e-mail - Rivier University

Table of Contents
Welcome Letter ......................................................................................................... 4
Where is Rivier University? ..................................................................................... 5
Office of Global Engagement ......................................................................................... 6
Staff and Location ....................................................................................................... 6
Upon your arrival ....................................................................................................... 7 -19
a. Housing............................................................................................................... 7-8
b. Health Insurance ................................................................................................... 9
c. Climate ................................................................................................................ 10
d. Social/Cultural Norms ..................................................................................... 11-12
e. Banking ........................................................................................................... 12-13
f.
Cellphone Service ........................................................................................................... 13
g. Public Transportation ........................................................................................... 13
h. Driver’s License .............................................................................................................. 14
i. Shopping/Food/Worship/Entertainment ......................................................... 14-19
International Student Employment Benefits .................................................. 19-21
a. Off Campus Employment ........................................................................................... 19
1. CPT .................................................................................................................... 19
2. OPT ................................................................................................................... 20
b. On Campus Employment .................................................................................... 20
c. Taxes ................................................................................................................... 21
d. Social Security ................................................................................................... 21
2
Academic Policy ....................................................................................................... 22-25
a. Academic Honesty Policy .................................................................................... 22
b. Academic Standing .............................................................................................. 22
c. Statement of Attendance ............................................................................... 22-23
d. Habitual Non-attendance Policy ..................................................................... 23-24
e. Statement of Classroom Behavior ....................................................................... 24
f. Statement on Student Use of Electronic Devices in the Classroom .................... 24
g. Grade Points ........................................................................................................ 25
On campus Resources ............................................................................................. 26-27
3
Greetings, friend!
Welcome to Rivier University!
We are delighted that you chose to join our university.
This “Welcome Guide” is designed to assist you with a smooth transition to a new
environment as well as to provide guidance while adjusting to life in the United States.
Being new can be overwhelming, but with an open mind and a willingness to engage
and learn the culture, you will have a wonderful experience. The Rivier University
community is welcoming.
Take advantage of the programs offered to you such as Global Friends Without Borders
(GFWB) and the F1 Circle: What’s UP? GFWB gives you an opportunity to be paired
with an American student, staff or faculty mentor. You are able to build friendships, and
learn and understand the American culture, while also sharing yours with your mentor.
The F1 Circle: What’s UP? program encourages continuous communication and
building of community relationships. International students gather for a casual
conversation, an update of how everyone is doing, sharing concerns, and an
opportunity to meet a speaker who provides available to you.
The International Student Services at the Office of Global Engagement provides
comprehensive F1 immigration advising and resources for concerns related to personal,
social and cultural norms. We are here to help you, feel free to contact us if you need
any assistance.
May the time you spend with us not only help you achieve your academic goals but may
it transform your heart and mind as you experience the rich culture this university and
the United States has to offer.
Have a wonderful experience, we wish you all the best!
Office of Global Engagement Team
4
Where is Rivier University?
Nashua and Rivier University
Nashua, New Hampshire, U.S.A.
Our town, as described by the city’s website as: “Nashua, the Gate City”, is the second
largest city in New Hampshire and is the center of a diverse and dynamic region of
more than 175,000 people. The combination of an excellent quality of life and proximity
to the White Mountains, the seacoast, and Boston makes Nashua an attractive growth
center for New England.
“We are committed to supporting a climate for families to thrive, children to learn,
businesses to succeed, and visitors to stay.”
For more information about Nashua, NH please visit www.gonashua.gov
5
Office of Global Engagement:
Staff and Location
Located in Memorial Hall (Number 12 on map) Room 120
Office of Global Engagement Staff:
Contact Information:
(603) 897-8782
[email protected]
MEET THE OFFICE OF GLOBAL ENGAGEMENT TEAM
Dr. Mark Meehan
AVP for Global Engagement
Associate Professor of History and Education
Extension 8780 [email protected]
Dey Barriga
Senior Associate for Global Engagement
International Student Advisor
Principal Designated School Office, SEVIS
Extension 8781 [email protected]
6
Upon your arrival:
a. Housing
On-Campus Housing
1. Visit the Rivier University Student Life website at www.rivier.edu
2. Please email Paula Randazza at [email protected] to reserve a room and
inquire about the earliest accommodation date.
Price Range: http://www.rivier.edu/about.aspx?menu=119&id=1042
Off-Campus Housing:
It is strongly recommended that you make your housing arrangements before you
depart your country. This is your responsibility. Below are resources for off
campus housing:
Inquire and apply online with Bay Ridge Apartments, Royal Crest Apartments, or Forest
Ridge Apartments. Apartments can be shared with friends.
§
Bay Ridge Apartments
www.thebayridgeapts.com
Apt #
Beds
Price / Month
Apt 12CHDI
2 bed
Apt 22CHDI
2 bed
Apt 34BAYG
2 bed
Apt 08CHDF
2 bed
Apt 32BAYL
2 bed
*terms and conditions apply
$1230
$1232
$1280
$1335
$1345
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§
Royal Crest Apartments
www.royalcrestnashua.com
Apt #
Beds
Price / Month
Apt 046-02
1 bed
Apt 077-08
1 bed
Apt 044-05
1 bed
Apt 072-11
2 bed
Apt 066-07
2 bed
*terms and conditions apply
§
$968
$999
$999
$1103
$1103
Forest Ridge Apartments
www.movetoforestridge.com
*One Bedroom – $1025.00
*Two Bedrooms – $1160.00
§
Other Options
www.apartmentguide.com/apartments/New-Hampshire
Temporary Housing
If you wish to stay in a temporary place, there are options discounted to Rivier Students.
Holiday Inn
www.holidayinn.com
9 Northeastern Blvd, Nashua ·
(603) 888-1551
Cost: $89.00 daily plus tax.
Radisson Hotel
www.radisson.com
11 Tara Blvd, Nashua
(603) 888-9970
Cost: $79.00 daily plus tax
NOTE: The off campus housing resources are
not affiliated with Rivier University. It is your
responsibility to learn the terms and agreement
of your lease.
If checking in hotels for the first time, please
secure your belongings (travel and financial
documents). Do not let any stranger in your
room. If in an emergency, dial 9-1-1 (identify
yourself, your location and the situation calmly).
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b. Health Insurance
*Health insurance is mandatory for all F1 students. You will be required to
present a proof of insurance at the immigration check in with your ISA. You could
purchase the Rivier University Health Insurance policy or shop around for the best rate,
as long as you have appropriate medical coverage. Examples of coverage’s you want
to make sure are covered:
•
Medical Coverage: This dollar amount sets the minimum limit of eligible medical
expenses that your insurance plan will pay. It can range anywhere from $50,000
worth of coverage to an unlimited amount.
•
Repatriation of Remains Repatriation of Remains, also known as the Return
of Mortal Remains: provides financial assistance in the event of death while
outside of your home country. This coverage will provide the proper planning,
logistics, and financial coverage for your family members.
•
Emergency Medical Evacuation: Another important aspect of international
student health insurance is emergency medical evacuation. This type of
coverage provides financial assistance in the event that the local facilities in
which you fall injured or ill do not have the capacity to give you proper care.
Source: http://www.internationalstudentinsurance.com/f1student/insurancerequirements-f1-visa.php
Below are resources for health insurance:
§
Lewer Agency
[email protected]
§
HTH
[email protected]
§
CISI
[email protected]
§
International Student Protection
http://www.intlstudentprotection.com/
§
ISO Insurance
http://www.isoa.org/
§
The Harbor Group
http://www.hginsurance.com/plus_international_overview_13.asp
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c. Climate
WINTER SPRING FALL When you arrive to Nashua, New Hampshire:
Please check in with your International Student Advisor, Dey Barriga at
[email protected] to schedule your immigration check-in.
Dey Barriga’s contact information:
603-897-8781 (phone)
[email protected] (email)
Arriving, Getting Settled:
New Hampshire Weather
According to the U.S. Weather Bureau, the average monthly temperature in Concord,
NH is:
§
January: 21 degrees F, -6 degrees C
§
February: 23 degrees F, -5 degrees C
§
March: 32 degrees F, 0 degrees C
§
April: 44 degrees F, 7 degrees C
§
May: 56 degrees F, 13 degrees C
Fall: September – December
§
June: 65 degrees F, 18 degrees C
Winter: December – March
§
July: 70 degrees F, 21 degrees C
Spring: March – June
§
August: 67 degrees F, 19 degrees C
Summer: June – August
§
September: 60 degrees F, 16 degrees C
§
October: 49 degrees F, 9 degrees C
§
November: 38 degrees F, 3 degrees C
§
December: 25 degrees F, -4 degrees C
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d. Social, Cultural Norms and Etiquette
Norms are behaviors that are deemed as appropriate and acceptable in a society.
These norms help us to understand, within a culture, how to act towards one another.
These behaviors vary from culture to culture and variance even occurs within a culture.
However, this list is a general guide to adjusting to what is socially acceptable ways to
act in American culture.
Timeliness & Punctuality: Americans are time-driven. It is common to see them
frequently checking the time and making specific appointments. Especially in New
England, the people go at a faster pace and are very concerned with being on time. It is
a sign of respect to be somewhere exactly when you say that you will, or even a few
minutes earlier. It is seen as rude and impolite to be late. If being late occurs, it’s
important to inform the person you are meeting that you will be late. Students are
expected to be on time for class and for appointments. Your grade may be affected
negatively if you are late multiple times.
Greeting & Smiling: In American, it is not uncommon to smile at strangers and even say
“hello, how are you?” It may seem superficial, but it is normal and friendly. Sometimes
this may lead to a conversation, but most of the time it is just something that people do
in passing. Smiling or a “hello” does not mean that a person is flirting, requesting an
advance towards them, or even considering you a friend. If someone looks directly at an
American and smiles, they will very likely return the glance and smile back. When
meeting someone new, it is polite to shake their hand and make eye contact or nod your
head.
Small Talk: Small talk is talk about simple, everyday topics. Americans may do this
while waiting at a bus stop with strangers, with others in their classroom, or even with
friends. There are both appropriate and inappropriate topics to discuss.
Topics that are often safe to discuss: The weather, one's commuting experience and
cars, classes and jobs, sports, music, movies, fashion, shopping, and clothes
Topics that are considered rude: Money, how much one earns, family, religion, weight,
age (if a person is older than 30)
Eating: Most foods are not eaten with the hands; utensils are used. There are some
exceptions such as hamburgers, hot dogs, and French fries. It is polite to chew with
your mouth closed; we do not show the food we are chewing or talk with food in our
mouths.
Personal Space: This is a very important social norm. Unlike countries with a higher
population density, Americans feel the need for personal space. We think of it as having
our own bubble surrounding us. When you are speaking to a person, it is a good
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general rule to be about an arm’s length away, or 18 inches. If people feel that their
personal space is being violated, they may feel uncomfortable or even threatened.
Eye Contact: It is polite to make eye contact when you are speaking with someone. If
you do not, the person may think that you are uninterested. However, it is important not
to stare. Staring is considered incredibly rude. When a person holds their gaze on a
stranger for longer than a few seconds, the person may feel uncomfortable; this is not
considered polite and some people may even react negatively.
Bodily Functions: One should not pick their nose in public or scratch at their private
parts. These behaviors may be greeted with looks because it is not socially acceptable.
Also, when sneezing, it is important to sneeze into your elbow, a tissue, or your sleeve.
It is also not polite to pass gas in public or to spit in front of others.
Courtesy: In America, we frequently use the words “please” and “thank you.” It is kind
and often, but not always, the way that you treat a stranger determines the way that
they treat you.
More Etiquette Resources:
http://www.etiquettescholar.com/index.html
e. Banking
While in the United States, you will need to manage your finances, and a bank checking
account helps you do that. Many banks will provide special services or accounts for
students. There are various banks in the Nashua area. A checking account in the U.S.
enables you to have a place where you can deposit money that you receive which may
be paid to you by check or deposited directly into your checking account. It enables you
to spend money too—by writing checks, using a check card or going online to pay bills
or to make purchases. A checking account will also provide you with an accurate,
monthly record of your finances—what was deposited and what was spent or
withdrawn. Plus, it is safer than carrying cash and more efficient than purchasing money
orders.
Visit banks in person carrying your passport and student ID. Compare the services and
costs of several banks before choosing one.
Local banks:
§
Bank of America
Multiple Locations in Nashua:
157 Main St Nashua, NH – 1 (800) 432-1000
310 Daniel Webster Hwy, Nashua, NH
370 Amherst St, Nashua NH
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f.
§
Citizens Bank
238 Main St. Nashua, NH – (603) 594-7700
§
St. Mary’s
14 Spruce St Nashua, NH – (603) 669-4600
§
TD Bank
191Main St, Nashua, NH (603) 577-5040
Cell Service
Cell Service: While some students may come to the U.S. with a cell phone from their
home country, many students elect to switch to a U.S. carrier since it will be more
affordable and convenient. There are a number of providers in the area (Metro PCS,
Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, and Sprint) that provide cellular phone service.
Electronics: If you plan on bringing any electrical appliances or computer equipment,
please remember that the electrical requirements in the USA are 110V and require two
flat-pronged plugs. Adapters can be found in local stores. However, appliances such as
hair dryers, alarm clock, etc. can be purchased locally for not much more than the cost
of the required adapters.
g. Public Transportation
GETTING TO CAMPUS
U-PASS: Rivier University students, staff, and faculty can use Nashua Transit busses
for free! Simply present your Rivier ID card to the transit driver when you board the bus.
The pass is valid to use at all times the bus is running and is available to take you to
any of the stops in Nashua. There's a stop conveniently located in front of the Regina
Library.
Contact Nashua Transit at (603) 880-0100 for times and details of transit service;
Contact the Office of Student Activities at (603) 897-8254 or e-mail
[email protected] for questions about U-PASS.
Nashua Transit System City Bus Map Schedules
For more information visit: www.gonashua.com/
NTS HOURS OF OPERATION
Monday - Friday 6:00am - 10:45pm
Saturday 9:00am - 10:45pm
TRANSIT CENTER
Monday - Friday 8:00am - 5:00pm
Reach Boston: http://www.bostonexpressbus.com/
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h. Driver License Application Requirements:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
F1 Visa
Valid I-20 form
Valid Passport
Valid I-94 form
Valid home country driver license with “LMV” License of Motor Vehicles
Letter from International Student Advisor
SSN card or denial letter
If you do not have proof of previous vehicle operation, a valid home country driver
license or valid U.S. driver license, you will be required to complete approved driver
education course.
•
•
•
You must first submit all required documents to the Non-U.S. Citizen Driver
License Officer
Upon the approval of the documents go to the Bureau of Driver Licensing to
apply for a driver license
F-1’s CAN ONLY APPLY FOR A DRIVER LICENSE AT THE CONCORD
OFFICE
You must bring the required documents to:
Department of Safety
Division of Motor Vehicles
23 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03305
i. Shopping / Food / Worship / Entertainment
Food
§
Priya Indian Cuisine
1270 Westford St, Lowell, MA 01851
(978) 454-7777
§
India Palace Restaurant
493 Amherst St #6, Nashua, NH 03063
(603) 891-1140
§
Food and Fashion of India
483 Amherst St, Nashua, NH 03063
(603) 595-0022
14
§
Kurry Masala Express
112 D W Highway Suite 4, Nashua, NH 03060
(603) 888-5552
§
Cafe India Restaurant and Bar
6 Elm St, Nashua, NH 03060
(603) 882-8100
§
Udupi Indian Restaurant
295 Daniel Webster Hwy 6C & 6D, Nashua, NH 03060
(603) 888-6003
§
Kashmir Indian Cuisine
396 S Broadway, Salem, New Hampshire 03079
(603) 898-3455
Places of Worship
Hindu
§
Hindu Temple of NH
www.hindutemplenh.org
525 Broad St
Nashua, NH
(603) 598-4864
§
New England Shirdi Sai Parivaar
www.nessp.org
290 Littleton Road, Unit #4, Chelmsford, MA 01824
(978) 528 1985 - Email: [email protected]
§
Sri Lakshmi Temple
www.srilakshmi.org
117 Waverly St
Ashland, MA
(508) 881-5775
§
Shrinathji Haveli
www.vyoboston.org
664 Lakeview Avenue,
15
Lowell, MA 01851
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 978-455-1159, 978-455-2007
Parking: 740 Aiken Street, Lowell, MA
Buddhist
§
Aryaloka Buddhist Center
www.aryaloka.org
14 Heartwood Cir
Newmarket, NH
(603) 659-5456
§
Unitarian Universalist Church of Nashua
Nashua Buddhist Meditation Group
http://www.uunashua.org/adultre/buddhist.shtml
58 Lowell St, Nashua, NH 03064, phone 603 882-1091
Muslim
§
Issa Islamic Society
42 Dover Point Rd Dover, NH 03820
(603) 750-4060
§
Islamic Society of Greater Manchester
www.isgm.net
228 Maple St
Manchester, NH
(603) 644-0939
Entertainment / Pleasures / Things to do
Movies:
§
Chunky's Cinema Pub
151 Coliseum Ave
Nashua, NH
(603) 880-8055
16
§
AMC Tyngsboro 12
440 Middlesex Road
Tyngsboro, MA 01879
§
Red Box
Red Boxes are red kiosks located all over the city. You can rent movies for
$2.00 a night.
Library:
•
Nashua Public Library*
2 Court Street, Nashua NH 03060
(603) 589-4600
http://www.nashualibrary.org/
*Membership benefits:
§
Free events monthly (see Event Calendar)… Examples include cupcake decorating,
book clubs, spiritual meetings, learning languages, etc.
§
Computers available for use, you can rent books, movies, Cd’s, etc.
§
Discounted or free museum passes (Some examples of places: Boston Museum of
Science, Boston Aquarium, Manchester Currier Museum of Art)
Barbers/Hair Salons:
•
Supercuts
300 Main St, Nashua, NH
(603) 594-8545
•
Supercuts
274 Daniel Webster Hwy, Nashua, NH
Webster Square
(603) 891-4188
•
Cost Cutters
290 Daniel Webster Hwy, Nashua, NH
(603) 888-7017
•
Fancy Nancys' Elite Hair Designers
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295 Daniel Webster Hwy, Nashua, NH
(603) 891-0202
Hospitals/Urgent Care:
•
Southern New Hampshire Medical Center
8 Prospect St, Nashua, NH 03060
(603) 577-2000
St. Joseph Hospital
•
172 Kinsley St, Nashua, NH 03060
(603) 882-3000
•
Immediate Care of Southern NH
29 Northwest Blvd
Nashua, NH
(603) 577-2273
•
Health Stop
228 Daniel Webster Hwy
Nashua, NH
(603) 888-9200
*If you need to see a doctor, please contact your ISA for assistance. In case of medical
emergency, dial 9-1-1. State your name, location, and speak slowly while describing your
emergency.
International Student Employment Benefits :
a. OFF CAMPUS EMPLOYMENT
1. Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
Curricular practical training (CPT) refers to training that is an integral part of the existing
curriculum. CPT may be granted by the International Student Advisor/Principal School
Official in increments of no more than one year. Engaging in CPT for more than one
year may affect your eligibility to apply for Optional Practical Training. CPT may also be
approved for part-time 20 hours during the semester or over 20 hours when school is
not in session.
Rivier University Curricular Practical Training requirements:
•
Application for the appropriate program must be completed and approved by the
department chairperson.
•
Department advisor’s recommendation form must be completed and approved by
the department chairperson.
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•
Copy of registration form or add/drop form completed by the department
•
Sponsoring employer’s offer letter of employment showing the title of the
internship position, number of hours offered, and the beginning and end date of
the training.
•
Note: F-1 students who wish to apply for CPT must check with the International
Student Advisor to determine eligibility before completing the above
requirements. He/she must have been lawfully registered full time and have
maintained F-1 status for at least one full academic year.
Working without proper authorization is a violation of your F1 status
2. Optional Practical Training (OPT)
Optional Practical Training (OPT) refers to practical training, which may take place
during or upon completion of the course of studies. Such temporary employment maybe
authorized in the following situations:
•
•
•
•
When school is not in session and the student is currently enrolled and intends to
register for the next semester.
While school is in session, provided that the practical training does not exceed 20
hours a week.
After completion of all course requirements for the degree (excluding thesis, if
applicable)
OPT is available for a total of 12 months of full-time employment. Employment
under OPT must be directly related to a student’s field of study. Any period or
increment of OPT will count toward the total 12 months. For example: part-time
OPT for 20 hours per week for a period of 6 months will be counted toward the
12 months allowed at a rate of half the time. This means 3 months will have been
used up of the total 12 months allowed. (6 months of employment x half time ½ =
3 months of full time employment)
b. On Campus Employment at Rivier University
An F-1 student may accept on-campus employment provided he/she is enrolled in a full
course of study and the employment does not displace a qualified U.S. resident. A
maximum of 20 hours per week during the semester is allowed. During summer
vacations and school breaks, full time (40 hrs) work is authorized. On-campus job
opportunities are published by the University’s Financial Aid Office during the school
year, and by the Human Resources Office in the summer. You must present to the
Financial Aid office documents such as your SEVIS Form I-20, passport, and social
security card when completing a Student Work Agreement.
NOTE: Please keep in mind that Rivier University’s on campus employment opportunities are offered to
the undergraduate students first. If the positions are not filled the Financial Aid office will open it to all
graduate students. That time gives you the opportunity to apply for any available position. Follow the
application process carefully.
19
c) Taxes
All F-1 students must comply with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) requirements by
April 15 of every year. F-1 students must file Form 8843 even if they did not work during
the year. If a student has been employed, the student will receive a W-2 form from an
employer by January 30. Do not throw this form away, as it must be filed with the
appropriate income tax form, usually the 1040NREZ.
Forms 1040NREZ and IRS Publication 901 are available through the Internal
Revenue Service Website at www.irs.gov.
d) Social Security Number
A social security number is a tax identification number. It is required for employment
purposes. As an F-1, you are eligible to apply for a social security number upon
submission of the following requirements:
§ Passport
§ Print a copy of your I94
§ SEVIS I-20 Form
§ Rivier University ID
§ A letter from the International Student Advisor, you must be active on SEVIS,
meaning that you must be registered full-time for the current semester (please
bring your registration form and a receipt of tuition fee payment).
§ On campus employment offer, it is often referred to as the Rivier University
Student Work Agreement.
You must apply in person, bringing all the above mentioned requirements, to the Social
Security Administration Office. The office is located at 175 Amherst Street, Nashua, NH
03060.
NOTE: If you do not intend to work, a social security number is not necessary. It is
strongly recommended that you keep your SSN card upon receipt and try to
MEMORIZE the designated number.
Academic Policy
a.
Academic Honesty Policy
Plagiarism and cheating are serious breaches of academic honesty. In general,
plagiarism is defined as the presentation of someone else’s work in whatever form:
20
copyrighted material, notes, film, art work, reports, statistics, bibliographies, and the like,
as one’s own, and failing to acknowledge the true source. Quoting word-for-word, or
almost so, or using the argumentation of another source without acknowledging this
dependence also constitutes plagiarism. Cheating is defined as the giving or attempting
to give or to receive unauthorized information or assistance during an examination or in
completing an assigned project. Submission of a single work for two separate courses
without the permission of the instructors involved is also a form of cheating.
If students are unsure whether a specific course of action would constitute plagiarism or
cheating, they should consult with their instructor in advance.
Penalties for plagiarism and cheating vary with the degree of the offense and may take
the form of the following academic sanctions:
•
the grade of F for the work in question;
•
the grade of F for the course;
•
notification of the department chair and/or Assistant Vice President for Academic
Affairs of the misconduct of the student;
•
Recommendations that the student be suspended or dismissed from the University.
b. Academic Standing
To remain in good standing a student must maintain an average of C (2.0) each
semester. A cumulative average of C is the minimum requirement for graduation.
Further, a C (2.0) average in one’s major field is mandatory in all departments; in some,
the required average is higher. Nursing majors should refer to “Progression/Retention”
in the department section. Students who fail a required course must repeat the course
successfully. Authorization from the Assistant Vice President for Academic Affairs of the
University is required to make up a course at another university. This permission is
seldom given for courses in the student’s field of concentration. Only a grade of C (2.0)
or better will be accepted in transfer from another university. A failed course repeated at
another institution will not affect the GPA
c.
Statement on Attendance
The classroom is the heart of the educational experience at Rivier University because it
provides, uniquely, a formal setting for the important exchanges among faculty and
students. Regular and punctual attendance at all classes, essential for maximum
academic achievement, is a major responsibility of Rivier University students. Failure to
attend and contribute to the classroom environment significantly and demonstrably
reduces the quality of the educational experience for everyone in the classroom. As a
result, absences almost always impact the quality of performance.
As part of its commitment to a quality educational experience for all members of the
Rivier community, the University formally requires specific attendance policies to be
21
developed by its professors and reviewed by the Division Head and the Assistant Vice
President for Academic Affairs. Any attendance policy used by an individual professor
as a criterion for evaluation must be specified in the course syllabus and presented to
students during the first week of classes. These policies can be found in respective
course syllabi, and may include reasonable penalties and sanctions for excessive
absences.
In the event of prolonged illness, accident, or similar emergency, it is the
responsibility of the student to notify both the professor and the Office of
Academic Administration and copy the International Student Advisor. Students
must remember that it is always their responsibility to make up the work they may have
missed during an absence from class. Students are directed to confer with their
professors when their absences jeopardize satisfactory progress. Whenever a professor
is absent without notification, students are expected to wait fifteen minutes before
leaving and to sign an Attendance List, which a class member delivers to the Office of
the Registrar.
Instructors are required to record attendance and alert the Registrar when a student
fails to attend the equivalent of two weeks of courses (two absences for a course
meeting once a week, four absences for a course meeting twice a week, six absences
for a course meeting three times a week). The student will then be alerted that he/she is
in danger of falling under the ‘habitual Non-attendance Policy” (see below).
d. Habitual Non-attendance Policy
Habitual nonattendance is defined as an absence in any course (for any reason
whatsoever) equating to three full weeks of missed class sessions (three absences for a
course meeting once a week, 6 absences for a course meeting twice a week, 9
absences for a course meeting three times a week).
Faculty members will notify the Office of Academic Advising when a student has
reached the habitual nonattendance criteria for their course(s). The Office of the
Academic Administration, in collaboration with the student’s Academic Advisor, will then
attempt to resolve the issue of habitual nonattendance with the student. It is the
responsibility of the student to notify the Office of Academic Advising of any intention to
withdraw from a course or to withdraw from the University. If the student, however, has
not officially withdrawn from the course(s) by the University’s published last date to
withdraw from a course, the faculty member will assign a grade of F.
Resident students who have documented habitual nonattendance in one or more
classes may also be in jeopardy of violating the Resident Attendance Policy (refer to the
Student Handbook: https://www.rivier.edu/uploadedFiles/Rivier-University-StudentHandbook.pdf)
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Students who have attended no class sessions of a course or courses from which they
are registered by the end of the drop/add period will be dropped from each class not
attended. If a student never attended any courses during the drop/add period, the
student will be withdrawn from his/her full schedule of courses.
e.
Statement on Classroom Behavior
The classroom is the heart of the educational experience at Rivier University because it
provides a formal setting for important exchanges among students and faculty. Rivier
University affirms the rights of all students and their faculty to an environment that is
conducive to teaching and learning. Therefore, the University does not condone
behavior that, in the judgment of the instructor and/or the University, interrupts,
obstructs, or inhibits the teaching and learning process. Disruptive behavior may
include, but is not limited to, verbal attacks, intimidating shouting, inappropriate
gestures, attending class under the influence of drugs or alcohol, unauthorized use of
electronic devices, consistently coming to class late or leaving early, sleeping during
class, threatening or harassing comments, bullying, profanity, incessantly whispering/
talking in class, or other similarly intrusive or disrespectful behavior. Disruptive behavior
may also include other behavior that appears attention seeking in nature, monopolizing
of class time, interrupting the instructor or classmates, or creating an uncomfortable
class environment for other students. Disruptive behavior may result in sanctions, up to
and including immediate removal from the University.
f.
Statement on Student Use of Electronic Devices in the Classroom
Regarding the use of electronic devices (such as cell phones, PDAs, pagers,
MP3/iPods, laptops, etc.), students may not use these or other electronic devices during
class unless permitted by the course instructor. If use of these devices is permitted by
the instructor, they are to be used for appropriate class activities only. If a learning
disability is substantiated to require the use of one or more of these items, the student
must contact the Office of Disability Services (897-8497), which will then work with the
student and the course instructor as appropriate to facilitate whatever determination is
reached regarding reasonable accommodations. Augmentative communication devices
are excluded from this policy (please refer to the Student Handbook policy on disability
regarding these). If an emergency situation requires students to leave a cell phone on,
they should inform the course instructor at the beginning of the class and leave the
phone in a non-intrusive mode so as not to disrupt the class.
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g. Grades - Grade Points
Grades are based on definite published criteria available in the Office of the Registrar.
Letters are used to indicate grades; each is assigned a given value in grade points per
semester hour.
Excellence
A 100-93 4.00 grade points
D+ 69-67 1.33 grade points
A- 92-90 3.67 grade points
D 66-63 1.00 grade points
High Achievement
Insufficient Achievement
B+ 89-87 3.33 grade points
F (62 and below) 0.00 grade points
B 86-83 3.00 grade points
Achievement
B- 82-80 2.67 grade points
C+ 79-77 2.33 grade points
C 76-73 2.00 grade points
Low Achievement
C- 72-70 1.67 grade points
Note : If you have been accepted with Probation, make sure your GPA is not lower than 3.0 – 3.5.
For all other students below 3.0 GPA means probation.
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On Campus Resources
Office
Academic
Advising
Services
Help students plan their course of study.
Help evaluate core requirements.
Choose courses based on major programs
of study.
Assist with any scheduling or coursework
issues.
Location + Hours
Sylvia Trotter Hall
Online payments available from Checking
or Savings
https://netpay.higherone.com/NetPay/Prod
ucts/Rivier/Rivier_Main/Academic+Affairs/
717/Gateway.aspx
Mail check payments to Rivier University,
Attn: Business Office, 420 South Main
Street, Nashua, NH 03060
Pay in person at the Business Office or by
phone in a credit card payment
Individual assistance with career or major
planning internship options, job search
information, etc
Adrienne Hall
1st Floor
9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Monday – Friday
Call or e-mail to
schedule an
appointment
(603) 897-8246
Counseling
Center
Counseling and support to students facing
a range of issues and challenges
Individual and group counseling sessions
9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Monday – Friday
Disability
Services
Help students with documented disabilities
secure the accommodations they need to
succeed academically
Sylvia Trottier Hall,
Room 310
Call or Drop-in to
schedule an
appointment
(603) 897-8251
Darcy Murphy
(603) 897-8650
Business
Office
Career
Development
Center
Information
Technology
Public Safety
Regina
Library
Obtain Rivier e-mail account
General Computing Lab
Network Connection in Residence Halls
Emergency Notification System
Online Training Center to support Office
2007 & 2010, Microsoft Word, Outlook,
PowerPoint, Access, and Internet Explorer
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Issue Parking Permits
Issue University ID’s
Motor Vehicle Lockouts
Motor Vehicle Jumpstarts
Missing Property
Emergency Medical Assistance
Escort Service
Lost & Found
Reporting a crime
Circulation/Checkout Services
Online Library Tutorials
Research Services
Interlibrary Loan
Group Study Rooms
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8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Mon – Fri
8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Monday – Friday
Sylvia Trottier Hall,
1st Floor
STH- Room 106
Mon - Thursday
7:00am - 11:00pm
Dion Center
1st floor
Officer on duty:
24 hours a day/7 days
a week
2 Clement Street
Contact
Business
Dr. Amir Toosi
(603) 897-8490
Computer Science
Dr. Vladimir Riabov
(603) 897-8613
Last name begins
with A-G: (603 )8978214
Last name begins
with H-R:
(603) 897-8675
Last name begins
with S-Z:
(603 )897-8488
Hotline (603) 8978469
(603) 897-8888
(603) 888-1666
24 hour monitored
phone line
Regina Library Hours:
Call: (603) 897-8256
Text: (603) 2443167
Mon – Thurs: 8:00
Chat or e-mail with a
Quiet study spaces
Computers and printers available for
patron use
IT/Computer tutorial online
Drop-in Library Instruction Sessions
Cho Educational Resource Center (ERC)
in the
Benoit Education Center (2nd floor)
Official Transcripts
FERPA Student Consent Forms
Enrollment Verifications
Final Exam Schedules
Graduation (Commencement) Information
a.m. – Midnight
Friday: 8:00 a.m. –
8:00 p.m.
Saturday: 10:00 a.m.
– 6:00 p.m.
Sunday: 11:00 a.m. –
11:00 p.m.
Librarian through the
library website –
click on the “Need
Help?” button
Adrienne Hall Room
213
(603) 897-8213
Writing and
Resource
Center
Provides professional and peer tutoring
assistance to students
Provides academic support for students
working on writing tasks in courses across
the curriculum writing
Campus
Ministry
Serves the spiritual, social and personal
needs of the campus community,
providing opportunities where values are
challenged and faith is affirmed
Drop-in hours:
Monday: 9-10, 5-7
Tuesdays: 9-11, 1:302:30, 5-7
Wednesday: 9-10, 5-7
Thursday: 9-10, 5-7
Friday: 9-11, 1-2
Dion Center
1st Floor
Registrar’s
Office
8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Monday- Friday
8:00 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Monday – Friday
Multi-Cultural
Affairs
Health &
Fitness
Center
Providing a supportive network for minority
students on campus as well as the
minority citizens in the southern New
Hampshire area
Provide fitness room orientations to new
students, faculty and staff
Dion Center
st
1 Floor
(603) 897-8580
(603) 897-8581
For more
information,
please call or email
Mary Jane Silvia
(603) 897-8577
[email protected]
(603) 897-8676
8:30-5:00
Monday- Friday
Mendel Hall. Molloy
Hall. Muldoon Fitness
Centre. Open during
the academic year
from Monday through
Friday.
Have a fantastic Journey with us!
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