FAMILY GUIDEBOOK 2020–2021
WELCOME TO BETHEL
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FAMILY GUIDEBOOK
Welcome, Bethel Parents & Families! We’re so glad you’re here, and that you’ve entrusted us with the important task of helping your student earn a college education. During their time at Bethel, students will be challenged and stretched academically, socially, and spiritually as they experience Bethel’s liberal arts education. Our aim is to provide students with a holistic experience that helps them discover their vocation and prepare for a successful future. Achieving this mission is made possible by successful collaboration between the many different academic and administrative departments here at Bethel. By working together, we’ve ensured that your student has a plethora of resources available to help them succeed. In this Family Guidebook, we’d like to introduce you to some of these resources for students and familiarize you with others that will be valuable to you as a parent or family member. We’re sure you have a lot of questions and that more will pop up along the way. Please refer to this guidebook as your first source for an answer or for information on how to get in contact with us. For COVID-19 updates and questions, please refer to our COVID-19 website at bethel.edu/covid-19.
Thank you for being part of the Bethel community. We look forward to partnering with you as together we guide your student along his or her collegiate journey. Have a question that wasn’t answered in this guidebook? Contact the Office of Alumni and Family Relations: 651.638.6462 | 800.255.8706 ext. 6462 | parents@bethel.edu
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Kaia Hill
Jennifer Scott
Alumni and Family Relations Team Members
Shana Stoll
Or visit bethel.edu/parents
Contents
Office of the President...............................................................4
Office of the Provost.................................................................... 6
Safety and Security..................................................................... 7
Student Life.................................................................................... 8
Off-Campus Programs/International Studies.............. 11
Christian Formation and Church Relations..................12
Academic Affairs........................................................................14
Academic Calendar...................................................................16
Academic Enrichment and Support Center...................18
Career Development and Calling........................................21
Information Technology Services (ITS)......................... 22
Health Services...........................................................................23
Counseling Services................................................................ 24
Business Office............................................................................25
Financial Aid...............................................................................26
Military and Veteran Services..............................................27
Campus Store..............................................................................27
Dining Services...........................................................................28
Stay Connected.......................................................................... 30
Photos in this guide were taken before March 1, 2020.
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A Letter From President Ross Allen Dear Parents and Families, Welcome to the Bethel family and the 2020-2021 academic year! We are thrilled to be back. If you’re new to Bethel, I want to extend a special welcome to you as we celebrate the beginning of a new and exciting partnership. If you’re in a returning role as the parent or family member of a student, I look forward to reengaging with you in an even more meaningful way. I began my first term as Bethel’s sixth president in July, and I’m so excited to enter into this new season together—in “such a time as this.” I can only imagine the concern and anxiety you may be feeling as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. While we have developed a variety of modifications and plans to ensure the safety and wellbeing of our community, I want to personally assure you that Bethel is fully prepared to support your student’s spiritual, academic, and personal health during this unprecedented time. Bethel’s mission and our commitment is to equip students to renew minds, live out biblical truth, transform culture, and advance the gospel—for God’s glory and our neighbors’ good. As a Bethel alum, I remember the moment my parents dropped me off at (the then brand new) Bodien Hall as I began my Bethel experience. While I’d grown up with an unquestioning faith, it was through dorm debates, classroom interactions, and personal discussions with faculty that my faith truly became my own. I vividly remember how God pressed upon me the passion to live for His glory in all that I do. As someone who has benefitted from a multitude of life experiences as a result of that passion, I have a grateful heart. This season has been filled with changes, but one thing remains the same: God is in this place. Bethel’s community uniquely provides the opportunity for your student to grow in faith and knowledge. We are committed to walking with your student and providing the tools for them to discover and answer the call God has for them. His deep desire—and ours—is that your student glorifies Him and makes a difference in their community, church, and workplace. The days ahead will be filled with joys and challenges. I ask that you join me in regularly, persistently, and passionately praying for your student. May they make wise choices, develop lasting friendships, and discover a lifelong passion for learning. With the love of Jesus, Ross 4 FAMILY GUIDEBOOK
A LETTER FROM PRESIDENT ROSS ALLEN
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A Letter From Provost Deb Harless Dear Bethel Parents and Families – I am delighted you and your student have joined us at Bethel! Each time we welcome new students and families to Bethel, I am reminded of my own experience as a Bethel student. I loved my student days here. Bethel marked me in significant ways. I learned to think better and to connect my faith and values with what I was studying. I was also challenged to explore God’s calling in my life. My faith became my own—I understood better what I believed and why through my experiences at Bethel. And I made friends for a lifetime. I returned to Bethel 31 years ago to be part of the faculty—what a privilege it’s been to be part of a place that had such a profound impact on me. Bethel is very intentional about providing a high-quality education that is anchored in our Christian faith. We remain keenly focused on creating life-changing educational experiences for all of our students. Bethel’s founder, John Alexis Edgren, said, “Measure our performance by what God accomplishes through our graduates after they have been prepared at Bethel to go out into the world to serve.” People often ask me what’s kept me at Bethel for so long. My answer to that is clear—it’s seeing what God does in students’ lives during their time at Bethel and then seeing how they lead and serve in significant ways after they graduate. Thank you for trusting us with your student. We are excited to be part of God’s work in your student’s life. We pray that these will be remarkable years in which your student grows and thrives intellectually, spiritually, and relationally. Debra K. Harless ’83 Executive Vice President and Provost
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651.638.6400 | bethel.edu/safety-security
SAFETY AND SECURITY AT BETHEL
Our mission is to pursue and promote risk management and security excellence that transforms lives within and outside the Bethel community and supports Bethel in becoming the Christ-centered university of choice for this century. ...What does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God. Micah 6:8 We employ a professional staff security team that monitors and patrols the campus 24/7/365. We take a holistic approach with our industry leading programs and practices which includes proactive behavior detection, emergency, and crisis planning. Bethel Safety and Security also has strong relationships with federal, state and local law enforcement. We take these actions to ensure a safe environment for our residents living on campus, communters, staff, and faculty.
GUEST AND VISITOR CAMPUS ACCESS
Bethel is a closed campus from 9 p.m.–6 a.m. Individuals with a current Bethel identification card will be granted access at the west entrance to campus. All guests, students, and employees will need to show a valid identification card at the west gate in order to enter campus. Guests coming to visit or pick up students during closed hours need to have prior authorization from a Bethel student or employee. Without prior authorization, security officers will not allow guests to enter campus until the student has been contacted.
GUEST AND VISITOR PARKING
Parking is free for guests and visitors. Guests staying overnight are required to have a permit. More information can be found at bethel.edu/safety-security/ visitors-guests.
PARKING PERMITS
Permits are required for on-campus parking during the school year. This also applies to all breaks during the school year. Students with 60 credits or less living on campus in Bethel housing can obtain parking permits only under specific circumstances. In order to obtain this permit, students need to participate in an appeals process. Students with more than 60 credits are allowed to register one vehicle to use for the academic year. Permit and parking lot assignments are determined by housing status and housing location. All commuter students are required to obtain a parking permit regardless of credit standing. The permit itself is free, but an automatic commuter fee of $175 per semester is charged to each student’s account. FAMILY GUIDEBOOK 7
SAFETY AND SECURITY
Office of Safety and Security
Office of Student Life
651.638.6300 | bethel.edu/undergrad/student-life
WELCOME TO STUDENT LIFE
As student life professionals, our four main goals are to serve students wholeheartedly, to ensure that our work is done with excellence, to model and demonstrate humility, and to do all this with the love of the Lord. The Office of Student Life spearheads many different opportunities and initiatives that impact student experiences at Bethel, including athletics, Bethel Student Government (BSG), Campus Wellbeing, residence life, and more. The student life staff delights in being with students, and we are honored to have the privilege to help them grow intellectually, spiritually, and relationally. We encourage you to read more about the areas that encompass student life, keeping in mind that all of these efforts provide transformational and formational development.
ATHLETICS
In striving for competitive excellence, Bethel University Athletics seeks to develop and strengthen the student athletes who have been entrusted to us. The 15 head coaches who lead our 18 sports teams do a tremendous job of team building and are committed to forming a culture that reinforces the core values of our institution. Bethel is part of the Minnesota Independent Athletic Conference (MIAC), which is one of the premier athletic conferences in the NCAA Division III. Thirteen Minnesota institutions make up the MIAC, with six of the schools located in the Twin Cities metropolitan area. Our on-campus facilities include a competition gym, field house with 200-meter running track, football stadium with separate practice field, baseball stadium, softball field, soccer complex with a designated team room for the men’s and women’s teams next to the field, six tennis courts, designated locker room space for all 500 of our student athletes, and a state-ofthe-art Wellness Center. Our hockey teams have designated locker rooms 11 miles from campus at the National Sports Center, where we practice and play our home games. All regular season athletic events are free for students. Parents and families are also encouraged to cheer on the Bethel Royals at home and away games.
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Bethel Student Government (BSG) offers robust opportunities for students to build community by getting involved on campus. BSG is a student-run organization composed of seven departments. One branch of the government— Student Activities—hosts over 30 low-cost events throughout the year for students. Additionally, BSG sponsors 30+ clubs spanning academics, athletics, and special interest areas. Other BSG initiatives include spiritual development opportunities, intentional programs for commuters and residents, and hundreds of leadership experiences for students. These opportunities help shape students in their growth—allowing them to develop relationships with others and providing insight into the ways God has uniquely gifted them.
CAMPUS WELLBEING
At Bethel, we believe student wellbeing is influenced by the dynamic interplay between these dimensions of human functioning: physical, emotional, cognitive, spiritual, relational, and a sense of meaning. The Wellbeing Initiative works collaboratively with Bethel’s Wellness Center, Counseling Center, Health Services, and Christian Formation and Church Relations to provide resources that cultivate health and wellbeing for all Bethel community members. Incoming students will take the academic course entitled Introduction to Wellbeing, which assists them in establishing a framework for understanding and implementing a whole and holy lifestyle.
CULTURAL CONNECTION CENTER
The Cultural Connection Center is a Christ-centered multicultural community space in CC317 designed to promote understanding, friendship, and shalom (peace). This space is intended for all students and is dedicated to nurturing a sense of belonging, promoting healthy dialogue about diversity, and providing educational opportunities that strengthen the multicultural fabric of the university.
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STUDENT LIFE
BETHEL STUDENT GOVERNMENT
STUDENT CARE AND CONCERNS
The Office of Student Life is committed to helping students succeed in and out of the classroom. Our staff assist students in their personal growth through mentoring conversations, prayer, and encouragement. When student behavior causes concern, we respond in redemptive and restorative ways that help the individual and benefit the community. If your student experiences a difficult issue related to physical or emotional health, concerning behavior, or challenging circumstances, please encourage him or her to seek help by contacting our office or utilizing one of the many other resources, including Christian Formation and Church Relations, Counseling Services, and Health Services.
RESIDENCE LIFE
Our mission is to be a home where students grow and thrive in connection with God and others. We are committed to making the residence halls feel like a place where students feel welcomed into the Bethel community, known authentically, and engaged in the vibrant community of campus life. We believe living on-campus is the best way to fully experience college life and we are excited to welcome you home! WHO WE ARE The Residence Life Leadership Team, made up of two deans and the housing specialist, provides support and direction with housing management and residence life program initiatives. Our eight resident directors (RDs) are full-time professional staff who live in each residence hall and help guide the residential learning experience. Eight student assistant resident directors (ARDs ) assist the RDs in guiding the residence halls. Resident assistants (RAs) are student staff who live and work in the residence halls. There are currently 60 RAs serving across campus. WHAT WE DO • Host community-building events and programs • Connect students with resources on campus • Create space for students to engage in self-discovery • Deepen your understanding of how to live out your faith in community • Help students learn about healthy interpersonal relationships • Guide students in practical life skills • Lend a listening ear • Answer questions about housing • Help students navigate roommate conflicts
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651.638.6549 | study-abroad@bethel.edu | bethel.edu/off-campus-programs
LEARNING OFF-CAMPUS
A well-educated person today must be prepared to deal with a rapidly changing, shrinking world where the ability to work with people from different backgrounds is essential. Off-campus programs provide one of the most effective ways of achieving the type of education for which Bethel University stands.
STUDY ABROAD
The study abroad staff work closely with students to access information from approximately 15 providers throughout 70 countries, including domestic programs. Students can navigate our list of approved programs to find one that best fits their major/minor needs and/or fulfills some of their general education requirements.
PROGRAM OPPORTUNITIES
JANUARY (INTERIM) PROGRAMS These month-long programs are typically led by one or two Bethel faculty. Interim programs can be done during any of the four years, assuming the student has met all prerequisites. Options typically include trips to Ecuador, Belize, Taiwan, New Zealand, and several multi-country European programs. The program fees for these courses, including all travel and program-related expenses, typically range from $3,000– $6,000.Due to the health concerns created by the coronavirus pandemic, Bethel students will not be eligible to participate in Interim study abroad and off-campus programs in 2020-2021. SEMESTER PROGRAMS Bethel offers three of its own semester programs: Spain, England, and a multicountry Europe option. These programs are typically billed at a comprehensive fee equivalent to Bethel’s on-campus tuition, room, and board, which includes airfare. This makes for one of the most affordable opportunities students will ever have to take a large trip abroad. We have also formed vibrant partnerships with many organizations so students can choose from a variety of locations and academic courses. Students need to have at least sophomore status (sometimes by credit, sometimes by year) to participate. Due to the health concerns created by the coronavirus pandemic, Bethel students will not be eligible to participate in semester-long study abroad and off-campus programs in 2020-2021. SUMMER PROGRAMS While Bethel does not offer any summer programs of its own, many of our approved providers offer a variety of options our students can choose from. Our office can help students connect to these opportunities. FAMILY GUIDEBOOK 11
OFF-CAMPUS PROGRAMS
Office of Off-Campus Programs/ International Studies
A Letter From Campus Pastor and Vice President of Christian Formation and Church Relations Laurel Bunker Dear Bethel Families— On behalf of the Office of Christian Formation and Church Relations, I want to welcome you and your student to Bethel University! For the better part of 25 years, it has been my distinct privilege to serve youth and young adults by encouraging, motivating, and preparing them to live out their faith in bold, sacrificial, Christ-centered ways. In a culture that places self at the center, this can be a challenging task. That is why our seminary-trained, pastoral team has spent years studying the Word of God and have become well versed in youth and young adult culture, and Christian discipleship. We desire to serve your son or daughter, in and with the truth, that will set them free (John 8:32). As a parent of two young women - a sophomore in college and a senior in high school, I know firsthand the many pressures that face your student. I also know that there is ample support available to your student that can help them navigate those challenges successfully. Our commitment to you is that we will listen to each student story, no matter where or how that story begins, and faithfully walk with them toward a deeper, more committed relationship with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. If there is any way that we may be of service to you or your student, please do not hesitate to contact our department. We are honored to serve you and your families both now and in the years to come. Serving Together, Laurel M. Bunker Campus Pastor and Vice President, Christian Formation and Church Relations
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651.638.6372 | christian-formation@bethel.edu | church-relations@bethel.edu bethel.edu/christian-formation
WORSHIP EXPERIENCE
Bethel Chapel provides weekly opportunities for the Bethel community to gather in prayer and worship. Chapel is offered three times a week on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Though attendance is optional, many students, staff, and faculty regularly set aside this time to hear challenging messages and offer their praise through song. On Sunday nights, student-led Vespers is an additional and rich opportunity for students to join together in worship. Vespers is widely attended by Bethel students, families, faculty, staff, and others from the local community.
CHURCH RELATIONS
Bethel University was originally founded to help churches and ministry leaders advance the gospel—and that’s still a priority today. The Church Relations aspect of our department provides services to Christian churches and ministries—from seminars on biblical scholarship to high-energy events for youth to providing speakers to churches and conferences. Bethel loves the local church.
MISSIONS TRIPS
We organize yearly student mission trips to a variety of ministry sites in the US and internationally. The long-standing partnerships we have built in these communities foster great opportunities for students. In these environments, students grow in their engagement with God’s mission as well as in their capacity to learn from people and cultures which are different from them.
PRAYER
Prayer is an integral part of life at Bethel. Students are always welcome to come to the Christian Formation and Church Relations office to receive prayer or submit a prayer request online. Without Ceasing, prayer initiatives, and a prayer tent create further opportunities for the Bethel community to support one another and engage this important spiritual practice.
DISCIPLESHIP
We desire to create a culture of discipleship at Bethel where students journey with others toward Christ-likeness. For first-year students, we offer Shift. This weekly ministry is held on dorm floors and includes weekly small groups led by upper-class student leaders. For upper-class students we offer a men’s mentoring program called Men’s Discipleship, and a women’s small group ministry called Rooted. We also have a small group ministry for students who identify as LGBTQ+ or same-sex attracted. This group is hosted by a campus pastor that meets twice per month. We are also in collaboration with the Office of Diversity and Intercultural Engagement to provide spiritual guidance, mentorship, and support through the Cultural Connection Center in which we celebrate and cultivate the kingdom principles of cultural inclusiveness.
CHURCH
We encourage students to visit and attend a local church. Many local churches provide shuttle services to Bethel students. Information can be found in the online Directory of Churches in the Church Relations section of Bethel’s website. FAMILY GUIDEBOOK 13
CHRISTIAN FORMATION AND CHURCH RELATIONS
Office of Christian Formation and Church Relations
Office of Academic Affairs
651.638.6800 | cas-academic-affairs@bethel.edu | bethel.edu/undergrad/academic-affairs
BEHIND-THE-SCENES ACADEMIC SUPPORT
The mission of the Office of Academic Affairs is to foster an educational environment grounded in the Christian liberal arts that leads to student success. While most students do not interact with our office directly, our work impacts their lives through the various academic components with which we are involved.
FACULTY AND CURRICULUM
Bethel’s faculty are experts in their field and committed Christians. They want to help students develop the skills, knowledge, and ability that will lead to success while at Bethel as well as in life, work, and service after graduation. This is achieved through the implementation of a liberal arts education, which ensures students have the breadth of knowledge, critical thinking skills, and experience that equip them to engage with our rapidly changing world. All faculty have weekly office hours. Encourage your students to talk with their professors if there are things they don’t understand about their coursework or liberal arts training. Our faculty are excited about teaching in a university that promotes holistic growth and learning and are well-equipped to address any concerns.
ACADEMIC ADVISING AND COURSE REGISTRATION
A team of faculty advisors creates the schedule for students their first semester at Bethel. The schedule takes into account the information students have submitted about preferences for majors and general education courses, the number of credits students prefer to take, and any credits they have transferred to Bethel. Students are assigned an academic advisor before classes begin. After their first semester at Bethel, students consult with their advisors but register themselves. Registration takes place in November for Interim and Spring and in April for the next fall. The academic catalog (bethel.edu/undergrad/academics/catalog) lists all requirements for majors, general education, and other graduation requirements. It also includes our academic policies. The catalog is available in print form and online. Students can use our digital portal (my.bethel.edu) to access their academic records, including transcripts and a degree evaluation. The degree evaluation shows students the requirements they have already met and ones they still need to meet. There are many other resources available to students on Bethel’s Advising Center website (bethel.edu/advising-center) and the Registrar’s office website (bethel.edu/registrar).
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Most faculty use a course management tool called Moodle where students will find their course syllabus, information about assignments, class resources, and discussion forums. Students should check Moodle at least once between class meetings. We are committed to students’ academic success. When students are not doing well in a course, faculty submit course progress reports to Beacon, Bethel’s early alert system. Students receive a copy of the course progress report through their Bethel email account. A member of our student success team may follow up with students who are struggling in more than one class. Students should check their Bethel email regularly to ensure they are receiving such important communication.
OFFICE OF ACCESSIBILITY RESOURCES AND SERVICES (OARS)
We are committed to providing access to resources and services for students with disabilities. If your student has a documented or suspected disability, please connect with our office to talk about accommodations or services that can help support them in their academic endeavors. Examples of accommodations include: testing in a reduced-distraction environment, having more time on exams, having access to class notes, assistive technology, flexibility on due dates and attendance, and using alternate texts. We also offer housing accommodations and can help students with the process of using an emotional comfort animal or service animal on campus. For more information, call 651.638.6833, or send an email to accessibility-services@bethel.edu.
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ACADEMIC AFFAIRS
TECHNOLOGY AND ACADEMICS
2020–2021 Academic Calendar FALL SEMESTER 2020 EVENT DATE Welcome Week August 24-30 Residence halls open (new students) August 24 Residence halls open at 9 a.m. (returning students) August 28 Classes begin August 31 Labor Day September 7 Homecoming October 2-4 Fall Break October 9 Family Weekend October 16-18 Advising Day (no day classes; night classes are held) October 28 Thanksgiving Break (Tuesday night classes are held) November 25-27 Last day of classes December 11 Final examinations December 14, 15, 17, 18 Study Day December 16 Commencement Luncheon December 18 Commencement December 18 Residence halls close at noon December 19 Christmas Break December 21–January 4
INTERIM 2021 EVENT DATE Residence halls open at noon January 4 Classes begin January 5 Martin Luther King Jr. Day (no classes) January 18 Last day of classes January 27
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SPRING SEMESTER 2021 EVENT DATE Classes begin Feburary 1 Spring Break March 15–19 Good Friday (no classes) April 2 Monday after Easter (no classes) April 5 Advising Day April 14 Grandparents Day April 16 Last day of classes May 14 Final examinations May 17, 18, 20, 21 Study Day May 19 Senior Celebration May 21 Royal Reception May 21 Commencement May 22 Residence halls close for returning students at noon May 22 Residence halls close for graduating seniors at 1 p.m. May 23
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ACADEMIC CALENDAR
2020–2021 Academic Calendar
Academic Enrichment & Support Center 651.638.6416 | bethel.edu/undergrad/academics/support
THE IMPORTANT ROLE OF PARENTS AND FAMILIES
The Academic Enrichment & Support Center (AESC) team believes every student admitted to Bethel has the potential to be successful at Bethel and in a future career. That’s why we provide free tutoring and other resources that empower students to achieve academic success. However, your support is critical in helping your student navigate college academic demands and complete a four-year degree.
WHAT DOES FAMILY SUPPORT LOOK LIKE?
These formative years teach students to be fully responsible for themselves and their actions as they navigate challenging coursework and discover their passions, interests, and abilities. This process isn’t easy. Students often comment on the increased need for critical thinking and analysis in college. Most have to learn new study strategies or better time management skills. As a parent or family member, one of the most critical ways you can prepare your student for collegiate success is by helping him or her process major differences between high school and college. Begin by reviewing the following chart, and consider dialoguing with your student about specific differences that you think will present a challenge.
High School
College
Time/schedule
Structured and sequential. Typically a daily routine that is stable and predictable.
Unstructured. Students are responsible for getting up, going to class, managing priorities, and getting to bed at a reasonable hour. School is a full time job—40–45 hours/week with attending class and studying 2-3 hours for every hour they are in class.
Freedom
Student freedom is usually dictated by scheduled activities and parental guidelines.
Students make their own choices about how to use their time. There are no curfews at Bethel.
Study skills and time management
Students do not learn to apply study and time management skills extensively in most high school experiences.
All students need some type of time management skills at the college level, and most will need to learn effective study skills to prepare for challenging exams and to handle increased amounts of reading and homework.
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High School
College
Students live at home Living with with family. They develop roommates established routines and know how to resolve conflict within their family structure.
Close contact with a roommate(s) encourages students to develop new relationships. Students must learn to negotiate routines and manage conflict with their peers.
Guidance counselors plot out Counseling/ the four-year curriculum with advising students. Parents or guardians may also be involved.
Students make appointments with academic advisors every semester and should be prepared prior to each meeting. It is up to the student to correctly map out their course of study, but advisors and offices are available to help.
Academics Students may be able to earn good grades with minimal effort. Classwork is evenly distributed throughout the semester. Students are given detailed instructions and support for major papers and projects.
Students may find that college is more rigorous and expectations are higher. Course work tends to be backloaded, meaning there may be more work in the second half of the semester. If they don’t understand the material or what they are expected to do for a particular assignment, students must seek assistance and clarification.
Advocacy Parents/guardians, teachers, and counselors advocate for individual students. Parents/ guardians frequently intercede in problematic situations and are able to bring about resolution.
Students must learn to advocate for themselves by asking for help when they need it and taking advantage of university support services and resources. Parents/ guardians are not able to make appointments on behalf of a student.
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ACADEMIC ENRICHMENT
WAYS TO PARTNER WITH YOUR STUDENT • Ask questions about your student’s experience to learn about the unique challenges and opportunities facing your child and college students today. • Learn about the support services available to students and encourage your student to identify their need(s) and seek out assistance. • Understand your role as a mentor and promote self-advocacy by empowering your student to make decisions independently. • Allow your student to accept responsibility for personal errors, to examine his or her motivations, determine a solution, and establish a different action plan for the future. • Encourage your student to put aside additional time as he or she adjusts to the college learning curve—juggling academic, social, and work demands. We encourage students to limit work hours to 15 hours per week, or fewer if possible. Studies at Bethel have shown that students’ grades tend to drop by a letter grade if working 20+ hours per week. • Encourage students to seek out faculty and ask questions, talking to them before or after class or during office hours. Faculty desire to get to know students and want your student to succeed. • Know and understand your limitations to access student records, as delineated in Bethel’s FERPA policy (Family Education Rights Privacy Act, 1974).
TIER 3 Individual Tutoring TIER 2 Academic Counselor Appointments (time mgt. study skills, test anxiety, test analysis)
TIER 1 9 to 12 hours a week of Drop-In Tutor Help Sessions
Layers of Academic Support at Bethel
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651.638.6460 | career-development@bethel.edu | bethel.edu/career-development
THE SIGNIFICANCE OF CAREER DEVELOPMENT IN YOUR STUDENT’S COLLEGE EXPERIENCE
We recognize that a Bethel education is a huge investment, which is why we want to partner with you to ensure your investment yields a valuable return. The Office of Career Development and Calling strives to provide support for your student using tools and opportunities that promote growth throughout his/her time here and success in life beyond Bethel. We exist to support your student with career strategies and exploration because we understand that knowing what to do with your education is just as important as the degree itself. Our staff facilitates conversations about career discernment, strategic planning towards calling, and skill building in acquiring career opportunities. We provide a variety of services such as vocational assessments, resume/cover letter building skills, networking and internship strategies, and others that cater to the needs of students and alumni in various stages of their career journey. We also intentionally create events designed to build these skills and host many employers at Bethel to inspire connections.
HOW YOU CAN PARTNER WITH US
• Help your student understand the importance of networking. Building relationships with professionals can be critical in your student’s career development. Not sure where to begin? The Office of Career Development and Calling can provide your student with a variety of starting points. • Encourage your student to visit our office. Research at Bethel supports that those who visit the Office of Career Development and Calling are 25 percent more likely to graduate. We instill a sense of confidence in students and prepare them for career success after graduation—facilitating connections with other alums working in their desired field and helping to identify job opportunities. • Listen to your student and create space for your student to talk about career uncertainties. The pressure of deciding early and correctly can be overwhelming. Remind him or her that it isn’t necessary to plan out a whole career path while still in college. • Emphasize the value of acquiring relevant experience. Students who have multiple internships on their resume often stand out to employers. Internships give students an opportunity to explore their prospective field, build critical skills, and network. Encourage your student to pursue career-relevant internships as early as the summer after sophomore year to maximize opportunities for growth.
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CAREER DEVELOPMENT & CALLING
Office of Career Development and Calling
Information Technology Services (ITS) 651.638.6500 | service.bethel.edu | bethel.edu/its
WHO WE ARE
Information Technology Services (ITS) works to connect Bethel to the world, facilitating teaching and learning, and helping our community utilize technology. We work in a variety of areas, from supporting campus WiFi or assisting customers at the Help Desk, to maintaining our website and the supporting applications that Bethel uses everyday.
COMPUTER HARDWARE AND SOFTWARE
Each student will need to provide their own laptop (or other devices as needed). If you are looking to purchase a new computer, purchase recommendations can be found online at the link below. If your student is temporarily without access to a computer, Bethel has a limited number of computers through the Help Desk that can be provided on loan while access to their personal computer is restored. Every student is provided with a free Google account (email, drive, calendar, documents, meet, etc.) In addition to the Moodle education platform, Zoom is provided for online collaboration and meetings and courses. All of these services are available to students using their Bethel Community account login. Please refer to bethel.edu/its/ hardware-software/student for more information related to computer recommendations, and software on campus.
ACCESS TO BETHEL WIFI
WiFi is provided to students via over 550 wireless access points throughout campus and residence halls. Laptops, smartphones and tablets can all be easily 22 FAMILY GUIDEBOOK
connected using your Bethel Community account login. For more specific information, please refer to bethel.edu/its/getting-started/. Other devices (smart TVs, streaming devices, or gaming systems) will need to use Bethel-Guest to connect and must be registered first before accessing the network at registration.its.bethel.edu. High-speed wired ports are also available in the residence halls. A port activation request can be made at service.bethel. edu. Parents and family members are welcome to use the Bethel-Guest network while on campus too.
PRINTING
To print, Bethel Community members use the “Follow-Me Printer” system. Once the necessary driver is installed, students have the convenience of sending documents to a single unified print system, and may pick up their print jobs at any of the Follow-Me Printers located across campus, simply by scanning their Bethel ID. Instructions on this process can be found at bethel.edu/printing. For additional support, students may call the Print Care Specialist at 651.635.8613. It is not necessary for students to have their own personal printer on campus. Personal printer support is the responsibility of the printer owner.
HELP DESK
Visit service.bethel.edu to access our online support console. There you can submit a request to ITS or browse self-help articles.
651.638.6215 | health-services@bethel.edu | bethel.edu/health-services
OUR SERVICES
Caring, compassionate, and experienced clinicians are available for your students in our campus medical clinic. Registered nurses, a nutritionist, and a part time provider can help you get well and stay well. Walk-in service is available for the RNs (see bethel.edu/health-services for available times).
RELEASE OF INFORMATION
Due to confidentiality laws, we cannot release any medical information about your student unless they sign a Release of Information form, available in our office or online at bethel.edu/health-services.
COVID-19
We are committed to welcoming students and employees back to campus safely. Explore the details of our reopening plans at bethel.edu/covid-19.
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ITS/HEALTH SERVICES
Health Services
Counseling Services
651.635.8540 | counseling-services@bethel.edu | bethel.edu/counseling-services
WHAT WE DO
Life can be tough. And life while going to school can sometimes be tougher! Bethel’s Counseling Services offers the support, encouragement, and guidance students need when they need it. Staffed with trained professionals, our clinic offers short-term counseling and consultation options for undergraduate and graduate students.
INDICATORS YOUR STUDENT MIGHT BENEFIT FROM COUNSELING • Persistent feeling of sadness or depression • Increase in general feeling of irritability • Difficulty concentrating or focusing • Thoughts of suicide, self-harm, or harming someone else • Difficulty sleeping • Excessive worry • Panic attacks • Not keeping up with academics or self-care •Difficulty keeping good boundaries in relationships
COMMONLY ADDRESSED ISSUES • Anxiety • Depression • Self-image • Family relationships • Relationships (e.g., friends, dating) • Communication and conflict • Anger • Sexuality • Homesickness • Eating concerns • Health and wellness issues • Sexual abuse • Spirituality and faith
COUNSELING FORMAT
Students can participate in a group or meet with a counselor one-on-one— whatever they are most comfortable with and is appropriate for the situation. Services are free to all students.
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651.638.6208 | business-office@bethel.edu | bethel.edu/business-office
MONTHLY STATEMENTS
Around the seventeenth of each month, an email is sent to students’ Bethel email addresses alerting them that their monthly statement is available to view online. Monthly statements will not be mailed to parents or others who are helping to pay their bill. Students are responsible to forward statement information to those who are helping to pay their bill.
KEY DATES AND DEADLINES
August 15, 2020 • Full payment for the Fall Semester due or, • Enrollment in the Fall Semester payment plan (5 installments) • Enrollment Checklist due for Fall 2020 Semester January 15, 2021 • Full payment for Interim and Spring Semesters due or, • Enrollment in the Spring Semester payment plan (5 installments) • Enrollment Checklist for new/transfer students due for Spring 2021 Semester
AUTHORIZED USERS IN THE BILL PAYMENT SYSTEM
If a student would like to give a parent access to view their student account, enroll in the payment plan, and make online payments, the student will need to authorize the parent(s) as a user. Students can grant authorization to other users through MyBethel > My Statements and Finances > Make a Payment. Once in Bill-Payment > My Profile Setup > Authorized Users. Once authorized, the new user will be sent an email with further instructions on how to access information.
U.S. BANK PARTNERSHIP
Your student’s identification card can be linked to a U.S. Bank checking account. Bethel is part of a program that allows students to withdraw money from an on-campus ATM using only their Bethel identification card. For more information, visit usbank.com/student-banking/bethel-university.
QUESTIONS?
The Business Office has Student Account Representatives dedicated to helping you navigate the financial aspects of your time at Bethel. Please reach out to business-office@bethel.edu and let us know how we can help.
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COUNSELING SERVICES / BUS. OFFICE
Business Office
Office of Financial Aid
651.638.6241 | finaid@bethel.edu | bethel.edu/financial-aid
QUESTIONS?
Your student's financial aid counselor is the go-to point of contact for all financial aid questions. Our office can help connect students to their counselor and answer questions. Keep in mind that privacy laws may prevent us from speaking directly with parents regarding certain information.
STUDENT RECORDS
Privacy laws change when a student enters school at the college level. Under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), college students are considered responsible adults and are allowed to determine who can access information about their student records (billing, financial aid, academics, etc.). Consequently, we are prohibited from sharing financial aid award information with students’ parents, spouse, or other third party. Bethel has provided a way for your student to authorize parents or others to view such information. This process is called proxy access. Your student can create a proxy on their account through the financial aid website.
PROXY AND AUTHORIZED USERS
While privacy laws prohibit Bethel from sharing financial aid award information with parents, spouses, or other third parties, a proxy user access can be setup for others to view such information for a student’s account. In addition, if a student would like to provide parents or others access to pay their student account online, they’ll need to be setup as an authorized user (for access to tuition and billing information only). For setup instructions for either access type, please visit bethel.edu/financial-aid/proxy.
FINANCIAL AID POLICIES
Please be aware there are financial aid policies that may impact your student’s financial aid eligibility. • Students need to be enrolled full- 26 FAMILY GUIDEBOOK
time (12 credits or more per semester) to receive most of their grants and scholarships. • The Minnesota State Grant amount can vary each semester if the student is enrolled in less than 15 credits. • Students must meet Satisfactory Academic Progress to be able to maintain financial aid eligibility at Bethel. • Outside assistance such as scholar ships or military benefits may impact the amount of institutional gift aid, student employment, or loans a student may receive.
DEPARTMENTAL SCHOLARSHIPS
There are additional institutional scholarships available to current students who will return the next academic year. Faculty and staff select the students in their department to receive these scholarships. Both needbased and merit scholarships are available. Students must be full-time, in good standing, and working toward their first bachelor’s degree. Student must complete a separate online application through their Blink account. This application is only available between early December and February 10 each year.
SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES
Sometimes special circumstances limit what you can handle financially and are not factored in when you apply for financial aid. If your family has experienced reduced income or unusual and non-discretionary expenses, consider submitting an online appeal for additional financial aid.
651.635.2422 | veteran-services@bethel.edu | bethel.edu/military-veteran-services
The Office of Military and Veteran Services (MVS) provides support to the military-affiliated students of Bethel University. Led by Chaplain (Colonelretired) John Morris, MVS is the single point of contact for all matters related to military education benefits, military service, Veterans Administration concerns, Yellow Ribbon matters, and transition support. MVS provides a space, a place and a face for military veterans, ROTC Cadets, parents, children, and spouses of military members, as well as currently serving members of the military. They help military-related students succeed academically, utilize their military benefits efficiently, and transition to world-changing leaders. MVS is located in the Lakeside Center, LSC 104.
Campus Store
651.638.6202 | campus-store@bethel.edu | bethel.edu/campus-store The Campus Store is the primary source for all textbooks and educational materials. Exact text and educational material requirements are determined by the course instructor. Students may review all the options offered on the Campus Store website prior to student enrollment and select from new, used, rental, or digital text. Other options may include all-digital access or publisher rentals, depending upon the instructor’s requirements. In addition to textbooks and academic materials, the Campus Store is also a destination for all Bethel apparel, gifts, and souvenirs. We stock a selection of study aids, office supplies, personal care items, snacks, and beverages. Parents may order Campus Store merchandise to have delivered to their student’s mail stop. Gift cards are also available for purchase.
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FIN. AID / MILITARY / CAMPUS STORE
Office of Military and Veteran Services
Dining Services
651.638.6015 | sodexo@bethel.edu | bethel.edu/dining-services
SODEXO AT BETHEL UNIVERSITY
When you and your family eat at Bethel University, you will dine well! Bethel has been in partnership with external food service provider Sodexo for 35 years.
MONSON DINING CENTER
The Monson Dining Center, located on the third level of the Brushaber Commons, is Bethel University’s main restaurant. Open during most of the school day, students can choose one or more of our nine stations, including options like the salad bar, made-to-order pasta or stir fry, and comfort foods like carved turkey and mashed potatoes.
3900 GRILL
Our take-out restaurant, the 3900 Grill, is located next to the Monson Dining Center. Here you can order hot items like burgers and panini, then our chefs will cook your food fresh and put it in a to-go box for you to eat in our dining room or take on the go.
ROYAL GROUNDS
Our school coffee shop is called Royal Grounds. Here we serve Caribou Coffee, our own specialty drinks, NRgize smoothies, and freshly squeezed juices. We also sell cold to-go items like sandwiches and salads, as well as baked goods, such as Bruegger’s bagels, house-made scones, cookies, and cakes.
USING YOUR MEAL PLAN
We encourage students to get the most out of their meal plans through using their meals and flex dollars. Students can bring guests into the Monson Dining Center using either additional meals or flex dollars. Flex dollars can also be used at 3900 Grill, Royal Grounds, Davanni’s in Arden Hills by calling 651.481.7100, and our online convenience store. Students can purchase more flex dollars at a 10% discount through their online student portal.
SPECIAL DIETARY NEEDS
If your student has a food sensitivity, allergy, or special dietary need, please email accessibility-services@bethel.edu to set up an appointment with accessibility services and our registered dietitian to discuss your unique dining experience. Many of our Monson Dining Center servery stations offer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten and dairy friendly options as part of our normal selection.
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Our Sodexo My Way website offers students a way to connect with us. Here students will access our hours of operation, view our menus, as well as learn about any new promotions or upcoming events. Families will also be able to send their student a gift basket or delicious treat.
MINDFUL
We encourage students to intentionally make healthy choices about what they eat and know what they are putting into their body. Mindful icons on our menus in the Monson Dining Center and 3900 Grill help direct students toward healthier meal options. We also identify items that are gluten-free, vegan, vegetarian, whole grain, organic, and local. To learn more about mindful eating, stop by the Sodexo Dining Services Office to make an appointment with our registered dietitian.
STUDENT EMPLOYMENT
Bethel Dining Services employs nearly 180 students who together work about 900 hours a week. This important team works in every area of the operation serving as cashiers, food servers, baristas, caterers, dish room, and more. We’re very thankful for this team because without them we could not serve the Bethel community. Interested in becoming a student employee? Contact David Walden at d-walden@bethel.edu for more information about how to apply.
ECO-CONTAINERS
Reduce, reuse, recycle. Our reusable eco-containers save waste from landfills. Plus, students who use these containers save a little on their orders from the 3900 Grill. See a 3900 Grill cashier for details.
ROYAL GARDEN
We have our own local garden, and every year we feature produce from our garden in our menu! Look for the green bicycle logo on our menus for a campus-grown option in the Monson Dining Center.
ROYAL HONEY HIVE
Through a partnership with the University of Minnesota Bee Squad, we have joined the movement to protect dying honeybees across the U.S. Check out our twin honey hives just north of Chalberg Hall and look for sweet honey treats all year.
URBAN VENTURES COFFEE COMPANY
We are proud to serve Urban Ventures Coffee in the 3900 Grill. Urban Ventures Coffee not only tastes great, but their ethically sourced beans are micro-batch roasted in Northeast Minneapolis and they put 100% of profits into developing youth and families in need in Minneapolis.
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DINING SERVICES
SODEXO MY WAY
Stay Connected
651.638.6462 | parents@bethel.edu | bethel.edu/parents
JOIN US FOR SPECIAL EVENTS
Parents and families are invited to join us for concerts, theater productions, athletic events, senior symposiums, and meals throughout the year. See a full schedule of events at bethel.edu/events.
GET INVOLVED MOMS IN PRAYER Join with other moms in prayer for Bethel students, faculty, and staff. Choose from three different Moms in Prayer groups: an online group for those unable to meet in person and two off-campus groups that meet throughout the school year. Visit bethel.edu/moms-in-prayer for information. OFFICE OF CAREER DEVELOPMENT AND CALLING Got a job or an internship at your place of work that a Bethel student might fill? Willing to share your expertise? We’d love to hear from you. Contact the Office of Career Development and Calling at bethel.edu/career-development/contact.
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ORDER A TREAT Custom gift bags, freshly baked goods, Campus Store gift cards, and annual Valentine’s Day gifts are available to order for your student online. Visit bethel.edu/parents/resources/connect to learn more. SEND LETTERS AND CARE PACKAGES Students love mail! Address letters and care packages to your student like this: Student Name MSC XXXX Bethel University 3900 Bethel Drive St. Paul, MN 55112-6999
STAY INFORMED BETHEL PARENT ENEWSLETTER The Bethel Parent eNewsletter is our primary means of sharing campus news and events with families. Watch for the newsletter to arrive in your inbox four times a year. To make sure we have your current info visit bethel.edu/parents/contact/ update.
PARENT COUNCIL Nobody knows the needs of parents and families better than—well—parents and families! The Bethel University Parent Council is made up of Bethel parents from all walks of life who can speak to parents’ needs and concerns and better inform our staff and administration. Find them at events on campus, such as Welcome Week and Family Weekend, and share your feedback and experiences with them, and ask them questions about their own experiences. They serve to support incoming students and their families as they transition to Bethel—and ultimately advance the mission of Bethel University as it seeks to be the Christ-centered university of choice for this century. If you’re interested in joining the Parent Council for the coming year or getting involved with parent initiatives contact us at parents@bethel.edu.
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STAY CONNECTED
CONNECT WITH YOUR STUDENT
Opportunities For Bethel Sibs LIVING THE QUESTIONS INSTITUTE
LIVING THE
QUESTIONS Youth Theology Institute
Students in grades 10–12 are invited to reflect on faith questions, engage in meaningful service, and explore their calling during a 7-day summer residency followed by a 10-month leadership experience program. Registration for the program is dependent upon completion of our online application and receipt of the $295 program fee. Learn more at bethel.edu/living-the-questions.
SUMMER CAMPS
LIVING THE
QUESTIONS Youth Theology Institute
Bethel siblings of age 5–18 can get involved on campus through youth summer camps. Camps offered range from those with an academic focus, such as Astronomy, Bethel Business Academy, and Journalism, to a wide range of athletic camps.
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SAVE THE DATE
OCTOBER 16-18, 2020
FAMILY WEEKEND Join us for a weekend when students and their families get to reconnect.
For more information on Family Weekend and Preview Weekend, visit bethel.edu/parents/events.
SAVE THE DATE OCTOBER 15-16, 2020
ADMISSIONS
PREVIEW WEEKEND Do you have another future Royal at home? Find out if Bethel is the university they’re looking for by attending Preview Weekend! FAMILY GUIDEBOOK 33
SAVE THE DATE
April 16, 2021 9th Annual
GRANDPARENTS DAY SPREAD THE WORD Grandparents are invited to campus for a special day with their grandkids.
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3900 Bethel Drive | St. Paul, Minnesota 55112-6999 651.638.6400 | bethel.edu 30938 36 FAMILY GUIDEBOOK
