Welcome, Zag Family.
87% Important Dates 2018-2019 JULY 17 AUG 3
First Year Experience Online Course
AUG 24-27
Orientation Weekend
SEPT 3 OCT 5-7 OCT 22
Photo Submission for Student ZAGCARD due
AUG 17
AUG 27
New Student Health Clearance due
NOV 21-23
Classes Begin Labor Day (no class) Fall Family Weekend Founder’s Day (no class) Thanksgiving Break
DEC 7
Classes End
DEC 11-14
Final Exams
DEC 15
Residence Halls Close for Christmas Break
JAN 15
Classes Begin
FEB 18
President’s Day (no class)
MAR 11-15
Spring Vacation
APR 19
Good Friday (no class)
APR 22
Easter Holiday (no class)
MAY 3
Classes End
MAY 7-10
Final Exams
MAY 11
Residence Halls Close
Of students agree orientation made them feel welcomed at gonzaga.
Dear Gonzaga Families, Greetings from the Parent and Family Office! We hope you will come to see Gonzaga as a “home away from home” by offering you a full range of services and resources. We encourage you to play an active role in your soon-to-be Zag’s journey at Gonzaga University. I was the first in my family to go to college. My family didn’t know what to expect. They were apprehensive about my distance from home, how to pay for college, and they knew I would be challenged academically like I had never been before. When I left for college, they were as uneasy as I was about what would happen next. Today’s Gonzaga families will experience something different during Parent/Family Orientation. You will gain valuable information to support your Zag and resources to “guide from the side” for the next four years. In this newsletter, we have compiled some of the most important topics for you as a new Zag family. You can stay connected to your student’s experience through the monthly e-newsletter, http://blogs.gonzaga.edu/parents/, published through our office; you can access this newsletter through our website, www.gonzaga.edu/parents, along with lots of other helpful information and updates for families. Also, don't miss the chance to attend our Parent & Family Orientation, August 24-26, 2017. You can register at https://commerce.cashnet.com/GUPFO. Trust that the entire Gonzaga Community is dedicated to assisting with your family’s transition to Gonzaga University. We look forward to meeting you in August and sharing this exciting milestone in your family’s life.
Amy Swank Director, Parent and Family Relations swank@gonzaga.edu
@GonzagaFamilies
Topics Covered Over the Summer & During New Student Orientation: Of students agree orientation helped them understand what is expected academically.
75%
» »
82%
Of students agree orientation helped them to understand what is expected socially. *Fall 2017 National Orientation Benchmarking Survey
» » » »
Conversations about healthy relationships, bystander intervention, mental/emotional well-being and alcohol and other drugs IGNITE Series featuring speakers on academics, involvement, diversity, and Jesuit, Catholic heritage Advisor meeting with their academic advisor Summer IGNITE blog and How to Zag GUide Welcome to the Spokane community Orientation Weekend campus traditions
Center for Student Academic Success Congratulations families! The Center for Student Academic Success is an all-inclusive, one-stop shop offering programs that are designed to empower Gonzaga students to become active and independent learners in their own academic success. The Center includes three distinct, but integrated departments: Academic Advising & Course Enrollment (AACE) Professional advisors from AACE have been busy preparing for the arrival of your Zag this fall, which includes the creation of their first semester schedule. Your student should have completed the Academic Interest Survey by now, which tells us what they want to study as a Gonzaga student. Based on your student’s input, as well as our knowledge of Gonzaga’s degree and program requirements, we will enroll your students in a first-semester schedule that puts them on track to graduate on time. Communication and interaction with AACE advisors may be your student’s first opportunity to selfadvocate and begin learning how to navigate college on his or her own. If they have a question about their schedule, or our office, encourage your student to contact us. To learn more about AACE, visit us online at www.gonzaga.edu/aaa.
Disability Access Office (DA) If your student has a documented disability for which an accommodation is necessary, please direct your student to contact the professionals in Disability Access. The process for establishing disability accommodation in college is different from the experience you may have had while your student was in high school. At Gonzaga, your student must take the lead and engage in the interactive process with the professionals in Disability Access. This is an important step to determine the most appropriate accommodation plan designed to support your student in their access…and success!
*Learning Strategies Management (LSM) This division includes The Learning Studio where students can access group tutoring in subjects such as mathematics and chemistry, oneon-one discipline specific tutoring
with a peer Learning Assistant, and information about other tutoring options on Gonzaga’s campus. Students may also seek help to fine tune study skills, learn how to become an effective time manager, and manage the stress and anxiety associated with college transition through workshops, group and individual meetings. LSM also includes the Academic Testing Center where hundreds of exams are proctored every semester. Every Gonzaga student, regardless of how well prepared they are for college, will benefit from utilizing the academic resources provided by fourteen experienced professional staff and 25 peer Learning Assistants who work in the Center for Student Academic Success. This experienced team stands ready to support your student.
Mail Services Location: Boone Avenue Retail Center Phone: (509) 313-5697
U.S. Bank Account Open your Student’s U.S. Bank Account at Gonzaga
E-Mail: mailservices@gonzaga.edu Web: www.gonzaga.edu/mail Gonzaga Mail Services is located on the south side of the BARC (817 E DeSmet Avenue). Students may receive and send packages/mail via USPS, FEDEX, and UPS. Mail Services provides all services a US Postal sub-station does, including receiving certified, insured, priority, express, first class, parcel letters and packages. Students must pick up mail and packages at this location as there are no deliveries to residence halls or apartments. There are virtual mailboxes and secure lockers for distribution of mail/packages. Students will receive an email letting them know they have mail. Students will need their ZAGCARD to pick-up mail/packages. Mail Services regular hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Mail Services is closed on weekends and University observed holidays. Mail Services will be open during Orientation Weekend on Friday, August 25 from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Saturday, August 26 from 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.
As you prepare to bring your student to college, there are many reasons to wait to open a bank account until you reach campus:
» » »
Please have all incoming mail addressed as follows:
(Student Name) Gonzaga University MSC (your number) 502 E Boone Ave Spokane WA 99258
Students will receive their MSC number to their home address in July. To reserve a mailbox, visit www.gonzaga.edu/about/offices-services/ mail-services Students may start sending things to campus starting August 1st. Just a reminder, all students living on campus must have a MSC. Outgoing mail is picked up in Mail Services at 2:30 p.m. daily. Mail Services accepts Bulldog Bucks, cash, checks, and debit/credit cards with the exception of Discover and American Express.
» »
There will be a streamlined account opening during Orientation weekend. It will only take 5 minutes! U.S. Bank is the only bank on campus. Your student’s bank account will be managed by the Gonzaga Branch, which can handle special situations that might arise. Your student will receive a promotional gift at account opening. There are 3 U.S. Bank ATMs on campus.
If you have questions about the U.S. Bank at Gonzaga and the services available, contact: Gonzaga University Branch, Hemmingson Center (509) 325-7027
The Essentials ZAGCARD, Bulldog Bucks and Meal Plans The ZAGCARD identifies your student as a member of the Gonzaga community. Not only is the card needed to access meal plans and Bulldog Bucks it is also used to enter residence halls, the fitness center, athletic events and other secured areas on campus. Your student should keep their ZAGCARD with them at all times and never share it with others. For new incoming students, the deadline to submit a photo is August 3rd. Visit www.gonzaga.edu/zagcard, click on the Submit Your Photo link for photo requirements and upload instructions. When students pick up their ZAGCARD during orientation they must present an original (not picture or photo copy), valid (not temporary, expired or voided), government issued photo ID such as a driver’s license, driver’s permit, state ID, passport or military ID. If a government ID is not available we will accept original birth certificate, social security card and a piece of mail sent to the student at the address on file with the university. All three documents must be presented.
Bulldog Bucks – the way ZAGS pay Bulldog Bucks is a stored value account managed by the University and included with all meal plans. Bulldog Bucks included with meal plans are intended to supplement the plan and last the entire semester. The account is free, cannot be overdrawn and simplifies campus living by using the ZAGCARD to make a purchase. Bulldog Bucks can be spent on campus at all Zag Dining locations, the Zag Shop (Bookstore) as well as multiple departments. In addition, there are over 20 locations off campus where Bulldog Bucks are accepted. Available Bulldog Bucks roll over from semester to semester and year to year as long as the student is enrolled. Visit www.gonzaga.edu/zagcard to learn more about Bulldog Bucks, how to make a deposit and to view a list of participating locations. Anyone can make a deposit to Bulldog Bucks, all they need is your students GU ID number! Visit www.gonzaga.edu/bulldogbucks.
Meal Plans All freshmen and sophomores living on campus are required to purchase a meal plan. Students select their meal plan when they sign up for housing. When choosing a plan, take into consideration class schedule and eating habits. If a meal plan is not selected, the plan will default to Platinum – All Access. The meal plan selected for fall semester will default for spring unless it is changed. Students have the opportunity to change their meal plan until Friday, the last day of the first week of class, at 5:00 pm. For any questions or more information, visit www.ZagDining.com Meal Plan Glossary 1887 at Cataldo Technology-focused dining hall with a dine-in or take-out option
COG (kog)
All-you-care-to-eat dining hall located in the Hemmingson Center
Bulldog Bucks
Stored value account, available funds can be spent on campus and participating off campus locations.
Late Night
COG open with special menu and planned activities on Friday and Saturday nights
Swipe
he act of swiping the ZAGCARD to enter a T dining hall = 1 meal
Zag Dining
University dining team, managed by Sodexo
2017-18 Meal Plans Platinum All Access: Provides unrestricted entrance into the dining halls and 500 Bulldog Bucks • Includes 5 guest meals (swipes) per semester • Includes 4 parent/family meals (swipes) per semester Gold 16: Provides 16 meals (swipes) in the dining halls per week and 550 Bulldog Bucks Includes 5 additional guest meals (swipes) per semester Silver 12: Provides 12 meals (swipes) in the dining halls per week and 700 Bulldog Bucks Includes 5 additional guest meals (swipes) per semester Blue 225: Provides 225 meals (swipes) in the dining halls during the semester and 600 Bulldog Bucks Allows student to swipe for guest(s); will deduct from available meal balance White 175: Provides 175 meals (swipes) in the dining halls during the semester and 800 Bulldog Bucks Allows student to swipe for guest(s); will deduct from available meal balance * Per week meal count resets before breakfast on Friday, unused meals do not roll over to the following week. * At the end of the semester Bulldog Bucks roll over, unused meals do not.
What Steps Should Families Take? Step 1 Register to attend Parent /
Family Orientation
While your student is immersed in Student Orientation, you will be attending the Parent and Family Orientation. This orientation is customized especially for you! We will walk you through all the uncertainties, questions and concerns that families often experience when dropping their student off for college. Your student does not need to register for New Student Orientation. Registration is required for Parent and Family Orientation. Some highlights of the weekend include: family information sessions, resource fair, campus tours, Presidential address with Q&A, optional BBQ lunch for families, and faculty reception. Register by Aug 17th at www.gonzaga.edu/parents.
Step 2 Encourage your student to
check these sites often for important information about New Student Orientation: website: » Orientation www.gonzaga.edu/orientation blog: » Orientation blogs.gonzaga.edu/orientation to Zag GUide: » How www.gonzaga.edu/zagguide » Individual Zagmail account
Step 3 Mark your calendar with the
following dates
Housing & Residence Life Living on campus is a HUGE part of the Gonzaga experience. In Housing and Residence Life, we create safe, inclusive, and dynamic communities that empower students’ holistic development through social engagement and experiential learning. We believe this happens through community events, and relationships with each other and the residence life staff. Housing Office Communication The Housing Office typically uses email to provide more specifics. Encourage your student to actively monitor their ZagMail account. Room & Roommate Assignments In June, the Housing and Residence Life Office will send your Zag details on how they can log into ZagLiving and select who they would like to live with as well as where they would like reside their first year on campus. Students will have the opportunity to search available spaces and select the one that best fits what they are looking for. Useful information regarding their transition to GU will be included in that email. Early to mid-August, students will be informed of their specific room assignment, as well as contact information for their roommate(s) if they did not select a space during their time window. Zags that don’t select a space will be assigned by the Housing and Residence Life Office utilizing our roommate matching system.
Roommates Encourage your student to coordinate with their roommate so you don’t bring duplicate items that are OK to share.
Storage There is limited space in your rooms. Bring only the necessities to make packing at the end of the year much easier. Decide, for instance, whether you will really ride your bicycle frequently or only a couple of times when the weather is nice. Also, there is no on-campus storage for students' belongings over the summer. Laundry Free residence hall laundry rooms are available with both washers and dryers. Just bring your own detergent and laundry supplies.
Aug. 17
Registration Deadline for Parent and Family Orientation
Aug. 24
Parent & Family Orientation Check-In
Kitchens Some halls have “kitchenettes” that can be used
Aug. 24
Orientation Opening Ceremony
Aug. 25
Parent & Family Orientation Programming
by residents. Some cookware is provided for community use, however, serving and beverage ware is not provided.
Aug. 26
President’s Reception
Aug. 26
Families Say Good Bye
Oct. 5-7
Come back to GU for Fall Family Weekend!
Bunk & Loft Kits Most beds can be bunked. Residence Life staff will have the pins necessary, if you wish to bunk. If you want to loft your bed so the space under it is empty, you need to reserve a loft kit. Kits are limited.
Student Accounts Information How to Pay the Bill Each student attending Gonzaga University assumes responsibility for payment of all university-related expenses not covered by financial aid awarded by the university. Financial responsibility includes meeting payment deadlines, fulfilling loan or grant requirements, and addressing outstanding balances. The Student Accounts Office utilizes an Online Only billing process. Students are notified, by email, with a link to Zagweb and then to CASHNet where the bill can be viewed, printed and/or paid. Email is an official means of communication at Gonzaga University, and students have the responsibility of accessing and reading their Zagmail email messages in a timely fashion. Please have your student add you as an authorized payer on their Zagweb account so that you may receive the email notifications when new statements are prepared and payment is due.
Instructions to Add an Authorized Payer
» » » » » »
Contact Information fax: (509) 313-6399 phone: (509) 313-6812 studentaccounts@gonzaga.edu
»
Students login to Zagweb with their GU ID and PIN Click on “Electronic Billing, Payment, Deposits, and eRefund” link Click on “Enter CASHNet” Look for the box labeled “Parent PINs” Click on the “Add New” link in the “Parent PINs” box. Create a “Parent PIN/Username” for your authorized payer and complete all of the contact information for that person. Click “OK” to create the account. The temporary password will be system generated and emailed directly to the authorized payer.
www.gonzaga.edu/studentaccounts
Required New Student Health Clearance Process All students are required to complete the New Student Health Clearance process in the secure online portal by July 17th. This must be completed by the student. Parents may assist as needed, but should not complete this process for their student. All new students have been sent an email to their Zagmail email address with the log-in information to the online health portal. The Health Clearance includes a mandatory immunization requirement, submission of insurance information, and the completion of various online health forms.
Hotel Partner The Davenport Hotel Collection is the exclusive hotel partner of Parent and Family Relations. With 4 beautiful hotels to choose from, they are sure to make your visits to Spokane special!
Parent & Family Relations 502 E. Boone Ave. Spokane, WA 99258-2464 Phone: 509.313.4154
Parent & Family Orientation August 24-26, 2018 Register at https://commerce.cashnet.com/GUPFO
Welcome from First Year Experience Programs I want to extend a warm welcome to you, your family, and especially your student as you all embark on an exciting time. My name is Kelly Alvarado. I am the Assistant Director of First Year Experience Programs. Along with GUide Core, our New Student Orientation planning team, I would like to let you know that your Zag will develop a sense of belonging in our community by participating in New Student Orientation, which is Friday, August 24 - Monday, August 27, 2018. New Student Orientation and First Year Experience Program’s main purpose is to provide an introduction, connection to services and resources and support of your Zag’s transition to Gonzaga University. Your Zag will be thinking about the anticipated transition of starting college, leaving familiar routines, and learning about whom they are as a citizen of the world over the summer. Remind them that they will start to develop relationships with faculty, friendships with other new students and love of the Gonzaga community during New Student Orientation. Over 330 returning Zags will volunteer their time as orientation leaders to make sure your Zag develops a sense of belonging at GU. During New Student Orientation, your Zag will hear similar messages that you will hear during Parent and Family Orientation. New Student Orientation will provide your student with the information and resources necessary for a successful start to the academic year all guided by their peers.
Your Zag will receive a copy of the How to Zag Guide, which is their workbook for the entire summer. The How to Zag Guide is a workbook that is broken out by monthly sections with to-dos, information on resources and reflection questions for your Zag to journal about their transition to Gonzaga. Reflection is part of the Ignatian way of teaching and learning your Zag will experience as a part of life at a Jesuit, Catholic institution. Please guide from the side by having your Zag go through the to-dos and reflect in the workbook. Over the summer, you will be able to guide your student as they start their transition into New Student Orientation. If your student has any questions, have them contact us at (509) 3134346 or firstyearexperience@gonzaga.edu. Visit our site to view the schedule and for the latest information about New Student Orientation: www.gonzaga.edu/orientation.
All the best, Kelly Alvarado, M.A. Assistant Director, First Year Experience Programs