CONGRATULATIONS!
You have survived the college search and selection process and have supported your student to this monumental milestone! You should be proud of yourself and your student. This is an exciting time, as your student moves into the next phase of their growth and development at Siena Heights University; an event that you have all thought about and planned for many years.
This first year of college is one of the greatest transitions that a person can make. You may experience practically every emotion known to humans; happiness, sadness, excitement, anxiety, fear and calm. This first year is full of ups and downs, as your students take a huge step into adulthood and you, as parents take a step back. The new roles for everyone may feel awkward at first, which is normal as you discover this new transition. As your student experiences new freedoms, responsibilities and pressures it will be normal to feel stressed.
One piece of advice as you help your college student work through relationships. If they come to you about a particular concern they have with another person, don't try to solve it for them. Ask them three questions:
1) Have you talked to the person?
2) In person (not text, email, chat)?
3) About the situation?
If they haven't done these three things, encourage them to do so. You will be happy to have helped them to solve the problem and they will be happy that you have allowed them to do it on their own with your guidance and support.
We hope this webpage will serve as a resource to help you as you help your student learn to navigate SHU.
You have survived the college search and selection process and have supported your student to this monumental milestone! You should be proud of yourself and your student. This is an exciting time, as your student moves into the next phase of their growth and development at Siena Heights University; an event that you have all thought about and planned for many years.
This first year of college is one of the greatest transitions that a person can make. You may experience practically every emotion known to humans; happiness, sadness, excitement, anxiety, fear and calm. This first year is full of ups and downs, as your students take a huge step into adulthood and you, as parents take a step back. The new roles for everyone may feel awkward at first, which is normal as you discover this new transition. As your student experiences new freedoms, responsibilities and pressures it will be normal to feel stressed.
One piece of advice as you help your college student work through relationships. If they come to you about a particular concern they have with another person, don't try to solve it for them. Ask them three questions:
1) Have you talked to the person?
2) In person (not text, email, chat)?
3) About the situation?
If they haven't done these three things, encourage them to do so. You will be happy to have helped them to solve the problem and they will be happy that you have allowed them to do it on their own with your guidance and support.
We hope this webpage will serve as a resource to help you as you help your student learn to navigate SHU.
ACADEMICS
Q: My student did well in high school. Why are they struggling in college?
A: Even students who have done exceptionally well in high school find college work challenging. Students spend less time in class and more time in preparation. College professors demand much more, and course material is covered at a faster pace. Good note-taking and study habits are essential.
Q: What are the biggest academic adjustments during the freshman year?
A: Learning to discipline oneself and manage time are critical adjustments. College classes may meet only every other day, or once a week, but the workload does not diminish. It is suggested that the student spend two hours of studying for every one hour in class, balanced with study breaks. Students should know to seek help for academic difficulties.
Q: How can a student get help if they're struggling with academics or a certain class?
If a student is struggling in a class, they should schedule an office meeting with the professor. They can discuss challenges, note-taking and test-preparation methods, and tutoring possibilities. The professor can help the student decide if they should continue or drop the class. If the student continues, he/she should attend every class session. If the student drops the class, he/she must complete a form at the Registrars Office by the drop deadline to receive a grade of "W."
The Writing Center is also available to help students with their writing needs, along with the Math Cave for those students needing a little extra help with their math courses. Both are staffed by students that have done exceptionally well in their writing and math courses. If a student needs individual tutoring for other courses, they can sign up in the library for an individual tutor that has been recommended by faculty of that discipline.
Be sure your student meets with their academic advisor before making any changes to their class schedule.
Q: Why don't parents receive a copy of mid-term and final grades?
A: In maintaining student records, SHU complies with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) of 1974, which prohibits the college from releasing information (including grades) about a student without the student's written permission. See FERPA Privacy Laws for more information.
Q: What services are available for career planning?
A: Encourage your student to visit the Career Center their freshman year and each year thereafter. The Center will discuss career options, self-assessment, values, skills, interests, goals and job-seeking strategies. Job search, interview, and résumé workshops are held throughout the school year. Additionally, a job/internship/graduate school fairs are held annually and students are encouraged to attend.
Q: What does SHU offer for students with learning disabilities?
A: SHU offers students with diagnosed learning disabilities access to accommodations and support that will improve their college experience. Students with learning disabilities may be seen by our Learning Specialist who help determine the appropriate resources needed. See Office for Students with Disabilities for more information.
A: Even students who have done exceptionally well in high school find college work challenging. Students spend less time in class and more time in preparation. College professors demand much more, and course material is covered at a faster pace. Good note-taking and study habits are essential.
Q: What are the biggest academic adjustments during the freshman year?
A: Learning to discipline oneself and manage time are critical adjustments. College classes may meet only every other day, or once a week, but the workload does not diminish. It is suggested that the student spend two hours of studying for every one hour in class, balanced with study breaks. Students should know to seek help for academic difficulties.
Q: How can a student get help if they're struggling with academics or a certain class?
If a student is struggling in a class, they should schedule an office meeting with the professor. They can discuss challenges, note-taking and test-preparation methods, and tutoring possibilities. The professor can help the student decide if they should continue or drop the class. If the student continues, he/she should attend every class session. If the student drops the class, he/she must complete a form at the Registrars Office by the drop deadline to receive a grade of "W."
The Writing Center is also available to help students with their writing needs, along with the Math Cave for those students needing a little extra help with their math courses. Both are staffed by students that have done exceptionally well in their writing and math courses. If a student needs individual tutoring for other courses, they can sign up in the library for an individual tutor that has been recommended by faculty of that discipline.
Be sure your student meets with their academic advisor before making any changes to their class schedule.
Q: Why don't parents receive a copy of mid-term and final grades?
A: In maintaining student records, SHU complies with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) of 1974, which prohibits the college from releasing information (including grades) about a student without the student's written permission. See FERPA Privacy Laws for more information.
Q: What services are available for career planning?
A: Encourage your student to visit the Career Center their freshman year and each year thereafter. The Center will discuss career options, self-assessment, values, skills, interests, goals and job-seeking strategies. Job search, interview, and résumé workshops are held throughout the school year. Additionally, a job/internship/graduate school fairs are held annually and students are encouraged to attend.
Q: What does SHU offer for students with learning disabilities?
A: SHU offers students with diagnosed learning disabilities access to accommodations and support that will improve their college experience. Students with learning disabilities may be seen by our Learning Specialist who help determine the appropriate resources needed. See Office for Students with Disabilities for more information.
STUDENT LIFE
Q: How can my student apply for campus housing?
A: Students can fill out the Request for Housing Form and send in a $100 deposit to:
Office of Residence Life
Siena Heights University
1247 E. Siena Heights Dr.
Adrian, MI 49221
Questions? Call (517) 264-7170
*Students may not live in Campus Village during their first year.
Q: What are the biggest adjustments during the first year?
A: Homesickness and leaving the family behind are challenges during the first year. Students indicate that it helps if family members keep in close contact by phone, e-mail, sending care packages and letters. Other items that make them smile are quarters for the laundry, coupons, cookies and things that remind them of home. Another area of adjustment is having a roommate and all aspects of sharing the space--especially if student is accustomed to having his/her own room. Finally, going home again can be challenging because everyone has changed--the student, the family, friends, as well as the community.
Q: What is there for my student to do on campus?
A: There are many organizations at SHU that reflect a wide variety of interests; from service organizations to cultural groups, there is something for everyone. If your student is a freshman, there are many programs provided just for him/her. Check out the First Year Calendar on our home page!
Q: Can my student change room assignments?
A: Residents are encouraged to develop and exercise interpersonal skills to promote successful and enjoyable living experiences. Resident Assistants (RAs) engage with students about their living situations during the first few weeks of school and continue if support is needed. For additional support, professionals from Residence Life and the Center for Conflict Resolution and Restorative Justice are available to assist in resolving disputes between roommates or neighbors. Room changes are possible, however, exploring other options such as mediation have been successful in facilitating more compatible living situations and to the extent that alternative room space is available.
Q: What kind of furniture is provided in each room?
A: Rooms are furnished with a bed, dresser, study desk and chair, closet area for clothing, cable ready outlet, and window coverings. It is suggested that residents provide their blankets, pillows, linens, towels, desk lamps, and other personal effects. Residence hall furniture must remain in the student’s room at all times. Residents may bring personal furnishings such as chairs, bookcases, and futons.
Q: Where can my student do his/her laundry?
A: A centralized laundry room is located on the Ground Floor of Ledwidge Hall. The laundry room offers 10 washers and 10 dryers for use at a cost of $0.75 per wash and $0.75 per dry cycle. These are commercial Maytag machines.
Q: Can students stay in their rooms during breaks?
A: The residence halls will remain open throughout the academic year with the exception of Christmas Holiday Break (Fall Semester) and Spring Break (Winter Semester). During these two break periods, the only residents permitted to stay on campus are in season athletes, student teachers, Public Safety and Residence Life staff scheduled to work. All other residents must turn their room keys into the Office of Residence Life during these breaks or be charged a lock change fee.
Q: What items are NOT allowed in student rooms?
A: Items not allowed in student rooms include: appliances with exposed heating elements including George Foreman grills, hot plates, toasters, and toaster ovens; candles with or without a wick, incense, and other objects with an open flame; electric blankets and portable heaters; flammable liquids and any highly combustible items; lightweight extension cords and multi-plug adapters; quartz halogen lamps.
Q: What do students do when they get sick?
A: Students may visit the Health Clinic for routine medical care, first aid, and/or consultation. The clinic is located in Ledwidge Hall, room 180. Students may contact the Campus Nurse by calling 264-7190. The Campus Nurse will make appointments with local physicians or serve as a contact for a student’s family physician, if requested. If the nurse is not available, RA’s have access to first aid supplies and are certified in standard First Aid and CPR.
If there is a hospitalization or extended illness such as mono, students are encouraged to contact their professors and academic advisor. With permission, the Dean for Students will send a faculty notification, but it is the student’s responsibility to make arrangements with each professor regarding any missed assignments, projects and tests. It is at the professor's discretion to consider this an excused or unexcused absence.
A: Students can fill out the Request for Housing Form and send in a $100 deposit to:
Office of Residence Life
Siena Heights University
1247 E. Siena Heights Dr.
Adrian, MI 49221
Questions? Call (517) 264-7170
*Students may not live in Campus Village during their first year.
Q: What are the biggest adjustments during the first year?
A: Homesickness and leaving the family behind are challenges during the first year. Students indicate that it helps if family members keep in close contact by phone, e-mail, sending care packages and letters. Other items that make them smile are quarters for the laundry, coupons, cookies and things that remind them of home. Another area of adjustment is having a roommate and all aspects of sharing the space--especially if student is accustomed to having his/her own room. Finally, going home again can be challenging because everyone has changed--the student, the family, friends, as well as the community.
Q: What is there for my student to do on campus?
A: There are many organizations at SHU that reflect a wide variety of interests; from service organizations to cultural groups, there is something for everyone. If your student is a freshman, there are many programs provided just for him/her. Check out the First Year Calendar on our home page!
Q: Can my student change room assignments?
A: Residents are encouraged to develop and exercise interpersonal skills to promote successful and enjoyable living experiences. Resident Assistants (RAs) engage with students about their living situations during the first few weeks of school and continue if support is needed. For additional support, professionals from Residence Life and the Center for Conflict Resolution and Restorative Justice are available to assist in resolving disputes between roommates or neighbors. Room changes are possible, however, exploring other options such as mediation have been successful in facilitating more compatible living situations and to the extent that alternative room space is available.
Q: What kind of furniture is provided in each room?
A: Rooms are furnished with a bed, dresser, study desk and chair, closet area for clothing, cable ready outlet, and window coverings. It is suggested that residents provide their blankets, pillows, linens, towels, desk lamps, and other personal effects. Residence hall furniture must remain in the student’s room at all times. Residents may bring personal furnishings such as chairs, bookcases, and futons.
Q: Where can my student do his/her laundry?
A: A centralized laundry room is located on the Ground Floor of Ledwidge Hall. The laundry room offers 10 washers and 10 dryers for use at a cost of $0.75 per wash and $0.75 per dry cycle. These are commercial Maytag machines.
Q: Can students stay in their rooms during breaks?
A: The residence halls will remain open throughout the academic year with the exception of Christmas Holiday Break (Fall Semester) and Spring Break (Winter Semester). During these two break periods, the only residents permitted to stay on campus are in season athletes, student teachers, Public Safety and Residence Life staff scheduled to work. All other residents must turn their room keys into the Office of Residence Life during these breaks or be charged a lock change fee.
Q: What items are NOT allowed in student rooms?
A: Items not allowed in student rooms include: appliances with exposed heating elements including George Foreman grills, hot plates, toasters, and toaster ovens; candles with or without a wick, incense, and other objects with an open flame; electric blankets and portable heaters; flammable liquids and any highly combustible items; lightweight extension cords and multi-plug adapters; quartz halogen lamps.
Q: What do students do when they get sick?
A: Students may visit the Health Clinic for routine medical care, first aid, and/or consultation. The clinic is located in Ledwidge Hall, room 180. Students may contact the Campus Nurse by calling 264-7190. The Campus Nurse will make appointments with local physicians or serve as a contact for a student’s family physician, if requested. If the nurse is not available, RA’s have access to first aid supplies and are certified in standard First Aid and CPR.
If there is a hospitalization or extended illness such as mono, students are encouraged to contact their professors and academic advisor. With permission, the Dean for Students will send a faculty notification, but it is the student’s responsibility to make arrangements with each professor regarding any missed assignments, projects and tests. It is at the professor's discretion to consider this an excused or unexcused absence.
SPIRITUAL
Q: What spiritual groups are available for students?
A: Campus Ministry has several student groups that meet regularly in different capacities. They hold many events on campus for students.
A: Campus Ministry has several student groups that meet regularly in different capacities. They hold many events on campus for students.
GENERAL
Q: What is the mailing address for students?
A: Students love to receive packages! Students are given a package notification slip if they have a package waiting for them. Mailing addresses for residential students is as follows:
Student’s Name
Student Mail
Siena Heights University
1247 E. Siena Heights Drive
Adrian, Michigan 49221
A: Students love to receive packages! Students are given a package notification slip if they have a package waiting for them. Mailing addresses for residential students is as follows:
Student’s Name
Student Mail
Siena Heights University
1247 E. Siena Heights Drive
Adrian, Michigan 49221
