FEE PAYMENTS DUE (3:30 p.m., University Bursar) • RESIDENCY RECLASSIFICATION DEADLINE • SOCCER VS. OKLAHOMA STATE

• COUNSELING & WELLNESS CENTER LIVE OPTIMALLY FAIR

• PART-TIME JOB FAIR, 10 a.m.

• LABOR DAY (NO CLASS)

• SOCCER VS. TEXAS A&M

• FAMILY CHAT, 6 p.m. • STUDY ABROAD FAIR

• YOM KIPPUR

• VOLLEYBALL VS. ST. JOHN’S

• EID AL-ADHA

• CAREER SHOWCASE

• PATRIOT DAY • S-U GRADE OPTION DEADLINE

• DEADLINE TO WITHDRAW FROM ALL COURSES WITH 25% REFUND • SWIMMING & DIVING ALL FLORIDA INVITATIONAL • SOCCER VS. MISSISSIPPI

• VOLLEYBALL VS. OLE MISS

• FLORIDA FOOTBALL VS. NEW MEXICCO STATE

• FLORIDA FOOTBALL VS. EAST CAROLINA

• FLORIDA FOOTBALL VS. KENTUCKY (AWAY) • SWIMMING & DIVING ALL FLORIDA INVITATIONAL • CROSS COUNTRY MOUNTAIN DEW INVITATIONAL

• FLORIDA FOOTBALL VS. TENNESSEE

Students can start college on the right foot by taking SLS1102: First Year Florida course produced by New Student & Family Programs in the Dean of Students Office. Eighty-four percent of students who took the one-credit hour class agreed that First Year Florida provided them with encouragement of independent, creative, and critical thinking skills.

HOW YOU CAN HELP: Ask your student about the GatorTimes, a news website and weekly email that provides information about on campus events and opportunities for involvement.

Encourage your student to create a time management schedule and stick to it. A good resource for time management is available at: counseling.ufl.edu (click on the self-help button)

Family Fund calling begins this month. Be on the lookout for a phone call from a UF student to learn more about contributing to the Family Fund, which allows the Division of Student Affairs to provide programs and services for your Gator.

Talk honestly with your student about family problems, but avoid creating guilt because he or she is not home and available to help.

If your student experiences severe homesickness, encourage him or her to get involved with a campus organization, volunteer in the community, seek a part-time job or find some way to get involved on campus.

Encourage your student to attend a Multicultural & Diversity Affairs event to promote learning and fun, while broadening his or her college experience. Learn more at multicultural.ufl.edu

OCTOBER GETTING SERIOUS

Midterm exams occur this month. Most new students experience increased stress and anxiety before midterms, but adjust to the additional pressures of college academics after their first few exams. If your student is experiencing stress and anxiety, help is available at UFâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Counseling & Wellness Center.

If your student does not meet his or her own expectations on midterms, encourage them to seek academic assistance. If you are concerned about your student, please donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t hesitate to contact U Matter, We Care by emailing umatter@ufl.edu.

A variety of academic support services are available on campus including individual and group tutoring. Remind your student to make good use of campus resources.

Student Activities & Involvement has implemented a searchable, Web-based student organization management system called Gator Connect. Gator Connect provides easy access for students to learn about the more than 1,000 registered student organizations at UF.

• STUDENT TECH FAIR, 10 a.m. • SOCCER VS. KENTUCKY

• FAMILY CHAT, 11 a.m.

• FLORIDA FOOTBALL VS. OLE MISS

• STARTUP JOB AND INTERNSHIP FAIR, 1 p.m.

• SOCCER VS. SOUTH CAROLINA

• ART BASH • VOLLEYBALL VS. ARKANSAS • FAMILY WEEKEND

• VOLLEYBALL VS. AUBURN • SOCCER VS. LSU

• USTA/ITA REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS

• VOLLEYBALL VS. MISSOURI • SOCCER VS. ARKANSAS • FAMILY WEEKEND

• USTA/ITA REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS

• FAMILY CHAT, 5 p.m. • POP-UP CULTURE, 10 a.m.

• VOLLEYBALL VS. TEXAS A&M

• GRADUATE AND PROFESSIONAL SCHOOLS FAIR, 10 a.m.

• FAMILY CHAT, 2 p.m.

• USTA/ITA REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS

• CYPRESS HALL GRAND OPENING, 10 a.m. • SWIMMING & DIVING GEORGIA (50 LCM)

• FLORIDA FOOTBALL VS. MISSOURI (AWAY)

• FLORIDA FOOTBALL VS. LSU (AWAY) • USTA/ITA REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS

• FAMILY WEEKEND

• FLORIDA FOOTBALL VS. GEORGIA (JACKSONVILLE) • HALLOWEEN

HOW YOU CAN HELP: Be sympathetic but careful not to provide too many suggestions on how to “fix” your student’s problems. Convey your confidence in his or her “own” ability to find his or her own way around this new environment.

Encourage your student to contact the Center for Leadership & Service to get involved in helping others while meeting new friends. Learn more at leadershipandservice. ufl.edu

Remind your student of previous successes in making friends. Making new friends takes time and initiative, so encourage your student to be patient and try new activities.

Encourage your student to meet with an academic adviser prior to advanced registration for spring semester which begins in late October.

Talk to younger children concerning how they are feeling about their siblings being away from home.

Encourage your student to visit the Department of Student Activities & Involvement in the Reitz Union to find an organization to join. Learn more at studentinvolvement.ufl. edu

NOVEMBER A LIGHT AT THE END

Holidays like Veteranâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day and Thanksgiving add much-needed distractions from the academic demands this month. The demands of November may be many, but the end of the semester is in sight.

Students frequently feel the time crunch this month, so keep in mind your student may feel overwhelmed. Encourage your student to continue to find

balance between academics, recreation and social activities in pursuit of a healthy lifestyle.

• SWIMMING & DIVING VS. USC • HOMECOMING (NO CLASS) • PARADE • GATOR GALLOP • GATOR GROWL • VOLLEYBALL VS. MISSISSIPPI STATE

• DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME ENDS

• ELECTION DAY

• FAMILY CHAT, 6 p.m.

• VETERANS DAY (NO CLASS) • DIWALI

• VOLLEYBALL VS. TENNESSEE

• BASKETBALL (W) VS. FSU • BASKETBALL (M) VS. NORTH CAROLINA A&T

• DEADLINE TO DROP OR WITHDRAW FORM A COURSE WITHOUT A FAILING GRADE

• BASKETBALL (W) VS. SAVANNAH STATE

• BASKETBALL (M) VS. PALM BEACH ATLANTIC (EXH.)

• THANKSGIVING BREAK (NO CLASS) • BASKETBALL (M) VS. VERMONT

• VOLLEYBALL VS. ALABAMA

• THANKSGIVING (NO CLASS)

• THANKSGIVING BREAK (NO CLASS) • VOLLEYBALL VS. LIU BROOKLYN • BASKETBALL (M) VS. FLORIDA GULF COAST

• FLORIDA FOOTBALL VS VANDERBILT

• FLORIDA FOOTBALL VS. SOUTH CAROLINA (AWAY)

• FLORIDA FOOTBALL VS. FLORIDA ATLANTIC • BASKETBALL (W) VS. KENNESAW STATE

• THANKSGIVING BREAK (NO CLASS) • FLORIDA FOOTBALL VS. FLORIDA STATE

Students who are first in their families to attend college can find additional support through First Generation Student Support initiatives. Those initiatives include a comprehensive peer mentoring program, lunch and learn series, and the First Generation Student Organization that works to build community among first generation students.

HOW YOU CAN HELP: Should you have concerns about alcohol and drugs, consult GatorWell Health Promotion Services at gatorwell.ufsa.ufl.edu

Remind your student about tutoring services offered on campus. Encourage your student to visit professors during office hours to get help or discuss academic performance.

Even though this may be a time of increased academic pressure, encourage your student to try to achieve a balance of a healthy diet, adequate sleep and exercise.

As the semester comes to a close and holidays approach, there are many opportunities for service in the Gainesville community. Encourage your student to learn how they can contribute by visiting the Center for Leadership & Service.

If your student seems depressed or anxious, encourage her or him to talk to a counselor in the Counseling & Wellness Center. Learn more at counseling.ufl.edu

If your student or someone they know is in distress, encourage them to email U Matter, We Care at umatter@ufl.edu.

DECEMBER FINALLY, FIRST FINALS

December goes by in a flash. There is excitement about the holidays, but the focus of attention is on academic work - completing papers and class projects while preparing for final exams. Extracurricular activities also increase with the end of the semester. Concerts, organization events and religious

ceremonies vie for studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; time and energy. It may be difficult to choose whether or not to attend an event when there is so much studying to do. When your student comes home for the break, you will likely see some changes. They will have negotiated their first college semester

successfully and learned to take responsibility for many things you used to do for them (laundry, budgeting, time management, cleaning, cooking, and so forth). Talk about expectations you have for each other during the break.

• BASKETBALL (M) VS. RICHMOND

• FAMILY CHAT, 11 a.m.

• THE INAUGURATION OF THE 12TH PRESIDENT OF THE UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA - W.KENT FUCHS, 3 P.M.

• FINAL EXAMS

• FINAL EXAMS • BASKETBALL (W) VS. ROBERT MORRIS

• SOUNDS OF THE SEASON CONCERT • CHANUKAH/HANUKKAH

• CHANUKAH/HANUKKAH

• BASKETBALL (W) SAINT FRANCIS - GATOR HOLIDAY CLASSIC

• KWANZAA

• BASKETBALL (W) VS. ARKANSAS STATE • CHANUKAH/HANUKKAH

• FINAL EXAMS • CHANUKAH/HANUKKAH

• BASKETBALL (W) VS. NC STATE OR EASTERN KENTUCKY - GATOR HOLIDAY CLASSIC

• KWANZAA

• CHANUKAH/HANUKKAH

• BASKETBALL (M) VS. JACKSONVILLE

• BASKETBALL (M) VS. FSU • KWANZAA

• FAMILY CHAT, 5 p.m. • CLASSES END • CHANUKAH/HANUKKAH

• FINAL GRADES AVAILABLE ON ISIS

• KWANZAA

• READING DAYS (NO CLASS) • CHANUKAH/HANUKKAH

• CHRISTMAS EVE

• KWANZAA • NEW YEAR’S EVE

• READING DAYS (NO CLASS) • CHANUKAH/HANUKKAH

• FINAL EXAMS • COMMENCEMENT

• CHRISTMAS DAY

• FINAL EXAMS • CHANUKAH/HANUKKAH

• COMMENCEMENT

• KWANZAA

The Counseling & Wellness Center created Therapist Assisted Online, or TAO, an online psychotherapy program. The program, designed for students experiencing anxiety, is the first program of its kind in the United States.

HOW YOU CAN HELP: Looking for a holiday gift for your student? RecSports offers massage therapy gift certificates with massages ranging from deep tissue to sports massage. Learn more at recsports.ufl.edu/ massage-therapy/

Remind your student about seeking academic/ tutoring support services on campus if he or she expresses concerns about taking finals.

Suggest your student take advantage of extended hours in the J. Wayne Reitz Union at the DeStress Study Fest. Get the whole calendar of activities, specials and tutoring at union. ufl.edu/Resources/ DeStressStudyFest

Consider sending a package with your student’s favorite snacks or goodies. It doesn’t have to be elaborate or expensive, but this “Coping with Finals” gesture is a real morale booster.

Establish plans for your student’s trip home for holidays and determine the method of travel.

Have your student check with the financial aid office about how final grades from fall semester may effect Bright Futures scholarship and other financial aid for spring semester.

JANUARY A NEW BEGINNING

Starting a new semester can be exhilarating and challenging. Most students find they learned a great deal from their first semester experience with regard to scheduling, studying and interacting with professors. The new semester provides an opportunity to

start fresh with all of their new understanding. During the spring and fall semesters, the Career Resource Center (CRC) coordinates a large career fair known as Career Showcase. These fairs help students identify companies with which students can obtain internships.

They also provide other smaller, careerspecific fairs throughout the year. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s never too early to get prepared and see what opportunities are out there.

The Career Resource Center offers specific programming to serve diverse markets. Gator Launch is a program for students in STEM fields, who are selected through an application process and paired with mentors in related fields. The CRC also works with employers across the globe to provide employment connections for students who are interested in working locally and internationally.

• SWIMMING & DIVING VS. FSU • BASKETBALL (M) VS. GEORGIA

• S-U GRADE OPTION DEADLINE

• SWIMMING & DIVING VS. AUBURN (50 LCM) • BASKETBALL (M) VS. AUBURN

• CLASSES BEGIN • DROP/ADD BEGINS

• DROP/ADD ENDS, 11:59 p.m. • DEADLINE TO WITHDRAW WITH NO FEE LIABILITY

• TU B’ SHVAT

•NEW YEAR’S DAY

• REGULAR REGISTRATION DEADLINE, 5 p.m.

• PLAY: BREATHE • TENNIS (M) VS. TROY • TENNIS (M) VS. STETSON • BASKETBALL (W) VS. LSU

• BASKETBALL (W) VS. MISSISSIPPI STATE

• MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. DAY (NO CLASS)

• TU B’ SHVAT

• SAFECONNECT ENFORCEMENT

• BASKETBALL (M) VS. MISSISSIPPI STATE

• FAMILY CHAT, 2 p.m.

• BASKETBALL (M) VS. LSU

• COLLEGIATE VETERANS SUCCESS CENTER RESOURCE FAIR, 11 a.m. • BASKETBALL (W) VS. GEORGIA

• FAMILY CHAT, 6 p.m.

• TENNIS (W) VS. USF • STUDY ABROAD FAIR

• BASKETBALL (W) VS. ALABAMA

• PLAY: SPILL • BASKETBALL (W) VS. KENTUCKY

• FEE PAYMENT DEADLINE, 3:30 p.m., University Bursar • RESIDENCY RECLASSIFICATION • GYMNASTICS VS. UCLA

• PLAY: SPILL • DEADLINE TO WITHDRAW FROM ALL COURSES WITH 25 % REFUND • GYMNASTICS VS. ALABAMA

• PLAY: BREATHE

• PLAY: SPILL • BASKETBALL (M) VS. WEST VIRGINIA

HOW YOU CAN HELP: Reassure your student that the second semester offers new possibilities and for many can be a fresh start.

Encourage your student to attend the Study Abroad Fair. Learn about all the UF opportunities abroad at ufic.ufl.edu

Begin to compile the necessary tax information to apply for financial aid. Be aware of application deadlines. Visit Student Financial Affairs online for more information: sfa.ufl. edu

Encourage your student to take a new look at classes and potential classmates as opportunities for new connections and improving academic performance.

Get more information about searching for apartments and houses at the Office of Off Campus Life. Learn more at offcampus.ufl.edu

Help your student start off the New Year right with personal training sessions at Recreational Sports. Meet the trainers at recsports.ufl.edu/ fitness/personaltraining/

FEBRUARY INTO THE SEMESTER

In February, students who live on campus start to make decisions about future living arrangements. “Should I live on or off campus?” “Should I live in the same building?” “Keep the same roommate?”

Off Campus Life provides resources and information for students to assist them in making decisions on housing options. It’s a good month to practice time-

management skills, but some students may need encouragement and support to plan ahead.

M 1

• PLAY: SPILL

• CHINESE NEW YEAR

• BASKETBALL (M) VS. OLE MISS

• SUNTRUST GATOR (M) GOLF INVITATIONAL

• MULTICULTURAL & DIVERSITY AFFAIRS AMBASSADOR APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE

• SPRING BREAK (NO CLASS) • BASKETBALL (W) VS. AUBURN

• CAREER SHOWCASE • GROUNDHOG DAY

• TENNIS (W) VS. CLEMSON • VALENTINE’S DAY

• PLAY: SPILL • TENNIS (W) VS. USC

• ASH WEDNESDAY

• FAMILY CHAT, 5 p.m. • TENNIS (W) VS. FSU • SOFTBALL VS. JACKSONVILLE

• BASKETBALL (M) VS. VANDERBILT

• SPRING BREAK (NO CLASS)

• CAREER SHOWCASE • BASKETBALL (M) VS. ARKANSAS

• MAJORS & MINORS FAIR, 10 a.m.

• FAMILY CHAT, 11 a.m. • BASKETBALL (W) VS. TEXAS A&M

• BASKETBALL (W) VS. VANDERBILT

• CREATE GAINESVILLE

• GYMNASTICS VS. ARKANSAS

• GYMNASTICS VS. LSU

• TENNIS (W) VS. BAYLOR • BASKETBALL (M) VS. ALABAMA

• SUNTRUST GATOR (M) GOLF INVITATIONAL

• SPRING BREAK (NO CLASS) • TENNIS (M) VS. FSU

The J. Wayne Reitz Union $75 million expansion and renovation opened this spring. The state-of-the-art, multi-level student union is the heart of student activities at UF. The photo above shows the scope of this massive construction project.

HOW YOU CAN HELP: Encourage your student to visit the Involvement Team for help with finding student organizations to join. Learn more at studentinvolvement.ufl. edu/ITeam

Relationships are a focus during this month and your student may need you to listen to his/her experiences with friends and significant others.

Discuss summer options with your student: summer enrollment, internships for credit and summer employment. Information about these opportunities is available at the Career Resource Center at: crc.ufl.edu

Be sure to apply for financial aid before the end of the month; discuss the process with your student. Have your student address any questions to their financial aid adviser. A list of advisers can be found at sfa.ufl.edu

Communicate with your student the importance of balancing work and social activities.

Encourage your student to consider potential Spring Break activities. For creative alternatives, visit the Center for Leadership & Service at leadershipandservice. ufl.edu

MARCH A BREAK IS NEAR

March is a hectic month where academic requirements and social activities can collide. Academic pressures increase as students face mid-term exams and realize the end of their first college year is near. Academic decisions about next year need to be made now. “Will I go home or stay at school over the summer?”

“Take summer classes?” “Change my major?” “Work?” Some students thrive on the sense of pressure as motivation to achieve. For others, academic challenges and social expectations can be overwhelming. Remind your student to focus on academics and good self-care, while maintaining a balance among social activities.

March also includes Spring Break. Students are excited about the prospect of spending a week away from the pressures of school and taking a much-needed break. Encourage your student to make thoughtful choices about Spring Break activities.

M 1

• SPRING BREAK (NO CLASS) • BASKETBALL (M) VS. KENTUCKY

• SPRING BREAK (NO CLASS)

• SPRING BREAK (NO CLASS) • TENNIS (W) VS. ARKANSAS • SOFTBALL VS. ILLINOIS STATE

• SPRING BREAK (NO CLASS)

• SPRING BREAK (NO CLASS) • TENNIS (W) VS. MISSOURI • SUNTRUST GATOR (W) GOLF INVITATIONAL

• TENNIS (M) VS. OLE MISS • SOFTBALL VS. TENNESSEE • PALM SUNDAY

• SPRING BREAK (NO CLASS) • SUNTRUST GATOR (W) GOLF INVITATIONAL

• MULTICULTURAL & DIVERSITY AFFAIRS AMBASSADOR APPLICATIONS DUE • SOFTBALL VS. SOUTH DAKOTA STATE

• SUMMER JOB & INTERNSHIP FAIR, 10 a.m. • SOFTBALL VS. WINTHROP

• FAMILY CHAT, 6 p.m. • PURIM

• EASTER

• FAMILY CHAT, 2 p.m. • TENNIS (W) VS. KENTUCKY

• TENNIS (M) VS. AUBURN • GYMNASTICS VS. NORTH CAROLINA

• TENNIS (W) VS. VANDERBILT

• ST. PATRICK’S DAY

• TENNIS (M) VS. ARKANSAS • SOFTBALL VS. TENNESSEE

• MAUNDY THURSDAY • PURIM

• TENNIS (W) VS. LSU

• GOOD FRIDAY

• SOFTBALL VS. TENNESSEE

The Center for Leadership & Service coordinates opportunities for students to participate in service throughout the academic year, including mentoring in Alachua County schools, week-long Florida Alternative Break (FAB) trips, and Gator Plunge.

HOW YOU CAN HELP: Suggest spring activities like those at Lake Wauburg: sailing, boating, wakeboarding or just relaxing on the dock.

Remind your student to speak to an advisor in preparation for advanced registration for summer and fall semesters.

Take the time to discuss living options with your student and listen to ideas about what he/she would like to do and what he/she thinks is feasible.

Encourage your student to think through choices regarding Spring Break.

Encourage you student to plan ahead for financial aid if attending summer school. Have your student discuss summer work plans with a financial aid advisor to see how it may affect fall financial aid.

Remind your student that, while spring is time for much social activity, balance is important.

APRIL DEADLINES APPROACH

The pace of the semester escalates academically, socially and personally after Spring Break and continues through finals week at the end of April. Remind your student, academic pressures are predictable, so making use of syllabi and class resources are helpful. Final projects and papers are due this month. Stress and fatigue may cause students

to miss class, which is counterproductive to academic success.

costs in time, money and energy to attend all these events.

Many organizations schedule end-of-semester banquets, picnics, formals and award ceremonies in April. First-year students seek to fit in and belong, and they want to attend these events, but often are naive about the

Again, seeking to find the balance between academics and involvement is the key to success.

F 1

Multicultural & Diversity Affairs offers a cultural issues series, community programs, dialogue, and education. Multicultural & Diversity Affairs is a collective collabortation between the Institute of Black Culture; Institute of Hispanic-Latino Cultures; Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Affairs; and Asian Pacific Islander American Affairs.

• PEPSI FLORIDA RELAYS • SOFTBALL VS. ALABAMA

• COLLEGIATE VETERANS SUCCESS CENTER 3RD ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION, 11 a.m. • PEPSI FLORIDA RELAYS

• CAREERS IN EDUCATION FAIR, 5 p.m. • TENNIS (M) VS. VIRGINIA

• SOFTBALL VS. FSU

• TENNIS (M) VS. TENNESSEE • SOFTBALL VS. LOUISIANNA

• TOM JONES MEMORIAL INVITATIONAL • SOFTBALL VS. MISSISSIPPI STATE • PASSOVER

• FINAL EXAMS • PASSOVER

• RELAY FOR LIFE, 6 p.m. • TENNIS (M) VS. VANDERBILT • SOFTBALL VS. ALABAMA

• PEPSI FLORIDA RELAYS • TENNIS (W) VS. TEXAS A&M • SOFTBALL VS. ALABAMA

• FAMILY CHAT, 11 a.m.

• DEADLINE TO DROP OF WITHDRAW FROM A COURSE WITHOUT A FAILING GRADE

• INVOLVEMENT AWARDS

• OPERA: LA BOHEME • TENNIS (M) VS. KENTUCKY • SOFTBALL VS. LOUISIANNA • TAZ DAY

• CLASSES END • SOFTBALL VS. USF

• READING DAYS (NO CLASS) • MICHAEL J. ROLLO DIVERSITY IMPACT AWARDS

• READING DAYS (NO CLASS) • SOFTBALL VS. MISSISSIPPI STATE • PASSOVER (BEGINS AT SUNDOWN)

• FINAL EXAMS • PASSOVER

• FINAL EXAMS • COMMENCEMENT • PASSOVER • ARBOR DAY

• OPERA: LA BOHEME • SOFTBALL VS. LOUISIANNA

• FINAL EXAMS • SOFTBALL VS. MISSISSIPPI STATE • PASSOVER

• FINAL EXAMS • COMMENCEMENT • PASSOVER

HOW YOU CAN HELP: Stress the wisdom of approaching finals with the attitude of doing the very best your student can, not worrying about what has or has not happened so far in the semester.

Many areas on campus host de-stressing special events during April. Encourage your student to read the GatorTimes and take advantage of extended services.

If your student plans to attend summer school at another institution, make sure he or she completes a Transient Student Form at UF, available online at registrar.ufl.edu/ currents/transients.html

Encourage your student to exercise, eat healthy meals and sleep to prepare for finals.

Make plans for how your student will move home or to a new location with belongings at the end of the semester.

Reassure your student that it is normal to reconsider a major and career path. Help is available at the Career Resource Center: crc.ufl. edu

MAY THE TRANSITION

Congratulations! You have made it through the first year of college. Now it is time to move forward with summer plans. Those who return home for the summer need to adjust to living at home again and working or attending summer school at local colleges. Others will enroll in summer school at UF and choose to continue to live on campus or have their first

experience living off campus.

the necessity of home rules.

Students who return home during the summer to work, intern and/or take classes can find themselves in conflict with parents and family members about issues of independence and house rules. After a full school year of living on their own, often college students donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t see

Expectations of social behaviors, home rules and responsibilities should be negotiated and communicated as soon as students return.

• COMMENCEMENT

• REGULAR REGISTRATION DEADLINE • SOFTBALL VS. ARKANSAS

• SOFTBALL VS. ARKANSAS

• FINAL GRADES AVAILABLE ON ISIS

• SAFECONNECT ENFORCEMENT

• SOFTBALL VS. ARKANSAS • MOTHER’S DAY

• SUMMER A/C CLASSES BEGIN • DROP/ADD BEGINS

• MEMORIAL DAY (NO CLASS)

• DROP/ADD ENDS, 11:59 p.m. • DEADLINE TO WITHDRAW WITH NO FEE LIABILITY

• S-U GRADE OPTION (SUMMER A) • DEADLINE TO WITHDRAW FROM ALL COURSES WITH 25% REFUND (SUMMER A)

• FEE PAYMENT DEADLINE, 3:30 p.m, University Bursar •RESIDENCY RECLASSIFICATION DEADLINE

• S-U GRADE OPTION (SUMMER C) • DEADLINE TO WITHDRAW FROM ALL COURSES WITH 25% REFUND (SUMMER C)

Landlord-tenant issues? Off Campus Life and Student Legal Services can help! Common issues include maintenance and condition of the apartments, break lease situations, move-out charges and evictions. Off Campus Life can make recommendations for finding the right apartment complex, and Student Legal Services provides full representation for tenants who are full-time UF students.

HOW YOU CAN HELP: If your student is attending summer school at UF or away from home, be sure to remain in contact and keep lines of communication open.

Discuss how initial academic interests and career plans may have been affected by final spring grades. This may be an opportunity to explore alternative plans and interests.

Talk with your returning student ahead of time about your expectations while he/she is living at home.

If your student is in need of legal advice, Student Legal Services has attorneys available at no cost. Visit studentlegalservices.ufl. edu/

This may be the first time your student has had time to reflect on the meaning of the academic experience. Challenge your student to evaluate his or her first year.

Discuss spring grades and academic strategies and priorities related to next semester.

JUNE SUMMERTIME

Summer serves as a well-needed break that helps students re-energize for fall and relax from the rigors of university life. With time comes perspective. June is a great month to talk about the success and

challenges of the first year of college while planning for the next. Confidence, positive thoughts and good planning now will make the second year at college even more successful.

Encourage your student to stay connected to friends from college as he or she reconnects with friends from home.

Recreational Sports employs more than 700 students. Personal training and intramural officiating are just some of the activities performed by student employees. More than 87 percent of the student body participate in RecSports.

• SUMMER BREAK WEEK • FINAL GRADES AVAILABLE ON ISIS

• SUMMER BREAK WEEK

• SHAVUOT

• FATHER’S DAY

• SHAVUOT

• SUMMER BREAK WEEK

• RAMADAN STARTS

• SUMMER BREAK WEEK

• SUMMER B CLASSES BEGIN • DROP/ADD ENDS, 11:59 p.m. • DROP/ADD BEGINS • DEADLINE TO WITHDRAW WITH NO FEE LIABILITY

• SAFECONNECT ENFORCEMENT

• DEADLINE TO DROP OR WITHDRAW FROM A COURSE WITHOUT A FAILING GRADE (SUMMER A)

• SUMMER A CLASSES END

• SUMMER BREAK WEEK • REGULAR REGISTRATION DEADLINE (SUMMER B)

• SHAVUOT

HOW YOU CAN HELP: Establish clear expectations about house rules if your student returns home for the summer to live with you again. Acknowledge the possible differences in your lifestyles after living apart for the past year.

Help your student identify problem areas in their first year at college and encourage your student to consider possible solutions.

Discuss your thoughts about summer employment while your student is home or attending summer classes.

Discuss the value of your student having developed positive friendships through campus life and plans for involvement next year.

If your student doesn’t have living arrangements for the fall semester, encourage him or her to visit the Off Campus Life website for helpful hints on signing leases and shopping for housing. Learn more at offcampus.ufl.edu

Summer is a good time to update your resume. Visit the Career Resource Center website for tips and suggestions.

JULY LOOKING AHEAD

Summer goes by faster than students expect. July brings preparation for the return to UF. Most students learned in the first year to adjust to the academic demands of college, to balance their lifestyles, and to sometimes say

â&#x20AC;&#x153;noâ&#x20AC;? to their peers as they set priorities for their own lives. Most students selectively participated in activities and joined organizations and now look forward to expanding their involvement in these

activities. Most importantly, they are now aware of support services and resources on campus and know where to go for help.

GatorWell Health Promotion Services creates and implements comprehensive health communication campaigns throughout the year addressing multiple health behaviors. Health topics include: time and stress management, sleep, sexual health, alcohol, body image, nutrition, and spring break safety.

• S-U GRADE OPTION DEADLINE (SUMMER B) • DEADLINE TO WITHDRAW FROM ALL COURSES WITH 25 % REFUND (SUMMER B)

• EID AL-FITR

• INDEPENDENCE DAY (NO CLASS)

• FEE PAYMENT DEADLINE, 3:30 p.m., University Bursar (Summer B) • RESIDENCY RECLASSIFICATION DEADLINE

• DEADLINE TO DROP OR WITHDRAW FROM A COURSE WITHOUT A FAILING GRADE (SUMMER B/C)

HOW YOU CAN HELP: Review timemanagement skills with your student and discuss the time that should be devoted to school, work and recreation.

Encourage your student to establish a tentative academic plan for the full academic year.

Review your student’s financial needs for the coming academic year, evaluate changes that may be needed for money management, and work together to establish a tentative budget.

Urge your student to research jobs and careers related to his/her major. This well help your student further define his/her academic track.

Take some time to discuss the needs and/or benefits of a parttime job.

Discuss how new living arrangements will impact the academic year.

AUGUST SECOND YEAR

NOTES:

• CLASSES END (SUMMER B/C)

• COMMENCEMENT

• CLASSES BEGIN • DROP/ADD BEGINS

• FINAL GRADES AVAILABLE ON ISIS

• REGULAR REGISTRATION DEADLINE, 5 p.m.

• DROP/ADD ENDS, 11:59 p.m. • DEADLINE TO WITHDRAW WITH NO FEE LIABILITY

The DHNet@Home Support Program, part of the department of Housing & Residence Education, manages computer help desks which provide walk-up computer help and Internet connection assistance for our more than 8,500 undergraduate and graduate residents that live on-campus.

HOW YOU CAN HELP: Encourage your student to track financial aid on ISIS at isis.ufl.edu. Discuss money management and have your student become familiar with financial aid services.

Communicate with your son or daughter to listen and provide assurance. Reassure your student that adjustments are common and expected for second-year students.

Keep in mind that the Disability Resource Center assists students with a diagnosed disability, such as a learning disability or a physical impairment. Your student can contact the Disability Resource Center to schedule an initial appointment.

Encourage your student to exercise, eat healthy meals and sleep to start the new academic year off right.

Make plans for how your student will move to a new location with belongings at the beginning of the semester.

Reassure your student that it is normal to reconsider a major and career path. Help is available at the Career Resource Center: crc.ufl. edu

ue W

elc

e om

Package

ic Tr

Tre a t e r k or

g a k c

W l ura

Sen

pri

m .co c

ears yB

Ve r m

Mrs. F i el d

Va l e n t

Al The

dd Te

r Su

Liv

ine

â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Out

ww F

Pa ruit

ll Finals Su

u . w

o . fl

EVERY GATOR COUNTS WHAT WE DO

Being a Gator means caring

umatter@ufl.edu

about the Gator Nation! If you

352-294-CARE (2273)

or a fellow Gator is in distress,

umatter.ufl.edu

contact U Matter, We Care. In case of an emergency, contact the University of Florida Police Department at 352-392-1111.

@UMatterWeCare #UMatterUF

HELPFUL RESOURCES UF MAIN SWITCHBOARD/DIRECTORY ASSISTANCE | 352-392-3261 Academic Advising Center advising.ufl.edu/ Athletic Ticket Office (In-State) gatorzone.com/tickets Bookstore ufl.bkstr.com Career Resource Center crc.ufl.edu Counseling & Wellness Center counseling.ufl.edu/cwc/ Dean of Students Office dso.ufl.edu Disability Resource Center dso.ufl.edu/drc Financial Aid Office www.sfa.ufl.edu Financial Services fa.ufl.edu/bursar/ Gator Dining Services www.bsd.ufl.edu/Dining/

392-1521 800-344-2867 392-0194 392-1601 392-1575 392-1261 392-8565 392-1275 392-0181 392-2491

GatorWell Health Promotion Services gatorwell.ufsa.ufl.edu Housing & Residence Education www.housing.ufl.edu Honors Program honors.ufl.edu J. Wayne Reitz Union union.ufl.edu Lake Wauburg recsports.ufl.edu/lake-wauburg Libraries (General Information) uflib.ufl.edu New Student & Family Programs dso.ufl.edu/nsfp Office of Academic Support oas.aa.ufl.edu Reading & Writing Center writing.ufl.edu/writing-center Recreational Sports recsports.ufl.edu/

273-4450 392-2161 392-1519 392-1649 466-4112 273-2525 392-1261 392-0788 392-6420

Registrar registrar.ufl.edu Southwest Recreation Center recsports.ufl.edu/facilities Student Activities & Involvement studentinvolvement.ufl.edu Student Health Care Center shcc.ufl.edu Student Legal Services studentlegalservices.ufl.edu Transportation & Parking parking.ufl.edu University Ombuds ombuds.ufl.edu University Police Department police.ufl.edu Vice President for Student Affairs ufsa.ufl.edu

392-1374 846-1081 392-1671 392-1161 392-5297 392-7275 392-1308 392-1111 392-1265

846-1081

ACADEMIC ADVISING OFFICES Academic Advising Center | 352-392-1521 | advising.ufl.edu The Academic Advising Center provides academic advising to incoming students during Preview, UFâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s orientation program. The Academic Advising Center also provides assistance to undecided students who have not chosen majors and to those students who are considering changing their majors. In addition, the Center works with Liberal Arts and Sciences students including Pre-Professional majors (law and health). Once a student starts at UF and selects a major, the individual department within each college advises students on requirements for their majors: Accounting Agricultural & Life Sciences Building and Construction Business Administration Design, Construction & Planning Education

273-0200 392-1963 273-1150 273-0165 392-4836 392-0726

Engineering Fine Arts Forest Resources and Conservation Health & Human Performance Public Health & Health Professions Honors Program

392-6000 392-0207 846-0850 392-0578 273-6400 392-1519

Journalism & Communication Liberal Arts & Sciences Natural Resources & Environment Nursing Pharmacy University Athletic Association

392-0500 392-0780 392-9230 373-6001 273-6217 800-344-2867

HELP ADD EVEN MORE VALUE TO YOUR GATORâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S EXPERIENCE WITH A CONTRIBUTION TO THE FAMILY FUND As the parent of new Gator, you may be wondering how you can continue to support your student as they begin their college career. Together with the Division of Student Affairs, you can impact your studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s experience at the University of Florida by supporting the Family Fund. Your contribution will enable us to continue providing a wide array of social and developmental programs to assist all new and returning students.

Myra F. Morgan Director of External Relations

Your contribution can make it possible for students to explore career opportunities and gain valuable leadership skills. All contributions to the Family Fund help strengthen programs and services provided by the Division of Student Affairs. This calendar is provided to you to assist you in guiding your student through his/her first year in college. Many of the photographs featured in the calendar were taken by students and staff members as part of the photo UF competition which asks our students how they see UF. We hope you enjoy their work and find the information provided useful. To learn more about the Family Fund or make a contribution, please visit ufsa.ufl.edu/parents/ or contact:

Arie Gee Assistant Director New Student & Family Programs

202 Peabody Hall PO Box 114075 Gainesville, FL. 32611 352-392-1261 family@ufsa.ufl.edu

FAMILY FUND - A PARTNERSHIP IN ACTION

The Division of Student Affairs with your support can impact your student’s experience at the University of Florida by: • Creating an enriching university environment • Providing campus services and innovative programs • Promoting discovery and awareness of global issue and opportunities • Guiding students in becoming outstanding citizens who excel in their career paths Support Student Affairs today by contributing to the Family Fund.

Learn more at ufsa.ufl.edu/parents