The University of Akron 2014-15 Guide for Parents

2014-2015
A GUIDE FOR PARENTS
contents
7|
7
8
9
10
12
16
18
19
21
22
25
26
28
28
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
29 |
29
30
30
32
|
|
|
|
Akron Guide
Comprehensive advice and information for student success
Welcome to the University of Akron!
Words of Welcome from Residence Life & Housing
Housing Availability & Assignments
Residence Life & Housing FAQs
Living-Learning Communities
Campus Map
Office of Student Accounts/Bursar
Parents’ Guide to the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)
Career Center: Connecting Your Student to Career Success
Top Ten Most Frequently Asked Parent Questions
Parents & Family Association
Athletics
UA Counseling Center
Office of International Programs
Resources
Must-have knowledge to navigate your way
Academic Calendar 2014–2015
Helpful Phone Numbers
Helpful Websites
Proud Supporters of Akron
www.universityparent.com/uakron
5
Akron GUIDE
produced by
in partnership with
For more information, please contact
University of Akron
Office of New Student Orientation
Phone: (330) 972-2622
www.uakron.edu/nso
[email protected]
About this Guide
UniversityParent has published this guide in
partnership with the University of Akron
with the mission of helping you easily navigate
your student’s university with the most timely and
relevant information available.
Discover more articles, tips and local business
information by visiting the online guide at:
www.universityparent.com/uakron
The presence of university/college logos and
marks in this guide does not mean the school
endorses the products or services offered by
advertisers in this guide.
2995 Wilderness Place, Suite 205
Boulder, CO 80301
www.universityparent.com
Advertising Inquiries:
(855) 947-4296
[email protected]
Sarah Schupp Publisher
mark hager DESIGN
michael fahler AD DESIGN
Connect:
facebook.com/UniversityParent
twitter.com/4collegeparents
Welcome to the
University of Akron!
For some of you, the process
of sending your student to
college will not be easy. For
others, you may not be able to
wait until your student is off to
college. While this may or may
not be the first time you’ve sent
someone to college, know that
all of us at The University of
Akron know that it is never easy.
The time your student spends in college
will be one of the most memorable times
in his or her life. As a parent or family
member of one of our newest Zips, you
play an important role in supporting
your student’s success in college.
Though many of the experiences your
student has in college will happen on
their own, we know that it is helpful for
students to have the support of parents
and family members along the way.
© 2014 UniversityParent
6
University of Akron
www.universityparent.com/uakron
This University Parent Guide has
been created with parents and family
members in mind. It is meant to be
an informative resource and to serve
as a conversation starter for you with
your student as he or she encounters
different opportunities, experiences, and
challenges during this first year of college.
New Student Orientation is designed
to give you a sense of the spirit of the
university and an introduction to the vast
array of resources available on and off
campus to assist your student – and you –
in being successful in college and beyond.
We thank you for partnering with
us to help your student become a
successful Zip, and we welcome
you to The University of Akron.
Sincerely,
Carly DeBord
New Student Orientation
(330) 972-2622
www.uakron.edu/nso
[email protected]
7
AKron GUIDE
We are here to help and look forward
to speaking with you about whatever
question or concern occurs in the lives
of your student. But we are also hopeful
you will join us for our family receptions
during Homecoming & Family Weekend
or during our annual Sibs Saturday.
Words of Welcome from
Residence Life & Housing
One of the things that we
hope you and your student
will find in the Department of
Residence Life and Housing
is a cheerful and honest
invitation to become engaged
in The University of Akron.
Sure our residence hall student
organizations have won countless
national awards over the years, and our
residential program collaborates with our
academic departments to create “Living
Learning Communities.” And sure, we can
continue all of these activities, and we
will, but right now we are more interested
in sharing with your student our most
sincere and enthusiastic invitation to
become engaged in our opportunities.
Whether listening to a singer-songwriter
during one of our award winning coffee
houses, running for an office in a hall
government, or just spending time
with their new friends and the resident
assistant, our students will have an
8
opportunity to become a part of our
traditions. And we hope this process
will begin as your student sets foot on
our campus during our annual Week
of Welcome. One of our proudest
traditions, Week of Welcome provides
an opportunity for our “emerging
leaders” (students participating in the
department’s Emerging Leaders Program)
to reach out and connect with our
new students during their first days on
campus. We have learned time and time
again that students who learn to laugh
with us will also love to learn with us.
While we cannot invite the families of
our students to be a part of each of
these opportunities themselves, we are
excited to extend a special invitation
to you to partner with us. The love and
support you offer your student combined
with the guidance and experience of
our administrative, hall and student staff
makes the realization of your student’s
dreams one step closer to reality. In
turn, we offer our support to you as
well as your student, and encourage
you to call, write, or email us often.
University of Akron
Housing
Availability &
Assignments
All first-year freshman
students are required
to reside in university
residence halls for their
freshman academic year
(fall and spring semesters)
so long as space is
available or unless
otherwise exempted.
All residence hall students are
required to have a meal plan,
except residents in the Exchange
Street Apartments, where
kitchen facilities are available.
Residents with kitchen facilities
may purchase a meal plan if they
so choose. On-campus housing
continues to be in demand. We
encourage students to apply for
housing early. Online housing
applications are only made
available to students who have
committed to the University
by paying the confirmation
fee. Students will receive
specific housing assignment
information in late July.
www.universityparent.com/uakron
9
Akron GUIDE
either way by completing the disclosure
question when applying for housing.
Failure to answer this question may
result in an incomplete application.
What do I do if my student needs
to cancel their housing contract?
Contact the Department of Residence Life
and Housing by calling (330) 972-7800
or by emailing us at [email protected].
What happens if my student
was assigned to a building that
wasn’t one of their choices?
Prior to their arrival, they should contact
the Department of Residence Life and
Housing. After their arrival please contact
their building staff, resident director
(RD), residence life coordinator (RLC)
or resident assistant (RA). Please note
that requests are not guaranteed.
Residence Life &
Housing FAQ
When will my student find
out where they are living and
who their roommates are?
Room assignments are made available
to students in late July. We will also
include contact information for all of their
roommates provided they have given
us permission to release their personal
information. Please do not purchase
coordinating décor until you receive
official confirmation of your student’s
roommate. We make every effort to
assign mutual requests, but are unable
to guarantee all roommate preferences.
What kinds of stuff does
my student need to bring to
furnish their new room?
Housing will provide a bed, desk, chair
and wardrobe or built-in closet. The
rest is up to your student’s imagination.
10
Check out our departmental FAQs
where you can find a list of items to
bring: http://www.uakron.edu/reslife/
move-in-guide/what-to-bring.dot.
When does my student move
in to their residence hall?
Freshmen will generally move in the
week before classes start, giving your
student an opportunity to get settled and
attend activities and events that occur
throughout the week and weekend.
Does my student have
to get the meningitis &
hepatitis B vaccinations
before they move-in?
While your student is not required to
have the vaccinations, the university
does recommend it. Regardless, they
are required by law to let us know
University of Akron
www.universityparent.com/uakron
11
Akron GUIDE
Akron GUIDE
Below you will find descriptions of our current Living-Learning Communities.
Upon successfully completing a Housing Contract and selecting a
LLC preference, students must also complete the Living-Learning
Community application to be considered for participation.
Army ROTC
The Army ROTC Community will provide an additional level of support to
first year cadets. This community offers the cadets the opportunity to live
with other students that share the same work ethic and values while building
better camaraderie and cohesiveness. All members of the community will
be required to participate in ROTC and take a military science class.
Arts
All School of Arts students are eligible to participate in the Arts Living-Learning
Community. Artists, designers and other art students can join their peers in
an environment that fosters more effective creative development and study,
with studio and exhibition space, arts programming and learning cohorts.
Living-Learning
Communities
Living-Learning Communities (LLCs) are established to
provide distinctive settings where student academic success
is supported through residential experiences. LivingLearning Communities bring academics into the residence
halls through on-site classes, advising and referral services,
tutors, and special opportunities to interact with faculty.
The goal of our Living-Learning Communities is four-fold:
12
•
Provide special attention to first-year students while offering
mentoring opportunities to upperclassmen.
•
Focus on academic achievement in a productive and supportive setting.
•
Foster the joining of the scholarly and social aspects of student life.
•
Promote collaboration among faculty, staff and students.
University of Akron
Athletic Training
Interested in sports, physical activities, injury treatment, and helping people?
Athletic training could be of interest to you. Athletic training is a blend of
helping individuals who participate in physical activities and facilitating
prevention and recovery from injuries. Students in this community with have
the chance to use peer support with academic coursework and the ability
to get connected to upper-class students and faculty within the major.
Business
Considering a career in business? Join other first-year business majors to engage
in a common living and an opportunity to take common courses with a shared
focus. As a participant, explore the world of business in a growing global economy
with chances to engage College of Business Administration faculty, connect with
a variety of business majors, and programs designed just for the community!
Communications
The means of communication continues to evolve and change. From radio, television,
and publications, to the internet and social media, the opportunities to share
information surround us. Planning on majoring in organizational communication,
www.universityparent.com/uakron
13
akron GUIDE
Akron GUIDE
interpersonal and public communication, media production, journalism, public
relations, or radio and television? This community may pique your interest!
the semester. Students will test their skills in activities such as team-builders,
rock wall climbing, Battleship in the ONAT, bike trips, trail hikes, and more!
Dance and Theater
Explore your creative and intellectual potential! The Dance and Theatre
LLC is your ticket to innovative dance and theater performances as well as
specialized programs offered just to LLC participants. This community often
attends Broadway productions at E.J. Thomas Performance Arts Hall on campus,
hosts a Strike Your Pose photo shoot to build your portfolio, and more!
Pre-Law
Considering law school or law enforcement? This community is open to any
major interested in pursuing a law degree or going into law enforcement
after college. Participants will have the opportunity to network with guest
speakers, engage in conflict resolution, and host a mock trial.
Emerging Leaders Program (EL)
Be part of an exciting program that has won regional and national
recognition. This group lives in Ritchie Hall, Sisler-McFawn Hall and the
fifth floor of the Honors Complex and is part of the Major Events Committee
of the Residence Hall Program Board. EL Application is required.
Education
Seeking the chance to impact the lives of others through the classroom? Whether you
are pursuing early childhood or young adult (AYA) education, this community sets out
to spark the creative mind with resources to enhance your skill sets for the classroom.
First2GO!
Are you the first in your family to go to college? This is an exciting time for
both you and your family, and this community provides the tools you need to
be successful. Students in this community will take a fall semester Student
Success Seminar, be provided with individualized mentoring, be offered
an opportunity for paid employment to assist with finances, and families
will be connected to the community through a monthly e-newsletter.
Health Professions
Exploring a career in the health professions? Whether you are majoring in dietetics,
nutrition, child life, family & consumer science, family development, child, development
or Social Work, this community is great opportunity for you! Create a vibrant community,
supporting and enriching each other as you advance towards careers in the field.
Men in Engineering (MIE)
Build, construct, design, formulate, and more in the Men in Engineering
LLC! This community is committed to the development of highly-qualified
and professionally-responsible engineers. Students in this community
will engage with various engineering disciplines through field trips to
engineering firms, peer study groups, guest speakers, and more.
Nursing
“Nursing transforms!” That’s the motto of the School of Nursing. A
transformation journey as you embark on your quest to being a Nurse, the
School of Nursing and this community provide you the tools and connections
to help achieve your goals. Live together and learn together. Participants
in this community will take selected prerequisite courses together.
Outdoor Adventure
Test your limits! Expose yourself to new adventures! Stay active! Interested in
physical activities? Join the Outdoor Adventure LLC for thrilling programs throughout
14
University of Akron
Pre-Med
Is medical school in your future after college? Whether you venture into
major in biology, chemistry, physics, etc., join the Pre-Med LLC in a diverse
community of academic disciplines. Participants will benefit from peer study
groups, specialized programming only open to participants, and the academic
resources of upper-class student mentors within the community.
Service and Civic Engagement
Lead through service to others. This
community is a great home for students
with a passion for making a difference,
a desire to build leadership skills,
and a passion to be active citizens
in the community. Students in this
community will take a fall semester
Student Success Seminar and a spring
leadership course focused on becoming
a servant leader. The ability to change
the world begins with you! Join us in
our mission to lead through service.
Speech Language Pathology
and Audiology
Designed for speech pathology/audiology
majors, participants have the chance to
share their passion for helping people
with speech and language disorders
along with hearing impairments. This
community provides students with
the opportunity to connect and build
immediate relationships with residents
in the same major and classes as well
as with supporting faculty and staff.
Women in Engineering (WIE)
Take advantage of mentoring, trips
to engineering firms, study support,
guest speakers and social activities.
Inspired by the popular SEE UA Camp
(Summer Experience in Engineering),
this community of female engineering
students collaborates closely with
the Men in Engineering LLC.
www.universityparent.com/uakron
15
akron GUIDE
Akron GUIDE
Campus Map
16
University of Akron
www.universityparent.com/uakron
17
Akron GUIDE
Akron GUIDE
Office of Student
Accounts/Bursar
The University of Akron tries
to offer as many self-service
options as possible for the
student’s convenience. The
Office of Student Accounts/
Bursar has also added
the functionality (Parent
Access) for parents or other
persons if authorized by the
student to view the student
account balance and pay
the bill, or sign up for the
university payment plan.
The university is governed by FERPA
(Family Educational Rights and
Privacy Act). The University respects
students’ interest in their educational
records. Therefore, the university
limits access to those records except
where access is authorized by law or
by the student. Students can authorize
release of information to a parent/
guardian in person through the
Registrar’s Office with a picture ID.
This may be a frustration to parents, but
parents should communicate with the
student and make sure they are aware
of issues that are important if they are
responsible for paying the invoice.
18
For more FERPA information,
visit www.uakron.edu/ogc/legalpolicies-and-procedures/privacypractices-and-policies/ferpa.dot.
The Office of Student Accounts
recommends that the student refer to
their My Akron account online to confirm
daily updates of their registration,
financial aid, or other changes to
their charges such as meal plans and
housing. Students are notified by their
university email to view their e-Bill
online. Paper bills are not mailed.
If the student has Anticipated Aid
displayed on their account, this amount
will be used to reduce the amount due.
25% of the net balance is required as
the down payment on the payment
plan, along with a $30.00 application
fee. Sign up online through student’s
My Akron account. The payment plan
closes after the first week of the term.
If Financial Aid paperwork is complete,
Financial Aid will be disbursed 10
days prior to the start of the term.
For information about billing, due
dates, payment options, refund
policy, tuition and fees, visit
www.uakron.edu/student-accounts.
Parents’ Guide to the
Family Educational
Rights and Privacy
Act (FERPA)
The Family Educational Rights
and Privacy Act (FERPA)
protects your college student’s
privacy and grants him or her
exclusive right to view and
share education records such as
grades, transcripts, disciplinary
records, contact information,
and class schedules. Under
the law, colleges and
universities may not disclose
education records to anyone
other than the student.
FERPA’s restrictions often frustrate
parents, especially parents who pay
University of Akron
www.universityparent.com/uakron
for tuition. But, as College Parents of
America suggests, “Rather than seeing
this legislation as a barrier to good
college parenting, parents might see
this as an important opportunity for
meaningful dialogue with a student.”
Building a healthy relationship with
your student is about giving enough
independence to grow, while being there
to offer support when a mistake occurs.
When it comes to grades, talk to your
student as an adult. Voice your opinions,
but respect your student’s decisions.
There is so much more to being a college
parent than just checking in on grades
at the end of the semester. And at that
point it’s too late to have an impact.
19
akron GUIDE
For parents whose students are
not forthcoming with grades,
there are several things to do to
build trust and communication:
•
Be available early in the semester
to help set academic goals
for studying and grades.
•
Show support during stressful
times like finals week by
sending encouraging emails
and care packages.
•
Ask questions about your student’s
classes and what is being learned;
show that you’re interested
in more than just grades.
•
•
Then, after supporting your student
through the whole semester,
ask if your student would like
to share grades with you.
Respect the decision whatever
it might be. Continue to support
your student academically.
Akron GUIDE
As far as working within the restrictions
of FERPA, support your student in
taking personal responsibility for
transcripts and financial obligations.
Although this legislation restricts
parents from involvement in many
ways, it also empowers students to
grow in independence. Encourage
your student to be aware of his or her
rights, which will help them to take
ownership over their education.
Key Things to Remember about FERPA
1. Colleges and universities cannot
disclose academic information
to parents without written
consent from the student.
2. Don’t be frustrated by this law.
Use it as an opportunity to help
your student grow independent.
3. Support your student academically
throughout the year and not just
when grades are released.
Career Center:
Connecting Your Student
to Career Success
The Career Center assists
students and alumni in
their career planning and
development by offering
individual career advising,
programming, and testing.
Students are encouraged to visit the
Career Center for help in choosing a
major, finding a summer job, co-op or
internship, student employment, and
part-time/full-time employment. Career
advisors will work with all students
providing exposure to career options
through a full service career and
occupational library, computer-based
career development tools and Internet
resources. In addition, the Career
Center staff works closely with alumni,
employers, graduate and professional
20
University of Akron
www.universityparent.com/uakron
school personnel, and faculty to
provide success in the job search and
graduate/professional school process.
Students seeking employment after
graduation benefit from presentations
on résumé writing, job search strategies
and interviewing techniques through
several programs, and from a variety of
career fairs offered throughout the year.
In addition, the Career Center maintains
an electronic database, RooLink, of fulltime/part-time, on-campus, and co-op/
internship opportunities. Students and
alumni may view listings as well as upload
their résumés for employers to view by
registering with our online system.
Student Union 211
www.uakron.edu/career
(330) 972-7747
21
Akron GUIDE
Akron GUIDE
Can my student earn a
degree in four years?
Top Ten Most Frequently
Asked Parent Questions
Why can’t I go to my student’s
advising appointment?
In 1974, the Family Educational Rights
and Privacy Act (FERPA) was passed as
a United States law. FERPA passes the
right to privacy onto students when they
reach the age of eighteen or attend an
institution beyond the high school level.
This right to privacy means that you
are not permitted into your student’s
academic advising appointment today
at orientation, even though you may
be helping to pay for school. Don’t
worry. Because UA’s course registration
is completed online, you will have a
chance to see your student’s schedule
and to talk about the courses that he or
she will be taking during the upcoming
semester! If a change needs to be made
to your student’s schedule, the change
can be made online with the permission
of your student’s academic adviser.
Why is Orientation mandatory?
It takes a great deal of hard work,
persistence and determination to be
successful in college. Students need
information about academics, registration,
housing/commuting, campus life,
22
financial aid, and student services, all
of which will be covered at orientation
today! Orientation provides for students
all of the tools that they need to be
successful at The University of Akron.
Earning your degree in four years depends
on many factors. Most degrees at The
University of Akron require 128 hours
of coursework. This can be completed
in four years if you complete 16 hours
per semester. However, depending on
the program there may be additional
requirements that coincide with your
student’s coursework. For example,
students seeking specific engineering
degrees must complete a yearlong multisemester Co-Op internship experience
in addition to 128 hours of coursework.
These specific degrees are designed
for students to graduate in five years.
Another factor that plays a role in a
student’s graduating pace is how much
developmental coursework is needed.
Developmental courses are designed for
students to develop the skills they need
for general college level classes. These
additional classes are then added to the
total number of credit hours required.
Moreover, many students have outside
obligations that can limit the number of
credit hours attempted in one semester.
Students that work and volunteer either
full-time or part-time, as well as go to
school, may not be able to handle 16
credit hours every semester. If a student
is not on pace to graduate in four years,
summer courses are available and serve
as a great way to catch up on coursework.
Which is better: living on
campus or commuting?
Residence Hall life and commuting
both have positive aspects. Living in a
residence hall provides students with
a sense of independence and personal
responsibility, even though they have a
strong community around them! Living
in the halls is a great way to meet new
people and to become immersed in the
college social life. Conversely, commuting
gives students a great opportunity to
How safe is UA’s campus?
The University of Akron has taken
many steps to ensure the safety of its
students. We have our own campus
police department, along with the City
of Akron’s police department patrolling
our campus. Emergency phones that
have a quick response time in case
trouble arises are placed in strategic
areas all across campus. Despite the
many safety precautions in place,
however, students need to be smart
when they are on campus, especially
after dark and in more secluded areas
of campus. Students are cautioned to
walk in groups. If students need to be
on campus alone, they can call UA’s
police department for a campus escort
to walk them to their cars or residence
hall rooms until midnight every night.
Students should use caution at all times,
just as they would in any city at night.
University of Akron
www.universityparent.com/uakron
23
akron GUIDE
save money and focus on schoolwork,
while adjusting to the many challenges
of college life and academics. UA
provides excellent services for students
that do not live on campus such as
Off Campus Student Services, located
on the first floor of the Student Union.
Off Campus Student Services makes
sure that our non-residential students
get to meet new people and become
immersed in the college community!
Does my student need
a car on campus?
Unlike some schools, UA’s freshmen
are allowed to park on campus. Each
student taking more than five credit
hours per semester is charged a $160
transportation fee that covers the cost
of a parking permit and use of the Roo
Express Campus Shuttle Service. Having
a car on campus has its positives and
negatives. On the plus side, it allows
students to go home on the weekends,
explore the city and surrounding areas,
and go to nearby shopping areas when
necessary. On the negative side, with so
many commuters and staff who have to
park on campus every day, parking can
become a bit tense at times, especially
in the lots right next to residence halls.
Also, everything your student would
need is readily available on campus.
Akron GUIDE
How can I get money
to my student?
Should my student bring a
desktop computer or a laptop?
The easiest way to give your student
money (and to know what it’s being used
for!) is to put it on his or her Zip Card. Your
student’s Zip Card can be used like a debit
card anywhere that they are accepted,
including locations such as, on-campus
eateries, campus fast food restaurants,
pizza places, and health services on
campus, just to name a few! You can
add money to your student’s Zip Card by
going online to www.zipcardonline.net.
It’s all about preference! A student
does not need to have his or her own
computer to be successful at UA. We
have computer labs in almost every
building, and because the Student Union
and the library have laptops available for
checkout during their hours of operation,
there are computers available all over
campus! Many students, however, prefer
to have their own computer. Desktop
computers are a good choice because
they are easy to upgrade and have a
very small chance of being left behind
or stolen. There is a hardwire Ethernet
connection available in all residence hall
rooms, along with wireless Internet, which
are provided free of charge. Laptops,
on the other hand, are very convenient,
because students can take them to
class to take notes on or to complete
homework wherever they are on campus.
What is there to do
around campus?
The City of Akron has a great deal to
offer! The Akron Rubber Ducks play
baseball in their state-of-the-art stadium
downtown. Free concerts are given
at Lock 3 Live all summer long. UA is
also home to E.J. Thomas Performing
Arts Hall where Broadway shows and
the UA Forum Speaker Series are
presented throughout the year! All
locations are a short walk from campus.
If the city doesn’t offer enough, there
are three shopping malls within a half
hour’s drive from campus: Chapel
Hill Mall in Akron, Summit Mall in
Fairlawn, and Belden Village Mall
in North Canton. Even Cleveland is
only about forty minutes away!
Should my student have a job?
Having a job will obviously take time away
that could be spent studying; however,
many students either want to work to
have spending money or need to work to
help pay for school. The best suggestion
is an on-campus job at UA. On-campus
jobs have very flexible hours because our
offices recognize that their employees
are always students first! There are
many work study and non-work study
positions available on campus. Visit
www.uakron.edu/career/studentemployment for a list of both on and
off campus jobs, and be sure that your
student applies early! Working is a great
way to make connections in different
offices on campus, and it also gives
your student an opportunity to learn to
manage his or her time effectively.
Parents & Family Association
The Parents & Family Association looks forward to working
with you! The Association is coordinated by university staff and
guided by the needs and interests of our parents and families.
We provide timely information and additional support for our parents and
families with our monthly electronic newsletter and Facebook page.
We also maintain a website focused on the priorities of our families,
and we have provided a phone number and email address for you
to use to contact us with specific questions or concerns.
We look forward to hearing from you!
https://www.facebook.com/ZipParents
[email protected]
http://www.uakron.edu/pfa
(330) 972-PFA3 (7323)
24
University of Akron
www.universityparent.com/uakron
25
Akron GUIDE
Akron GUIDE
Attend Games
Admission is free to home Zips contests
for UA students with a valid Zip Card.
Simply swipe in at the student gate to
get in — and you automatically will earn
points that can be redeemed for great
prizes through our ROO-WARDS program!
Visit GoZips.com/ROOwards for more
information and to register for free.
Family and friends of UA students
can purchase tickets and accompany
the student in general-admission
seating areas. Tickets can be
purchased at ZipsTickets.com or by
calling 1-888-99-AKRON (25766).
Athletics
World-Class Facilities
The University of Akron’s
Department of Athletics
sponsors 19 varsity
intercollegiate teams with
450 student-athletes and 175
coaches, staff, administrators
and graduate assistants.
With a unique nickname in college
athletics, the Zips are known nationally
because of the success of our teams
and the passion of our fans, so much so
that other schools “Fear The Roo!” We
belong to the NCAA Division I Football
Bowl Subdivision and are members
of the Mid-American Conference.
We won the 2010 NCAA title in
Men’s Soccer, the school’s first team
26
national championship, and both
basketball programs have recently
captured MAC titles as well.
In December 2013, Zips Athletics unveiled
its strategic plan, titled IMPACT 2020,
which includes our new mission statement:
To have a positive and meaningful impact
on the people and communities we serve.
More information about IMPACT 2020 is
available at GoZips.com/IMPACT2020.
The University has built or renovated
numerous on-campus athletic facilities
in the last decade, providing a firstclass experience for the studentathletes as well as the student body.
Our student fan group, the AK-Rowdies,
is nationally known for their loud and
proud presence at Zips basketball,
football and soccer games.
Here’s where the Zips
compete on campus:
•
FirstEnergy Stadium – Cub
Cadet Field (soccer)
•
InfoCision Stadium –
Summa Field (football)
•
James A. Rhodes Arena
(basketball, volleyball)
•
Lee R. Jackson Field
complex (baseball, softball,
outdoor track and field)
•
Ocasek Natatorium
(swimming and diving)
•
Pinn Shooting Range at
Shrank Hall (rifle)
•
Stile Athletics Field House (indoor
track and field, golf indoor facility)
•
Tennis Outdoor Courts
(expected to open in 2014)
Find us Online
The best source for everything you need
to know — schedules, statistics, stories
and more — about Zips Athletics is the
department’s official website, GoZips.com.
The Zips also have a strong presence
in social media, especially Facebook,
Twitter and YouTube. Visit GoZips.com/
Connect to connect with the Zips!
University of Akron
www.universityparent.com/uakron
27
akron GUIDE
RESOURCES
UA Counseling Center
The Counseling Center offers free, confidential and
comprehensive psychological services to students.
Academic Calendar
2014–2015
2014 Fall Semester
Our diverse staff of licensed psychologists and doctoral trainees provides counseling
and psychotherapy, career decision making counseling, psychological assessment,
psycho-educational outreach and consultation to the university community. Our
testing personnel administer a variety of national standardized and on-campus tests.
College can be an exciting and also stressful time for students. The Counseling
Center counseling and psychotherapy services teach students to adapt to
the multiple roles of becoming a college student, manage stress, increase
self confidence, enhance relationships with family and friends and decrease
depression and anxiety. Students can also attend psycho-educational workshops
on various topics such as study skills, substance use and eating concerns.
Career decision making counseling is available for students who need to choose
or decide to change their major. They may meet individually with a psychologist,
in a group and/or use an extensive array of online services on the webpage.
Mon., Aug. 25
Labor Day
Mon., Sept. 1
Veterans Day
Tues., Nov. 11
Veterans Day Observed
Tues., Nov. 11
Thanksgiving Break
Thu.-Sun., Nov. 27-30
Classes Resume
Mon., Dec. 1
Final instructional Day
Sun., Dec. 7
Final Examination Period
Mon.-Sun., Dec. 8-14
Commencement
Fri.-Sat., Dec. 12-13
Fall Semester Grades Due
Tues., Dec. 16
2015 Spring Semester
Day and Evening Classes Begin
Mon., Jan. 12
Martin Luther King Jr. Day
Mon., Jan 19
Testing is used to assess ADD/ADHD and learning disorder concerns to
help students identify their academic strengths and growth areas. National
standardization tests such as the ACT are administered. Additionally, be
sure to check out the CLEP Exam that gives students college credit.
Presidents Day Observance
Tues., Feb. 17
Spring Recess
Mon.-Sun., March 23-29
Classes Resume
Mon., March 30
Final instructional Day
Sun., May 3
For more information, please visit www.uakron.edu/counseling.
Final Examination Period
Mon.-Sun., May 4-10
Commencement
Fri.-Sun., May 8-10
Spring Semester Grades Due
Tues., May 12
Law School Commencement
Sun., May 17
Office of International Programs
Education Abroad
Students at The University of Akron have a wide variety of education abroad
program options in almost any academic field and geographic location,
including exchanges, faculty-directed programs, internships, servicelearning programs and programs through outside partners. Program
durations vary from a few weeks to a full academic year. Scholarship
and grant information is available. Planning ahead helps the student
to determine the best fit academically, personally and financially.
Potential benefits of education abroad are many and varied. Students may
develop greater independence and self-awareness, gain an alternate view on
their chosen subject and develop intercultural skills coveted by employers.
Polsky 483
www.uakron.edu/oip/studyabroad
(330) 972-6349
28
Day and Evening Classes Begin
University of Akron
2015 Summer Intersession
Day and Evening Classes Begin for Intersession
Mon., May 18
Memorial Day
Mon., May 25
Final Instruction Day for Intersession
Sun., June 7
2015 Summer Session I
Day and Evening Classes Begin for First
5-week (5WI) and 8-week (8W) Terms
Mon., June 8
Independence Day
Fri., July 4
Final Instructional Day for First 5-week (5WI)
Sun., July 12
Final Instruction Day for 8-week (8W)
Sun., Aug. 2
2015 Summer Session II
Day and Evening Classes Begin for
Second 5-week (5WII) Term
Mon., July 13
Final Instructional Day for Second 5-week (5WII)
Sun., Aug. 16
Final Instruction Day for 8-week (8W)
Sun., Aug. 2
Commencement
Sat., Aug. 15
Summer Grades Due
Tues., Aug. 18
www.universityparent.com/uakron
29
RESOURCES
Helpful Phone
Numbers
DEPARTMENT
PHONE
Summit College
(330) 972-7220
Undergraduate Admissions
(330) 972-7100
Career Center
(330) 972-7747
Counseling Center
(330) 972-7082
Financial Aid
(330) 972-7032
Cashiers
(330) 972-7219
New Student Orientation
(330) 972-2622
University Registrar
(330) 972-8300
Zip Card Office
(330) 972-5637
Dean’s Office
(330) 972-7066
Off Campus Student Services
(330) 972-5500
Student Life
(330) 972-7866
Residence Life & Housing
(330) 972-7800
Campus Operator
(330) 972-7111
University Bookstore
(330) 972-7624
University Police
(330) 972-7123
Student Health Services
(330) 972-7808
Multicultural Development
(330) 972-6769
Helpful Websites
30
DEPARTMENT
WEBSITE
Center for Academic Advising
and Student Success
www.uakron.edu/advising
Admissions
www.uakron.edu/admissions
Career Center
www.uakron.edu/career
Computer Solutions
www.uakron.edu/computersolutions
Counseling Center
www.uakron.edu/counseling
Department of Residence
Life & Housing
www.uakron.edu/reslife
F.E.R.P.A.
www.uakron.edu/ogc/legal-policies-and-procedures/
privacy-practices-and-policies/ferpa.dot
Financial Aid
www.uakron.edu/finaid
First Year Experience
www.uakron.edu/nso/first-year-experience
Parking
www.uakron.edu/parking
Post-Secondary
www.uakron.edu/colleges/univcoll/PSEOP.php
Student Employment
www.uakron.edu/career/student-employment
Student Conduct and
Community Standards
www.uakron.edu/studentconduct/
Student Life
www.uakron.edu/studentlife/
Student Recreation and
Wellness Services
www.uakron.edu/srws
Tutoring
www.uakron.edu/tutoring
University Police
www3.uakron.edu/police
Zip Card Office
www.uakron.edu/zipcard
University of Akron
This Guide brought to you by these
Proud Supporters of Akron
Places to Live
22 Exchange
Crossroads Management Realty
Fir Hill Towers
Buchtel Place Town Homes
Executive Properties
University Commons
22 E. Exchange St.
Akron, OH 44308
(888) 819-1525
www.22exchange.com
Please see ad on inside front cover.
711 Carroll St.
Akron, OH 44304
(330) 990-4019
www.buchtel-townhomes.com
Please see ad on p. 4.
333 S. Main St. #702
Akron, OH 44308
(330) 762-4840
www.crossroadsmanagement.com
Please see ad on p. 26.
733 W. Market St.
Akron, OH 44303
(330) 376-9546
www.execprop.com
Please see ad on p. 20.
55 Fir Hill Dr.
Akron, OH 44304
(866) 777-4238
www.burtoncarol.com
Please see ad on p. 27.
600-602 Sherman St.
Akron, OH 44311
(330) 762-1074
www.bowerymgmt.com
Please see ad on p. 5.
Where to Shop
Campus Book & Supply
450 E. Exchange St.
Akron, OH 44304
(330) 762-2665
www.campusbookonline.com
Please see ad on p. 11.
Macy’s
2000 Brittain Road
Akron, OH 44310
(330) 633-0800
www.visitmacysusa.com
Please see ad on p. 23.
Student Services
Canal Place - Akron Self Storage
METRO RTA
CU Student Loans
Summit Federal Credit Union
520 S. Main St., Suite 2502
Akron, OH 44311
(330) 434-8656
www.canalplace.com
Please see ad on p. 3.
(866) 256-2207
www.custudentloans.org/
universityparent
Please see ad on p. 12.
4331 Lakepointe Corporate Dr.
Stow, OH 44224
(330) 945-4160
www.stow.hamptoninn.com
Please see ad on 24.
www.UniversityParent.com
100 Wheeler St.
Akron, OH 44311
(330) 376-3626
www.summitfcu.com
Please see ad on p. 13.
What to See and Do
Places to Stay
Hampton Inn Stow
University Parent E-News
631 S. Broadway
Akron, OH 44308
(330) 762-0341
www.akronmetro.org
Please see ad on p. 9.
Value Place Akron
3325 Fortuna Dr.
Akron, OH 44312
(330) 245-0600
www.valueplace.com
Please see ad on p. 11.
E. J. Thomas Hall‚ The
University of Akron
198 Hill St.
Akron, OH 44325
(330) 972-7570
www.uaevents.com
Please see ad on inside back cover.
For advertising inquiries, please contact UniversityParent at
(855) 947-4296 or email: [email protected]
www.universityparent.com/uakron