NEW STUDENT GUIDE | 2017
western.edu
CONGRATS, YOU’re IN!
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Welcome to western This guide is intended to give you a glimpse of Mountaineer life by showcasing on-campus events, housing and so much more. This guide can help you figure out some of the next steps to becoming a successful student and will introduce you to the Western community.
FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA Start your Western experience before you even arrive by following us on social media! See our beautiful campus, keep up-to-date on events, meet future classmates and find out why they chose Western! Use our hashtag to be featured on our social media accounts.
#GoWestern
WesternStateColoradoUniversity westernstatecoloradouniversity westerncolou wscuniversity WESTERN STUDENT GUIDE | 3
NEXT STEPS
Activate Your MyWestern Account Go to western.edu/activate to set up your MyWestern account. MyWestern is where you view financial aid information, class registration dates and much more! Apply for Financial Aid Fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid at fafsa.ed.gov. Western’s school code is 001372. Secure Your Financial Aid Check the status of your financial aid and scholarships, and accept, modify or decline student loans through your MyWestern account. Confirm Your Enrollment Pay your $200 tuition deposit by visiting western.edu/deposit. We recommend you submit your tuition deposit by June 1. Submit Materials for Your Residence Life Application There are three steps: 1. Pay the $100 housing deposit through your MyWestern account, by submitting a check or money order, or by calling the Cashier’s office. 2. Visit housing.western.edu, beginning March 8, to complete your housing application and lifestyle-preference questionnaire. 3. Select your room by visting housing.western.edu, beginning April 5. Register for Classes Class registration for new students will open on May 1. To learn more visit western.edu/registration.
Complete ‘Think About It’ Course All new students will receive an email from Campus Clarity with a link to an online prevention education program called “Think About It.” Please set aside about three hours to complete the program. Get Ready for Orientation We will automatically sign you up for New Student Orientation when you register for classes. In addition, you can register for the optional Wilderness Based Orientation. Send Your Immunization and Selective Service Records Colorado Law requires students to show proof of immunity against measles, mumps and rubella. Students must complete the first MMR immunization before classes begin — although we do allow medical and religious exemptions. Send Your Final High School Transcripts Before your high school closes for summer, ask your school registrar to send your final high school transcripts to Western’s Admissions office. Purchase Your Books Purchase books from the campus bookstore in the University Center or sign up for the optional Books-To-Go program. Pay Your Tuition Bill Your bill payment is due by the first day of classes.
for more information go online to: western.edu/checklist 4 | WESTERN STUDENT GUIDE
Campus events to look forward to:
1 2 3 4 5
HOMECOMING / BURNING OF THE W
Meet a current student
STUDENT PROFILE
Every fall students and faculty gather to celebrate Homecoming weekend. Football, parades and the burning of the W. Don’t miss out!
Western Welcome Concert at the I Bar Students gather at the I Bar Ranch located south of campus. Enjoy live music and delicious local food at Gunnison’s outdoor music venue.
FAMILY WEEKEND AT WESTERN October 20-22, 2017
This weekend is an opportunity for families and students to come together to take part in a variety of activities at Western. In addition, there will be numerous other activities planned by on-campus and community organizations including: free Wilderness Pursuit trips, athletic events, a pancake breakfast, music performances and much more.
Santa ski & Crawl at Crested butte mountain resort Help Crested Butte break the world record for most skiers and snowboarders decked out in full santa costumes.
springfest Every spring, Program Council hosts Springfest, which is a music event on campus. Vote for popular artists to see your music of choice each year!
Esmeralda Alejandre cedaredge, colorado
When searching for schools, Esmeralda Alejandre knew she wanted to stay close to home and live in a small town. She found Western and has never looked back. Besides serving as president of Amigos, Alejandre serves as a student ambassador, an orientation leader and a Student Government Association senator. She also has a work-study position at the Multicultural Center. “I feel like, here you have your own voice, you can do so much — whatever you want to do — you have so much support,” Alejandre explains. “You have the faculty, you have (Dean of Students) Gary Pierson, you just have unconditional support. You do count.”
Work Study Are you interested in finding a job at Western State Colorado University? Western employs many students. In fact, almost every department on campus hires student workers. This webpage will give you information about Western’s work-study program and will answer some of the questions you may have.
To learn more visit: Western.edu/workstudy
WESTERN STUDENT GUIDE | 5
New Student registration western.edu/registration STEP 1
View the DegreeWorks Overview video tutorial on the Academic Resource Center’s YouTube Channel: DegreeWorks Overview.
STEP 2
If you are a Colorado resident, apply for the COF (College Opportunity Fund) stipend at cof.college-assist.org.
STEP 3
Activate your MyWestern account at western.edu/activate and change your temporary password.
STEP 4
Complete your Academic Release of Information (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, or FERPA) form if you would like to release academic information to a family member(s) or a third party. - Login to your MyWestern account. - Go to Student Tab → Student Records → Academic Records Release.
STEP 5
Pay your $200 tuition deposit. You can submit your deposit through your MyWestern account by selecting Student & Financial Aid Menu → Pay Bill or Tuition/Housing Deposit → Items for Purchase, Tuition Deposit. You may also pay your deposit by check (payable to “Western State Colorado University”) or by credit card by contacting the Cashier’s Office at 970.943.3003.
STEP 6
The New Student Registration Survey will go live on Monday, May 1. Once you have completed the survey, an academic advisor will contact you to help register you for classes within five business days and an academic advisor will be assigned to you.
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MEET YOUR ACADEMIC RESOURCE CENTER ADVISORS. These advisors will guide you through the process of registering for classes at Western.
KATIE WHEATON, JENNIFER BJORNSTAD, SCOTT CANTRIL, JENNIFER DRUMM, MARIAH GREEN
important dates MARCH 1 Submit the FAFSA form by this date to meet the financial aid priority deadline.
ALL FRESHMEN WILL BE REGISTERED FOR CLASSES BY AN ACADEMIC ADVISOR ONCE THEY HAVE COMPLETED THE NEW STUDENT REGISTRATION SURVEY.
MARCH 15 Estimated financial aid and scholarship awards will be listed on your MyWestern account. Beginning this date, you can accept, modify or decline student-loan offers. We will post updates to your online account.
JUNE 1 Your $200 tuition deposit is due to confirm your enrollment at Western. (If you are admitted after the June 1 deadline, please pay your tuition deposit within two weeks of the date of your offer or admission.)
MARCH 8 Online housing application and lifestyle-preference questionnaire are available at housing.western.edu.
JULY 15 We will send you an initial paper billing statement. After this, you can view all updated financial aid and billing information on your MyWestern account. You can also find payment options and deadlines online at MyWestern.
APRIL 5 New-student housing selection begins at housing.western.edu. MAY 1 Class registration begins for incoming students. You must pay your $200 tuition deposit before you can register for classes.
AUGUST 16 Move into your residence hall between 8 a.m. and 1 p.m. Orientation begins. Learn more at western.edu/orientation. AUGUST 21 Classes begin, and tuition bill payment is due.
WESTERN STUDENT GUIDE | 7
Orientation WE CAN’t WAIT TO MEET YOU!
August 16 - 20 Students arrive between 8 a.m. and 1 p.m.
for parent information and to learn more about orientation please visit: western.edu/orientation Over the five days, (Aug. 16-20) students will rotate through four blocks of programming, which include a Headwaters 100 service learning project, introduction to academic resources, “Life at Western” to learn about college life and the social issues that come with it, and Wilderness Pursuits trips or walking tours of the local communities. Activities also include programs for families and guests, a Welcome Barbecue and evening events hosted by student clubs and organizations. New Student Orientation is required for all first-time freshmen and transfer students with 23 credits or fewer who are also under 21.
Students are signed up automatically when you register for classes. The fee for this program is $250 and it will be applied to your student account. Please plan on arriving to campus on Wednesday, Aug. 16 between 8 a.m. and 1 p.m. During this time you will need to move into your assigned residence hall, check in for Orientation at the University Center and pick up your Mountaineer ID. (Remeber, students entering Western must complete Think About It, the online prevention education program in order to get their Mountaineer IDs.)
HOW TO GET HERE Getting to Western is easy. If coming from the Front Range, follow Hwy. 285 to Gunnison. There is a bus service that runs from Denver to Gunnison with multiple location stops. If coming from out of state, you are able to fly right into Gunnison. The airport is a five minute drive from our campus.
Wilderness based orientation august 11 - 15 Begin your college career at Western with an outdoor adventure! With Wilderness Based Orientation (WBO) you will be part of a group of new students discovering what the great outdoors has to offer in the Colorado backcountry. Each WBO course is led by some of our finest students who will give you instruction on adventure activities and life in college. The purpose of WBO is to provide an opportunity for you to meet other new students and make meaningful connections, build friendships and get to know the incredible recreational opportunities that Gunnison has to offer before you begin your first semester here at Western.
sign up opens June 1, TRIPS fill up fast! Learn more at: Western.edu/wbo 8 | WESTERN STUDENT GUIDE
All 2017 WBO trips are five days long. Participants may move into on-campus housing Thursday, Aug. 10, before their trip departs. Trips range from $500-$750. We will celebrate with all 100+ participants and instructors at a closing barbecue! Financial assistance is available through the WBO Scholarship.
Trips Include: Rock Climbing Multi-Sport Adventure Mountaineering Whitewater Kayaking Sea Kayaking Backpacking Mountain Biking Whitewater Rafting
WESTERN STUDENT GUIDE | 9
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Residence LIFE The Department of Residence Life is committed to building residence hall and apartment communities that are positive, respectful and inclusive for all students. We believe living in a residence hall or apartment community on campus can enrich and enhance your university education, as well as make your journey at Western more comfortable and convenient. Western State Colorado University is dedicated to student success. With that in mind, we have instituted a two-year residency policy. All first-year and sophomore students who are unmarried, under 21 and not residing with their parents in Gunnison County must live on campus. The residential experience complements our academic mission by providing a dynamic environment where living and learning interconnect.
If you would like to view your housing options, please visit: western.edu/reslife and click on “Housing Options.� All housing is based upon availability at time of application.
Office of Residence Life 2016 - 17 Room and Board Rates * *Rates will be confirmed March 2017
RESIDENCE HALLS AND APARTMENTS Residence Halls Escalante Complex, Mears Complex, Ute - Double Escalante Complex, Mears Complex, Ute - Single
Apartments Chipeta - Single, 1 Bedroom Chipeta - Single 2 Bedroom Pinnacles - Double Room Pinnacles - Single (B, C, & D Rooms)
Fall Semester $2,465.00 $2,880.00
Fall Semester $3,450.00 $3,250.00 $3,150.00 $3,250.00
Spring Semester
Total Academic Year
$2,465.00 $2,880.00
$4,930.00 $5,760.00
Spring Semester
Total Academic Year
$3,450.00 $3,250.00 $3,150.00 $3,250.00
$6,900.00 $6,500.00 $6,300.00 $6,500.00
Not only can you choose your own living environment (within guidelines), you can also pick your roommate. In addition to traditional living options, Residence Life offers a variety of Living Learning Communities and themed floors. Once you have been admitted and paid the $100 housing deposit, you will receive an email with details about the housing application process.
New students can select their Living Learning Communities as early as April 5, 2016.
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Going away to college is an exciting and sometimes challenging time in your life. Daily schedules, familiar people and the comforts of home are replaced by new routines, places and faces. This is why your residence hall community is such an important part of college life. The friendships you build with your roommates and neighbors provide a strong support system during your college years (and often throughout life). The residence hall programs and services will help you integrate into the Western community and develop lifelong bonds.
Living learning communities The Living Learning Community program supports Western’s institutional mission by promoting intellectual maturity and the personal growth of student residents. These residents have special opportunities to engage with their academic and personal interests. The Living Learning Communities provide residents with a solid foundation for future success in their academic pursuits as well as personal fulfillment in their Western experience.
FLOORS INCLUDE: Gaming Honors, Leadership & Service Learning Hunting & Fishing Innovation, Creativity and Entrepreneurship (ICE) Mountaineer Men Outdoor Pursuits Pre-Health Professionals Psychology and Health & Wellness She-Jumps Transfer Community Western Sports Western Up! Sports Community Young Artists & Musicians
Learn more at: western.edu/LLC 12 | WESTERN STUDENT GUIDE
What to bring TO WESTERN COMMUNITY BATHROOMS IN THE ESCALANTE COMPLEX AND UTE HALL • Personal toiletries • Shower sandals
CURRENT STUDENTS’ MUST HAVE ITEMS
PRIVATE BATHROOMS IN THE MEARS COMPLEX AND APARTMENTS • Basin, tub and tile cleaner • Toilet bowl cleaner and brush • Toilet paper • Personal toiletries
LAUNDRY • Laundry bag or basket • Hangers
Brenda Suarez:
Jonas Maag:
Brandon Supernaw:
Shelby Deutsch:
Power strips and a fan.
A disco ball and hot chocolate mix.
• Laundry detergent • Sewing kit
DISCUSS WITH YOUR ROOMMATE • Stereo • Small refrigerator • Microwave • Television • DVD/Blu-ray player • Humidifier • Fan • Computer and printer • Aquarium • Iron
A laptop and a bike.
Nerf gun and bed raisers.
• Small ironing board
MAKE YOUR ROOM YOUR HOME • Posters (we recommend poster putty — no holes in the walls please!) • Plants • Desk lamp • Calendar • Dust buster • Carpet sweeper • Power strips and extension cords • Alarm clock • Mattress pad • Sheets (extra-long twin, unless you’re in Pinnacles, where you will need extra-long full size), pillows and pillow cases • Blankets or bedspreads
WHAT you don’t need: • Weapons (i.e., firearms, paintball guns, BB guns, knives larger than 3.5”) • Candles and incense • Fireworks • Pets (other than fish) • Toasters • Hot plates • Electric frying pans (or any open-coil cooking or space-heating devices)
For additional information, please visit the Residence Life Department’s web page, western.edu/reslife. If you have still more questions, please contact the Residence Life Office at 970.943.2101.
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Campus Dining Finding your favorite foods on campus is easy at Western. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack at Mad Jack’s or a hot meal at Rare Air Cafe, Western’s dining hall, you’ll be sure to find old favorites and discover new dishes. The wide variety of foods offered accommodate any food restrictions. Menus at Rare Air Cafe change daily. Enjoy pizza and pasta, fresh fruit and salads, home-style entrées, deli options, homemade soups, ice cream and desserts. All food is freshly prepared and served all-you-can-eat.
DINING HOURS Monday - Thursday
Friday
Hot Breakfast, 7:15 - 10 a.m. Hot Breakfast, 7:15-10 a.m. Continental Breakfast, 10 - 11 a.m. Continental Breakfast, 10-11 a.m. Lunch, 11 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Lunch, 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Dinner, 4:45 - 6:15 p.m. Dinner, 4:45 -7 p.m.
Saturday - Sunday Brunch, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Dinner: 4:45 - 6:15 p.m.
for more information please visit: western.edu/dining 14 | WESTERN STUDENT GUIDE
MAD JACK’s Looking for a quick snack? Mad Jack’s offers diners a variety of options, like snacks, beverages, Simply to Go options and Starbucks Coffee. Made-to-order options include smoothies and Waldo’s Cheesie Grill, featuring gourmet sandwiches, specialty french fries, gooey melts and classic favorites.
Mountaineer cash Your Mountaineer Card can be loaded with Mountaineer Cash, which can be used like a debit card in the Western bookstore, for on-campus laundry services and at Wilderness Pursuits. You can also use Mountaineer Cash at the following locations around campus and around town: ·
Gunnison Vitamin & Health Food Store
·
Mad Jack’s
·
Mochas! Coffeehouse
·
Pizza Hut
·
Powerstop
·
Rare Air Café
·
Vending machines on campus
FOOD TO GO
MEAL PLAN CHOICES Premier Plans:
*2017-2018 rates will be confirmed March 2017 The Blue Mesa Plan or Mountaineer Plan is required for all first-year students and is available to all students. Blue Mesa Plan 19 Meals per week, plus $175 Flex Dollars (to be used exclusively in the Rare Air Cafe and Mad Jack’s). Mountaineer Plan 15 Meals per week, plus $175 Flex Dollars (to be used exclusively in the Rare Air Cafe and Mad Jack’s). Crimson Plan 10 Meals per week, plus $250 Flex Dollars (to be used exclusively in the Rare Air Cafe and Mad Jack’s).
Fall Semester
Spring Semester
Total Academic Year
$2,472.50
$2,472.50
$4,945.00
$2,258.00
$2,258.00
$4,516.00
$1,994.00
$1,994.00
$3,988.00
The optional meal plans below are only available to second-year students and above who live in the on-campus apartments or off campus. You may purchase additional plans if you run out during a semester. These plans carry over between fall and spring semester. The plans are non-refundable. Mountaineer 80 $843 Per Plan
Mountaineer 40 $421 Per Plan
Mountaineer 20 $211 Per Plan
Any 80 individual meals in the Rare Air Cafe, plus $100 flex dollars to use in Rare Air Cafe or at Mad Jack’s.
Any 40 individual meals in the Rare Air Cafe, plus $50 flex dollars to use in Rare Air Cafe or at Mad Jack’s.
Any 20 individual meals in the Rare Air Cafe, plus $25 flex dollars to use in Rare Air Cafe or at Mad Jack’s.
**The Mears complex offers a community kitchen exclusively to upperclass students living in the Mears complex. The use of this kitchen can supplement your meal plan, as all students living in the Mears complex must have a meal plan.**
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Clubs & Organizations Join one of our clubs or start your own! Find your niche, whether it’s joining Western’s Mountain Rescue Team — the only college-based rescue team in the country — or writing for the Top o’ the World student newspaper.
Learn more at: western.edu/clubs
Clubs include: Amigos Anthropology Club Archery Art League Asian/Pacific Islander Association for Students of Exercise & Sport Science Black Student Alliance Cheer Chemistry Club Christian Challenge Circle K International (student service club) Climbing Club Dance team Ebb and Flow
Fellowship of Christian Athletes Fighting for Futures Future Educators of America Gamers Guild Geology Club Gunnison Sockeyes History League Intramural Sports KWSB Radio Love Your Melon Mana Nigame Video Game Club Man-Up Meditation Club Mountain Rescue Team Mountaineer Media Mountaineers Disc Golf Club
Music – Instrumentals Music – Ensemble National Association for Music Education Native American Student Council Newman Club Organics Guild Pathfinder Magazine Peak Productions Politics Club Pre-Health Club Program Council Psychology Club Republican Party Club Sexual Assault Prevention Advocates She-Jumps
Sociology Club Spectrum (Gay & Straight Alliance) Student Government Association Sustainability Coalition The Sweet Life Top O’ the World (newspaper) Urban Gaming Veterans Club Western Association of Professional Landmen West Elk Wranglers Whitewater Club Wildlife Society WordHorde (English Club) Young Life
multicultural center
Wilderness pursuits
Western’s Multicultural Center celebrates the diversity of people in and around the Gunnison community and helps Western students develop academically, culturally and personally. Our students are involved with a wide range of clubs including: Amigos, Asian Pacific Islanders Club, Black Student Alliance and the Native American Student Council.
Wilderness Pursuits provides fun, low-cost, professional quality co-curricular outdoor expeditions, equipment rentals and resources for Western students. Take a trip with WP to explore the Gunnison Valley or try your hand at a new sport under the guidance of professional instruction. Attend a free clinic to learn how to maintain and tune your equipment, from snowboards to mountain bikes, or take advantage of low-cost equipment rentals available to students.
Learn more at: western.edu/multicultural
Learn more at: western.edu/WP 16 | WESTERN STUDENT GUIDE
BECOME AN HONORS PROGRAM MEMBER.
CREATE NEW EVENTS FOR CAMPUS WITH PROGRAM COUNCIL.
GEAR UP AND JOIN THE MOUNTAIN RESCUE TEAM.
JOIN THE ART LEAGUE.
GET YOUR VOICE ON KWSB RADIO.
GO LEARN WITH THE GEOLOGY CLUB.
WRITE FOR TOP O’ THE WORLD STUDENT NEWSPAPER. Don’t see a club that interests you? Western will help any student start a club on campus. WESTERN STUDENT GUIDE | 17
Mountaineer Field House
ACADEMIC YEAR FACILITY HOURS
The Campus Recreation department and the Mountaineer Field House aim to inspire fitness, wellness, overall student development and commitment to excellence by providing high quality athletic, Monday-Thursday 6 a.m. - 10 p.m. educational and recreational opportunities for the Western State Friday 6 a.m. - 9 p.m. Colorado University community. The 65,000-square-foot Field Saturday-Sunday 12 p.m. - 9 p.m. House is LEED-Gold certified. As a student-fee-financed facility, we welcome all student use, including but not limited to academic classes, Club Sports, Intramural Sports, Mountain Sports, NCAA Learn more at: western.edu/fieldhouse Sports and open recreation time. We are also open to the The Mountaineer Field House offers the following departments, community and alumni as a whole! programs and amenities: • Athletic Strength and Conditioning Room • Athletic Training Room • Batting Cage and Golf Cage • Climbing Wall and Bouldering Wall • Club Sports • Fitness Center • High Altitude Performance Lab (HAP Lab) and new RESS classroom • Indoor, 200-meter Track • In-ground Trampoline and Foam Pit • Intramural Sports • Mountain Sports • Multipurpose courts (3) for basketball, volleyball, pickle ball and more • New Athletic office suite, housing football, track, cross-country, women’s soccer and diving • Throwing cage and jump pit for field events
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Leslie J. Savage Library
Learn more at: western.edu/library
LIBRARY BIKES Gunnison is a bike-friendly town, and students, faculty and staff at Western can take advantage of this by checking out townie bikes from the Savage Library for three-day periods. The bikes come with locks, helmets, lights, and in the winter, studded tires and fenders. The bike rental program was a student-led initiative funded by Western’s Sustainability Fund.
The Leslie J. Savage Library is an integral part of Western State Colorado University. As a state-supported academic library, we serve the needs of students, faculty, staff and the community by providing information resources, physical space for study and socialization, and specialized services supporting the educational missions of the library and university through these shared values.
Campus Book store Western State Colorado University Bookstore is your place for textbooks, gear and supplies. Buy or sell used and new textbooks, find official Western gear, and purchase software and gifts. The store is located in the University Center and online at bookstore.western.edu.
Do I need my books for the first day of classes?
Learn more at: bookstore.western.edu
There is no need to purchase your books before classes begin, unless you would like to get a jump start on class readings. Your instructor will review the class syllabus the first day. This will include going over the required and optional books for the class. You may then purchase your books at the campus bookstore.
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ATHLETICS Western is known for its strong athletic traditions — from champion cross country and track athletes to talented skiers and snowboarders. Athletes can compete in traditional NCAA Division II athletics within the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference. Are non-traditional sports more your thing? Western’s Mountain Sports Team has competitive teams in winter and summer sports, including big mountain skiing and boarding, alpine and cross country skiing, trail running and mountain biking. Western also offers a variety of club and intramural sports for athletes at all levels of competition.
Learn more at: gomountaineers.com wscumountainsports.com
NCAA Division II Sports Basketball Cross Country Football Soccer | W Swimming and Diving | W Track and Field Volleyball | W
Club Sports Baseball | M Boxing | Co-ed Cheerleading | Co-ed Ice Hockey | M, W Lacrosse | M Rugby | M, W Soccer | M, W Swimming | Co-ed
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93 15 TITLES -in-
JOIN A CLUB OR INTRAMURAL TEAM. If shoulder pads aren’t your thing, you can go out for flag football. Likewise, you don’t have to lace up skates to play floor hockey. And there’s no swimming necessary with inner-tube water polo.
Learn more at: western.edu/recreation
SPORTS
TAKE ON A NEW CHALLENGE. We’re surrounded by rugged landscape, so Western Mountain Sports are hard to beat. The same can be said of Dave Wiens, the world-famous mountain bike racer who leads and manages our outstanding programs.
Mountain Sports
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MOUNTAINEERS HAVE GONE TO THE OLYMPICS IN THE PAST CENTURY
2 ND
WESTERN TOOK SECOND PLACE IN THE 2016 D2 VARSITY DIVISION MOUNTAIN BIKE CHAMPIONSHIPS
ONLY
WESTERN HAS THE ONLY CERTIFIED COLLEGIATE MOUNTAIN RESCUE TEAM IN THE COUNTRY
Alpine Ski Racing Cross Country Mountain Bike (XC) Endurance Ski Racing (Skimo) Freeride Ski (Big Mountain) Freeride Snowboard (Big Mountain) Freestyle Ski (Park and Pipe) Freestyle Snowboard (Park and Pipe) Mountain Biking (gravity, endurance, cyclocross, road racing ) Media Team Nordic Ski Racing Trail Running
Learn more at: western.edu/mountainsports WESTERN STUDENT GUIDE | 21
About our community / Gunnison
Located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Western has a strong connection with its location of Gunnison, Colorado. With a population of about 6,000 people, Gunnison is known for its friendly, small-town vibe. Surrounded by 1.6 million acres of public lands, there’s plenty of space to explore. Traveling or visiting family is convenient and close to campus via the Gunnison Airport.
Farmers market every week during the summer
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Lots of great local resturants with student discounts
surrounded by over 1 million acres of public land
TOP 5 things to do in GUNNISON - Camp out at Hartman Rocks under the Full Moon - Cattlemen’s Days, Parade and Rodeo - Attend a Concert at the I Bar Ranch - swim at bay of chickens beach - Art Walk, First Friday of Every month
Hartman Rocks recreation area Hartman Rocks offers 8,000 acres of BLM land, criss-crossed with hundreds of miles of single track trails and dirt roads. The area is a desert paradise for recreational pursuits of all types.
Gunnison arts center
Blue Mesa reservoir Colorado’s largest lake and a popular destination for outdoor recreation, Blue Mesa Reservoir offers fishing, camping, boating, paddle-boarding, windsurfing and hiking.
Get involved in the community through the Gunnison Arts Center, which offers regular programming, including art classes, community theater performances, concerts, gallery displays and much, much more.
To learn more about the Gunnison Arts Center please visit gunnisonartscenter.org
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TOP 5 things to do in Crested butte - Attend Vinotok and watch the burning of the Grump - See the 4th of July Parade - Swim or stand-up paddleboard in Emerald Lake - Attend the Wildflower Festival - Hike to the peak of Mt. Crested Butte
MERIDIAN LAKE
Crested butte mountain resort Crested Butte Mountain Resort is one of the best resorts in the state of Colorado. With over 1,500 acres of rideable terrain and 16 lifts, opportunities are endless at this mountain.
Mt. Crested Butte offers Western students a discounted season pass! You can add this on to your tuition payments. To learn more please visit skicb.com.
RTA FREE LOCAL BUS
Meridian Lake is located above the town of Crested Butte. Here you can find fantastic views of Crested Butte and the surrounding valley. This is a very popular spot to see wildflowers. The long and narrow natural lake (also known as Long Lake) is one of the best spots in Crested Butte to go for a swim.
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The Gunnison Valley RTA runs convenient, free buses between Gunnison and Crested Butte, with a stop right in front of the Pinnacle Apartments at the corner of Ohio and Colorado.
about our community / Crested Butte
Just 30 minutes north of Gunnison, Crested Butte is known as Colorado’s Last Great Ski Town. It’s a bustling mountain town with a great restaurant scene, fun shops and lots to explore. It’s also the home to Crested Butte Mountain Resort. Students can catch the free bus to the town and ski resort right from campus. A bus stop is conveniently located right on campus.
Farmers market every week during the summer
Lots of great local resturants with student discounts
Over 750 miles of mountain biking trails in Gunnison County WESTERN STUDENT GUIDE | 25
Transfer and Non-Traditional Students Western’s welcoming environment and close-knit community make transferring simple. If you have taken college courses after high school and have a cumulative grade point average of at least a 2.3 on a 4.0 scale you are eligible to apply to Western as a transfer student. Why Transfer to Western? Finding the right place to start your future is vital. Western makes it easy to transfer from another college, university or community college. Also, Western offers nearly 400 scholarships, tuition discount programs and the third-lowest tuition in the state of Colorado. Take advantage of smaller class sizes, supportive and engaging faculty, and hands-on education in a beautiful environment.
TRANSFEr and Non-Traditional Student orientation Transfer & Non-Traditional Student Orientation will explain important information about Western and the Gunnison community and is designed to meet these students’ specific needs. It is required for all new students with transfer or non-traditional student status.
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August 18 Transfer orientation beings at 1 p.m.
TRANSFEr move in students can begin moving in on the 18th at 9 a.m.
NEXT STEPS FOR TRANSFER STUDENTS Discover your MyWestern Account Go to western.edu/current-students and click on MyWestern to access financial aid information, check your student email and learn about class registration.
Register for Classes Class registration for new students will open on May 1. For more information, please visit western.edu/registration.
View Your Transfer Evaluation Your transfer evaluation will be available in DegreeWorks within your MyWestern account.
Complete ‘Think About It’ Course All new students will receive an email from Campus Clarity with a link to an online prevention education program called “Think About It”. Please set aside about three hours to complete the program.
Apply for Financial Aid Fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid at fafsa.ed.gov. Western’s school code is 001372. Secure Your Financial Aid Check the status of your financial aid and scholarships and accept/modify/decline student loans through your MyWestern account. Confirm Your Enrollment Pay your $200 tuition deposit by visiting western.edu/deposit. Submit Residence Life Materials There are three steps: 1. Pay the $100 housing deposit through your MyWestern account, by submitting a check or money order, or by calling the Cashier’s Office. 2. Visit housing.western.edu, beginning March 8, to complete your housing application and lifestyle-preference questionnaire. 3. Select your room by visiting housing.western.edu, beginning April 5.
Send Your Immunization and Selective Service Records Colorado Law requires students to show proof of immunity against measles, mumps and rubella. Students must complete the first MMR immunization before classes begin - although we do allow medical and religious exemptions. Send Your Final, Official College Transcripts You must send your final, official college transcripts to the Admissions Office. Purchase Your Books The campus bookstore is in the University Center. You may sign up for the optional Books-To-Go program or purchase books during the first week of classes. Pay Your Tuition Bill Your bill payment is due by the first day of classes.
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Financial aid
Meet the Financial aid counselors
Paula Giavasis
Dan Rash
Nancy Duetsch
Tanner Stillwell
Students last names A-E, Work-study Coordinator
Students last names F-M
Students last names N-Z
Assistant Director of Financial Aid
for more information please visit: western.edu/financialaid
frequently asked questions: How do I confirm my enrollment and pay my housing deposit?
What financial assistance is available for incoming students?
A $200 tuition deposit confirms a student’s enrollment for the upcoming semester. Students can pay their deposit by visiting western.edu/deposit → Pay Bill or Tuition/Housing Deposit.
We automatically consider all freshmen and transfer students for merit-based scholarships. After acceptance, you will receive notice from the Financial Aid office if you qualify. You do not need to apply for merit scholarships.
How do students select a major?
How do AP, IB and CLEP credits transfer to Western?
What if you have no idea what to study? We classify students into the majors they selected during the admission application process. If you would like to change or add a major or minor, indicate this on your class-registration survey, which becomes available on May 1. Western has an Exploratory Program just for students who have not yet declared majors. This allows you to explore your interests, abilities and values, and then connect those to a major at Western and to your future.
You must submit official score reports to the Admissions Office for consideration of results from Advanced Placement testing and the College Level Examination Program. You must submit an official transcript for consideration of International Baccalaureate credit. You must have a minimum score of 3 to receive credit for most Advanced Placement tests (some require a minimum of 4). Western will grant International Baccalaureate credit for tests with a score of 4 or better. Western will award a maximum of 18 credits for CLEP exams.
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student resources: WESTERNERS IN TRANSITION Westerners in Transition assists and promotes the success of non-traditional students. Students 25 and older, who are married and/or have children can find the support they need with WIT. Resources include scholarships, grants, leadership opportunities, personal advising, mentoring, networking and non-traditional-student programs.
Important campus contacts
SUPPLEMENTAL INSTRUCTION (SI) Supplemental Instruction is an academic support model that utilizes peer assisted study sessions. The program targets traditionally difficult academic courses and provides regularly scheduled, out-of-class review sessions led by other students. The study sessions are informal seminars in which students compare notes, discuss readings and develop organizational tools and predict test items.
ACADEMIC RESOURCE CENTER 970.943.7056
ADMISSIONS 970.943.2119
Disability Services coordinates support services for students with documented disabilities. We offer a variety of resources and accommodations to assist students as they pursue their academic goals. While providing a supportive environment, we encourage students to develop independence and to take responsibility for their academic experiences. Support services are determined on an individualized basis.
For questions about your application, campus visits or general information.
CASHIER’S OFFICE 970.943.3003
DISABILITIES SERVICES
For questions about class registration, academic advising and Disability Services.
For questions about bill or deposit payments.
FINANCIAL AID 970.943.3085
For all financial aid questions (pertaining to FAFSA, scholarships, loans, etc.).
IT SERVICES 970.943.3333
For questions about “MyWestern” account login problems.
ORIENTATION 970.943.2469
For questions about Orientation program dates, activities, registration or Wilderness Based Orientation trips.
REGISTRATION SERVICES 970.943.7003
VETERAN BENEFITS If you are an active-duty service member, have been enlisted in the armed forces or are an eligible dependent, Western is honored to support you as you pursue your educational goals. Our knowledgeable Veterans Services staff can help you receive benefits from any VA educational benefit chapter. The VA certifying official at Western assists students applying for, collecting and maintaining VA educational benefits.
For questions about registering for classes, schedules and Transfer Credit Evaluations.
STUDENT AFFAIRS 970.943.2011
For questions about immunization and selective service records.
WESTERNERS IN TRANSITION 970.943.2891
For questions about non-traditional student resources.
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HERE’S THE BIG PICTURE. Chipeta Hall
A2
Moffatt Hall President’s House The Pinnacles
B2 B2 B3
Gateway Field Mears Hall Robidoux Hall Ute Hall Mountaineer Field House Tenderfoot Child & Family Center
C1 C2 C2 C2 C3 C4
Borick Business Building Taylor Hall Welcome Center Crawford Hall Leslie J. Savage Library University Center Paul Wright Gymnasium Whipp Maintenance
D2 D2 D2 D3 D3 D3 D3 D4
Quigley Hall Studio Theater Colorado Hall Dolores Hall Escalante Terrace Mountaineer Bowl Crested Butte
E2 E2 E3 E3 E3 E4 E4
Aspinall-Wilson Center Hurst Hall Kelley Hall Crystal Hall Tomichi Hall
F1 F2 F2 F3 F3
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A
B
C
1
2
3
4
WELCOME HOME.
C
D
E
F
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Western State Colorado University 600 North Adams Street Gunnison, CO 81231
western.edu