FC Important Information Archive

Listserv Message 29: Summer Term 2010 Courses now Available
Listserv Message 28: Important Housing Information
Listserv Message 27: ENES100/102
Listserv Message 26: 4-Year Plans
Listserv Message 25: Winter Term Reminder
Listserv Message 24: DOTS Forum
Listserv Message 23: Maryland Leadership Conference
Listserv Message 22: Required Spring Advising Information
Listserv Message 21: Maryland Madness
Listserv Message 20: Early Warning Grades
Listserv Message 19: Three Fall Updates
Listserv Message 18: Journalism Workshop
Listserv Message 17: Winter Term
Listserv Message 16: Family Science Workshop
Listserv Message 15: Architecture Workshop
Listserv Message 14: Education Workshop
Listserv Message 13: Individual Studies Program Workshop
Listserv Message 12: Presidential Visit
Listserv Message 11: Engineering Information Session
Listserv Message 10: Business School Admission Information Workshop
Listserv Message 9: Pre-Med/Pre-Dental Workshop
Listserv Message 8: 2013 Class Council
Listserv Message 7: Schedule Adjustment
Listserv Message 6: UM Photo Shoot
Listserv Message 5: On Campus Jobs
Listserv Message 4: First Day of Class & Transportation
Listserv Message 3: Billing and Payment Information
Listserv Message 2: New Student Welcome - Friday, August 28th @ 3:00 pm
Listserv Message 1: Welcome to the Freshmen Connection Listserv

Listserv Message 29: Summer Term 2010 Courses now Available

Want to take a course that has already filled for Spring? Want to catch up on CORE or major requirements? Take a look at the extensive variety of courses offered in Summer Term 2010!

The Summer 2010 schedule of classes is now available (http://oes.umd.edu/index.php?slab=slabid-81). Summer Term registration begins on February 23rd, 2010 and is open-enrollment (which means that you can register at the same time as upperclassmen).

For Summer Term dates, costs, and registration procedures, please see http://www.oes.umd.edu/index.php?slab=summer-term or e-mail winter@umd.edu.

Listserv Message 28: Important Housing Information

Questions about living on-campus this spring or next fall? Please see below for important updates from the Department of Resident Life (DRL).

When can I expect to hear about Spring 10 housing if I haven’t yet received confirmation from DRL?

DRL is expecting to confirm additional students from the Spring Housing Waitlist at the end of December/early January. DRL will continue to confirm students from the waitlist through the start of spring classes (January 25), as availability allows and need requires.

How do I request a roommate?

All requests pertaining to spring housing preferences and special needs should be emailed to reslife@umd.edu. Students need to include their full name and UID in all requests. If making a roommate request, they'll also need to include the full name and UID of their requested roommate. Please remember that all roommate requests must be mutual. Additionally, because spring housing availability is based solely on spring room cancellations, DRL will try to honor all preferences and requests but can not make any guarantees.

If I move on to campus in Spring 2010, what are my chances of living on campus during Fall 2010?

First year students who live on campus in the spring semester who want to return to the residence halls for their second year are guaranteed a space as long as they meet all student eligibility requirements and housing deadlines. Examples of eligibility requirements include registration status, financial status, academic standing, etc.

Deadlines for living on campus during Fall 2010:

The deadline to apply for Fall 2010 housing is March 26, 2010. Any student wishing to live on campus for the Fall 2010 semester, both those that are living on campus in the Spring 2010 semester and those still residing off campus, must submit a Fall 2010 housing agreement by this deadline. Housing agreements will be available on line at resnet.umd.edu beginning in early March.

How do you get a guaranteed on campus spot if you’ve signed a 12-month lease as a freshman?

Students who are unable to move into campus housing in the spring because of a 12-month lease must submit both their Fall 2010 housing agreement and a copy of their 2009-2010 lease to the Dept. of Resident Life by March 26, 2010. The deadline is the same for both requirements.

Additional Information

DRL has already sent written confirmations for spring housing to over 600 freshmen who were on the Spring Housing Waitlist. The first confirmations went out in August 2009; the second in October 2009.

For any students who have been offered spring housing, if their housing plans have changed and they need to cancel, DRL must receive a written cancellation request by December 1, 2009, in order to avoid a financial penalty. Written requests may be submitted via email (reslife@umd.edu), fax (301-314-2026), or mail (1102 Annapolis Hall, College Park, MD 20742). After December 1, all cancellation requests will be charged a release fee.

All students can check their housing status at any time via their Housing Status page on www.resnet.umd.edu. Click on "Check Housing Status". This page will display a student’s spring housing record, including any requested roommates and preferences.

Assignments and roommate information for students confirmed for spring housing will not be available until mid-January. Once assignments are posted online, students can view all of the information via their Housing Status page.

All students who reside in our residence halls must be on a meal plan. Students are encouraged to review their meal plan options at dining.umd.edu. The only exception to this requirement is for students who are assigned to kitchen-equipped apartments.

Listserv Message 27: ENES100/102

Prospective Engineering Students

At the Oct. 21st information session with the School of Engineering, the Engineering transfer advisor mentioned the unique process that the School of Engineering uses to allow non-Engineering students to sign up for the waitlist for ENES100 or ENES102 in the spring.

The Engineering School has now posted the website at which you can add yourself to the waitlist for either of these courses. If you're interested in taking one of these courses in Spring 2010, please follow the instructions at http://www.eng.umd.edu/advising/enes-keystone.html.

Listserv Message 26: 4-Year Plans

4-Year Plans + Arts and Humanities Update

Please note - sample 4-year plans for most majors may be found at http://www.4yearplans.umd.edu; the link for majors within the College of Arts and Humanities (ARHU) is currently not working. While this is being fixed, you can find sample plans for all ARHU majors at http://www.humanities.umd.edu/academicplans/.

Listserv Message 25: Winter Term Reminder

Winter Term 2010 Registration begins tomorrow - Tuesday, Oct. 27th

Winter Term (January 4-22, 2010) offers more than 300 undergraduate and graduate courses and is open to current Maryland students, visiting students from other universities, professionals, and more. In just three weeks, you'll satisfy a requirement, explore a new interest, or accelerate progress toward graduation. Classes meet morning, afternoon, evening, and online.

To enroll in a Winter Term course, log-on to the Portal (my.umd.edu). Click on the Academics and Testudo tab. Choose the Winter 2010 semester from the options under Registration Time and Blocks (note, the Winter 2010 semester will not appear until Oct. 27th). Click on the link for Registration Drop/Add. This will take you to Testudo where you can enroll in your chosen course.

A schedule of Winter Term courses may be found on Testudo.

Listserv Message 24: DOTS Forum

Department of Transportation Services "Sound your Horn" Forum

Do you believe that DOTS has let you down?
Do you think there is a great way to improve Shuttle-UM service?
Have a suggestion about scooter parking?
Need extra cash and are want to know more about bus driving?
Do you want the opportunity to speak to Director David Allen and other DOTS officials to give input on DOTS policies, procedures, routes and other issues?

If so, please come to the Department of Transportation Services "Sound your Horn" forum.

Monday, October 26
2:00pm-3:00pm
Benjamin Banneker Room, The Stamp

Listserv Message 23: Maryland Leadership Conference

2009 Maryland Leadership Conference: Seeds for Change
November 7th-8th
Camp Letts, Edgewater, MD

www.thestamp.umd.edu/MLC

Connect with other students!
Learn about leadership at Maryland!
Take action on a social issue!

The Maryland Leadership Conference (MLC) is one of the oldest and most popular leadership programs at Maryland. Join your peers for a weekend retreat away from campus and learn more about yourself, working with others, and creating change. Large group seminars, small group discussions, and plenty of hands-on leadership development work will keep you busy. You'll also be supported to put what you've learned at MLC into practice by working on a social issue over the coming year.

Who Can Benefit from MLC?
EVERYONE! Leadership development helps you gain a greater understanding of your own talents, values and interests, and empowers you to facilitate positive change as a member or leader of a group. MLC recognizes that leadership is a skill that can be developed by all people, and can open doors for the future. Whether you've been to many leadership development programs, or this is your first, MLC is right for you.

What Is the Format of MLC?
The Maryland Leadership Conference is facilitated by the Peer Leadership Council, a group of trained student leadership educators at the University of Maryland. The sessions are interactive and designed so that participants not only get to know one another throughout the weekend but also have a chance to practice what they are learning in the workshops. There will also be opportunities to connect with staff members from campus as a means to continue exploring your involvement and leadership interests.

The Maryland Leadership Conference begins on Saturday, November 7th at 9:00 am with check-in. Once everyone is checked in, buses will depart from campus to the retreat site. Students can expect to be back on campus by 5:00pm on Sunday, November 8th.

Seeds For Change Project
For the second year in a row, participants of the Maryland Leadership Conference will have an opportunity to consider a social issue, identify how it affects the campus or local community, and work collaboratively with other conference participants and a community organization to work on the social issue. As a group, you will have an opportunity to apply for SEED money from the Peer Leadership Council Seeds for Change Project, work closely with others who work on the issue, and begin to see real change on the social issue. You'll have the opportunity to rank the top two social issues you are most interested in on the application.

Conference Location
Camp Letts, located on a beautiful inlet off the sparkling Chesapeake Bay, overlooks three islands and a 2,600-acre preserve that has served as the backdrop for 100 summers of land-based and aquatic adventures. Camp Letts operates as a year-round conference and retreat center with heated lodges, hearty meals, and superb programs.

How Do I Register?
The registration fee for MLC is $30, which is nominal compared to the actual cost of attendance. Many students in the past have found sponsorship from several campus departments (e.g., College Park Scholars, The Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs, Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life, CIVICUS, Inventis, Campus Recreation, Multicultural Involvement and Community Advocacy, The Stamp). Students who have relationships with offices or departments such as these are encouraged to seek out sponsorships from them directly.
Students not sponsored in full by a campus department or program may apply for partial sponsorship through the Adele H. Stamp Student Union- Center for Campus Life by emailing Matt Johnson at mrj@umd.edu. To register for MLC, simply fill out the form below and drop off your fee in the form of a check made out to "University of Maryland" by Friday, October 30th at the Campus Programs Suite, 0110 Stamp Student Union.

Listserv Message 22: Required Spring Advising Information

Please visit the following link for a copy of the complete e-mail sent regarding REQUIRED spring advising: http://www.oes.umd.edu/index.php?slab=spring-advising-information

You MUST follow the instructions listed for your appropriate college/school in order to be able to register for the spring semester once registration begins on Dec. 9th at 12:00 noon.

If you fail to do so, you may not be able to register until late January 2010.

Each college/school has different advising requirements. Be sure to follow the instructions for your major college/school. If you are double-majoring, follow the advising instructions for both majors.

A reminder - if you need to find your official major, visit Degree Navigator (see the Oct. 13th FC Listserv message for instructions). If you completed a change of major form in the last few days, Degree Navigator may not yet be updated.

Note: If you have attended an information session (for Business, Education, Engineering, Architecture, Family Sciences, etc.), this does NOT satisfy your spring advising requirement.

Select your college for more details:

Division of Letters and Sciences (LTSC)
College of Agriculture and Natural Resources (AGNR)
College of Arts and Humanities (ARHU)
College of Behavioral and Social Sciences (BSOS)
College of Chemical & Life Sciences (CLFS)
School of Computer Math & Physical Science (CMPS)
College of Education (EDUC)
School of Public Health (SPHL)

Listserv Message 21: Maryland Madness

MARYLAND MADNESS!

It's the New Year's Eve of Maryland Basketball - and with the Women's team holding the 2009 ACC Crown and the Men's team ranked 20th in preseason polls - there is a lot to be excited about.

The annual Maryland Madness event, which marks the start of the men's and women's basketball seasons, will take place Friday, Oct. 16 at Comcast Center.

This year's event features a back-to-basics approach, with fireworks and special effects replaced with a brand new 3-point shooting contest featuring a few of the Maryland players, performances by the Maryland Spirit Squad, Dance Team, Band and Gymkana, as well as a few surprises too.

Don't miss out as head coaches Gary Williams and Brenda Frese, along with a few players, discuss their 2009-10 teams and preview the upcoming season, with both squads then taking the court for brief intrasquad workouts.

The evening begins at 5:30 p.m. when the Terrapin volleyball team hosts 17th-ranked Florida State in the first-ever volleyball match on the Comcast Center main floor. Gates open at 4:30 p.m.

Tickets are free and will be available at the door the night of the event. They can also be ordered in advance from the Terrapin Ticket Office or by calling 1-800-IM-A-TERP.

Evening parking is free in the lots surrounding Comcast Center and in Terrapin Trail Garage.

Fans are encouraged to bring canned food and other non-perishable items as a donation to the Capital Area Food Bank. Drop locations will be situated inside the Comcast Center entrances, staffed by the Maryland Student-Athlete Advisory Committee.

Listserv Message 20: Early Warning Grades

Early Warning Grades

Early Warning Grades are mid-semester grades that are processed for all undergraduate courses. Early Warning Grades are posted to your student record and will be available through the Portal (my.umd.edu) beginning next week. To view your Early Warning Grades log-on to the Portal and click on the Academics and Testudo tab. Early Warning Grades will appear in the "Grades" box on the left side of the screen (make sure the Fall 2009 semester is highlighted).

Early Warning Grades are also mailed to the permanent address on your student record. These grades will be actual letter grades or "satisfactory/unsatisfactory" (S/U) marks.

We will contact all students who are in danger of failing. If you are in danger of failing a class, you are required to come into our office to prepare a plan of action. You must also contact the instructor to discuss your plan of action.

Don’t forget to utilize the following FREE resources if you need help (see the September 9th FC Listserv message for additional resources!).

Math Dept. Tutoring

Visit http://www.math.umd.edu/undergraduate/resources/tutoring.html for a listing of tutoring hours by Math course. The Math Dept. offers walk-in tutoring from 8 am - 5 pm Monday-Friday in Room 0301 in the Math Building.

Math Success Program

Website: http://www.resnet.umd.edu/programs/math_success/

The Math Success Program is a free drop-in coaching service. No appointments are necessary.

Stamp Student Union, Calvert Room (2nd floor): Sundays 6-9 pm
Easton Hall Rec Room (1st floor): Sunday - Thursday 6 - 9 pm

The Writing Center

For free assistance with any undergraduate writing assignment, come to the Writing Center where trained consultants offer suggestions to help you improve your writing.

To be assured of seeing a consultant during daytime hours, make an appointment online (http://www.english.umd.edu/the-writing-center-front-page). If time permits, consultants will also see students on a walk-in basis.

Learning Assistance Service

Website: http://www.counseling.umd.edu/LAS/

The Learning Assistance Service is the academic support unit of the UMCP Counseling Center. LAS exists to help students achieve their academic goals by providing a range of services. All LAS services are free to UMCP students. Students may meet individually with one of our counselors who will help you explore your academic strengths and needs and help you develop a plan to meet your goals.

To schedule an appointment in LAS contact 301-314-7693.

Listserv Message 19: Three Fall Updates

Choose next year’s First Year Book!

Its time to nominate a book for next year's first year book! If you have a book (or books) that you believe will engage the campus community, please send your nominations to: http://cgi.umd.edu/survey/display?FirstYearBook/FYB

Get involved with Omicron Delta Kappa

We have a very exciting opportunity to offer you, on behalf of Omicron Delta Kappa (ODK - the leadership society with the Fountain on McKeldin Mall).

ODK has a vested interest in improving leadership across campus. Specifically, members in ODK want to reach out to you, and get you acquainted with the campus on your schedule.

Participation in this program would include an involved ODK mentor (many of whom are club presidents) who will share with you their stories, with the possibility to:

Have lunch/coffee to discuss your interests; putting you in contact with the right people
Sit in on meetings within their organization
Meet with leaders in many of the organizations you are interested in
A semester long mentor that will be able to lead you in the right direction

ODK at UMD College Park is made up of Junior and Senior leaders across campus involved in (but not limited too):

Student Government Association (SGA)
University Student Judiciary (USJ)
Maryland Band Program
Student Entertainment Events (SEE)
Sustainability Council
Department of Resident Life
Greek Life
Alternative Spring/Winter Break
Diamondback
Residence Hall Association (RHA)

Among many others!

If you are interested in this program, we want to hear from you! Send an email to freshman.connection.odk@gmail.com..

Please include the following:

Your Name
Your Anticipated Major (undecided is OK)
Your Email Address
Cell phone number/ how we can contact you
Clubs/activities you are interested in
General interests and activities/ hobbies
A short paragraph on what you are looking to get out of this program/ why you are interested.

We are very excited to start our first cohort through the Freshman Connection & ODK Initiative, and can't wait to hear from you! Please reply with your interest by Friday, October 16th at 5:00pm. The sooner the better! If you have any questions/ concerns, contact Rudi Sarna at freshman.connection.odk@gmail.com..

Dance Marathon Executive Board

Are you interested in being part of creating a new Maryland tradition? Do you have experience or interest in helping to plan a huge event to raise money for Children's Miracle Network? Then we hope you will apply to be on the executive board of Dance Marathon for the Univ. of Maryland.

Dance Marathon is an 18 hour event that raises money for Children’s Miracle Network. Dancers pledge to stay on their feet for 18 hours to show support for the kids at Children’s National Medical Center in Washington, DC. We are seeking motivated individuals with great execution to serve on the executive board and head-up the individual committees. For an application and description of the different duties, please e-mail umddancemarathon@gmail.com as soon as possible and no later than 5pm on Monday, October 12th 2009. Please feel free to contact Matthew Young (mby@umd.edu or 301-938-2305) or Brianna Russo (brusso@umd.edu or 732-754-8939) with any questions. We look forward to receiving you application!

Listserv Message 18: Journalism Workshop

Interested in majoring in Journalism?

If so, attend a School of Journalism Advising Workshop for non-majors. Space is limited - you must RSVP by calling (301) 405-2399

Dates, times** and locations:

Tuesday, October 6th @ 2pm
2114 Journalism Bldg

Wednesday, October 14th @ 3pm
1116 Journalism Building

Thursday, October 29th @ 9:30am
1102 Journalism Building

**All sessions last less than one hour

Listserv Message 17: Winter Term

Winter Term (January 4 - January 22, 2010)

The Winter Term schedule of classes will be available on Testudo (http://www.testudo.umd.edu/ScheduleOfClasses.html) beginning Friday, September 25th. The Spring 2010 schedule will also be available on this date.

Registration for Winter Term begins on Tuesday, October 27th at 7:30 am. You may register on-line via the Portal (my.umd.edu) or in person at Student Services, Mitchell Building, 1st floor, Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

You will not be able to register if you have a block on your record (see the Academics & Testudo section of the Portal to view blocks).

Note: undergraduate students may not enroll for more than four hours of academic credit in Winter Term.

Elementary/Early Childhood Ed. (Room 0220 Benjamin Building)

Need more information? See http://www.oes.umd.edu.

If you're planning to take a winter term course at a local community college or university, be sure to first check the University's Transfer Equivalency Database (http://www.tce.umd.edu/tclookup.html.) to determine if/how the credit will transfer to the University of Maryland.

Listserv Message 16: Family Science Workshop

Interested in working with families, children or couples?
Learn about the Family Science major at a special workshop for Freshmen Connection students.

A common question of Family Science majors is "What can I do with this degree?" The Family Science major prepares students for a wide range of careers addressing family issues and provides an excellent foundation for graduate study in family studies, family therapy, law, psychology, sociology, social work, health, human resource management, and related fields.

Students in Family Science take courses such as Couple Relationships; Poverty, Affluence, and Families; Gender Issues in Families; The Child and the Law; Adult Development and Aging in Families and participate in mandatory community internships.

When:
Thursday, October 15th 1:00-2:00 pm

Where:
1204 Marie Mount Hall (conference room)

RSVPs are required. Please RSVP no later than Friday, Oct. 9th to fc@umd.edu. Please include your full name and UID.

Listserv Message 15: Architecture Workshop

Interested in majoring in Architecture?

The School of Architecture will be hosting a Change of Major workshop for students interested in pursuing the B. S. in Architecture degree. This will be an opportunity to learn about the degree requirements for the B.S. in Architecture degree, meet with Architecture advisors, and ask questions about the review process.

Where: Architecture Building, Room 1111
When: Tuesday, September 29th, 12:00 -1:00 pm

RSVPS are required: Please RSVP with your name and UID to archadvise@umd.edu by Friday, September 25.

Listserv Message 14: Education Workshop

Interested in an Education Major?

Students thinking about majoring in Education should attend one of the below Change of Major workshops. Students must register at least a day before the date of the workshop. Students can register in person in the Office of Student Services, 1204 Benjamin Building or by phone at 301.405.2364.

Note -- if you are an Education major, you do not need to attend one of these sessions. You will need to attend a separate spring advising session, the details for which will be sent via the FC Listserv later in the fall semester.

Education is one of the Limited Enrollment Programs you can join this fall. To change your major to Education, e-mail fc@umd.edu.

Fall 2009 Schedule

Elementary/Early Childhood Ed. (Room 0220 Benjamin Building)

Monday, September 21, 12:00 P.M.
Thursday, October 1, 12;00 P.M.
Wednesday, October 7, 1:00 P.M.
Monday, October 19, 2:00 P.M.
Friday, October 30, 2:00 P.M.
Wednesday, November 4, 10:00 A.M.
Thursday, November 12, 11:00 A.M.
Friday, November 20, 1 P.M.
Monday, November 30, 2 P.M.

Secondary Education (unless otherwise noted, all sessions will be held in Room 0220 Benjamin Building)

Monday, September 21, 1:00 P.M.
Thursday, October 1, 11:00 A.M.
Wednesday, October 7, 2:30 P.M. *Will Be Held in Room 2102
Wednesday, October 21, 10 A.M.
Friday, October 30, 1:00 P.M.
Wednesday, November 4, 1:00 P.M.
Thursday, November 12, 12:00 P.M.
Friday, November 20, 2:00 P.M.
Monday, November 30, 3:00 P.M.

Special Education: Students interested in Special Education may contact the Department of Special Education at 301.405.6484 or stop by 1235 Benjamin Building to get information on the program in addition to attending a workshop.

Listserv Message 13: Individual Studies Program Workshop

Interested in a major that the University of Maryland doesn't offer?
The Individual Studies Program (IVSP) may be for you!

Attend an informational workshop about the Individual Studies Program on Tuesdays from 12:00 noon - 1:00pm on the following dates:

September 22nd
October 6th
October 20th
November 3rd
November 17th
December 1st

All workshops will take place in 3103 Susquehanna Hall.

RSVPs are required. To RSVP, either sign up in 3103 Susquehanna (during regular business hours) or e-mail Amy Meyers at ameyers@umd.edu.

For additional information on the Individual Studies Program, please visit http://www.ivsp.umd.edu/overview.html.

Listserv Message 12: Presidential Visit

Presidential Visit

As you know, President Barack Obama will visit the University of Maryland on Thursday, September 17, 2009, to hold a rally on the issue of health care. Below are details about the event.

DATE/TIME: Thursday, September 17, 2009, 11:00 a.m.

DOORS OPEN: 9:00 a.m.

TICKETS: This event is free and open to the public. NO TICKET IS REQUIRED. Space is available on a first come, first served basis.

SEATING INSIDE THE COMCAST CENTER: Seating will be on a first come, first served basis. Please follow usher directions.

HEARING IMPAIRED: There will be a sign interpreter at the event. A limited number of seats will be held in the Comcast Center for hearing impaired guests. After you pass through security, please go to one of the "Help" stations inside the Comcast Center and a volunteer will direct you. Please note that seating is limited and will be provided on a first come, first served basis.

PARKING AND TRANSPORTATION: Faculty, staff and students should park in their designated areas. However, because we expect a large crowd, please follow directions from official personnel. If you are directed to an alternate parking area, you may leave your car there all day without penalty. There will be NO parking allowed in Lot P2. We strongly encourage members of the campus community to take public transportation and car pool to work on Thursday. If you plan to drive, please consider arriving early.

Members of the general public should use public transportation.

Limited handicapped parking will be available in the Terrapin Trail/Arena Garage off of Route 193.

SHUTTLE BUSES: Free shuttle buses will be provided by the University of Maryland to and from the University of Maryland-College Park Metro Station (Green Line) starting at 6:00 a.m. on Thursday until two hours following the event. The shuttle buses will drop off as close to the Comcast Center as possible, but there will be a short walk to the entrance. Regular shuttle bus service to and from the Metro Station will resume for the remainder of the day.

SECURITY: All attendees will go through airport-like security and should bring as few personal items as possible. NO back packs, no bags, no large purses, no sharp objects, no umbrellas, no food or beverages, no strollers, and no signs will be allowed into the Comcast Center. These items cannot be left outside unattended, so please do not bring them. Cameras are permitted.

CONCESSIONS: The concession stands will be open inside the Comcast Center. Light snacks and beverages will be sold.

OVERNIGHT LINES: Lining up overnight will NOT be permitted. Lines may begin forming at 5:00 a.m. on Thursday, September 17. Please follow police direction for the line.

CLASSES: Classes will continue following normal university practices.

ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICES: All administrative operations will continue as usual.

Again, on Thursday we can expect a large crowd, additional traffic, changes in traffic patterns, and possible changes in parking. Please check the University of Maryland home page for updates on any changes that develop.

We thank you for your patience and understanding.

Sincerely,

Nariman Farvardin, Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost

Linda Clement, Vice President for Student Affairs

Listserv Message 11: Engineering Information Session

Clark School of Engineering

Information Session for prospective engineering students

If you are planning to major in engineering, you must attend this session with the Clark School's Transfer Coordinator & Academic Advisor. She will discuss major requirements as well as the transfer process.

When: Wed., Oct. 21 from 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Where: 1131 B Martin Hall

RSVPs REQUIRED:

RSVP no later than close of business Friday, Oct. 2nd to fc@umd.edu with your full name, area of interest (i.e. chemical, bio, mechanical engineering, etc.) and University ID number.

Listserv Message 10: Business School Admission Information Workshop

Interested in majoring in Business, Accounting, Finance, Information Systems, Marketing, Supply Chain Management, International Business or Operations Management?

Robert H. Smith School of Business
Admission Information Workshop

Information workshops for admission to the Robert H. Smith School of Business will be held on the following dates. These sessions will be led by an Admission Representative for Limited Enrollment Programs from the Office of Undergraduate Admissions. If you are interested in changing your major or applying for admission to Business, you are strongly encouraged to attend one of these information sessions. All sessions will be in the campus Visitor Center (Turner Hall) Auditorium. No RSVP is required.

September 15, 2009 Tuesday 4:00-4:30pm
September 24, 2009 Thursday, 4:00-4:30pm
September 25, 2009 Friday, 3:00-3:30pm
September 29, 2009 Tuesday, 4:00-4:30pm
October 8, 2009 Thursday, 4:00-4:30pm
October 16, 2009 Friday, 9:00-9:30am
October 20, 2009 Tuesday, 3:30-4:00pm
October 30, 2009 Friday, 3:00-3:30pm
November 3, 2009 Tuesday, 9:00-9:30am
November 12, 2009 Thursday, 9:00-9:30am
November 19, 2009 Thursday, 4:00-4:30pm
November 24, 2009 Tuesday, 9:00-9:30am
December 1, 2009 Tuesday, 3:00-3:30pm
December 10, 2009 Thursday, 4:00-4:30pm
December 15, 2009 Tuesday, 4:00-4:30pm

Sessions are open to all University of Maryland students. The workshops will cover the following topics:

Admission requirements & application filing deadlines
Course equivalents for Business courses
Business application and admission review procedures
Q & A

If you have any questions, please contact the Office of Undergraduate Admissions at (301) 314-8385. For admission information and current LEP gateway requirements, visit LEP program web site at: http://www.lep.umd.edu.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Listserv Message 9: Pre-Med/Pre-Dental Workshop

Interested in becoming a Doctor or Dentist?

FALL 2009 Pre-Med/Pre-Dental Workshop:
So, You Want to Be a Doctor or a Dentist?

Suggested for Freshman & Sophomores

**Intended for those just starting out on the road to medical or dental school.**

Topics include:

Suggestions for academic planning
Clinical, research and community service opportunities
The medical and dental school application process

DATE	TIME	PLACE
Wednesday, September 16th	2:30 PM - 4:00 PM	PLS 1119
Monday, October 5th	12:00 PM - 1:30 PM	BPS 0283
Tuesday, October 20th	11:00 AM - 12:30 PM	CHM 1224
Friday, November 13th	2:30 PM - 4:30 PM	BPS 1238

For additional Information, please see http://www.prehealth.umd.edu/Workshops1.html#FreshmanSophomores

Listserv Message 8: 2013 Class Council

Are you interested in getting involved on campus? Do you want to work with other freshmen to create programs and implement ideas to unite the incoming freshmen class of 2013?? If so, you should consider joining the 2013 Class Council. The purpose and mission of this group is to unite the freshmen class. Students that are members of this group will meet bi-weekly to plan events, design t-shirts and meet the needs of freshmen students. This group is still accepting new members and will have its first meeting NEXT WEEK (during the week of September 14th). Meeting date/time are still TBA but will be determined by the end of this week.

If you are interested in joining, please contact the advisor for this group, Laila Shishineh. You can reach her via email at laila.shishineh@gmail.com for more information ASAP!!! This is a great opportunity for you to let your voice be heard as a Freshmen Connection student and unite with other freshmen across campus.

Listserv Message 7: Schedule Adjustment

Reminder! The Schedule Adjustment Period ends at 4:30 pm on Monday, September 14.

This is the absolute latest time when you can add or drop courses and the changes that you make to your schedule do not show on your official transcript. Please see the August 6th FC Listserv message (or the FC tab of the Portal) for instructions on adding/dropping courses online.

If you're struggling in any of your classes, NOW is the time to get help! Talk to your professors during office hours and take advantage of the free tutoring on campus. If you don't know how to find a tutor, please contact us at fc@umd.edu or 301.405.7762.

Listed below are FREE on-campus resources for students needing academic help.

Math Dept. Tutoring

Math Success Program
Website: http://www.resnet.umd.edu/programs/math_success/

The Math Success Program is a free drop-in coaching service that is open to both campus residents and commuter students. Students making use of this program require no prior registration or appointment, and no fees apply.

The target courses consist of Math 003, 113, and 115. Students from other math courses, such as Math 140, 141, 220, 221, and Math 111, have also been utilizing this service on a regular basis.

Stamp Student Union, Calvert Room (2nd floor): Sundays 6-9 pm
Easton Hall Rec Room (1st floor): Sunday - Thursday 6 - 9 pm

The Writing Center

For free assistance with any undergraduate writing assignment, come to the Writing Center where trained consultants offer suggestions to help you improve your writing.

The following hours/locations are walk-in only - no appointment needed (students seen on a first-come first-served basis)!

McKeldin Library, Information Desk
Tuesday and Wednesday: 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM

and at

1205 Tawes Hall:
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday: 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Learning Assistance Service
Website: http://www.counseling.umd.edu/LAS/

To schedule an appointment in LAS, complete the Individual Learning Skills Request, or contact 301-314-7693.

Mark your calendar for the following LAS Workshops:
(all held in Rm. 3105 of Susquehanna Hall)

Time Management
Monday, September 14, 2009
3:00 - 4:00 pm
Top Ten Tips For Academic Success
Monday, September 28, 2009
3:00 - 4:00 pm
Get Ready For Mid-Terms
Monday, October 12, 2009
3:00 - 4:00 pm
Math Success At UMCP
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
3:00 - 4:00 pm
Work Smarter, Not Harder
Monday, October 26, 2009
3:00 - 4:00 pm
Save Your Semester
Monday, November 9, 2009
3:00 - 4:00 pm
Conquering College Math Exams
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
3:00 - 4:00 pm
Reducing Exam Anxiety
Monday, November 23, 2009
3:00 - 4:00 pm

Listserv Message 6: UM Photo Shoot

Freshmen Connection Students:

We're getting ready to prepare materials for next year's Freshmen Connection class as well as the University of Maryland's Summer Term programs. Our photographer is hoping to shoot photos of current FC students to use in our marketing materials. If you're interested in participating in one of three photo shoots, please write back as soon as possible. We need approx. 8 students for each session. You must be at least 18 years old to participate.

The photo shoots will take place on the following dates at 8:30 am. Students should meet at the Freshmen Connection office (0132 Main Administration). Each session will take approx. 1.5 hours.

Tuesday Sept 8th
Wednesday Sept 9th
Monday Sept 14th (for this session, students will need to dress in long-sleeves and pants/jeans and bring hats/scarves/mittens/gloves if you have them).

Listserv Message 5: On Campus Jobs

In addition to making money, working on campus can be a great way to meet new people and become more involved at the University of Maryland!

Still looking for an on-campus job? Visit this link (http://www.careercenter.umd.edu/page.cfm?section_ID=1&page_id=23) or a list of offices/organizations on-campus that regularly hire student employees

Thinking about doing an internship next summer? Believe it or not, this fall is the time to start looking and preparing!

Mark your calendar for the University Career Center's Internship and Part-Time Job Fair 2009

Thursday, September 10, 2009 from 10:00am - 03:00pm
Location: Grand Ballroom - Stamp Student Union
More info: http://www.careercenter.umd.edu/events_description.cfm?event_id=982

Kinesiology students in particular, please see below for information about a position that has just become available during the morning/early afternoon:

The Kinesiology Department has a specific need for a student office worker on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Tuesday 8:00-1:00
Thursday 8:00-10:30 and 12:00-3:00
$7.75 an hour beginning salary

Criteria:

Our first choice is for students who have been awarded FWS (Federal Work Study) funding. But we are also interested in others as well. It is availability on these exact days & times that is most important.
Must commit to the entire fall semester (August 31 to December 24)

Skills we are looking for:

Excellent professionalism and good communication skills
Pleasant and courteous to co-workers and those visiting the Kinesiology office
Excellent communication skills
Good computer skills (including Word and Excel)
Punctual and reliable (a must - as others depend on you)

PLEASE if you are interested contact Ms. Joanna Han (hanj@umd.edu) or drop your resume off at the Kinesiology office (SPH 2351).

Listserv Message 4: First Day of Class & Transportation

First day of classes - August 31st!

Classes begin on Monday, August 31st. Remember to check your schedule via the Portal/MyUM (www.my.umd.edu) a day or two before this date to make sure that no building locations have changed.

Don't forget, New Student Welcome begins THIS Friday, August 28th at 3 pm in the Reckord Armory Gym. Need directions to the Armory? Visit http://www.map.umd.edu/map/. All events are rain or shine and we will be walking from the Armory to the Comcast Center so please come prepared if the weather looks threatening.

For New Student Welcome this Friday, if you have a parking permit, you should park in your assigned lot. If you do NOT have a permit, you can park in any numbered lot (visit http://www.transportation.umd.edu/parking/parkingoncampus.html for a map of parking locations).

If you are living in the Towers at University Town Center, please note that this Shuttle-UM route will be operating on a summer schedule until August 29th (see http://www.transportation.umd.edu/routes/schedules/summer%2009%20web/University%20Town%20Center_Summer09.pdf. You can also take Metrorail from the Prince George's Plaza Station one stop (in the direction of Greenbelt) to College Park. Shuttle-UM will be running between campus and the College Park Metro station all day.

If you're staying for any of the late-night events during New Student Welcome, please remember that the University of Maryland Police Department provides an escort service for anyone who feels unsafe when walking across campus. For an escort please call the police department at 301-405-3555. This service is available to students all times.

Transportation

If you still need to purchase a parking permit, visit http://www.transportation.umd.edu/parking/studentpermit.html as soon as possible.

Regular Shuttle-UM routes will resume on August 31st, the first day of classes. To preview your Shuttle-UM route, visit http://www.transportation.umd.edu/routes/fallpreview.html.

This message will also be posted to the FC tab of the Portal/MyUM (www.my.umd.edu).

Listserv Message 3: Billing and Payment Information

This is a reminder about your student bill, payment of which is due in full on August 20th, 2009. It is the student's responsibility to ensure that tuition and fees for Freshmen Connection have been paid. Non-payment results in a financial block on your student account which means you won't be able to register for courses in the spring. The University of Maryland may also cancel your courses if payment is not received by the deadline.

Haven't received a bill? See....
http://www.umd.edu/bursar/MonthlyBilling.html

To see your personal bill, visit the Portal (www.my.umd.edu) and click on Academics & Testudo tab. On the lower left side is a block that says Student Account Balance. Click on the link that says Student Bill.

How to pay:
http://www.umd.edu/bursar/t_payMethods.html

Third Party Billing:
http://www.umd.edu/bursar/ThirdPartySponsoredBilling.html

Terp Payment Plan:
http://www.umd.edu/bursar/t_payMethods.html#pay_plans

Questions about your bill? Contact Financial Services at 301-314-9000 or billtalk@umd.edu

Listserv Message 2: New Student Welcome - Friday, August 28th @ 3:00 pm

Mark your calendar for the mandatory New Student Welcome (NSW)! This yearly event kicks off a weekend of fun activities designed to help first-year students get to know each other and the University of Maryland. The attached document includes details for the entire weekend's events, but here's what you need to know about the required afternoon/evening events on August 28th.

3:00 pm Check-in and Welcome @ Reckord Armory
3:00 pm - 4:30 pm Ice Cream Social, Tie-Dying (pick up your UMD Class of 2013 shirt!), etc.
5:00 pm - 6:00 pm President's Welcome and Dinner

The weekend's activities include such things as campus tours, games, a text scavenger hunt, movies, etc. This is also your chance to pick up a copy of this year's First Year Book What is the What. Details for all of these activities and many more can be found in the attached document.

Don't forget to bring your Student ID to NSW! If you haven't gotten this yet, you can pick it up in the Mitchell Building directly before the Friday events begin (you'll need a state-issued photo ID).

Need directions to the Reckord Armory? Please see http://www.map.umd.edu/map/. Need transportation/parking info? Contact the Dept. of Transportation at www.transportation.umd.edu or (301) 314-PARK.

All events on August 28th are rain or shine! If the weather looks threatening, dress appropriately and bring an umbrella/raincoat.

Click here for the NSW Schedule of Activities

Listserv Message 1: Welcome to the Freshmen Connection Listserv

Welcome to the Freshmen Connection (FC) Listserv for the fall 2009 semester. The FC Listserv will be used to disseminate important information throughout the fall semester. You are responsible for reading all Listserv e-mails and contacting the FC office (fc@umd.edu, 301-405-7762) if there is something you don't understand. Failure to do so may mean missing out on such important information as how and when to meet with your spring advising college, thus delaying your registration for the spring semester.

The FC Listserve will be sent to your official E-mail of Record with the University. Your official E-mail of Record is listed in the upper right-hand corner of the MyUm (Portal - www.my.umd.edu) welcome screen (after you log-in). For this message and this message only, we have also copied the e-mail address you included on your FC Enrollment Form. Later this week, we will be sending an e-mail using ONLY your e-mail of record regarding the add/drop period which begins this Friday, August 7th.

From this point forward, you must alert us (at fc@umd.edu) if you change your E-mail of Record so that we can update the Listserv. It is your responsibility to inform us if you change this address so that you do not miss important information regarding the fall and spring semesters.

All Listserve messages will also be posted on MyUm (Portal - www.my.umd.edu). Click on the Freshmen Connection tab to view the latest information and archived messages.

New Student Welcome

August 28th 3:00 pm, Reckord Armory

Mandatory Health Insurance for Incoming Fall 2009 Students - August 1st Deadline

Beginning fall 2009, health insurance will be mandatory for all newly admitted freshmen and transfer students registered for 6 or more credits. All newly-admitted students must complete an on-line form at http://www.firststudent.com to indicate whether they either: 1) have insurance (i.e. through parent plans, family plans, or employer-sponsored plans) and wish to waive the requirement or 2) wish to purchase the Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP) available through the University of Maryland. If a student has not waived out of the University Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP) by August 1, 2009, he/she will automatically be enrolled in SHIP for the 2009-2010 academic year and the cost will be billed to his/her student bursar account. The premium is approximately $1,200 - $1,300 to be billed in two installments ($650 in August and $650 in January). Students who submit the waiver by the deadline will not be charged the University's SHIP fee.

For more information, visit http://www.health.umd.edu/geninfo/insurance.html or e-mail health@umd.edu or 301.314.8165.