8/5/2003
The Class of 2007, some 6,850 strong, is academically stronger than last year's, more involved in leadership activities and the arts, and comes to campus full of life experiences - from meeting the president of the United States to climbing mountains, or volunteering in homeless shelters, hospices and in Third World countries.
"We have several class presidents, a significant number of valedictorians, and in general, a number of students who have completed advanced placement courses," says Jim Cotter, senior associate director of admissions. "This class has the potential of being more geographically diverse, with students admitted from more than 60 countries."
Also, a greater number of students applied to MSU online, which suggests more members of this class are technologically advanced, Cotter notes.
For additional information, contact Cotter at (517) 355-0333 or visit the Web at admissions.msu.edu
'Aught 6' class stats indicate academics, living environments priorities
In January 2003, first-time freshmen in the class of 2006 were surveyed about their in- and out-of-class experiences - everything from roommates and living communities to self-reflection and making academics a priority.
"After the first semester, almost two-thirds reported they had the best time of their lives," says Nancy Lange, assistant director in the Department of Residence Life. "And it isn't all about good times and gaining self-awareness. In the same survey, 86 percent of the freshmen reported they had kept up to date on classes and assignments; 71 percent made learning and academics their first priority; 34 percent used academic support services on campus; and 78 percent lived in environments that supported their academic goals."
The First-Time Freshman Follow-Up Survey-January 2003 is one of the many projects of the Department of Residence Life's Research, Assessment and Technology office. The department serves the on-campus students of MSU through its 321 undergraduate staff, 39 graduate student assistant directors and 35 full-time professional staff.
For additional information, contact Nancy Lange at (517) 432-2507 or visit the Web at reslife.msu.edu
New Places...
Students moving in to their MSU residence halls on Wednesday, Aug. 20, will spend their first night getting to know their fellow classmates at hall meetings.
The official Fall Welcome begins with "A World University Welcome" at 9:30 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 21, in the Great Hall of the Wharton Center. A "bookend" event to commencement, the new students will be officially welcomed to the MSU learning community by Interim President Lou Anna K. Simon and representatives of MSU's undergraduate degree-granting colleges and faculty, dressed in academic regalia.
Half of the members of the new class will attend this program, while the other half will attend classroom engagement sessions in the morning. They'll switch venues in the afternoon. The second World University Welcome ceremony will be held at 1:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 21, in the Great Hall
...New Faces
Following each of the official welcome ceremonies students will take in a performance of "Faces of America," a one-person production that explores the issue of diversity in contemporary society, in which the actor portrays and relates stories of individuals representing a particular ethnic or cultural background.
These performances will be held in the Great Hall at approximately 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
In its sixth season, "Faces of America" has been performed at hundreds of colleges and universities, for a variety of corporations, and at the United Nations as part of the 51st and 52nd annual United Nations Days.
"The 'Faces of America' presentation is intended to build on the orientation that was received during the academic orientation program and shows students in a dramatic fashion the importance of, and some of the tools needed to be successful in a diverse environment," said Lee June, assistant provost and vice president for student affairs and services. "The activities and classroom engagement sessions, and an array of other activities, are designed to quickly familiarize students with opportunities available and skills needed to be academically and personally successful at MSU.
" For more information, contact June at (517) 355-2264, or John Jobson, assistant director, Department of Student Life, at (517) 355-8286, or visit the Web at studentlife.msu.edu
Answering an age-old question - why required courses?
Intellectual curiosity levels of college students may vary, but they all ask one basic question - why is there a need to take required course to graduate?
MSU's core curriculum classes in integrative studies in the social, behavioral and economical sciences, as well as biological sciences, composition, and mathematics, give students an opportunity to practice and develop basic skills to help them function in a global society.
"Core classes are settings for students of diverse backgrounds and majors to come together in a common learning environment for intellectual exploring, problem solving, research, learning team work and other basic skills that establish a base for lifelong learning," says Doug Noverr, chairperson of the Department of Writing, Rhetoric and American Culture. "We're finding that it's becoming more and more critical to employers that students have these skills when they enter the work force."
For more information, contact Noverr at (517) 355-2400, or via e-mail at noverr@msu.edu
MSU freshmen will take part in this session or choose from among others, including tips for success in math courses, listening and note taking, how writing can prepare students for the future, and academic integrity on Thursday, Aug. 21, in Bessey Hall.
For more information on the classroom engagement sessions, contact John Jobson, assistant director, Department of Student Life, at (517) 355-8286, or visit the Web at studentlife.msu.edu
I'm eager to learn from the 'best of the best' - how can I do that?
About 125 of MSU's first-year students have the chance to work with professors early on in their college careers through the Honors College's Professorial Assistantship (PA) Program - in the lab, in the field and in the library - to gain valuable knowledge they can use throughout their college careers and beyond. The undergraduate research program accepts students who are admissible to the Honors College and who have standardized test scores that place them in the top 1 percent in the nation.
"MSU professors are anxious to mentor these top students and share information, knowledge and expertise," says Bess German, assistant director of the Honors College. "Students gain valuable scholarly and life experience through this early foray into research. They use the PA program as a springboard to explore an academic discipline in-depth, launch independent research projects and begin their own academic careers. This unique program helps the Honors College and MSU attract exceptional students from around the country."
The PA program is sponsored by the MSU Honors College. Hundreds of students have participated in the program. PA program participants have gone on to top graduate schools and successful careers in every field.
For more information, contact Bess German or Sandra Dean at 517/355-2326 or visit the Web at msu.edu/unit/honcoll
Seminar series to include Freshman Seminars Abroad
A new program gives incoming freshmen a unique opportunity to gain international experience, develop an appreciation of the knowledge and skills required to become successful players in a global economy, and to get an initial taste of the study abroad experience.
"MSU's 'Freshman Seminars Abroad' allow first-year students to explore specific topics in small, intimate learning environments," says Kathleen Fairfax, Office of Study Abroad director. "Designed to help freshmen develop intellectual curiosity, acquire academic skills, earn academic credit, and learn about resources available to them at MSU, they also provide the opportunity to get to know faculty members and other students well."
The first such international opportunity for first-year students took place in Quebec City, Canada, from July 24 to Aug. 4. Thirty-five freshmen were exposed to college-level academic expectations and skills, while exploring a culturally, politically and historically fascinating region close to home.
MSU's study abroad program is currently ranked the largest of any single-campus university in the nation based on student participation. MSU offers more than 190 options in more than 60 countries on all continents.
For more information, contact Inge Steglitz, Office of Study Abroad assistant director, at (517) 432-2685, or visit studyabroad.msu.edu
Working together, growing together in living-learning communities
MSU's living-learning residential options allow students who share similar academic interests or an interest in a multicultural living experience to live together in designated residence halls or on a particular hall floor. Many of these living-learning options allow for students to attend classes with the same group of peers with whom they share living space in the residence hall.
"Participating in a living-learning option allows a student to be part of a community of peers, faculty and staff who share similar academic interests," says Jon Hoadley of Vermillion, S.D., a sophomore social relations major in James Madison College and women's studies major in the College of Arts and Letters.
"Living-learning communities make studying for classes convenient, and it also helped me find some friends I might not otherwise have met," says Hoadley, who lives in Case Hall. "Being around people who are energized about the same ideas you have makes it easier to achieve your goals."
For more information, contact Hoadley at (517) 355-4805, or visit the Web at admissions.msu.edu/Living-Learning_Programs.asp
Traditional, trendy cuisine an easy walk from anywhere on campus
Cuisine options for today's MSU students are both trendy and traditional. Dining halls, carry out, food courts, coffee shops and convenience stores abound. Finding just what hits the spot for dinner is no more than a five-minute walk from any spot on campus.
University Housing has five food service "zones" within the residence hall system, providing a wide variety of resident options. Within these zones, students can find units catering to their myriad wants and needs.
"Students have clearly told us they want to make some of their food choices themselves," says Bruce Haskell, food service coordinator for University Housing. "They like foods such as omelets or waffles cooked fresh and to order, and they don't mind waiting for their choices in 'cooked-to-order' station lines."
Food service staff score points with students when serving a variety of healthy choices such as stir-fry meals, salad bars and items tailored to personal choices such as low-fat vegetable wraps (hold the chicken, extra snow peas) and ethnic cuisine, Haskell says, but cheeseburgers, pizza, nachos and tacos still rule.
MSU has the largest single-campus residence hall system in the country, with an average of 14,500 students living in the halls during the academic year. Staff members prepare and serve, on average, 30,500 meals a day.
For more information, contact Haskell at (517) 353-1616, or visit the Web at hfs.msu.edu/uh/
Getting the skills before landing a job that pays the bills
First-year students in the Class of 2007 have plenty of time to think about the job market. What they need to concentrate on is obtaining and strengthening the skills they will need for both their academic and professional careers, says Phil Gardner, director of the Collegiate Employment Research Institute.
"Students should take time to explore their interests both in the classroom and through experiences available within the university community," adds Linda Gross, associate director of career development. "Competencies such as time management, learning to organize, establishing priorities, working in teams, developing leadership, communicating effectively, and understanding cultural and international perspectives on issues are essential in becoming a well-rounded student."
Career Services and Placement is involved in supporting freshman and sophomore career development seminars and courses, working with individual students on their career development, providing accessible information related to careers, and employment.
For more information, contact Gross at grossl@msu.edu, or visit the Web at csp.msu.edu
Answering the call of civic engagement
MSU students from all walks of life and all academic majors participate in service-learning and civic engagement projects that contribute to local, national or international communities.
Whether it's a one-day experience such as "Into the Streets" of Greater Lansing communities in October, a week-long "Alternative Spring Break" trip in March, or a semester-long experience at one of the more than 300 schools, hospitals, health care facilities, daycare centers, non-profit agencies, neighborhood centers, youth organizations, advocacy groups or government offices that partner with the Service Learning Center, students have their chance to make a difference.
"For students to willingly provide service in and for a community is mutually beneficial for the students and the agencies or organizations in which they serve," says Karen McKnight Casey, director of Service-Learning and Civic Engagement at MSU. "Targeted community needs are met. In return, students are given the opportunity to relate their contributions to their studies and other university-based experiences, allowing for real-world applications of learning, and the development of personal, professional, leadership and citizenship skills. Students achieve satisfaction in knowing that they have helped others."
For more information on service-learning and civic engagement programs, contact Casey at (517) 353-4400; or via e-mail at servlrn@msu.edu Visit the Web at: servicelearning.msu.edu
GETTING INTO THE 'SPARTAN SPIRIT' ACTIVITIES
THURSDAY, AUG. 21
There are numerous activities planned to help students meet their new classmates, including what is possibly the largest pep rally they will ever attend - 'Spartan Spirit' at the MSU Spartan Stadium.
At 6:30 p.m., Thursday, Aug. 21, Sparty, MSU coaches and officials, the Spartan Marching Band, the MSU Dance Team, and MSU faculty and administrators will welcome approximately 15,000 students, parents and guests to MSU.
"This event, the largest of all welcome activities, is designed to get students excited about becoming a Spartan," says Bev Vandenberg, alumni program assistant director at the MSU Alumni Association. "We want to plant the seed that students are both part of the MSU community, and also are citizens of the extended community."
For more information, contact Vandenberg at the MSU Alumni Association, at (517) 5-8314, or visit the Web at msualum.com
Also on Thursday, Aug. 21, students will get a "free ride" on Capital Area Transportation Authority (CATA) buses to visit various local merchants on the "Midnight Madness Shopping Spree," a chance for students to purchase those last-minute necessities to make their new residence hall rooms or apartments feel like home.
"MSU students are East Lansing residents when they are here and the community and students depend on each other for their shared success," says Rick Schaefer, associate director of student life. "Clearly, the local economy does benefit from the presence of students, and local businesses value the students as members of the community."
For more information, contact Cathy Neuman or Rick Schaefer in the Department of Student Life at (517) 355-8286, or visit the Web at studentlife.msu.edu
SATURDAY, AUG. 23
At 6 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 23, new students will have the chance to meet some 6,000 of their new friends, as well as listen to live entertainment, multiple DJ's, and check out food vendors at "Party @ the AUD."
Held at the MSU Auditorium, the event gives students the chance to sign up to participate in any of the more than 530 registered student organizations on campus.
"Representatives of clubs and organizations from academic to athletics to college to community service interests, or other social and cultural groups, student government or Greek life will be on hand to help students find a way to get involved in campus life," says Fred Watson, assistant director of student life. "It's a festive atmosphere to promote students getting engaged in campus activities, and connect with new and returning students."
For more information, contact Fred Watson, assistant director of student life, at (517) 355-8286, or visit the Web at studentlife.msu.edu
At 8 p.m., comes "Super Saturday Night" inside and outside the International Center, featuring live entertainment and a variety of interactive games.
"One of the greatest parts about 'U Fest' on Friday night and 'Super Saturday Night' is that they are both free events and opportunities to explore many types of entertainment options in one campus location," says Janelle Jacobs, assistant manager of the University Activities office in the MSU Union.
"We have an average of about 6,000 students on Friday night and several thousand on Saturday night to check out a safe and social atmosphere.Students can enjoy activities from 8 p.m. to midnight on Friday at the Union and at the same time at the International Center on Saturday.
For more information contact Tami Kuhn, or Janelle Jacobs at the University Activities Office at (517) 355-3354, or visit the Web at uabevents.com
OTHER ORIENTATION ACTIVITIES
For information on Asian American and Pacific Islander, Native American, Chicano/Latino, Lesbian, Bisexual, Gay, Transgender and Ally welcome receptions and the Black Student Welcome reception, visit the Department of Student Life Web site at studentlife.msu.edu
For information on the fall 2003 orientation schedule for international students, visit the Office of International Students and Scholars Web site at isp.msu.edu/oiss
For a complete listing of 2003 fall welcome activities and events, visit the Web at studentlife.msu.edu
MSU 2003 FALL WELCOME PHOTO OPPORTUNITIES
THURSDAY, AUG. 14
5:30 p.m., McDonel Hall: About 500 international students will be welcomed to the MSU community at a dinner reception. The event includes guest speakers and activities designed to introduce students to each other and to learn about the various countries represented at MSU.
MONDAY, AUG. 18
9 a.m. to noon, International Center lobby: International Student Resource Fair.
TUESDAY, AUG. 19
8:30 a.m., Lincoln Room, Kellogg Center: New Faculty Orientation, a half-day program for new faculty, faculty new to the tenure system, academic specialists, and librarians new to MSU. MSU administrators and current faculty will present information on useful strategies for navigating academic careers. An information fair will begin at 1:15 p.m. in Big Ten Rooms B and C in the Kellogg Center.
WEDNESDAY, AUG. 20
8 a.m.: First-year and transfer students move into their residence halls.
7 p.m., Room 147 Communication Arts and Sciences: Fall welcome for commuter students. Visit elmanac.msu.edu, a site designed for students who live off-campus that focuses on the importance of and opportunities for involvement in extracurricular campus activities and resources throughout the greater Lansing community.
THURSDAY, AUG. 21
8 a.m.: Returning students move into their residence halls.
9:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., Great Hall, Wharton Center: "World University Welcome," the official academic welcome ceremony for new students. Interim President Lou Anna K. Simon and other MSU officials will welcome students into the Spartan learning community. "Faces of America" presentation follows. BEST TIMES: 9:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.
4 p.m., Pasant Theatre, Wharton Center: Honors College Convocation. Honors College students attend a welcome ceremony and reception, sign up for Honors College organizations and meet other Honors students.
6:30 p.m., Spartan Stadium: "Spartan Spirit." Members of the MSU and East Lansing communities, students and parents come together at the largest of the MSU fall welcome events. BEST TIME: 6:30 p.m.
8:45 p.m.: Midnight Madness Shopping Spree: Students board CATA buses for trips to local and area merchants.
FRIDAY, AUG. 22
1 p.m.: "Colloquiums With Your College." Students follow personalized schedules for sessions with college representatives. Colleges offer sessions in which students can learn about activities within their colleges, and meet in small groups with faculty about expectations and strategies for success in college and particular fields of study.
8 p.m. to midnight, MSU Union: "U Fest," with live bands, various activities and movies at the Campus Cinema Center in Wells Hall.
SATURDAY, AUG. 23
Noon, Kellogg Center: Adult Student Orientation. This is a lunch for new undergraduate students who are 25 years of age or older, and an opportunity to network and learn about campus resources that will be helpful in their college careers. BEST TIME: 1 p.m.
6 p.m., MSU Auditorium: "Party @ the Aud." This is a chance for the more than 6,000 new students to learn about and sign up for activities with some of the more than 500 registered student organizations on campus. BEST TIME: 7 p.m.
8 p.m. to midnight, International Center: "Super Saturday Night," with free activities, live music and more.
SUNDAY, AUG. 24
1 p.m.: Intramural facilities' open houses. IM East and IM West buildings will be open to students for tours, activities and information sessions.
5 p.m.: "Dinner on the House." Students follow a personalized schedule for an on-campus dining experience before classes begin. BEST TIME: 5 p.m.
MONDAY, AUG. 25
CLASSES BEGIN
For additional information about orientation events and activities, visit the Department of Student Life Web site at studentlife.msu.edu