Middle Tennessee State University 2020–21 Parent & Family Guide

Parent and Family

GUIDE

‘20 ‘21

Always A Warm Welcome.

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PRESENTING

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The

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Insured by NCUA.

About This Guide CollegiateParent has published this guide in partnership with Middle Tennessee State University. Our goal is to share helpful, timely information about your student’s college experience and to connect you to relevant campus and community resources.

Please refer to the school’s website and contact information below for updates to information in the guide or with questions about its contents.

CollegiateParent is not responsible for omissions or errors. This publication was made possible by the businesses and professionals contained within it. The presence of university/college logos and marks in the guide does not mean that the publisher or school endorses the products or services offered by the advertisers. ©2020 CollegiateParent. All rights reserved.

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For more information, please contact New Student and Family Programs P.O. Box 61 Murfreesboro, TN 37132 (615) 898-2454 mtsu.edu/nsfp

The Guide Welcome to MTSU

...................................... 6

Parent and Family Association

....................... 10

The Partners in Education (PIE) Program

.......... 12

University Police Department and Emergency Notification ..........................

Campus Map

........................................... 16

Campus Map Legend

.................................. 18

Your Top Questions Answered

....................... 20

A Focus on Student Health and Wellness Academic Calendar Lightning’s Lingo Resources

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........... 24

................................... 27

...................................... 28

............................................. 30

Welcome to

MT SU We at Middle Tennessee State University embrace our role as the destination of choice for Tennessee undergraduates while expanding our reach nationally and internationally through signature programs and select master’s and doctoral programs.

We have a wide variety of nationally recognized academic degree programs at the baccalaureate, master’s, and doctoral levels. The University has eight undergraduate colleges, offering more than 40 departments and more than 140 degree programs. Our College of Graduate Studies offers more than 100 degree programs.

When we say, “I am True Blue,” it affirms that we are part of a tight-knit community of fellow students, professors, staff, and supporters, all working for your student’s progress and success.

We offer terrific opportunities, exceptional value, and a beautiful campus. Our undergraduates get real-world experiences

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that other universities offer only to graduate students.

Your student’s classroom may be behind a camera at Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival, combing an archeological dig site, helping patients on an underwater treadmill, or adjusting a robot just like those used at state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities.

MTSU is the No. 1 choice for our state’s transfer students, the No. 1 provider of graduates to the Greater Nashville economy (second largest producer of graduates in the state), and the No. 1 choice of adults (ages 25 and up) seeking a four-year degree.

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An example of our student-first commitment is our $147 million, state-ofthe-art Science Building, the crown jewel of our three-building Science Corridor of Innovation. We have completed almost $1 billion in new construction and improvements on our campus.

We’ve recently broken ground on a cuttingedge, $39.6-million building to house three disciplines in the College of Behavioral and Health Sciences — criminal justice administration, psychology, and social work.

These investments have provided a remarkable combination of top-notch

classroom, research, laboratory, study, and gathering spaces designed to encourage faculty and student interaction.

We are extremely grateful and honored to be entrusted with something as important as the education of your student. On behalf of our University, we are pleased to welcome you as new members of our True Blue community.

Sincerely,

Sidney A. McPhee President

Middle Tennessee State University

7

Welcome It is my great pleasure to welcome you to the Middle Tennessee State University community. We look forward to your student’s arrival on our campus and will have a variety of activities planned to help ease their transition during the first days and weeks.

I hope that you, too, will take advantage of all that MTSU has to offer the families of our students. As a special project of the office of New Student and Family Programs, this guide is meant to supplement your knowledge of the Murfreesboro area and help facilitate your visits to campus. We have a host of family activities that we believe will interest you, including exciting athletic events, musical concerts, theatrical programs, and worldclass speakers. Many of these carry very low ticket prices or are free and open to the public. I hope you’ll join us!

Of particular interest to you for 2020–21 will be the events during our opening weekend, August 21–23. Parents and family members are welcome to join new students in attending these important activities and getting to know new friends and new campus traditions.

I hope you will join your student in reading our summer book selection, “What the Eyes Don’t See: A Story of Crisis, Resistance, and Hope in an American City,” by Mona HannaAttisha. Each year MTSU faculty select one book that they believe will create an exceptional shared academic experience for the entering class of freshmen, and all of our new students are expected to have completed their reading of the book during the summer,

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prior to the first day of classes. This year’s book, “What the Eyes Don’t See,” tells the story of the Flint Michigan water crisis through the eyes of one of the researchers who helped discover the presence of deadly lead in the water supply. The book is truly a scientific thriller, demonstrating the role of science in the fight for justice.

If your student and family are arriving to the campus on our opening day, Friday, August 21, please plan to join us for an opening picnic and carnival, held at the Student Union. Food and games are free, and the whole family is welcome. Festivities generally begin around 6:00 p.m. and will last until it gets dark. All students and families are welcome, whether the student will be living on campus, off campus or at home.

I also invite your whole family to attend our opening-of-the-year Convocation, held on Saturday afternoon, August 22, in the Murphy Center, as we celebrate the arrival of our newest students. All new students are expected to attend Convocation to begin their MTSU academic experience. During the Convocation ceremony, students will join in our tradition of taking the True Blue Pledge. Among other things, students affirm that, as Blue Raiders, they will engage in the life of this community and

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contribute to its progress and success. The author of our summer reading book, Dr. Mona Hanna-Attisha, will be the keynote speaker at Convocation. Parents and family members will sit with their students, and then we’ll all join President McPhee for his annual picnic immediately after Convocation. Most families will then depart campus, and students will have Sunday to settle in and get ready for classes to begin on Monday, August 24.

The Friday night Picnic and the Saturday Convocation are two of our “Connection Point” activities. During the first several weeks of the semester, new students are encouraged to complete a variety of Connection Point activities as we work to integrate them into the out-of-classroom life of the MTSU campus. Events will include everything from football games to a huge dance party out on the Student Union Commons, as well as events to help introduce students to volunteer opportunities, student organizations, and student employment options.

We know that students who are most successful at MTSU balance hard work in the classroom with an active campus life, whether through athletics, band, living and working on campus, or joining a variety of clubs and organizations. You can help model

the importance of campus involvement and encourage your student’s participation by joining us for those activities that are of interest and fit into your calendar.

We welcome your presence on campus.

Watch for activities throughout the year by bookmarking our webpage at mtsu.edu.

Sports fans will also want to keep an eye on the official website for MTSU Athletics, goblueraiders.com. When your student wants to take a break from studying, they can log on to My MT Connection Point (mtsu.edu/connection) for information about campus programs and events ranging from service projects to concerts to leadership development workshops.

I’m excited for the arrival of our Blue Raider Class of 2024, and I look forward to working with your student. Please do not hesitate to contact me if I may be of assistance in the coming year. I may be reached in Room 212 of the Keathley University Center or by calling (615) 898-2440.

Best wishes to you and yours for a safe and productive year.

TRUE BLUE!

Debra Sells

Vice President for Student Affairs & Vice Provost for Enrollment and Academic Services

Middle Tennessee State University

9

Parent and Family Association

The Parent and Family Association would like to welcome you to the MTSU family!

The MTSU Parent and Family Association exists to provide a support network for parents and families of incoming and current MTSU students. We believe that their success would not be possible without your support and the support they will receive here on campus, and we want to ensure that we are providing you with adequate support as members of the True Blue Family.

What you will receive as a member of the Association: • A Welcome Kit full of MTSU Proud Parent and Family Member Gear • Monthly eNewsletters designed to keep parents up to date on happenings at MTSU • Very Important Parent (VIP) discount card offering discounts to hotels, restaurants, and bookstores in the Murfreesboro area

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• Access to scholarship opportunities for your student • Access to our MTSU Parent and Family Association Facebook Group • Opportunity to apply and volunteer with our Parent Ambassador program We are always accepting new members.

Dues are $30 annually, or a $60 one-time fee good for the entire time your student(s) is/are enrolled at MTSU. You can join online any time at mtsu.edu/parents.

Family Weekend Family Weekend gives you a wonderful opportunity to visit MTSU and learn more about the campus where your student’s college life is happening. Enjoy all the events, and have a good time together!

Please visit mtsu.edu/parents for up-to-date information about the weekend.

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Luxury Amenities

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24-Hr Fitness Center Chef Inspired Kitchen Smart Home Package

The Partners in Education

(PIE) Program

We believe that students are best served by a learning environment that meets their needs as individuals through the integration of student life services and academic programs. Similarly, we believe that many students may also benefit from their participation in a collaborative partnership that includes the student, their family or advocates, and the MTSU staff.

Joining Partners In Education To participate in the Partners In Education (PIE) program, a student simply clicks on the “Partners in Education (PIE)� link in PipelineMT. Please note that the release does not apply to personal counseling or health information protected by FERPA; however, if students are experiencing

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problems in these areas, MTSU staff will identify available resources. The student may remove the authorization at any time by simply returning to this link.

Please note that this program does not provide the PIE partner with online access to student information. All information requests are fulfilled through the MT One Stop.

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The Partners in Education (PIE) program helps address the needs of students by creating a partnership, fostering communication between students, their families, and the University. Through the Partners in Education program, PIE partners can request academic information and suggestions to help them provide effective support for their student.

Partners Contact the MT One Stop to: • Request information on student’s grades, grade point average, and class attendance • Get assistance to help set up services for the student • Discuss matters regarding financial aid and billing Questions, concerns, or problems? Email the MT One Stop at MTOneStop@mtsu.edu and make sure to include your student’s M# and your Partner in Education PIN number.

PIE Partner PIN The required PIN is for the purpose of identifying your partner when they call to request information. Choose a PIN that is easy for them to remember.

What to expect from the PIE program When your PIE partner contacts the MT One Stop and places a request for information about issues such as grades or attendance, the MT One Stop will contact the necessary parties to fulfill the request and direct to campus resources as needed. When the information requested is available, the MT One Stop will send it via email. Please note that the student is notified and copied on the requests that are made.

Student Authorization for Release of Confidential Information By adding partners on the “Add/ Update/ Remove my Partners in Education” link, a student authorizes the release of confidential academic, financial aid, student financial account information, academic progress reports and grades (when available) to the person(s) named.

This release does not apply to other information (discipline, counseling and health records) protected by the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). Authorization is valid as long as the student is enrolled (without a break in enrollment) at Middle Tennessee State University or until partner is removed via the “Add/ Update/ Remove my Partners in Education” link in PipelineMT. If you have questions regarding Partners in Education (PIE), please contact the MT One Stop at MTOneStop@mtsu.edu or visit us in the Student Services and Admissions Center (SSAC).

All activities of Partners in Education are directed toward strengthening the collaborative relationship among the student, the family, and Middle Tennessee State University, with the goal of improving the academic success and retention of students.

Middle Tennessee State University

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University Police Department and Emergency Notification The University Police Department at MTSU is a fully functioning law enforcement agency.

MTSU Police Officers are certified by the State of Tennessee as authorized police officers with full police powers including the authority to respond to criminal complaints and emergencies, investigate crimes, and affect arrests.

The department currently consists of 36 commissioned police officers, 6 full-time dispatchers, approximately 20 parttime student workers, plus full-time administrative staff. University Police operates 24 hours per day, 7 days per week. It is located at 1412 E. Main Street, Murfreesboro, TN 37132.

University Police has the overall responsibility of helping to maintain the safety and security of the MTSU community; the Police Department is dedicated to creating and preserving a campus that is a safe place to learn and work. In addition, University Police provides several related support functions as a general service to various departments within the University. These functions include: • The overall responsibility for promoting the safety and security of persons, buildings, and property on or about the campus of MTSU, including the patrol of the campus

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grounds on a 24-hour-per-day basis to prevent and control crime.

• The investigation of crimes, the apprehension of criminal offenders, and the recovery of stolen property.

• The preservation of the peace and maintenance of good order.

• Traffic enforcement and the issuance of citations for traffic violations.

• The prime generator of reports, records, and state/federal mandated annual statistics concerning all crimes committed on university property or properties controlled by the University, including reports of missing persons, missing public and private property, accidents, and certain incidents of alleged violations of university regulations.

• The support of special events and activities through the control of employment of contract security personnel, traffic, informational assistance, and the maintenance of an orderly atmosphere.

• The coordination of efforts in areas of common responsibility and concern with other area law enforcement agencies in order to ensure representation of the University’s interests.

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Emergency Notification Rave Alert is part of MTSU’s critical notification alert system, Alert4U. The critical notification system will be used to send text, email, and/or voice alerts to those in the system. The system will be used only under circumstances that pose a threat of imminent danger to the campus community and/or when it is vital to contact members of the campus community as quickly as possible to take some kind of action. All staff, faculty, and student email addresses are loaded into MTSU’s alert system automatically. Additional phone numbers for texting and/or voicemail or additional email addresses can be added. For more information about what to do in case of an emergency, go to mtsu.edu/alert4u.

The Annual Security Report contains information about crime statistics for three previous calendar years concerning reported crimes that occurred on campus, in certain off-campus buildings or properties owned or controlled by MTSU, and on public property within or immediately adjacent to the campus.

The 2019 Annual Security Report is available at mtsu.edu/police/ docs/2019AnnualSecurityReport.pdf.

For more information, visit the MTSU Police Department’s website mtsu.edu/police or call (615) 898-2424.

Middle Tennessee State University

15

E D DRIV NLAN GREE

Rose Lot (green)

Greenland Lot (green)

Reese Smith Lot

PCS LYTLE STREET (green)

ING Ingram Lots

(green)

ALMA MATER DRIVE

CKNB

Stark Ag Lot

FH ROTX

Jones Lot

JH

Cummings Lots (red)

MB

McFarland Lot

CORL

JCH

MILITARY MEM.

PH JUB MARY LH MCH REH MOH

PRESIDENT'S HOUSE

ALUM

OBS

BR

Davis Science Lot

BH

CAB SMH

Cope E. Lot

VISITORS CIRCLE

ALUMNI DRIVE

WANH

DH Library Lot

NIC ALUMNI DRIVE

Project Help Dyslexia Lot Lot

DYS

Main St. Lot (green)

HARR

SCI

PHLP

I.A. Lot

BLH

LIB

Judd Sims Lot (red)

Wood-Stegall Lot

UP

SIMS

GRH WC JUDD

Baird Lot (red)

WSC

PKS

BAS

DSB

Cope W. Lot

BH Lots

E4

LRC

STRO

Parking Services Lots (green)

E. MAIN STREET

KUC

TODD

NEO

SCH

Schardt Lot

ALOF

, E4

Founders Lot

E. MA IN

College Heights Lot

CH

STRE ET

WOMACK LAN E

ee inset at top right)

(red)

HMA

Nursing Lot

Forrest Lot

KOM

FRIENDSHIP STREET

Bell Lot (green)

BDA

BAIRD LA NE

(see insert at top right)

RH

B M W

Lightning Lot

MTSU BLVD.

WPS

To MEC

MGB

JACK

OLD MAIN CIRCLE

BELL STREET

MIDDLE TENNESSEE BLVD.

rive, B2

(parking spaces along Alma Mater Drive are red unless marked otherwise)

EWING BLVD.

Midgett Lot

SFA

VET

OLD MAIN CIRCLE

Street, B6

NORMAL WAY

FAULKINBERRY DR.

LIGHTNING

COGN

FOUNDERS LANE

AMG

Champion Way Garage (GCW) (green)

SMITH BASEBALL FIELD

FLOYD STADIUM

EHS EATON STREET

TCM

TL

SBCH

Ellington Lot

rth Baird Lane, C6 vard, A2

HOB

Holmes Lots

MC

P

Distribution Lot

SAG

DIVISION STREET

WH CHAMPIO N WAY

Hall of Fame Lot

KSHF

5

al, C4

HAYES TRACK AND SOCCER STADIUM

TENNIS COURTS

Warehouse Lot

SCP

Division Lot

GREENLA

TENN

MIDDLE TENNESSEE BLVD.

Fairview Lots (green)

CRESTLAND AVE.

rive, D4

Middle Tennessee Lot (green)

FAIR

FAIRVIEW AVENU E

(see insert at top right)

CHAMPION WAY

Campus Map To MEC

COLLEGE HEIGHTS

NOT mailing)

ROSE AVE.

Map

(green )

Public Safety Lot

Murfreesboro, Tennessee

Parking and Transportation Services office is located in the Parking Services Building Use map for reference only. Please refer to signage and/or pavement markings for spe

Color code for parking designation

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Faculty, Staff, Administration (white permit)

Red Permit Parking (MTSU Housing residents only)

Green Permit Parking

Open to currently enrolled students.

A green, red, or handicap pass is required

Disabled Parking (blue permit)

Metered parking

Motorc

Skywa

Constr Seek A

0319-7420 / Middle Tennessee State University does not discriminate against students, employees, or applicants for admission or employment on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, nation sponsored by MTSU. The Assistant to the President for Institutional Equity and Compliance has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policies and can b

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RUTHERFORD BLVD.

E DRIV AND ENL GRE

AND DRIVE

SOCCER FIELD

JACKSON STREET

Highland Lot (green)

G WAY

BURTON STREET Scarlett Lots (red)

Temporary Residental Student Access

l Lot (green) Grave ow kR ee Gr

DRIVE

(red)

CSB WLA

WLA

ALUMNI DRIVE

RECREATION AREA

Greek Row Lot (red)

Womack Lot (red)

GREEK ROW

SCC

E

DRIV

VD. RD BL ERFO RUTH

MNI

ALU

IVE

Abernathy Lot (red)

Rutherford Lot (green)

CITY VIEW DR

ABE R

Softball Lot (green)

REC

(red)

BLUE RAIDE R

Nicks Lot (red)

MTSU Blvd Garage (GMB) (green)

Rec Lots (green)

Bragg Lot

EZE L

MTSU BLVD.

TB

SSAC BLUE RAIDER DR.

Ezell Lot (green)

SOFTBALL FIELD

HOMECOMI NG CIRCLE

Honors Lot

H

CK

Visitor’s Lot

STU STU

RAGG

BURTON ST.

MTSU Lot (green)

H

HONR

BELL STREET

SCA

Student Union Lot

COE

MEC

RUTHERFORD BLVD.

Greenhouse Lot (red)

HC

VA

GH

MEC Lot (green)

N. HIGHLAND AVE.

BLU ER AID ER DRIV E

LC

GR

Bell Street Garage (GBS) (green)

E

IV

DR

N

EE

Jackson Lot (green)

LEE STREET

PSB

D

N LA

UNIVERSITY STREET

Livestock Lot (green)

Sportsplex Lot

g (PKS). ecific designations. Map is subject to change.

cycle parking area

alk bridges

ruction Zones Alternate Routes

Color code for buildings/sports areas Residence Halls

Athletics/Recreation

Academic / Administrative

Greek Housing

Dining

Located in SSAC

(see grid area E4)

Middle Tennessee State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, or disability. See our full policy at www.mtsu.edu/titleix.

nal origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, disability, age, status as a protected veteran, genetic information, or any other legally protected class with respect to all employment, programs, and activities be reached at Cope Administration Building 116, 1301 East Main Street, Murfreesboro, TN 37132; Marian.Wilson@mtsu.edu; or 615-898-2185. The MTSU policy on non-discrimination can be found at www.mtsu.edu/iec.

Middle Tennessee State University

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Campus Map Legend

2019–2020 Parking Map

OSE AVE.

For the most current campus map, please visit mtsu.edu/parking/documents/parking-map.pdf

Campus Map Legend (addresses shown are for location only, NOT mailing)

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Abernathy Hall, 1719 Alumni Drive, D5 Alumni Office,2263 Middle Tennessee Boulevard, A5 Alumni House, 2259 Middle Tennessee Boulevard, A5 Alumni Memorial Gym, 2610 Middle Tennessee Boulevard, B3 Business and Aerospace Building, 1642 MTSU Boulevard, D4 Boutwell Dramatic Arts Building, 615 Champion Way, C3 Beasley Hall, 323 Friendship Street, C5 TCWNHA (Black House), 1417 East Main Street, C6 John Bragg Media and Entertainment Building, 1735 Blue Raider Drive, D4 Cope Administration Building, 315 Visitor’s Circle, B5 College Heights Building, 1607 East Main Street, C6 Cason-Kennedy Nursing Building, 610 Champion Way, C3 College of Education Building, 1756 MTSU Boulevard, D4 Central Utility Plant/Cogeneration Plant, 729 Champion Way, C2 Corlew Hall, 1634 MTSU Boulevard, C3 Central Services Building (Day Care Center), 1835 Alumni Drive, E5 Deere Hall, 1619 Alumni Drive, D5 Davis Science Building, 422 Old Main Circle, C4 Tennessee Center for the Study and Treatment of Dyslexia, 200 North Baird Lane, C6 Ellington Human Sciences Building, 2623 Middle Tennessee Boulevard, A2 Ezell Hall, 1727 Blue Raider Drive, D5 Fairview Building, 820 Fairview Avenue, A1 Forrest Hall, 543 Champion Way, C3 Greenhouse, 1724 Lightning Way, D3 Gracy Hall, 321 Friendship Street, C5 Center for Historic Preservation (Harrison House), 1416 East Main Street, B6 Horticulture Facility, 1714 Lightning Way, D3 Housing Maintenance Annex, 657 Founders Lane, D3 Holmes Building (Maintenance Complex), 836 Champion Way, D2 Paul W. Martin Sr. Honors Building, 1737 Blue Raider Drive, D4 Sam H. Ingram Building, 2269 Middle Tennessee Boulevard, A5 Tom H. Jackson Building, 628 Alma Mater Drive, B3 Jim Cummings Hall, 1744 MTSU Boulevard, D3 Jones Hall, 624 Old Main Circle, C3 James Union Building, 516 Alma Mater Drive, B4 Judd Hall, 217 Friendship Street, C5 Kirksey Old Main, 612 Old Main Circle, B3 Emmett and Rose Kennon Sports Hall of Fame, 1320 Greenland Drive, B2 Keathley University Center, 1524 Military Memorial, C4 Lyon Hall, 414 Alma Mater Drive, B4 James E. Walker Library, 1611 Alumni Drive, D5 Ned McWherter Learning Resources Center, 1558 Military Memorial, C4 Miss Mary Hall, 414 Alma Mater Drive, B4 McFarland Building, 654 Founders Lane, D3 Murphy Center, 2650 Middle Tennessee Boulevard, B2 McHenry Hall, 414 Alma Mater Drive, B4 Andrew Woodfin Miller, Sr. Education Center, 503-509 Bell Street, (See inset at top right) Midgett Building, 612 Old Main Circle, B3 www.collegiateparent.com/school/middle-tennessee-state-university Monohan Hall, 312 Alma Mater Drive, B5 Naked Eye Observatory, 346 Old Main Circle, B4

To MEC

(see insert at top right)

FAIRVIEW AVEN UE

ABER ALOF ALUM AMG BAS BDA BH BLH BRAGG CAB CH CKNB COE COGN CORL CSB DH DSB DYS EHS EZEL FAIR FH GH GRH HARR HC HMA HOB HONR ING JACK JCH JH JUB JUDD KOM KSHF KUC LH LIB LRC MARY MB MC MCH MEC MGB MOH NEO

To MEC

(see insert at top right)

PCS

GH GRH HARR HC HMA HOB HONR ING JACK JCH JH JUB JUDD KOM KSHF KUC LH LIB LRC MARY MB MC MCH MEC MGB MOH NEO NICK OBS PCS PH PHLP PKS PSB REC REH RH ROTX SAG SBCH SCA SCC SCH SCI SCP SFA SIMS SL SMH SSAC STRO STU TB TENN TCM TLC TODD UP VA VET WANH WC WH WLA WMB WPS WSC

Greenhouse, 1724 Lightning Way, D3 Gracy Hall, 321 Friendship Street, C5 Center for Historic Preservation (Harrison House), 1416 East Main Street, B6 Horticulture Facility, 1714 Lightning Way, D3 Housing Maintenance Annex, 657 Founders Lane, D3 Holmes Building (Maintenance Complex), 836 Champion Way, D2 Paul W. Martin Sr. Honors Building, 1737 Blue Raider Drive, D4 Sam H. Ingram Building, 2269 Middle Tennessee Boulevard, A5 Tom H. Jackson Building, 628 Alma Mater Drive, B3 Jim Cummings Hall, 1744 MTSU Boulevard, D3 Jones Hall, 624 Old Main Circle, C3 James Union Building, 516 Alma Mater Drive, B4 Judd Hall, 217 Friendship Street, C5 Kirksey Old Main, 612 Old Main Circle, B3 Emmett and Rose Kennon Sports Hall of Fame, 1320 Greenland Drive, B2 Keathley University Center, 1524 Military Memorial, C4 Lyon Hall, 414 Alma Mater Drive, B4 James E. Walker Library, 1611 Alumni Drive, D5 Ned McWherter Learning Resources Center, 1558 Military Memorial, C4 Miss Mary Hall, 414 Alma Mater Drive, B4 McFarland Building, 654 Founders Lane, D3 Murphy Center, 2650 Middle Tennessee Boulevard, B2 McHenry Hall, 414 Alma Mater Drive, B4 Andrew Woodfin Miller, Sr. Education Center, 503-509 Bell Street, (See inset at top right) Midgett Building, 612 Old Main Circle, B3 Monohan Hall, 312 Alma Mater Drive, B5 Naked Eye Observatory, 346 Old Main Circle, B4 Nicks Hall, 1715 Alumni Drive, D5 Observatory, 346 Old Main Circle, C5 Homer Pittard Campus School, 923 East Lytle Street, A4 Peck Hall, 537 Old Main Circle, B4 Project Help, 206 North Baird Lane, C5 Parking Services Building, 1403 East Main Street, B6 Printing Services Building, 1756 Greenland Drive, D2 Health, Wellness, and Recreation Center (Health Services located inside the HWRC), 1848 Blue Raider Drive, E4 Reynolds Hall, 312 Alma Mater Drive, B5 Rutledge Hall, 526 Alma Mater Drive, B3 ROTC Annex, 531 Champion Way, C4 Stark Agriculture Center, 651 Founders Lane, D3 Stephen B. Smith Baseball Clubhouse, 641 Champion Way, C2 Scarlett Commons Apartments 1-9, 1858 MTSU Boulevard, E3 Sports Club Complex, 2111 East Main Street, F7 Schardt Hall, 312 Alma Mater Drive, B5 Science Building, 440 Friendship Street, C5 Satellite Chiller Plant, 215 College Heights, C5 Saunders Fine Arts Building, 629 Normal Way, C3 Sims Hall, 215 Friendship Street, C5 Soils Lab, C6 Smith Hall, 318 Old Main Circle, C5 Student Services and Admissions Center, 1860 Blue Raider Drive, E4 Strobel Lobby, C4 Student Union Building, 1768 MTSU Boulevard, E4 Telescope Building, 1852 MTSU Boulevard, F4 Buck Bouldin Tennis Center, 1210 Greenland Drive, B1 Telecommunications Building, 732 Champion Way, D2 Tennessee Livestock Center, 1720 Greenland Drive, D2 Andrew L. Todd Hall, 542 Old Main Circle, C4 University Police, 1412 East Main Street, B6 Vocational Agriculture, 1704 Lightning Way, D3 Voorhies Engineering Technology, 1212 Faulkinberry Drive, B3 Internal Audit (Wansley House), 209 North Baird Lane, C6 Woodmore Cybercafe, 319 Friendship Street, C5 Warehouse (Maintenance Complex), 1672 Greenland Drive, D1 Womack Lane Apartments A-L, 1815 Alumni Drive, E5 Wright Music Building, 1439 Faulkinberry Drive, C3 Wiser-Patten Science Hall, 422 Old Main Circle, C4 Wood-Stegall Center (Development and University Advancement), 120 Old Main Circle, B5

Middle Tennessee State University

To MEC

(see insert at top right)

PCS

E. MAIN STR

Murfreesboro

Parking and Use map for

Color code for

Faculty, Staff,

Green Permit

Disabled Park

0319

19

Answered

Your Top Questions

We know that this is a time of transition for everyone in your family. We have come up with a list of answers to frequently asked questions to help alleviate stress and to help you and your student be successful during this time.

Q:

Why can’t I attend my student’s advising appointment during CUSTOMS?

A:

In 1974, the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) was passed as United States law. FERPA passed the right to privacy onto students when they reach the age of 18, or attend an institution beyond the high school level. Under FERPA, you are not permitted to attend your student’s advising appointment during CUSTOMS. This is a great opportunity for your student to practice advocating for themselves and it gives them a space to begin building a relationship with their academic advisor. We know being involved in your student’s academic career is important to you. Though you’re unable to attend the advising appointment, you will be able to speak with your student about their schedule once they’ve met with their advisor and scheduled their classes. If you believe a change needs to be made to your student’s schedule, the change can be done online through PipelineMT with the permission of your student’s academic advisor.

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Q: A:

When can I access my student’s bill for the fall semester?

Fall 2020 registration bills will be available online through your student’s PipelineMT account in July.

Bills will not be mailed. For a complete list of important Financial Aid dates and deadlines, please visit mtsu.edu/tuition/dates.php.

Q: A:

How do I pay my student’s bill?

Your student will need to grant you permission to access and pay their bill online through Authorized User Account Information in their PipelineMT account. Once your student authorizes you, you will receive an email with a password and a URL to sign on and set up a personal password. Authorized users can also log in at the Parent/Guardian payment link listed under Quick Links on the mtsu.edu website.

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Q: A:

Where should my student live?

Your student has the option to live either on campus or off campus.

We strongly encourage students to live on campus during their first year because research shows that students who live on campus have a higher retention rate, on average, than their off-campus peers.

However, your student will need to select the housing situation that works best for them. Here is some information about MTSU’s housing options: On-Campus Housing: Campus Housing provides your student with opportunities for growth, development, and learning outside of the classroom. We are so much more than a roof over your student’s head! We invite your student to become a part of campus life by joining one of our many Living Learning Communities, participating in their hall’s Programming Council, or simply attending one of their RA’s programming events. There are so many ways to contribute to this vibrant

community! We welcome you and your student to explore mtsu.edu/housing to find out more about on-campus living.

Off-Campus Housing: There are many different living arrangements for students off campus. MTSU does not endorse or operate any apartment complexes or housing options located off campus. You and your student will need to do some research to see what arrangement may be best for them. Many have transportation to and from campus, and various living arrangements are available.

Q: A:

What will my student eat on campus?

Here at MTSU, there are over 20 dining options located across campus for your student’s convenience.

Whether they have a meal plan or not, your student is able to eat at any location on campus. From coffee in the morning at Starbucks or Dunkin’ Donuts, a snack before or after class from one of the Provisions on Demand (P.O.D) locations,

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to lunch and dinner in locations such as Chick-Fil-A, Farmer’s Market, Steak ‘n Shake, the two all you can eat dining halls, and many others — your student has plenty of options. For a complete list of dining services, as well as information about meal plans, please visit mtsu.campusdish.com.

navigate their first year in college. Students are also encouraged to build relationships with their professors and seek additional support during their office hours and study sessions when available. Your student can also visit the Office of Student Success for additional support.

Q: A:

Q: A:

How will my student be supported academically?

There are many resources offered on campus to help your student succeed academically. Your student will be assigned an Academic Advisor based on their major. This process is meant to foster a collaborative and mentoring relationship among advisors and students to ensure student success throughout their time on campus. Advisors will provide guidance about courses and major progress while supporting students by connecting them to other services that will aid in their success. These services can include: free campus and online tutoring, Supplemental Instruction, and a series of workshops designed to assist freshmen as they

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What is the S.T.A.R. Program?

Why should my student enroll?

S.T.A.R. is a program designed to jump-start your student’s college career. It is held the week prior to classes beginning and will aid their transition to MTSU. Benefits for S.T.A.R. Participants include: head start on college; positive academic, social, and long-term impact; enhanced preparation for college-level general education courses; leadership training, service-learning, and teambuilding opportunities; early move in to housing. All students must enroll and complete the University Seminar (UNIV 1010) course during the fall semester. The program will cover meals, activities, and early move-in charges for students who

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have secured their on-campus housing.

Commuter students are also welcome to attend the program.

Program Fee: Before May 1 $65.00 May 2 – June 26 $85.00 July 1 – August 1 $100.00

Q: A:

students are encouraged to reach out to the specific department they’re interested in working for to see what opportunities might be available.

Q: A:

Can my student earn a degree in four years?

Where can my student look for a job on or off campus?

Students can search on Lightning Career Link for part-time offcampus jobs as well as internship/co-op positions that will prepare them for their future careers. For more information and to review job postings, students can login here: mtsu.edu/career/LCL.php. For oncampus jobs, students can access some listings here: mtsu.edu/career/transition_ stu.php. For all other opportunities,

At MTSU, students must complete a minimum of 120 semester hours with a 2.00 grade point average. We encourage students to carry a full-time course load of 15 hours per semester in order to complete their degree in four years.

This is not a requirement, but if students are fulfilling that 15-hour full-time status, they can easily graduate in four years.

Degree requirements do vary from major to major, so please be sure that your student discusses their graduation goals with their academic advisor to create the best graduation plan for them.

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A Focus on

Student Health and Wellness Research shows that students who engage in positive health behaviors like managing stress, eating nutritious foods, engaging in regular physical activity, and limiting substance use earn higher GPAs. MTSU Health Promotion, a division within Health Services, strives to create an environment where healthy choices become more natural choices for students.

These efforts happen through media campaigns, campus health events, and individual student appointments and consultations.

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Not “Animal House”

Finding Your “Fit”

Contrary to the depictions of college life in movies like Animal House and Old School, most MTSU students do not frequently engage in the high-risk practices that make up college stereotypes. In fact, the alcohol consumption of MTSU students is about half the national average (2 drinks a week for MTSU students on average compared to 3.8 for college students nationally), with approximately 30% avoiding alcohol altogether.

MTSU is a great place for healthy-minded students, whether they have already established healthy behaviors, or they are looking for ways to improve. Any given time of year, there are multiple programs and special events taking place that are focused on health.

Health Promotion staff share this data with students to limit the pressures they may feel in their efforts to live what they perceive to be the true college experience.

80% of MTSU students say it is easy to make friends without drinking alcohol, so students don’t need to compromise their values or to engage in risky behaviors fit in.

You can support your student by reinforcing these messages and having candid conversations with them about substance use before and during their time in college.

Campus Rec offers fitness classes, outdoor trips, aquatic programs, sports clubs, etc., as well as programs like Raider Fit, which groups first-year students with a personal trainer and nutrition mentor. Health Promotion provides special programming in various locations across campus for events like National Nutrition Month, National Collegiate Alcohol Awareness Week, Spring Break Safety Week, and Wear Red Day. There is even a semi-annual Destress Fest to encourage students to relax and take some time for themselves before final exam week begins.

Please encourage your student to check out these offerings and to value their health holistically.

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Personalized Care Even with the best health behaviors, there will still be times when students need professional care for their health. Health Promotion offers free individual sessions with a health coach to work on developing goals and plans and then providing accountability to the student clients.

Additionally, students have access to free appointments with a dietitian for concerns around healthy eating. Counseling Services sees students for mental health needs and helps connect them with services on and off campus to meet those needs. Lastly, the doctors and other providers in Health Services see students when health care is needed. There is no charge to see a doctor for a sick visit, and labs and other services are offered at a low cost designed to meet student budgets.

All of the resources are in place to help students thrive physically and mentally during their time at MTSU. The connection between mind, body, and academic success is real, and by working together, we can help give your students a strong base on which to stand. Check in with your students often to gauge how they are feeling, and recommend these services when you think they could help.

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Resources to Support Your Student’s Health and Wellness Counseling Services Location: Keathley University Center Room 326-S Office Hours: 8:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m.

(Monday–Friday) *For after hours emergencies call Mobile Crisis (800) 704-2651 or go to the nearest emergency room.

Student Health Services Location: Student Recreation Center Office Hours: 8:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m.

(Monday–Thursday); 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. (Friday) Appointments can be scheduled online by students at mtsu.edu/healthservices.

Health Promotion Location: Student Recreation Center Phone: (615) 494-8704 Campus Recreation Location: Campus Recreation Center *Hours change throughout the year. Please have your student consult the website frequently to see when the rec center is open.

Phone: (615) 898-2104

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Academic Calendar FALL SEMESTER 2020 (Term Dates: August 24–December 10, 2020) April 6–17

Priority Registration

August 24

Classes Begin

September 7

Labor Day Holiday — No Classes

October 10–13

Fall Break — No Classes

November 25–28

Thanksgiving Holidays — No Classes

December 2

Last Day of Classes

December 3

Study Day — No Classes

December 4–10

Final Examinations

December 10

Last Day of Term

December 12

Commencement

December 14

Deadline for Final Grades

SPRING SEMESTER 2021 (Term Dates: January 19–May 6, 2021) November 2–13, 2020

Priority Registration

January 18

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Holiday — No Classes

January 19

Classes Begin

March 8–13

Spring Break — No Classes

April 28

Last Day of Classes

April 29

Study Day — No Classes

April 30–May 6

Final Examinations

May 6

Last Day of Term

May 7

Commencement for College of Graduate Studies

May 8

Undergraduate Commencement

May 10

Deadline for Final Grades Middle Tennessee State University

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Lightning’s Lingo

BlueID is an ID card that identifies MTSU students, faculty, and staff for access to campus services and privileges. With the BlueID card, students can check out books at the MTSU Library, be admitted to the Recreation Center and campus computer labs, and buy tickets to campus events.

In addition, students can use the card to receive student health services, use student meal plans, and be admitted to residence halls.

PipelineMT is the system students use to register for classes, pay fees, check email, and much more.

M# is a Student ID number that has been assigned to each student to replace the use of Social Security Numbers on campus.

This number can be found on the BlueID card and on PipelineMT.

University Convocation, held before classes begin each fall semester, marks the beginning of a new academic year and the transformation of each student into a contributing member of the MTSU community. It also marks the transformation of our academic community, which will be forever changed by the entrance of each class. Convocation is followed by the President’s Picnic.

The Blue Horseshoe The Horseshoe was created by MTSU Student Ambassadors to establish a new campus tradition. A penny from 1911, the year MTSU was founded, was dropped into the ground under the statue and supplies good luck for those who touch the Blue Horseshoe. Alumni, students, and fans are encouraged to touch the Blue Horseshoe for good luck before an event— such as the big game, performance, student organization function, or even before a test or class presentation.

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Connection Point provides incoming students a great way to immediately get involved with out-of-classroom activities.

Each semester a slate of fun, educational, and athletic events are organized just for your student. In addition to meeting new people and making new friends, they can also win some terrific prizes. mtsu.edu/stuaff/connect

Raider Funds is the debit card feature of the ID system. Students and employees may deposit money in their personal Raider Fund account and then use their BlueID to pay for fees, meals, vending machines, and photocopiers, and to purchase books, supplies, and personal items at the bookstore.

FlexBucks, similar to Raider Funds, are for food purchases only and can be used in any ARAMARK dining location on campus. FlexBucks can be reloaded at any time throughout the semester. FlexBucks attached to a meal plan expire at the end of the semester.

Lightning (MTSU’s Mascot) is a flying Pegasus, a blue, winged horse, born in 1998. Lightning symbolizes the University’s Aerospace program and the Middle Tennessee region’s heritage in the walking horse industry.

Raider Xpress is a shuttle service designed to transport faculty, staff, students, and visitors around campus. The service is available only when classes are in session.

Current bus routes with construction detours can be found at mtsu.edu/parking/transportation.php.

Student Government Association (SGA) Road Rallies are student trips to away football and basketball games offered at a discounted price through the SGA. The package price includes transportation, a hotel room (if an overnight trip), and a game ticket. The Road Rally price usually ranges from $20–$100 depending on the trip. For more information, visit mtsu.edu/sga/rally.php.

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Resources

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Resource

Website

Phone

Athletics

goblueraiders.com

(615) 898-2450

Business Office (Bursar)

mtsu.edu/tuition

(615) 898-2111

Campus Organizations

mtsu.edu/sos

(615) 898-5812

Campus Recreation

mtsu.edu/camprec

(615) 898-2104

Career Development Center

mtsu.edu/career

(615) 898-2500

College of Basic and Applied Sciences

mtsu.edu/cbas

(615) 898-2613

College of Behavioral and Health Sciences

mtsu.edu/cbhs

(615) 898-2900

College of Business

mtsu.edu/business

(615) 898-2764

College of Education

mtsu.edu/education

(615) 898-2874

College of Liberal Arts

mtsu.edu/liberalarts

(615) 898-2534

College of Media and Entertainment

mtsu.edu/media

(615) 898-8490

Counseling Services

mtsu.edu/countest

(615) 898-2670

Disability and Access Center

mtsu.edu/dac

(615) 898-2783

Education Abroad

mtsu.edu/abroad

(615) 898-5179

Experiential Learning (EXL)

mtsu.edu/exl

(615) 898-5542

FAFSA Application

fafsa.ed.gov

(615) 898-2111

Financial Aid

mtsu.edu/financial-aid

(615) 898-2111

Food Services

mtdining.com

(615) 898-2675

Fraternity and Sorority Life

mtsu.edu/greeks

(615) 898-5812

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Resource

Website

Phone

General Education

mtsu.edu/gen_ed

(615) 898-2386

Health Services

mtsu.edu/healthservices

(615) 898-2988

Honors College

mtsu.edu/honors

(615) 898-2152

Housing and Residential Life

mtsu.edu/housing

(615) 898-2971

Information Technology

mtsu.edu/itd

(615) 898-5345

Intercultural and Diversity Affairs

mtsu.edu/idac

(615) 898-5812

International Programs

mtsu.edu/intered

(615) 898-2116

James E. Walker Library

mtsu.edu/library

(615) 898-2817

June Anderson Center for Women and Nontraditional Students

mtsu.edu/jac

(615) 898-5812

MT One Stop

mtsu.edu/one-stop

(615) 898-2111

Parent and Family Association

mtsu.edu/parents

(615) 898-2454

Parking Services

mtsu.edu/parking

(615) 898-2850

Phillips Bookstore

mtsu.edu/phillips

(615) 898-2700

Post Office

mtsu.edu/postoffice

(615) 898-2459

Student Affairs

mtsu.edu/stuaff

(615) 898-2440

Student Government Association

mtsu.edu/sga

Student Programming and Activities

mtsu.edu/events

(615) 898-2551

Testing Services

mtsu.edu/countest

(615) 898-2863

University Police

mtsu.edu/police

(615) 898-2424

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