BALL STATE UNIVERSITY Student Resource Handbook
CONTENTS BALL STATE UNIVERSITY STUDENT RESOURCE HANDBOOK
SUCCESS PAGE 3 University library resources and services including equipment check out PAGES 4-5 University College student success and support services PAGE 6 Technology support for most student needs, including personal computers PAGE 7 Disability Services and writing assistance PAGE 8 Course scheduling, grades, dean’s list requirements and GPA calculation
HUMAN SERVICES s Link Hot ED EDD t! B M E ou ugh o r h T
CREDITS
PAGE 9 Student financial services including tuition, billing, fees, withdrawals and refunds PAGE 10 Parking services including shuttle bus operational hours, Charlie’s Charter Service and motorist assistance
The Student Resource Handbook was developed for the First Year Seminar, and was designed and edited by Brian D. Hayes, Senior Lecturer in the College of Communication, Information, and Media.
PAGE 12 Housing and residence life including living-learning communities, maintenance requests and residence hall closures
Photos provided by Ball State University’s Division of Marketing and Communications.
PAGE 13 Campus dining including Dining Plus, Dining Cash and Cardinal Cash
PAGE 11 Public safety resources including university police, bicycle registration, emergency services including text notifications
PAGE 14 Career development including career coaching, workshops, résumé assistance, mock interviews, job fairs, internships and Cardinal Career Link PAGE 15 Diversity, equity and inclusion including the Multicultural Center, programs and services, workshops and training services and bias reporting PAGE 16 On-campus health services including counseling and mental health
CAMPUS LIFE PAGE 17 Student life including fraternities, sororities and student organizations PAGES 18-19 Wellness and recreation including facilities, guest passes, intramurals, outdoor pursuits, rec fit classes, personal training and sport clubs PAGE 20 BSU athletics including student ticketing, student guest passes and tailgating PAGE 21 Live events, performances, lectures and entertainment including student ticketing and sales PAGE 22 On-campus activities including Friday Night Filmworks, Late Nite and other campus spots for learning and relaxation PAGE 23 Off-campus activities including popular village dining, bowling, trail walking and biking, snow sledding and camping
Academic Success
UNIVERSITY LIBRARIES Resources and Services
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all State University Libraries supports the university’s mission and enduring values by creating transformative experiences for diverse communities of learners through resources, research assistance, dedicated study and learning spaces, and innovative services and technologies for knowledge discovery and lifetime learning. Bracken Library offers both a quiet place to study and a one-stop resource for information and technology needs. It has helpful staff, wireless printing, and more than 400 computers. You can research and explore special collections of maps, music, historic materials, periodicals and rare books or check out video equipment such as laptops, cameras and projectors. You may also check out other digital media and reference materials such as DVDs, CDs, music scores
Connect with University Libraries on social media to find engaging content, make personal connections and learn how to get the most from Ball State’s online and on-campus academic resources! YOUTUBE TWITTER INSTAGRAM
and educational games for class projects or personal entertainment. Students may reserve numerous rooms and spaces throughout Bracken for group meetings, group study, presentation practice, quite study and more. RESOURCES FOR NEW STUDENTS • OneSearch — search all University Libraries physical and digital collections • Reading Lists — some course instructors may require library reading lists • Research Guides — librarian-created guides on a variety of subjects • Document Delivery — request BSUowned articles or book chapters to be electronically delivered to you • Interlibrary Loan — borrow materials not owned by University Libraries
ONE-ON-ONE RESEARCH CONSULTATIONS University Libraries offers 30-minute consultations to aid student research. Appointments may be made online or by calling 765-2851101.
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Academic Success
UNIVERSITY COLLEGE Student Success and Support
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hether you need to meet with an academic advisor to schedule classes, track your academic progress, or get help with a course, University College has comprehensive programs and services to help you meet your needs. FIRST YEAR EXPERIENCE For freshmen and transfer students alike, the first year at Ball State is a time of transition. You’re not only adapting to a new school, but also a new community, new friends, and new expectations. First-year students face the added challenge of greater independence and responsibility. Through a multifaceted first-year experience, Ball State faculty and staff are prepared to help you make these adjustments so you can succeed both academically and personally.
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STUDENT SUCCESS COACHING Student Success Coaching is available to students to support them as they pursue their degrees. Much like a personal trainer in fitness, a Student Success Coach provides individual support to help you achieve your academic goals. With coaching, students will learn how they learn, develop and practice skills and habits, discover and harness their strengths, align their lives to their values, and provide accountability for their goals to achieve their definition of success. Through dialogue, assessments, and exploration, students build upon their strengths to deepen their learning and ability to thrive. Sessions are free, typically last for 45-50 minutes, and are available at any point during the semester. For more information, please email SuccessCoach@bsu.edu or visit NQ 336.
THE LEARNING CENTER The Learning Center offers free in-person and online appointment-based tutoring, drop-in tutoring at satellite locations, and supplemental instruction for many on-campus courses. Specific course subjects and numbers are updated each semester. Students can make their own tutoring appointments using EAB Navigate. A variety of appointment times are available throughout the week and on Sunday: please check EAB Navigate for availability. A sampling of course subjects available for tutoring include ACC, BIO, CHEM, ECON, ENG, FIN, FR, HIST, HSC, ISOM, JAPA, MATH, MUHI, NUR, PHIL, PHYC, POLS, PSYS, SOC, SPAA, SP, TCOM and Writing. The learning Center is also please to collaborate with Disability Services and faculty across campus to assist in providing testing accommodations for students with disabilities. Individual accommodations are decided upon by Disability Services, not the Learning Center. For additional information regarding testing accommodations, contact Disability Services.
ACADEMIC ADVISING Navigating through academic life may, at times, seem challenging. It definitely can be! Fortunately, Ball State University has prepared for your arrival whether you are a freshman, upper-division student, transfer student, nontraditional student, honors student, or student-athlete. Academic advisors at Ball State are personal, professional, and prepared to provide advice and resources to help you successfully map a journey that leads to graduation. To schedule an academic advising appointment, log into EAB Navigate (myBSU) with your Ball State username and password. Advisors conduct appointments in person, through Zoom, by phone, and by email. ADVISING RESOURCES • Advising FAQs • DegreeWorks tutorial video • Academic Advising Quick Links
Connect with Academic Advising on social media for registration and other useful tips about improving academic success! YOUTUBE INSTAGRAM TWITTER
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Academic Success
TECHNOLOGY Support & Services
UTS TECH CENTER (HELPDESK) The Unified Technology Support Tech Center, located on the first floor of Bracken Library (BL 101), offers friendly and knowledgeable technology support in a comfortable and inviting space. The Concierge Desk staff provide basic technical support and information or they may connect you with an Information Technology expert that will best address your technology problems or needs. Students that require a Tech Center visit for assistance resolving a technical issue with their personally-owned computer are encouraged to schedule an appointment with Tech Time. The Technology HelpDesk can resolve many issues quickly via a chat, a phone call or remote assist session. Call 765-285-1517 or by visit www. bsu.edu/helpdesk, to report your issue, request assistance, or browse the IT Knowledge Base to find the information you need. COMMON TECH SUPPORT SERVICES • Canvas — Ball State’s learning management system for accessing digital course content and submitting assignments • Ball State Email — All university correspondence and instructor information will be sent via your official Ball State email address • Microsoft OneDrive — Unlimited online storage provided through Microsoft Office 365 • Adobe Creative Cloud — Free access to numerous Adobe software programs
BSU TECHNOLOGY STORE Located on the first floor of Bracken Library, the Technology Store is a University-owned and operated service for Ball State students and employees to view, test, purchase and order the latest technology products including, but not limited to, computers, laptops, tablets, headphones and earbuds. Often offered at reduced, educational prices, the tech store provides knowledgeable staff who can answer questions and help you find the right device to meet your needs.
Academic Success
DISABILITY SERVICES Accommodations and Opportunities
Disability Services strives to create an environment that fosters access and opportunity for students with disabilities. Following an empowerment model, students with disabilities have the opportunity to fulfill their potential, with access to a variety of tools and resources that will enable them to manage day-to-day life in college. Services vary depending on the nature of the disability. The links below provide further information regarding the services offered, grouped by the nature of the disability. •
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FACULTY MENTORSHIP PROGRAM The Faculty Mentorship Program helps students with disabilities succeed by pairing them for their first-semester with Ball State faculty members. These faculty serve as mentors who help guide students through the rigors of college and successfully transition. DISABILITY AWARENESS MONTH Each March, Ball State celebrates Disability Awareness Month by hosting guest speakers, presentations, and other informative events that recognize the accomplishments of those with disabilities. ALLIANCE FOR DISABILITY AWARENESS The Alliance for Disability Awareness regularly meets and sponsors events to educate others and raise awareness. FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS Find answers to commonly asked questions regarding the transition to college and success of students with disabilities at Ball State.
THE WRITING CENTER The Writing Center at Ball State University is where students, faculty, and staff go for writing support. Since 1959, the center has helped thousands of Ball State writers through feedback sessions, workshops, presentations, writing communities, studio space, and online resources for writers. Additionally, the center hosts weekly writing communities for creative writers, graduate students, and faculty who want time to share writing or to get writing done. Both in-person and online appointments may be available.
Academic Success
OFFICE OF THE REGISTRAR Course Scheduling & Information
Connect with Ball State’s Study Abroad program on social media to learn about opportunities to travel and earn course credit all around the globe! FACEBOOK INSTAGRAM TWITTER
The Office of the Registrar provides student support for enrollment, registration, grades and transcripts. HOW TO REGISTER FOR CLASSES 1. Log in to my.bsu.edu using your BSU username and password 2. Select “Self-Service Banner” 3. Select “Student” 4. Select the registration dropdown 5. Select “Course Add/Drop/Withdrawal” 6. Enter all course CRNs 7. Select “Submit Changes” DEAN’S LIST REQUIREMENTS Undergraduate students are named to the dean’s list when the student has earned at least a 3.5 grade point average (GPA) for: • 12 or more credits of graded coursework during a semester • 6 or more credits of graded coursework during a summer term
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Dean’s list designations will appear on the student’s academic transcript. GRADE POINT DEFINITIONS University reports and records grades using the plus/minus system. Quality points are allocated to each recorded grade according to the following scale: A = 4.000 /// A- = 3.667 B+ = 3.333 /// B = 3.000 /// B- = 2.667 C+ = 2.333 /// C = 2.000 /// C- = 1.667 D+ = 1.333 /// D = 1.000 /// D- = 0.667 F = 0.000 CHECK GRADES Go to my.bsu.edu >> Select “Self-Service Banner >> Select “Student” >> Select “Student Records” >> Select “View Final Grades” >> Select the term for grades >> Select “Submit” to populate your final course grades
Human Services
STUDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES The Office of Student Financial Services is responsible for the billing, collecting, and depositing of all money owed to and/or collected by Ball State University, in addition to setting up and maintaining Cardinal Cash accounts. They also prepare the federal tax Form 1098-T, which is used to help figure education credits (and potentially, the tuition and fees deduction) for qualified tuition and related expenses paid during the tax year. FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY Each time you make changes to your course registrations it is implied that you are electronically agreeing to the terms of the Ball State University Financial Responsibility Promissory Note Agreement. WITHDRAWALS & REFUNDS When you register for classes, spaces in classes are reserved for you. Decisions about how many class sections to offer and other commitments of instructional resources are made based on course enrollment data after the registration process is com-
plete. If your plans change, follow the Office of Registration and Academic Progress process to determine what action to take. If for any reason you need to leave a class you registered for, you can withdraw. However, there are certain deadlines that need to be met in order to receive a refund for the withdrawn class or classes. ADMINISTRATIVE HOLDS Sometimes a hold is placed on a student account. This is usually because the student forgot to submit an important university form or failed to pay a fee or fine. A hold from the Office of Student Financial Services means that a financial obligation has not been met. Students must check their eBill for the amount they owe. Until the hold has been rectified, students will be unable to:
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register for classes obtain a transcript or diploma make a change to a schedule process an application for admission
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University bills, tuition and fees Each year, the Office of Student Financial Services estimates the associated cost for attending Ball State University during the regular academic year (summer excluded). These costs are broken down by the following categories: • Tuition (12-18 credit hours per semester) • Room and board (14 meals per week) • Student services fee • University technology fee • Recreation fee • Health Center fee • Residence hall technology fee • Transportation fee (shuttle bus) In addition to the fixed fees above, students may incur additional fees if they increase their meal plan
allotment, park a car on campus, take a class that requires a supplemental program fee, participate in an activity that requires membership dues, or declare a major that requires a semesterly fee to help pay for extra programs or service offerings. Online courses also require an additional course fee. COURSE REGISTRATION CONSIDERATIONS Full-time students taking 12-18 credit hours in a single semester pay a flat tuition rate. It is advantageous for students to take 15-18 credit hours in a single semester as they pay the same flat rate as someone taking 12 hours. Students taking less than 12 credits pay a per-credit-hour rate. Additionally, students taking 19+ credit hours will pay the flat rate plus the per-credit-hour rate for every credit over 18.
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Human Services
PARKING Services
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he office of Parking Services provides parking permits and enforces parking policies on campus. Students may buy a parking permit based on where you live. Blue residence hall lots are enforced 24 hours a day from 7 p.m. Sunday through 5 p.m. Friday. Blue permits may be used in assigned blue lots, Scheumann Stadium and overflow lots. Students who do not live in the residence halls are eligible to purchase a green commuter permit, which allows parking Monday-Friday, from 7 a.m. - 5 p.m.
CAMPUS SHUTTLE BUS SERVICE Campus shuttle bus service is available around campus at no cost and with no ID required. The service is available fall and spring semesters when classes are in session. • Sunday — every 10-15 minutes, 5 p.m. - 11 p.m. • Mon-Thurs — every 5-10 minutes, 7:15 a.m. - 11 p.m. • Friday — every 5-10 minutes, 7:15 a.m. - 8 p.m. CHARLIE’S CHARTER SERVICE Students on University property during the fall, spring and summer semester may request a free ride on Charlie’s Charter if it’s late at night (6 p.m. - 1:30 a.m.) Sunday-Thursday. Charlie’s Charter is limited to four students at a time. MOTORIST ASSISTANCE Ball State offers free assistance to anyone encountering vehicle problems on campus. BSU public safety personnel will assist stranded motorists experiencing any of the following problems: • dead battery • unlocking vehicle doors • inflating tires (autos and bicycles) • providing transportation to buy gas • offering de-icer for frozen door locks or a snow shovel to dig out your car
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Human Services
PUBLIC Safety Resources
University Police, a division of Student Affairs and Enrollment Services, serves the University and Muncie communities by helping provide a safe living and learning environment. Members of the University Police department promote social justice and responsibility through education, interaction with members of the community, and, when necessary, enforcement of the law. The department strives to become a model agency by adopting best practices and innovative programs. Officers and staff are expected to conduct themselves ethically and responsibly, providing the best possible service, protection, and security to the university and community.
Bicycles are an easy target for thieves. It is estimated that over 1.5 million bicycles are stolen every year. Nowhere is bicycle theft a bigger problem than on college campuses. Bikes that are registered are more likely to be recovered and returned to their owners if they are stolen. The bicycle registration information is kept on file at Ball State University Police Department, so even if the owner has graduated or moved, Ball State police will be able to contact the owner if the bicycle is found. Emergency telephones are located across campus to enable you easy access to call for help when you need it. Phones are mounted on poles across campus and marked “emergency” with a blue light on top. To use the phone, press the button and talk into the speaker. Emergency: 911 or from an on-campus phone: 5-1111 From a cell phone: 765-285-1111
Active Ball State students can subscribe to emergency notifications sent from Ball State University to your mobile phone. Emergency notifications are delivered when there is an immediate threat to the campus community. The system is also used if classes are canceled or the campus is closed. If you believe you’ve witnessed criminal activity on campus, you may report the incident confidentially using the online form, Silent Witness.
FOCUS: Safety Enforcement The University Police Department’s uniform patrol division is the backbone of the department. They provide pro-active patrols and rapid response to campus activities. They patrol on foot and in university police vehicles throughout the campus community. FOCUS: Officer K-9 Patrol Ball State’s police dog, Rokki, works with handler Officer Rick Howell. Rokki is trained as a narcotics-detection and search dog. Officer Howell is available for demonstrations and lectures by calling 765-2853011. FOCUS: Classes and Programs Ball State community members may participate in one of the following classes/programs: Citizens Police Academy, Civilian Response to Active Shooter Events, Rape Aggression Defense Training, and Self-Defense Training.
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Human Services
Connect with Ball State Housing and Residence Life on social media to learn more about programs and activities that further engage students, explore potential careers and create a sense of belonging!
HOUSING & RESIDENCE LIFE Mission, Services and Staff
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The Office of Housing and Residence Life supports the academic success and personal growth of students by providing safe and diverse living-learning communities. Living-learning communities provide a supportive environment as students transition to college by offering a variety of programs and services to help them develop personally and professionally. Residence hall program topics include many of the following: • Career exploration • Student organizations and activities • Community service projects • Immersive learning • Diversity and inclusion • Leadership development • Time management Hall directors and assistant directors are full-time university employees who manage the day-to-day operations of the residence
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hall. Resident assistants are full-time college students who facilitate a living-learning environment within the residence hall that contributes to the intellectual, social, physical, moral and cultural development of residents. MAINTENANCE REQUESTS Students should report maintenance issues by using the Fix My Home Web site or by contacting their hall desk. Situations requiring immediate attention (i.e. overflowing toilet, broken door lock, shattered window, etc.) must be reported to the hall desk, resident assistant or hall staff member. RESIDENCE HALL CLOSURES Students should make alternate living arrangements during the following residence hall closures: • Thanksgiving Break • Semester/Winter Break • Spring Break
Human Services
CAMPUS DINING Meal Options & Payments
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tudents on a Ball State meal plan also receive a debit-style Dining Plus account to provide flexibility when purchasing meals and snacks. The money provided through Dining Plus varies depending on the meal plan chosen. Dining Plus funds can be used without restriction and in any amount. To use Dining Plus, students must tell the cashier ahead of the transaction that they are using Dining Plus. However, Dining Plus may also be used to pay for any overages the student might incur after their initial meal plan swipe. Dining Plus funds from the fall semester carry forward to spring semester, but they expire at the end of the spring term. To use Dining Plus, students should swipe their Ball State Student ID just as they would when paying for a meal as part of their meal plan. DINING CASH Students that run out of Dining Plus funds may purchase Dining Cash at a 10 percent discount. Dining Cash functions the same as Dining Plus, but only expires once the student stops attending the university. CAMPUS DINING LOCATIONS In addition to a robust selection of food, artisanal treats and to-go meals at nearly all campus dining locations, certain locations specialize in some exciting dining options, including: • The Atrium: featuring Papa John’s and Chick-Fil-A • North Dining Complex: featuring Starbucks and BBQ • Tally Food Court: featuring Taco Bell and Starbucks • Woodworth Dining: featuring poke bowls and daily specials • Bookmark Café @ Bracken Library • Micro Café @ Studebaker West • Tom John Food Shop @ Kinghorn Hall CARDINAL CASH For students wanting greater spending flexibility, Cardinal Cash is a method of payment that students may use for many expenses around campus, including food. Just the same as Dining Plus, students must swipe their student ID to make purchases. Students must tell the cashier ahead of the transaction that they are using Cardinal Cash. Cardinal Cash may be used at all Ball State dining locations; the Ball State Bookstore to purchase merchandise, books and supplies; the BSU Technology Store for equipment and other needs; Emens Auditorium concerts and events; sporting events at Scheumann Stadium and Worthen Arena; the Health Center pharmacy; campus vending machines; and many Village restaurants including: • Hot Box Pizza • Roots BurgerBar • Insomnia Cookies • Yats • Jimmy John’s • Jack’s Donuts • Pita Pit
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Human Services
CAREER Development
BSU CAREER CENTER From career programming that is infused into the classroom, to job fairs and networking events, the Ball State University Career Center offers nationally recognized services that are truly making an impact. Beginning with the freshman year, the Career Center helps students explore career options, build job skills and land internships and employment. COMMON SUPPORT SERVICES • Career Coaching — Assists with career connections, decisions, skills and support • Key Careers — Assists with choosing a major and identifying strengths • On-Campus Workshops — Provides connections with other students, faculty and staff to improve networking, interviewing and more • Résumé Assistance — Provides tips and best practices to get your résumé noticed • Interview Assistance — Provides opportunities for students to practice interviewing skills • Employer Site Visits — Provides on-site visits to a variety of companies to gain inside knowledge and contacts • Job Fairs — Provides opportunities for multiple job fairs each fall and spring • Internships — Assists with internship networking and searches • First Impressions — Provides suggestions for work/business attire and table manners • Career Guide — Provides career-focused tips, suggestions and templates • Myers-Briggs — Helps identify strengths and weaknesses to better connect with a variety of careers • Cardinal Career LInk — Provides access to information about on- and off-campus jobs, internships and career employment
Human Services
DIVERSITY Equity and Inclusion
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INCLUSIVE EXCELLENCE LGBTQ SUPPORT
Connect with the Multicultural Center to learn about programs, activities and scholarships to enhance your student experience!
Connect with Ball State’s open and inclusive support structures and groups to create a safe and inspiring community of learning and growing!
The Multicultural Center supports and advances the university’s commitment to cultural diversity by: • Serving as a resource for the recruitment, retention, and enrichment of students of color • Promoting multicultural understanding through opportunities for cross-cultural connections • Providing programs and services to address the co-curricular needs of all students • Celebrating the historical contributions of diverse groups PROGRAMS AND SERVICES The Multicultural Center offers programs and services that educate the Ball State community about the unique contributions of underrepresented student populations at the university. They also address the unique needs and issues of students of color through initiatives that provide support and guidance throughout the college experience. Through events such as Unity Week and program offerings including Excel and REACH, the Multicultural Center celebrates the achievements of faculty, staff, and students in promoting diversity and multiculturalism. EDUCATION AND TRAINING The Multicultural Center offers staff and peer facilitated workshops and presentations. The Peer Advocate Leaders, who are student employees of the Multicultural Center, provide workshops and consultations that address topics related to social issues, multicultural identities, inclusivity, and more in a safe environment. Goals of the peer facilitated programs and workshops include: • engaging students in reflective, interactive and informative activities • challenging students to think critically about their experiences and social issues within the world • helping students work toward enhancing their multicultural identity • leading students in discovering ways to embrace differences to build an inclusive world and community at Ball State BENEFICENCE PLEDGE Ball State University aspires to be a university that attracts and retains a diverse faculty, staff, and student body. Ball State is committed to ensuring that all members of the campus community are welcome through our practice of valuing the varied experiences and worldviews of those we serve. We promote a culture of respect and civil discourse as evident in our Beneficence Pledge. Students are encouraged to report incidents of bias immediately. Students who witness, directly experience or find evidence of a bias incident on campus should complete the Bias Reporting Form.
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Human Services
HEALTH Services
Connect with Ball State’s Counseling Center on social media to learn about wellness, stress management and other helpful tips and tools! FACEBOOK TWITTER YOUTUBE
The Student Health Center located in the Amelia T. Wood building, provides ambulatory health care for currently enrolled sick and injured students. They evaluate and manage most medical problems including: upper respiratory infections, strep throat, mononucleosis, pneumonia, sinus infections, abdominal pain, heartburn, rashes, chest pain, depression, anxiety, headaches, back pain, acne, ankle/shoulder/knee/wrist injuries. The Health Center is comprised of a Main clinic and pharmacy, a Women’s Center and Health Education and a physical therapy unit. Nursing visits are available for allergy shots, immunizations/vaccinations, TB test placement/read, blood draws, administer injectable medications, dressing changes and ear wax removal, to name a few.
Appointments are necessary to see both medical providers and nursing staff at the Main Health Clinic. Women’s Center appointments are also required, as are Physical Therapy appointments. To receive services, students must pay the health fee.
Counseling and Mental Health The Counseling Center is a short-term, focused treatment agency. The Counseling Center’s mission is to promote personal growth, development, and psychological well-being. Integral to their mission are mental health services, outreach/consultation and training of future professionals. The staff at the Counseling Center is made up of psychologists, social workers, mental health counselors, and graduate student therapists-in-training. If students are in need of long-term therapy, Ball State therapists will assist the student in locating professional help off-campus. Ball State students are eligible for all Counseling Center services as long as they are enrolled at least
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half-time (at least 6 hours for undergraduate students; 5 hours for graduate students). Typical issues addressed by the Counseling Center: • College transition concerns • Academic performance (motivation, perfectionism, self-discipline, etc.) • Interpersonal concerns and relationship issues • Identity concerns • Mood, anxiety or self-esteem issues • Alcohol or substance use issues • Eating concerns (Anorexia Nervosa, etc.) • Trauma, grief and loss issues Students should contact the Counseling Center office to schedule an appointment or to view or use their self-help resources.
Campus Life
MAKING CONNECTIONS Living, growing and belonging
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he Office of Student Life connects and cultivates student involvement, leadership and belonging. They partner with all student organizations to co-create the Ball State experience through involvement, activities and services. By supporting student organizations, The Office of Student Life promotes and strengthens student involvement and engagement on campus through the administration of Benny Link, leadership development opportunities for student organization members and leaders, and oversees student organization recognition and registration processes. The Office of Student Life supports Fraternity and Sorority Life’s efforts to provide students the opportunity to engage with each other in a way that builds friendships lasting far beyond college. Fraternity and Sorority Life is a community that offers a premier
student development experience dedicated to a lifetime of excellence. The OSL also values and promotes the participation of students in university governance through the advisement of the Student Government Association and its legislative, executive, and judicial branches. PROGRAMS AND SERVICES • Student Government Association • Fraternity and Sorority Life • Student Organizations • Student Organization Funding • Scholarships and Awards • Benny Link • Student Voluntary Services • Cardinal Kitchen • Leadership Studies Minor • Excellence in Leadership • Diversity and Equity
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Campus Life
WELLNESS Recreation and Fitness
The 200,000-square-foot Jo Ann Gora Student Recreation and Wellness Center provides students, faculty and staff a place to meet new friends, relieve stress and stay healthy. RECREATION FACILITIES AND AMENITIES • Fitness Room — The multi-level fitness area (totaling 13,000 square feet) provides cardio and strength training areas that include some of the fitness industry’s newest equipment • Suspended Track — A three-lane, 200-meter indoor track with cardio equipment overlooks Neely Avenue • Five-Court Gymnasium — Used for athletic practices, events, physical education classes, intramurals and open recreation • Three Multi-Purpose Rooms — This space offers specialized forms of conditioning, Rec Fit classes, and sport clubs • Indoor Turf Building — The facility has 20,000 square feet with four batting cages and an in-lay baseball diamond • Rock Climbing Wall — At 1,500 square feet, the area offers bouldering and top roping — Climbing clinics are available • Outdoor Pursuits Rental Center — Outdoor Pursuits has outdoor rental equipment, consultation on trip planning, and the opportunity to register for led trips each semester • Lewellen Pool — A 25-yard, 6-lane pool with a diving well • Racquetball Courts — Offers five racquetball courts with ability to convert into wallyball courts • Ball Gym — Offers a fitness room, indoor track and pool GUEST PASSES Students, faculty and staff may have up to one guest per visit. Sponsors must stay with their guest at all times. Every guest must have a photo I.D. and be 18 years or older. Guests are not allowed to check out equipment or participate in formal/structured programs. Guests must create their own profile via the recreation services portal. INTRAMURAL SPORTS Intramural team competitions are open to anyone with a valid Ball State I.D. looking to play sports against others on campus. Intramural competitions and tournaments are often offered in basketball, corn hole, kickball and volleyball. Registration is required. OUTDOOR PURSUITS Outdoor Pursuits offers the equipment and instruction required to get out and play in the outdoors of Indiana and beyond! They provide daily, weekend and weekly equipment rental for a variety of activities including camping, backpacking, water sports, rock climbing, biking, outdoor games, fishing and winter sports activities. They also arrange special trips and outings available on a pre-registration basis.
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FIND YOUR FIT Classes, Lessons & Clubs
Connect with Ball State Recreation on social media to learn about wellness, rec fit classes, intramural teams and programs open to all faculty, staff and students!
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n addition to intramural sports competitions, Recreation Services offers a variety of other activities and programs to help students get involved and accomplish their fitness goals. REC FIT Rec Fit offers many trained instructors who teach a variety of fitness classes for all levels of fitness. Some of those include Cycling, Yoga, Total Body Tone, and Cardio Strength Intervals. These classes are offered each semester and will challenge the fitness levels of all participants. PERSONAL TRAINING Personal training provides a variety of options in collaboration with WarnerFit. All trainers are nationally certified and trained to provide the best experience to help assist students in meeting their fitness goals.
SPORT CLUBS Students can find their niche of competition by participating in over 25 different Sport Clubs ranging from Soccer to Martial Arts.
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Campus Life
Connect with Ball State Sports on social media to learn about tickets, games, schedules, tailgating, promos and giveaways to make the most of your Ball State student experience! FACEBOOK TWITTER
BSU ATHLETICS A “Fan”tastic Experience
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he Ball State University Cardinals complete in the NCAA Division I Mid-American Conference (MAC) West Division. Other competitors in the MAC West Division include Central Michigan University, Eastern Michigan University, Northern Illinois University, the University of Toledo and Western Michigan University. Division I sports at Ball State include baseball, basketball, field hockey, football, golf, gymnastics, soccer, softball, swimming and diving, tennis, track and field, and volleyball. STUDENT TICKETING INFORMATION All on-campus undergraduate and graduate students receive complimentary general admission access to all regular season Ball State home games on campus. A mobile ticket is required for Football, Women’s & Men’s Volleyball, Gymnastics, and Women’s
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& Men’s Basketball. Mobile tickets must be reserved at least two days prior to event. STUDENT GUESTS Friends from other universities who want to attend a Ball State home game with a current BSU student may purchase a guest ticket at a reduced price. Restrictions apply. TAILGATING AND FOOTBALL PARKING Students may purchase tailgate parking spaces in advance of home football games by visiting the Ball State Ticket Center inside Worthen Arena (Gate 1, Lower Level). STAY UPDATED Students should stay informed about giveaways, promotions, contests, concessions and more by following @ballstatesports and @ballstatetix
LIVE PERFORMANCES Music, Lectures & Entertainment
Emens Auditorium and Pruis Hall offer a diverse array of programming to enhance the mission of Ball State University. This includes bringing a variety of guest artists and productions to Ball State that represent a wide-range of genres of live performance and entertainment. PAST PERFORMANCES & EVENTS • AJR • Oprah Winfrey • Rachel Maddow • The Price Is Right • Jason Aldean • John Mellencamp • Macklemore • David Letterman TICKETING Students receive exclusive ticketing perks to select events including free admission to many Artist Series shows such as An American in Paris and Hairspray, in addition to the special lecture series sponsored by David Letterman. Tickets are limited to one per student, but students may obtain up to four tickets at once as long as they present the BSU Student ID of each person they want to sit with. Ticket distribution begins roughly three weeks before the event, and student IDs will be scanned at the door. Most other events presented by Emens Auditorium are only $5 for Ball State students. Exclusions apply.
Campus Life
GIMME A BREAK Kick Back and Have Fun
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tudent Center Programs, made up of Late Nite and University Program Board, hosts numerous events to provide fun and free entertainment for students and the campus community. All events are FREE with a Ball State student ID. UPB PROGRAMS AND EVENTS • Friday Night Filmworks — Every Friday night throughout the academic year, a variety of popular movies are shown at 9 p.m. in Pruis Hall • Late Nite — A series of high-energy events providing quality entertainment, great food, awesome activities and tons of fun every Saturday night from 9 p.m. 1 a.m. throughout the academic year OTHER ON-CAMPUS ACTIVITIES • Cardinal Lanes — Located in the basement of the Student Center, features
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bowling, billiards, ping-pong, foosball and concessions Charles W. Brown Planetarium — A state-of-the-art theater featuring a 52foot dome simulating the night sky — offers a variety of free weekly programming throughout the year Christy Woods, Duck Pond, the Quad and University Green — Offering great outdoor spots to take a break, walk, relax in a tree hammock and sun bathe David Owsley Museum of Art — A free museum housing more than 11,000 works of art from six continents representing 5,000 years of civilization Dr. Joe and Alice Rinard Orchid Greenhouse —A small tropical environment in the middle of Indiana, the Rinard Orchid Greenhouse is the largest university-based orchid collection in the U.S. with more than 2,000 orchids
Campus Life
NEARBY Campus
The Village, a business district along University Avenue just off campus, is a popular student hangout featuring the Village Promenade student apartments, casual dining, shops and various other local businesses — several of which accept Cardinal Cash. POPULAR VILLAGE DINING • Brothers Bar & Grill • Jacks Doughnuts • Chavas • Jimmy John’s • Greek’s Pizzeria • Pita Pit • HotBox Pizza • Roots Burger Bar • Insomnia Cookies • Yats WITHIN A SHORT WALK OR RIDE • AMC Muncie 12 — Showing all the latest movies with luxurious recliners and stadium seating • Cardinal Greenway and White River Greenway Trail — Offering Indiana’s longest rail trail for walking, running and biking, and a nearly six-mile river trail through Muncie • Clancy’s Village Bowl — Offering Cosmic Bowling and College Night • McCulloch Park — The largest community park in Muncie provides one of the best snow sledding hills in the area • Meijer, Target & Walmart — Just a short drive or FREE bus ride away, students can grab all their must-have college essentials • Minnetrista Museum & Gardens — Offering concerts, exhibits, beautiful gardens, a nature area, trails, historic homes and a farmer’s market • Muncie Civic Theater — One of the oldest civic theaters in the state, offering a variety of shows and musicals throughout the year •
Prairie Creek Reservoir — Just five miles southeast of Muncie, the reservoir offers boating, swimming, fishing, camping, hiking, biking, ATV and horseback riding trails (but no horses to rent)