Bear Essentials for Students 2024-2025

BEAR ESSENTIALS FOR STUDENTS

CLASS OF 2028

Welcome to WashU!

My name is Anna Gonzalez, vice chancellor for student affairs. Students know me as, “Dr. G.” I host many students at my home throughout the year, and I cannot wait to personally connect with you during your time on campus. Please make sure you learn about Dr. G’s Fun House events and attend. These are free events for students and provide high fun, low time commitment engagements for students.

I’ve been in higher education for over 30 years and my team of highly trained professionals is here to support your student experience.

One of the most important aspects of your experience is that you feel connected to a supportive community. Our staff is here to connect you to important resources, such as how to learn more about a student organization, or how to become familiar with the Center for Career Engagement.

Enclosed, you will find a wide range of information designed to aid your transition. This guide offers a brief overview of important tasks for you to complete over the summer. You can visit newstudents.wustl.edu for more information about your pre-arrival preparation.

Once on campus, there are many ways to get involved outside the classroom — from participating in research to joining one of our many student groups. Please see the “Getting Involved” section of this Bear Essentials guide to learn more.

There will be many opportunities for connection during your time at WashU. I am cheering for you as you begin this next phase of your journey.

Warmly,

Anna “Dr. G” Gonzalez Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs @akgonzal327, @washustudentaffairs

ESTABLISHING ACCESS

WEBSTAC

Web Student Access (WebSTAC) is WashU’s online platform where you register for classes, see grades, request official transcripts, review billing information, check your meal plan points, and more.

CONTACT INFORMATION

Please check your WebSTAC account to make sure your mailing address and cell phone number are listed correctly. It’s also a good idea to make sure your parents’ and family members’ contact information is up to date, including mailing addresses, home and cell phone numbers, and email addresses. This will ensure they receive important university communications and emergency notifications.

You can make mailing address and phone number updates and add or remove family email addresses in WebSTAC. To change the listed family member’s email address(es), follow the instructions in WebSTAC.

PREFERRED NAME

WashU recognizes that many students prefer to identify themselves by names other than their legal names. Any student on the Danforth Campus may choose to identify a preferred first name in addition to their official name of record. Students can add or change their preferred name on WebSTAC.

webstac.wustl.edu

WUSTL KEY

Your WUSTL Key is the set of login credentials (login ID and password) you’ll use to access WebSTAC and many other WashU online services. All entering first-year and transfer students receive an email notification from the University Registrar with information about their WUSTL Key, WebSTAC, and their university email address.

wustlkey.wustl.edu

STUDENT EMAIL

It’s very important that you start using your @wustl.edu email address once you have it, as it’s the primary way you’ll receive information from the university. Remember to check it several times a week!

email.wustl.edu

DUO: WASHU 2FA TWO-STEP AUTHENTICATION

WashU 2FA — a two-factor (two-step) authentication service provided by Duo, an industry leader in cybersecurity services — adds a second layer of security to your WUSTL Key account. When accessing WashU systems that may contain sensitive personal information, you’ll be asked to verify your identity through the use of a second device. This extra step prevents hackers and identity thieves from logging into these systems, even if they know your WUSTL Key credentials. Through Duo, you’ll immediately be alerted if someone tries to log in using your credentials.

it.wustl.edu

PROTECT YOUR INFORMATION

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) protects the privacy of your student records. WashU policies enforce this law. Certain pieces of directory information (such as your name, mailing address, and phone number) may be publicly available unless you have placed an information restriction on your record. If you wish to restrict the release of this information, log in to WebSTAC and navigate to “Student Information,” then “FERPA Rights and Record Privacy.” Similarly, the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) protects the privacy of your medical records. Your Student Health Services portal, including medical records, is accessed using your WUSTL Key credentials. This means anyone with your WUSTL Key can see significant personal health information, including appointments and medical tests. We strongly encourage you to keep your password protected from anyone you do not wish to have access to your personal health information.

registrar.wustl.edu

STUDENT ID CARD

Your WashU student ID card makes your affiliation with WashU official. Your card is your proof of identity on campus, holds your individual meal plan, and grants access to your residential community on the South 40 and academic buildings across the Danforth Campus.

By July 31, 2024, all first-year undergraduate students must complete a WashU student ID card application at card.wustl.edu/apply in order to receive their ID during check in on move-in day.

BEFORE YOU ARRIVE CHECKLIST

ESTABLISH ACCESS

JUNE

• Activate your WUSTL Key.

• Enroll in Duo two-factor authentication.

• Activate your WashU email account.

• Review and edit your WebSTAC user profile.

JULY

• Apply for your WashU ID card.

ONLINE RESOURCES

Visit newstudents.wustl.edu for more information about how to complete each checklist item.

YOUR ACADEMIC CAREER

ACADEMIC DIVISIONS

We encourage you to connect with your academic division for specific questions regarding your academic experience.

COLLEGE OF ARTS & SCIENCES

In the College of Arts & Sciences, students are part of an expansive and inclusive academic environment encompassing the natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities, with more than 70 majors and minors. Students will take on unconventional perspectives, discover solutions, find community beyond disciplinary boundaries, and are equipped with skills for flexible career paths.

artsci.wustl.edu

MCKELVEY SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING

McKelvey Engineering students earn a universal degree that prepares them to solve the challenges of a rapidly changing world. McKelvey offers classroom instruction, hands-on labs, and faculty-led research, as well as study abroad and student group experiences in 11 major programs and 21 second majors and minors.

engineering.wustl.edu

OLIN BUSINESS SCHOOL

At Olin Business School, students learn to look beyond the bottom line and make thoughtful decisions that benefit business and society. Olin has a welcoming community that allows for a deeper level of engagement, collaboration, and program customization. Students can choose between nine majors and six minors, with additional flexibility for interdisciplinary study within other divisions.

olin.wustl.edu

SAM FOX SCHOOL OF DESIGN & VISUAL ARTS

The Sam Fox School of Design & Visual Arts is a leader in architecture, art, and design education. They advance students’ knowledge through innovative research and creative practice, excellence in teaching, and a deep commitment to addressing the social and environmental challenges of our time. The Sam Fox School encompasses four academic units (the College of Architecture, the Graduate School of Architecture & Urban Design, the College of Art, and the Graduate School of Art) and the Mildred Lane Kemper Art Museum, each of which has its own unique history.

samfoxschool.wustl.edu

BEYOND BOUNDARIES

The Beyond Boundaries Program is for students interested in collaborative problem-solving. The program builds skills to tackle complex challenges — like climate change, poverty, and ethical artificial intelligence — that can only be effectively addressed by bringing together experts from diverse academic fields. Beyond Boundaries supports students in exploring their personal interests and deepening their ability to work productively with others who bring different knowledge and perspectives to solve real-world problems of importance to them.

beyondboundaries.wustl.edu

ACADEMIC ADVISING

WashU is committed to providing students with the assistance and support needed to achieve their academic goals. As part of that commitment, WashU provides each student with an academic adviser. Your academic division will match you with an adviser who will help you plan a successful course of study, navigate course listings, and assist you with choosing classes that correspond with your interests. Advisers meet with students each semester, or more if desired, to discuss academic, personal, and career goals. In early June, you will receive your academic adviser’s name and contact information.

COURSE REGISTRATION

You will register for fall courses online via WebSTAC in mid-July at your assigned registration time. Your academic division will provide you with a registration time in June.

AP/IB/Transfer Credits: WashU generally accepts AP scores of a 4 or 5 for course credit. Some departments assign credit based solely on the AP score, whereas others give credit contingent on the completion of a higher-level course.

Some departments do not grant course credit but allow students to place into a higher-level class. Questions regarding International Baccalaureate (IB) and credit for college-level coursework should be referred to your academic division registrar.

Placement and Diagnostic Exams: Students interested in taking courses in one of the following areas may be required to audition or take a placement exam:

• Calculus and Math

• Chemistry

• Computer Science

• Dance

• Languages

• Music

• Writing

You should complete the online placement and diagnostic exams prior to speaking to your academic adviser about fall course selection. When you take the exams, be sure to record your final scores and have them available when consulting with your adviser.

To learn more about the placement exams, please visit newstudents.wustl.edu.

COMBINED STUDIES

While WashU has several undergraduate academic divisions, students are not limited to a single area of study. Each academic division has different course requirements for its degrees; however, these degree programs have room for you to pursue an additional major, minor, or even a dual degree.

If you desire to pursue a combined studies curriculum, you should:

• Speak with the school(s) or department(s) that interest you.

• Seek guidance from your academic adviser.

BEARPRINTS FOR SUCCESS

Bearprints for Success is a one-credit, seven-week course for new students designed to ensure a successful transition to WashU, both academically and personally. Bearprints is a seminar where you will learn key academic success strategies, develop financial literacy, explore career paths, and cultivate your leadership identity in a supportive, small-group setting. The course will introduce you to valuable academic success and learning resources, as well as support staff who are dedicated to enhancing your university experience.

PRE-PROFESSIONAL ADVISING

Interested in a future in the health professions or a career in law? Visit the PreHealth and PreLaw program websites for more information.

PreHealth:

prehealth.wustl.edu

PreLaw:

artsci.wustl.edu/prelaw

DISABILITY RESOURCES

Disability Resources (DR) is the department at WashU designated to ensure the equal access and inclusion of disabled students on the Danforth Campus. DR is committed to providing qualified students with disabilities the assistance necessary to enable them to accomplish their educational goals and derive the full benefits of campus life.

Students are encouraged to visit the DR website to review the process for requesting accommodations, including WashU’s documentation guidelines. Determinations about accommodations and other adjustments are made on an individual, case-by-case basis. DR recommends students complete a New Student Application on the DR homepage and submit their documentation prior to the start of the academic term to avoid delays in accessing accommodations once classes begin.

disability.wustl.edu

STUDENT CONDUCT CODE

The Washington University in St. Louis Student Conduct Code sets forth community standards and expectations for University students. These community standards and expectations are intended to foster an environment conducive to learning and inquiry. Each individual is held to the expectations outlined in the Washington University in St. Louis Student Conduct Code. To the extent that is feasible and practicable, the written policies at the university are intended to provide general notice to the student and describe the types of behavior that conflict with university standards. Provided within these policies includes the University Hazing policy. Please familiarize yourself with the Student Conduct Code.

studentconduct.wustl.edu

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY

Effective teaching and learning depend on the ability of members of the academic community to trust one another and the integrity of work submitted for academic credit. This mutual trust enables all students to achieve their highest potential. All students, faculty and administrative staff share the responsibility for ensuring the honesty and fairness of WashU’s learning environment. Academic integrity coordinators collaborate with university administrators and offices to educate students about the standards and expectations in our academic community. Please familiarize yourself with the Academic Integrity policies.

wustl.edu/about/compliance-policies

THE LEARNING CENTER

The Learning Center, housed within the Center for Teaching and Learning, is WashU’s academic support hub, offering structured, weekly study groups and drop-in help sessions for large foundational courses, including calculus, general chemistry, and physics, as well as individual coaching for academic skills such as time management, note-taking, studying, and managing test anxiety. The Learning Center peer coaches and staff also offer workshops on academic skills.

ctl.wustl.edu/learningcenter

STUDY ABROAD

Understanding other cultures, languages, and countries is important whether you’re an environmental engineer, artist, architect, accountant, PreHealth student, or historian. WashU offers many ways to incorporate international study into an undergraduate program.

Each undergraduate school has developed high-quality study abroad opportunities that enhance the strengths of its undergraduate programs. We offer a variety of yearlong, semester, and summer programs that allow students to earn credit toward major, minor, or general degree requirements while studying abroad in more than 50 countries.

sa.wustl.edu

UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH

Undergraduate research and creative practice at WashU take every imaginable shape — archival research, laboratory experiments, oral histories, mathematical theory, community-engaged research, animation, and more. There are countless pathways for engagement, including course-based projects, assisting on a faculty project, independent studies, immersive summer research, honors theses, and capstones. The Office of Undergraduate Research (OUR) provides a dedicated team and infrastructure to support WashU undergraduates in discovering, building, and leveraging faculty-mentored research to achieve their personal and professional goals.

undergradresearch.wustl.edu

BEFORE YOU ARRIVE CHECKLIST

Check your WashU email account several times a week for important messages from your academic division. You will receive details about course registration and connecting with your academic adviser. You may also be asked to complete important forms.

• Take any necessary online placement and diagnostic exams.

• Connect with Disability Resources if you require accommodations due to an identified disability or have questions about specific disability-related concerns.

• Register for classes during your assigned registration time.

• Complete the Canvas course on subjects: Student Conduct Code, Academic Integrity, and Hazing policies.

• Confirm that AP, IB, and transfer credits were sent to the university.

MAINTAINING HEALTH,

AND SAFETY

DIET AND NUTRITION

If you have a food allergy, sensitivity, intolerance, or other dietary need or preference, the nutrition team at Dining Services is committed to helping you:

• Learn what’s available to meet your nutrition needs and preferences.

• Navigate various dining outlets, foods, and menus on campus.

• Establish a resource for potential obstacles that may occur as the semester progresses.

Dining Services has experience meeting the nutritional needs of students observing a wide range of diets, including allergen-free, vegetarian, vegan, halal, and kosher, among others.

Their team of registered dietitians is available to address nutrition questions and concerns in one-on-one consultations. Email to schedule a consult.

diningservices.wustl.edu/nutrition nutrition@wustl.edu

EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS

If a crisis occurs on campus, you have multiple ways to obtain information.

• The WashU Safe App addresses and promotes student, faculty and staff safety through important safety alerts and access to campus safety resources. Students and family members can download the app from Android or iOS.

• The Emergency Management website offers training, preparedness guides, and general safety information. In the event of an emergency, new information will be posted to the site as it is available. If there is no current emergency, the site will say so.

• Emergency Alerts are available on emergency.wustl.edu and social media. Follow @WashUReady on X (formerly Twitter). Emergency notifications are also pushed out via email. Please make sure your contact information is up to date and that you have opted to receive the alerts.

emergency.wustl.edu

GENDER EQUITY AND TITLE IX COMPLIANCE OFFICE

The Gender Equity and Title IX Compliance Office is committed to responding to discrimination based on sex — including sexual harassment and sexual violence — in an effective, timely, and transparent manner.

titleix.wustl.edu

WASHU CARES

WashU Cares is a team of professionals who are here to guide students through complex systems and recommend and coordinate both on- and off-campus resources for a student’s support network. They provide supportive case management. Some of the ways they might assist students include the following:

• Co-creating a plan of action when students feel overwhelmed.

• Providing guidance about accessing basic needs (i.e., food, housing, finances).

• Collaborating on communication with university faculty and staff.

• Connecting to mental health resources on campus or in the community.

• Discussing whether a medical leave of absence to focus on their health is right for them.

students.wustl.edu/WashU-cares

HABIF HEALTH AND WELLNESS CENTER

The Habif Health and Wellness Center provides medical and psychiatric care as well as health promotion services. Same-day medical appointments are available for urgent needs. You are required to provide Habif with important health information, such as immunization records and health history, prior to moving to campus. More information about specific requirements can be found on the Habif Health and Wellness website. In addition, you are required by university policy to have adequate health insurance coverage. If you wish to waive the university’s student health insurance plan, you must demonstrate equivalent coverage by completing a waiver annually prior to September 5.

habif.wustl.edu

HEALTH PROMOTION SERVICES

Health Promotion Services provides free resources and programs, as well as risk-reduction information related to alcohol and other drug use, mental health, and sexual health. Resources on community health and self-care are also available.

MEDICAL SERVICES

Medical Services provides routine, preventive health care; evaluation or treatment of illnesses and injuries; travel medicine; and allergy shots and immunizations. An on-site lab, radiology department, and pharmacy also serve students. After-hours care is available through TimelyCare. In addition, WUPD and the student-run Emergency Support Team of licensed EMTs respond to urgent issues on campus 24/7. Psychiatry Services provides ongoing medication management for students taking medication to address their mental health concerns. It should be noted that we will no longer accept new or transferred patients who require prescriptions for stimulant medications. Stimulant medications include but are not limited to Adderall, Adderall XR, Ritalin, Concerta, and Focalin. If you are already receiving stimulant medications, we encourage you to continue working with your current provider. If you hope to start taking a stimulant to manage a health condition, we will try to assist you in finding an outside provider that accepts your insurance. A more detailed list of our services can be found on the Habif website.

The Habif Health and Wellness Center is committed to providing the highest-quality care to students at a reasonable cost. Information about co-pays and insurance is available on the Habif website.

CENTER FOR COUNSELING AND PSYCHOLOGICAL SERVICES

The Center for Counseling and Psychological Services provides individual, couples, and group counseling. Students can also access tools such as Therapy Assistance Online, which offers brief educational videos related to mental health, wellness, and substance-use issues. Thriving Campus can be used to find counseling resources when a student’s needs can be met best off campus. Crisis services are also available daily for students who need to speak with a counselor urgently. Students are encouraged to download the TimelyCare app to access 24/7 mental health support services.

All full-time students who pay the university health and wellness fee as part of their tuition are eligible for services.

students.wustl.edu/counseling-psychological-services

RECREATION

WashU Rec is dedicated to providing students, faculty, and staff with a first-rate health, wellness, and recreation experience. WashU Rec manages the Gary M. Sumers Recreation Center and the South 40 Fitness Center, along with developing programs and services that include intramural sports, club sports, BearFit fitness programs, personal training, massage therapy, introductory workout skills classes, swim lessons, and Bear Adventures trips. The majority of programs and services are free or very low cost to students.

rec.wustl.edu

RELATIONSHIP AND SEXUAL VIOLENCE PREVENTION

The Relationship and Sexual Violence Prevention (RSVP) Center offers free, confidential, survivor-centered resources and services to individuals impacted by any of the following:

• Sexual harassment

• Sexual assault

• Rape

• Child sexual abuse

• Stalking

• Exploitation and trafficking

• Dating and domestic violence

Services and resources include prevention and harm reduction education, professional counseling services, consultation, and connection to on- and off-campus resources. Their services are available to all students. The RSVP Center is committed to affirming, inclusive care and programming and to being lifelong learners in our work. They continue to work toward a campus culture in which mutual respect, consent, and choice are daily practices.

rsvp.wustl.edu

WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY POLICE DEPARTMENT

The Washington University Police Department, also known as WUPD, is a diverse law-enforcement team that provides foot, bicycle, and vehicle patrol 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

WUPD prides itself on maintaining a safe campus, and officers are here for students 365 days a year. Two comfort dogs (Brookie & Bear) also support students, faculty, and staff. WUPD has developed initiatives to enhance students’ personal safety and to protect their property. WUPD can help students register their electronics and bikes on campus to increase the chances of recovery if they are misplaced or stolen. Students may also purchase bike locks and vehicle steering wheel locks at WUPD’s office.

police.wustl.edu

BEFORE YOU ARRIVE CHECKLIST

MAINTAINING HEALTH, WELL-BEING, AND SAFETY

• Learn about the medical, mental health, and health promotion resources available at WashU.

• Learn about how to transfer mental health care to a St. Louis provider.

JULY

• Complete your Habif Health and Wellness Center requirements.

• Complete the Year One College Behavior Profile.

• Transfer your prescriptions to the Habif Health and Wellness Center.

• Contact Habif if you will require a referral for ongoing medical specialist care.

• Contact the Center for Counseling and Psychological Services if you will require a referral for mental health care.

AUGUST

• Be sure you have completed all health and well-being requirements.

LIVING ON CAMPUS

One of the most important aspects of your first year at WashU will be your living experience. Our residence halls will provide many opportunities for you to live comfortably, study and build friendships that will last throughout your college career and lifetime. You will be encouraged and supported in your intellectual development by forming relationships with students, faculty and staff.

RESIDENTIAL LIVING AS A NEW STUDENT

First-year students live in one of the 10 residential communities in a section of campus known as the South 40, located at the southwest end of the Danforth Campus. Each residence hall has a Residential Community Director (RCD), a full-time staff member who lives in residence and facilitates community engagement within the halls, assists in day-to-day operations, and manages the team of resident advisors (RAs). RAs are trained upper-division students who live in residence and serve as leaders and peer mentors. In addition, WashU faculty members also work closely with first-year student communities, providing significant faculty-student interaction outside the classroom. Each residential community has its own dedicated custodial and maintenance personnel.

Residence halls throughout campus feature lounges and dedicated spaces for study, personal computing and collaboration.

ALL ROOMS INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING FOR EACH RESIDENT

• Bed and mattress (extra-long twin, 36” x 80”)

• Desk and chair

• Dresser and closet space

• Central air conditioning

• Small trash and recycling bin

• Blinds

• Carpeting

FLOOR PLANS AND VIRTUAL TOURS

Floor plans for each building can be found online at reslife.wustl.edu (search for “South 40 Residential Communities”). An interactive map of the South 40 can also be found at that web page. Virtual tours can also be found online at reslife.wustl.edu (search for “virtual tours”).

PACKING LIST

A suggested packing list can be found at newstudents.wustl.edu under the Before You Arrive tab.

THE SOUTH 40

Wayman Crow

Residential College

Robert S. Brookings

Residential College

Shanedling, Dauten, and Rutledge (JKL)

Residential College

Lee and Beaumont

Residential College

Umrath and Zetcher

Residential College

Liggett and Koenig

Residential College

William Greenleaf Eliot

Residential College

Thomas H. Eliot

Residential College

Park and Mudd

Residential College

Hitzeman, Hurd, and Myers (HIG) Residential College

SHIPPING ITEMS TO CAMPUS

USPS, UPS, FedEx, and other parcel services deliver to your WashU campus address. Ensure your full name and complete address are included to avoid package delays. You can find your full mailing address information on WebSTAC under Housing on the Assignment tab in the WashU Housing Portal. Use the template below when placing orders for items to be shipped to campus.

South 40 Address:

First and Last Name MSC Number XXXXX 6515 Wydown Boulevard

St. Louis MO 63105-2298

Important reminders for shipping to campus:

• DO NOT use your residential building as a delivery address.

• Packages are accepted starting 14 days prior to your move-in day.

• Use special instructions for same-day deliveries from services like Walmart, Whole Foods, Doordash, and Grubhub.

• For same-day deliveries, retrieve your order from the specified location.

• Mail Services is not responsible for unattended items, including perishables. Any same-day delivery orders left unattended will be discarded for safety.

• Specify that deliveries arrive during business hours, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

UTRUCKING

UTrucking has been serving WashU students since 1977, providing a convenient and hassle-free move-in experience for hundreds of incoming students each year. As a proud partner of WashU, UTrucking offers early-access delivery for all its move-in services, meaning that your items will be delivered to your room before your move-in date and will be waiting for you when you arrive. UTrucking offers the following move-in services:

1. Appliance Rentals. With UTrucking’s most popular move-in service, you can enjoy a chilled fridge in your room on move-in day. Choose from a range of sizes and enjoy a full-year service guarantee on all appliances.

2. Ship to School. UTrucking offers a complete solution for shipping your belongings to WashU from anywhere in the country. They send boxes, packing materials, and prepaid UPS labels right to your door. Simply drop off your boxes at any UPS store or arrange for a pickup. They’ll handle the rest. Your items will be waiting for you in your room when you arrive on campus.

3. Tri-State Area Home Pickups. If you live in one of their designated home pickup areas in Connecticut, New Jersey, or New York, you can simplify your move to WashU with UTrucking’s doorstep pickup service. They’ll collect your belongings from your door, transport them to St. Louis, and deliver them straight to your room.

utrucking.com

SHOPPING ON CAMPUS

BEAR NECESSITIES

Bear Necessities is a nonprofit general merchandise store located on the first floor of Umrath House. Based in the South 40, it’s the perfect spot to stop for snacks, school supplies, personal care items, laundry supplies, and exclusive WashU swag. The store is open until 8 p.m. Monday – Saturday. During movein weekend, the store is open extended hours. You can also pre-order WashU swag online for pickup during move-in weekend.

bearnecessities.wustl.edu

CAMPUS BOOKSTORE

The WashU Campus Store is a one-stop shop for everything WashU and offers new, used, digital, and rental textbooks. The store also buys back books every day. The Danforth Campus Store is an authorized Apple Educational reseller with numerous technology items in stock.

wubookstore.com

MOVE-IN AND FALL WELCOME

Move-in is Friday, August 16 and Saturday, August 17. You will select your move-in date and time after you receive your housing assignment in July. Bear Beginnings: Fall Welcome is the official welcome to the university for you and Parent & Family Orientation is the welcome for your family. As you begin making plans for your move to WashU, we encourage you to visit newstudents. wustl.edu for the most up-to-date information about what to expect and how to prepare. You and your family will receive the Residential Life Move-In Guide, which will provide detailed instructions and information about the logistics of move-in day. During Fall Welcome, you will engage with faculty, staff, and students connected to your residential community; learn about the experiences you will have in your academic division; participate in social programs to help you start making friends; explore St. Louis; and prepare for the first week of classes. Parent & Family Orientation will include an opportunity for your family to hear from Chancellor Andrew D. Martin and Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Anna Gonzalez, as well as the dean of your academic division. Sessions will be live streamed and recorded for families who are unable to join us on campus. A detailed schedule is available at families.wustl.edu.

INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

If you are a new international student on a visa, you are expected to participate in an international orientation program designed to help you transition to the United States and WashU. The program covers issues unique to international students and provides additional time for you to acclimate to the campus and St. Louis communities.

The Office for International Students and Scholars (OISS) provides advice, support, and referrals on immigration, legal topics, academics, work authorization, and the visa application process. OISS offers individual advising sessions and informational workshops throughout the academic year for our international student and scholar population.

students.wustl.edu/international-students-scholars/

The Office for International Student Engagement (OISE) provides advice, support, and referrals on academics, U.S. culture, and housing. Programs such as orientation, the first-year program, graduation, and many others are run by the OISE.

students.wustl.edu/office-of-international-student-engagement/ newstudents.wustl.edu/international

STUDENT TECHNOLOGY SERVICES (STS)

STS supports WashU residential students in addressing their technology needs. Services include hardware and software troubleshooting, support for the on-campus network (both Wi-Fi and Ethernet), printing/3D printing, and residential computer labs, among others. Student Technology Coordinators (STCs) serve within the residential communities as the first point of contact for tech-related questions.

sts.wustl.edu

LAPTOP REQUIREMENTS

WashU has general minimum requirements for laptops that should meet the needs of most incoming students. Some WashU schools recommend a higher level of computing power than the minimum because of specific software programs required by that school.

techden.wustl.edu/selecting-a-laptop

PRINTING ON CAMPUS

Students can print from their personal laptops to locations across campus, including in each residential community and many academic buildings. Free 3D print services are also available at STS.

TRANSPORTATION OPTIONS

While first-year students are not eligible to have cars on campus, there are many options to help you get around campus and St. Louis. WashU Rides is a commuter platform designed to connect you with fellow students for carpooling, whether you’re heading to the airport or traveling during breaks. In addition, WashU provides shuttles that serve the campus and nearby areas, including popular shopping and dining spots. Students can track shuttles, including real-time arrivals, and receive customized notifications with the Tripshot app or join the Transportation alert email list for non-urgent shuttle information. If you’re considering biking on campus, take advantage of our free bike registration and ensure your bike’s safety with a U-lock. For broader transportation options, sign up for the U-Pass, providing access to Metro buses and trains in the St. Louis area, with convenient stops on and around campus. U-Pass makes airport transfers hassle-free. While first-year students may not have cars on campus, CarShare offers hourly rentals for those aged 18 and above. For a comprehensive guide and additional transportation options, visit the Parking & Transportation website.

parking.wustl.edu

YOU ARRIVE CHECKLIST

ON CAMPUS

• Complete Bear Beginnings: Get Your Bearings online orientation.

• Check your housing assignment and register for a move-in timeslot.

• Register your bike.

• Sign the waiver.

• Complete your Sexual Assault Prevention for Undergraduates course.

• Pack for move-in day!

MANAGING COLLEGE FINANCES

STUDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES

Student Financial Services (SFS) takes a personal approach. Each student is assigned a financial aid counselor who will be with you and your family from the moment you exchange hellos to graduation. Before you arrive on campus, we encourage you to check out the SFS website for information on how to view and pay your bill, your payment options, and preparation for on-campus employment. Your SFS counselor is here to provide information and resource assistance.

financialaid.wustl.edu

STUDENT ACCOUNTING

Student Accounting generates billing information, receives payments, and maintains your student account. They are here to help you understand your invoice and payment options, disburse refunds, and produce your 1098-T forms.

ACCESS YOUR BILLING INFORMATION

Your first billing statement will be issued electronically in early July. Log in to WebSTAC, select Billing & Bear Bucks and then Pay/View My Bill to access your billing statement.

Monthly billing statements are typically published on the first business day of the month. Students can view current transaction activity at any time on WebSTAC by selecting Account Inquiry under Billing & Bear Bucks.

If you would like your parents or family members to receive your monthly billing statement, you can invite them by selecting Pay/View My Bill under Billing & Bear Bucks and then clicking on your name in the top left corner and then on Send a payer invitation. Your family member will receive an email with the user ID you created and a link to the online billing portal. All other information in WebSTAC will remain private.

financialservices.wustl.edu

BANKING OPTIONS

While it may be easier to maintain a relationship with the bank you use at home, some students find that it is convenient to have an account with a local bank. ATMs are located on campus at various locations. Check out newstudents.wustl.edu/banking for a list of those locations.

BEFORE YOU ARRIVE CHECKLIST

MANAGING COLLEGE FINANCES

JULY

• Check your fall semester bill.

GETTING INVOLVED

Your first priority at WashU will be academics, but how you choose to spend your time outside the classroom — whether that is participating in a student group, engaging in undergraduate research, or working on campus — is also important. Cocurricular involvement is a great way to make peer connections and friendships, build skills that complement your classroom learning, and explore interests beyond the classroom. We encourage you to get involved in at least one cocurricular opportunity.

ARTS ON CAMPUS

WashU enjoys a vibrant array of public arts offerings available to community and campus audiences alike. Opportunities range from world-class professional performances and exhibitions to concerts, plays, art shows, and writing workshops that give students a chance to hone their talents.

arts.wustl.edu

ATHLETICS AND RECREATION

The WashU Department of Athletics competes in Division III of the NCAA with 24 NCAA team championships, 262 Conference Titles, and 218 Academic All-Americans. Show your spirit and cheer on the WashU Bears!

WashUbears.com

Intramural (IM) and club sports are a fun, engaging way to find a sense of belonging on campus as well as practice healthy excellence. IM sports offer a recreational opportunity for students wanting to participate in a wide variety of sports or activities once a week. They will be competing against other student teams formed around the university. Club sports are a competitive opportunity for students wanting to participate in a more demanding student-run organization. This experience may also have a greater time and financial commitment than IM sports, as most clubs will have an opportunity to compete against other universities’ club teams.

rec.wustl.edu

CAMPUS LIFE

Campus Life empowers students to discover and define themselves and their communities through advising, programs, and resources. Campus Life supports leadership development, student group involvement, student engagement, and sorority and fraternity life.

campuslife.wustl.edu

CENTER FOR CAREER ENGAGEMENT

Career education is an important part of your four-year experience. During your time at WashU, the Center for Career Engagement will help you discover future possibilities, connect with employers and alumni, and explore meaningful professional experiences. Join a Career Community (or more than one) to connect with career coaches, alumni, employers, and peers, as well as a way to access curated content, newsletters, and signature career events. Set up your Handshake account to find Center for Career Engagement workshops, career fairs, internship opportunities, and jobs (including on-campus jobs). Get started with your Career Community or stop by their main office in the Danforth University Center to learn more about their resources and start your journey.

students.wustl.edu/center-career-engagement

CIVIC & COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

Active civic and community engagement is central to WashU’s student culture and vital to a WashU education. The university offers many opportunities, including St. Louis neighborhood immersions, civic learning, dialogue and leadership programs, community-engaged courses, voter engagement, civically focused student groups, and grant funds for St. Louis impact efforts, among others. We encourage you to meaningfully engage with the St. Louis community and pressing civic issues throughout your time at WashU. Just two of the many options you might consider on your journey to engaged citizenship include the following:

The Gephardt Institute for Civic and Community Engagement is a great place for you to get involved in the community and learn critical civic skills to translate passions into impact.

gephardtinstitute.wustl.edu

WashU Votes is a student organization that promotes voter engagement and education for undergraduates at WashU. By joining WashU Votes, students have the opportunity to expand civic engagement on campus while becoming more educated about issues facing our local, state, and federal communities.

washuvotes.wustl.edu

DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION

The Center for Diversity and Inclusion (CDI) fosters welcoming spaces for all WashU students, with a focus on those from underserved and minoritized communities, to build a sense of belonging, engage in transformative dialogue, and develop skills to navigate our intricate global community. As an integral part of the university’s mission, the CDI drives advocacy, education, identity development, and social justice efforts to empower students as leaders. The Center includes the following programs: Cross-Cultural Connections (CCxN), Dialogue Across Difference (DxD), Office for International Student Engagement (OISE), Office for Religious, Spiritual, and Ethical Life (ORSEL), and Spectrum Office.

cdi.wustl.edu

TAYLOR FAMILY CENTER FOR STUDENT SUCCESS

The Taylor Family Center for Student Success provides first-generation (first in their family to attend college) and limited-income (defined as Pell-eligible) college students with comprehensive programming, personalized mentorship, resources, and support that bridge the gap between aspiration and achievement through academic excellence, accessibility, leadership development, self-efficacy, and social impact.

The Taylor Family Center for Student Success includes the following programs: Kessler Scholars, Student Success Fund, Taylor STARS, and TRIO Student Support Services.

studentsuccess.wustl.edu

ENTREPRENEURSHIP

The Skandalaris Center for Interdisciplinary Innovation and Entrepreneurship is the hub of creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurship at WashU. Their initiatives serve students, faculty, staff, and alumni from all levels and disciplines — because everyone can be entrepreneurial. The Skandalaris Center provides programming where anyone can explore their creative and entrepreneurial interests, develop an entrepreneurial mindset, and go from idea to launch.

skandalaris.wustl.edu

The Student Enterprise Program (StEP), an initiative of the Skandalaris Center, provides students the opportunity to own and operate their own businesses while serving the campus community with unique resources. Students can buy into an existing business or start a new one.

step.wustl.edu

STUDENT GOVERNMENT

Student Union is WashU’s governing undergraduate student body. Its primary mission is to advocate for students, allocate funding for student groups, and organize events for all students.

Congress of the South 40 (CS40) is the representative and programming body for the residential communities. It’s a great way to meet people in your community and learn about leadership.

cs40.wustl.edu

STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS

WashU hosts more than 450 student organizations. At the Activities Fair, which is held at the beginning of each semester, you can learn more about student groups that align with your interests and goals.

wugo.wustl.edu

WASHU ARMY RESERVE OFFICERS’ TRAINING CORPS (ROTC)

WashU Army ROTC is an elective curriculum taken alongside required college classes, preparing students with the tools, training, and experiences that will help them succeed in any competitive environment. Along with offering great leadership training and a traditional undergraduate experience, participating in Army ROTC can fund students’ college tuition. Graduates become commissioned officers in the U.S. Army. Students can try Army ROTC without commitment until they contract, which is normally during the junior year.

rotc.wustl.edu

BEFORE YOU ARRIVE CHECKLIST

JUNE

• Activate your WUSTL Key.

• Enroll in Duo two-factor authentication.

• Activate your WashU email account.

• Review and edit your WebSTAC user profile.

• Take any necessary online placement and diagnostic exams.

• Connect with Disability Resources if you require accommodations due to an identified disability or have questions about specific disability-related concerns.

• Learn about the medical, mental health, and health promotion resources available at WashU.

• Learn about how to transfer mental health care to a St. Louis provider.

• Complete Bear Beginnings: Get Your Bearings online orientation.

JULY

• Apply for your WashU ID card.

• Register for classes during your assigned registration time.

• Complete the Canvas course on subjects: Student Conduct Code, Academic Integrity, and Hazing policies.

• Complete your Habif Health and Wellness Center requirements.

• Complete the Year One College Behavior Profile.

• Transfer your prescriptions to the Habif Health and Wellness Center.

• Contact Habif if you will require a referral for ongoing medical specialist care.

• Contact the Center for Counseling and Psychological Services if you will require a referral for mental health care.

• Check your fall semester bill.

• Check your housing assignment and register for a move-in timeslot.

• Register your bike.

• Sign the waiver.

AUGUST

• Confirm that AP, IB, and transfer credits were sent to the university.

• Be sure you have completed all health and well-being requirements.

• Complete your Sexual Assault Prevention for Undergraduates course.

• Claim your profile on Handshake.

• Pack for move-in day!

IMPORTANT CONTACTS

Dining Services diningservices.wustl.edu • 314-935-7098

Center for Counseling and Psychological Services students.wustl.edu/counseling-psychological-services • 314-935-6695

Habif Health and Wellness Center habif.wustl.edu • 314-935-6666

Office for International Student Engagement students.wustl.edu/office-of-international-student-engagement • 314-935-9612

Office for International Students and Scholars students.wustl.edu/international-students-scholars • 314-935-5910

Residential Life (ResLife) reslife.wustl.edu • 314-935-5050

Student Financial Services financialservices.wustl.edu • 314-935-5900

Student Transitions & Family Programs newstudents.wustl.edu • transitions.wustl.edu • families.wustl.edu • 314-935-5040

University Registrar registrar.wustl.edu • 314-935-5959

This book was created by Student Transitions & Family Programs

MSC 1136-332-LL

One Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO 63130-4899 314-935-5040