FAMILY RESOURCE GUIDE
Dr. Lara Vance Dean of Students
“The network we have in place is not only flled with knowledgeable people, but these are faculty and staff members who put students frst and care about them.”
NAVIGATING COLLEGE Together
As I welcome you to the Colonel family, I do so with great awareness of the responsibility we have not only to your student, but also to you. You have trusted us with someone you love. When I sent my own children to college, I realized that they still had many life skills they needed to learn. Instead of just hoping they “fgure it out,” though, I trusted that they would fnd supportive instructors and staff to answer questions – even the questions they did not know they needed to ask.
SUPPORTING SUCCESS
EASTERN KENTUCKY UNIVERSITY
Sometimes, young adults think that adulthood means they are on their own, but we know that is far from the truth. This resource guide is designed to help you make suggestions to your student so that they can connect with supportive members of the EKU community. The network we have in place is not only flled with knowledgeable people, but these are faculty and staff members who put students frst and care about them.
As their family, you know your student best, and we stand ready to partner with you in guiding your student through this new journey. We look forward to celebrating successes alongside you and your student, helping them through challenges and, before you know it, sharing in your joy as they earn their college degree.
Sincerely,
Dr. Lara Vance
Going to college is a big, exciting step for students and their families! At Eastern Kentucky University, we take care of our students like family with a game-changing college experience. They live and learn in a friendly, safe environment where they can truly shine and receive all the help they need.
NAVIGATING STUDENT SUPPORT AND SAFETY
From the handy S.A.F.E. App for emergencies to top-notch healthcare services, our inclusive campus vibe, support for minority students and vets, and ongoing efforts to ensure fairness and safety, we’re here for your student every step of the way!
S.A.F.E. APP
EKU’s new S.A.F.E. App, created with the Student Government Association, offers advanced safety features for students, including emergency alerts, contact options and more. Learn more here: go.eku.edu/safe
HEALTH
At EKU, we make sure your student is well taken care of when it comes to their health. They’ll get great healthcare and learn how to make good choices for a healthy life.
Learn more at go.eku.edu/health EKU wants all students to feel like they belong. We’re a campus that welcomes everyone, helping students grow in every way. Find out more at inclusive.eku.edu
ACADEMY SCHOLARS
Academy Scholars helps any frst year EKU student interested in developing a sense of belonging at EKU to be a game changer. Check it out at go.eku.edu/academy
VETERANS SUPPORT
EKU offers top-notch support for veterans and their families, with programs geared toward their success. See what’s available at go.eku.edu/veterans
CAMPUS
EQUITY
We have plans to make sure your student’s college experience is fair and safe. Visit go.eku.edu/equity
GAME CHANGING RESOURCES
At EKU, students have lots of programs and services to help them succeed in class and in life. Here are some special support systems we offer:
THE STUDENT SUCCESS CENTER where students can get help with their classes, money questions and even managing stress. Find out more at go.eku.edu/success
OFFICE OF ADVISING AND CAREER SERVICES (OACS) helps students fgure out their career and life goals, make good study plans and do their best in school. Visit oacs.eku.edu
FREE TUTORING lets students get one-on-one help, join study groups and attend workshops. Check it out at eku.edu/successcenter/tutoring-and-mentoring
FREE PROFESSIONAL COUNSELING to help students with their emotional and social development. Learn more at go.eku.edu/counseling
THE NOEL STUDIO FOR ACADEMIC CREATIVITY offers help with writing, speaking and research. Visit go.eku.edu/noel
FIRST-YEAR EXPERIENCE has fun activities and programs to help new students get off to a great start at EKU. Go to frstyear.eku.edu
WORTH THE COST
EASTERN KENTUCKY UNIVERSITY
We understand that cost is a big deal when choosing a college. Great news: we offer an excellent education at a price that’s easy on your wallet. For the most recent cost information, visit go.eku.edu/fees
IN-STATE COST
Undergraduate tuition & fees
Room & Meals
OUT-OF-STATE COST
Undergraduate tuition & fees
Room & Meals
TEXTBOOKS
Free for all undergraduate students
BECOME A GAME CHANGER
EASTERN KENTUCKY UNIVERSITY
STRESS FREE FINANCIAL AID
EASTERN KENTUCKY UNIVERSITY
More than 70% of EKU students receive fnancial aid—a real game-changer when it comes to affording college. Financial aid can make the dream of attending college a reality. Our aid options include grants, scholarships, loans and workstudy programs. You and your student can work with our trained counselors to create the best fnancial plan. For more information, visit go.eku.edu/bec
Start With The FAFSA!
All federal and state grants, loans and work-study programs start with the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Filling out the FAFSA can open many doors to fnancial assistance, making it an essential step in your college preparation.
EKU’s FAFSA School Code: 001963 FAFSA BIG E CENTRAL
SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
Don’t forget about scholarships! Based on high school grades and optional test scores, EKU offers a variety of merit scholarships for eligible students. To see how much your student might receive, use our online Scholarship Estimator at go.eku.edu/estimator or check out our scholarship page at go.eku.edu/scholarships
SCHOLARSHIPS
• Freshman Merit
• Dr. Rodney Gross
• EKU Alumni Legacy
• Foundation Fund Opportunities
• Trailblazer
• EKU Departmental Awards
AND MORE!
Curious about what EKU’s all about? You’ve got options—stop by campus for a frsthand look or take a virtual tour from your home! Check it out at go.eku.edu/visit
DECEMBER
FAFSA OPENS
MARCH 1ST
ADMISSIONS DEADLINE FOR SCHOLARSHIPS
Awards Continue Until Funds Run Out
JUNE 1ST DEADLINE TO ACCEPT SCHOLARSHIPS
Whether its a campus tour, Spotlight event, Maroon Madness or even an event in your town, we have a lot of different options for you to see what EKU is all about! Details are at go.eku.edu/events
WELCOME TO OUR FAMILY
EASTERN KENTUCKY UNIVERSITY
EKU Parent & Family Network
Empowering Support for Your Student’s Journey
As part of the Eastern Kentucky University community, once your student is admitted, we invite you to become a member of the EKU Parent & Family Network. This free network is designed to empower you with resources and information, helping you support your student’s success at EKU. Here’s what you’ll gain by joining:
E-Newsletter Communications
Receive monthly e-newsletters flled with resources, reminders and articles tailored to support your student’s journey.
Share Your Voice
Get opportunities to share your thoughts and opinions, helping us meet your needs as an EKU parent or family member.
Event Information
Stay updated on all Parent & Family Programs events.
Parent Portal Access
Explore our new Parent Portal for additional resources and information.
FAMILY SUPPORT & QUICK TIPS
SUPPORT
College is a time for students to learn and become independent. Support them in making their own decisions and solving problems on their own.
Keep in touch with your student regularly. A call or text can go a long way in showing you care, but it’s also important to give them space to grow.
Plan a visit to EKU’s campus. It shows your interest in their life and gives you a glimpse of their new world. eku.university-tour.com
Help them manage their fnances. Teach them budgeting and the importance of saving. Know about the resources EKU offers, such as tutoring, counseling and career services. Encourage your student to use these resources if needed.
Remind them to take care of their health. Eating right, exercising and getting enough sleep are crucial for their wellbeing.
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