2008–2009

Calendar for
Parents & Families
Richmond & VCU at a glance
Richmond has been the state capital since 1779. Now, with a population in
the metropolitan area of 1.2 million, the Richmond region offers a wealth of
opportunities for recreation, entertainment and business. The James River runs
through the heart of Richmond, tying together many of the area’s attractions in
the James River Park System: the Pony Pasture Rapids, the Canal Walk and
Belle Isle. Along with its natural beauty the Richmond area has a number of
professional sports teams and theater companies, along with a rich selection
of museums, art galleries and historical sites.
Virginia Commonwealth University, in downtown Richmond, contributes to the
lively and diverse culture of the region. Collegiate athletics and performances
by students studying music, dance and theater in VCU’s School of the Arts play
a part in the city’s cultural life. VCU’s School of Medicine is one of the largest
medical schools in the United States. With students enrolled from approximately
100 countries, VCU is widely recognized for its diverse student body.
Did you know...
◽ Metro Richmond is home to 11 institutions of higher learning.
◽ VCU is now the state’s largest four-year institution of higher learning.
◽W
 ith almost 2 million print volumes, VCU has one of the largest
research libraries in Virginia.
◽ Information-technology and major semiconductor-manufacturing firms
have been attracted to Richmond in the past seven to 10 years.
◽ The Richmond area is headquarters to Fortune 500 companies
including Altria/Philip Morris, CarMax, Circuit City Stores, Genworth
Financial and MeadWestvaco; other major Richmond-area firms
include Anthem, Markel and LandAmerica Financial Group.
◽F
 orbes recently ranked the Richmond area as one of the best places
in the country for business and careers.
 Welcome to VCU! The transition to college life is as much a change
      for parents and families, as it is for your students.

Dear New VCU Parents and Families,

Dear Parents,

On behalf of the faculty and staff Welcome to VCU’s University College and the Freshman
of Virginia Commonwealth University, Parent Association. You are now part of the Ram Family
I am pleased to welcome you and your and we welcome you to VCU. Whether this is the first
student to our campus. As the parent of an child you have launched into the world of higher education
entering freshman or transfer student, this or the last, the VCU Freshman Parent Association is a
calendar has been designed for you. valuable resource.

This is an exciting time for families and students as you both enter a new phase
of life. For many students, this will be the first extended time away from home,
and they will take important first steps toward a more independent lifestyle. Yet
it is important that parents continue their support and maintain contact with
their students.
We want every student’s educational experiences here, both in and out of the
classroom, to be enriching and productive so that they will be prepared for the
challenges ahead in life.
This calendar provides you with many of the important dates in academic and
social life at VCU. The latter half provides basic information about the university
and addresses many of the questions asked by parents. If you have additional
questions or concerns during the year, we encourage you to contact the
departments within the Division of Student Affairs & Enrollment Services and
the University College.
Entering into our third full year, the Freshman Parent
Association can help you find the answers to a myriad
of questions about academic advising, student accounts,
financial aid, student housing, campus security, off-
campus housing, health services, student activities and much more. Please take
a moment and register at www.vcu.edu/uc/parents. By joining the Freshman
Parent Association, you will receive timely information on programs and services
for you and your freshman student. At major events throughout the academic
year there will be opportunities to network with other Freshman Parents.
Most of all, put this calendar someplace where you will see it frequently and
can benefit from its valuable information. Month by month, it will tell you what
your son or daughter may be experiencing in this year of transition. You’ll also
know when to expect them home at the end of the semester so you can stock
the refrigerator!

We also look forward to seeing you in October at the VCU Fall Fest. Good luck and again welcome. VCU is not only the biggest school in Virginia,
we believe it’s the best. We’re glad you’re here.
Sincerely,
Annie Magnant
Dr. Henry G. Rhone Chair of Freshman Parent Association
Vice Provost for Student Affairs
& Enrollment Services
The College Adjustment
University life is a continual process of change, growth and
decision-making for students. A college student is faced with
many issues and opportunities that may challenge present
values or beliefs. As your student enters this stage, you
as parents and family members may find the adjustment
challenging and difficult.
Students often need a greater degree of autonomy, yet at the
same time expect just as much guidance and support from
you as before. It may be difficult to accept the fact that you are
not hearing as much as you’d like about your son or daughter’s
progress at VCU. To narrow the information gap, some parents
and family members impose qualifications on support: “Sure
we can send you some money if you tell us more about your
classes and the organization you just joined.” Such qualifications,
however, rarely have the desired effect and may result in a lack
of information from your son or daughter.
Instead of imposing qualifications, now is the time to sharpen your
listening skills and ask questions to clarify and enhance what you
already know. You will no longer find yourself being as involved in
the day-to-day affairs of your student; however, you will learn to
Adapted from Mullendore, R.H. and Hatch, C. (2000). Helping your first-year college student succeed: A guide for parents. Columbia, SC: OCM and Texas A & M University. (2000).
appreciate being asked for advice on larger personal decisions. Your
moral support, active listening and willingness to share in important
decisions are essential to your student’s progress. It is important to
demonstrate your openness to changes regardless of whether you
agree with those changes.
The college years and accompanying experiences can be
valuable for the entire family. Maintaining open channels of
communication as your son or daughter develops into a mature,
self-reliant adult can make these years and experiences even
more enjoyable and rewarding.
Just Like Clockwork
The Rhythm of College Life
Certain times in the academic year tend to be universally
challenging to students. Parents who understand the ups
and downs of the first college year are better able to help
their students negotiate the challenges of transitions. Over
the coming pages, we have highlighted some of the things
you may encounter.
Change is challenging.
 August 2008
SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY
1 2

Beginnings...
Over the next year, your student will
have many exciting and challenging
experiences. As students begin their
university careers, many are focused
on adjusting to a new environment and 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
developing new relationships.
What families can do…
◽ Discuss family and student
expectations including your student’s
personal and academic goals.
◽ Communicate confidence in your
student’s decision to attend VCU.
◽ Reassure them that adjustment 10 11 12 13 14 15 16
to a new setting is a normal—and
sometimes difficult—process.
◽ Let your student know they don’t have Move-In weekend
to protect you from their problems.
◽ Encourage on-campus students to get Welcome Week
to know their RAs. Orientation/Registration for new students
◽ Be informed about campus resources
for crises and difficult times. 17 18 19 20 21 22 23
◽  Encourage attendance at Welcome
Week events. Freshman Fall classes begin
◽  Look for RamFam Newsletter for Convocation
freshmen parents. Move-In weekend
Welcome Week
Featured office Add/Drop & late registration
University College
www.vcu.edu/uc
24 25 26 27 28 29 30
31

Add/Drop & late registration

USC&A Student events Student Accounting DATES

8/19 Welcome Week Block Party (Monroe Park), 4 p.m. – 7 p.m. 8/21 Payment due date for the fall 2008 semester for all
8/20 Welcome Week All Hall Basketball advance registered students
8/21 Salsa on the Plaza (Commons Plaza), 4 p.m. 8/27 Last day to drop classes and receive a 100% reduction of tuition
8/22 Student Organization and Volunteer Opportunities and fees for the fall 2008 semester
(SOVO) Fair (Siegel Center), 3 p.m. – 7 p.m.
8/22 First RAM Friday (Student Commons), 7 p.m. – 1 a.m.
8/23 Back to School Jam, TBA
 September 2008
SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY
1 2 3 4 5 6

Getting started... University Closed

Incoming multicultural students have an opportunity to meet multicultural faculty and
Classes have started and you may find upper-class students. Plenty of information about the Office of Multicultural Student
your student is Affairs and other university services and organizations is available at events this week.
◽ more comfortable with their living Labor Day Mosaic Week
situation or feels more homesickness
and insecurity.
7 8 9 10 11 12 13
◽ adjusting to living with roommates.
◽ adapting to a more demanding, faster
paced academic environment.
◽ dealing with time management issues.
◽ nervous about upcoming papers,
projects and first exams.
What families can do…
◽ Ask them about their favorite class 14 15 16 17 18 19 20
or professor.
◽ Encourage them to take advantage Hispanic Heritage
of their professors’ office hours. Month (Sept.
15–Oct 15)
◽ Encourage time management planning,
including time for relaxation. Fall Block Week
◽ Encourage involvement in campus Constitution Day
organizations or part-time on-campus
job for increased social support. 21 22 23 24 25 26 27
◽ Get information gently—“Tell me
about your friends” can be a good
conversation starter.
◽ Resist the urge to offer solutions! Build
good problem-solving skills.
◽ Make plans to attend Fall Fest. Autumn begins
Featured office
Residential Life & Housing 28 29 30
www.housing.vcu.edu

USC&A Student events Student Accounting DATES

9/3 Office of Student Organizations Open House (Lower Level
of the Commons), 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
9/6 Student Organization Leadership Conference
(Student Commons), 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
9/7 Jazz on the Green (MCV Campus Green), 2 p.m. – 4 p.m.
9/11–14 College Panhellenic Council Sorority Recruitment
9/20 Fall Block Step Show (Siegel Center), 6 p.m.
9/27 VCU Into the Streets Service Plunge
(Student Commons), 9 a.m.
9/3 Last day to withdraw from classes and receive an 80% reduction of tuition
and the university fee for the fall 2008 semester
9/10 Last day to withdraw from classes and receive a 60% reduction of tuition
and the university fee for the fall 2008 semester
917 Last day to withdraw from classes and receive a 40% reduction of tuition
and the university fee for the fall 2008 semester
9/23 Deadline to enroll in the Installment Payment Plan for the fall 2008 semester
Student Health DATES
September is National Recovery Month
 October 2008
SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY
1 2 3 4

Midterms are here

Midterms may cause anxiety and some
late night cramming. Students discover
which study habits work and which do
not. Social pressures related to drinking,
dating and sexual activity may confront 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
your student. Exam results may bring Fall Career Fair
increased confidence or feelings of 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
failure and self-doubt. Students explore
the balance of school demands with
maintaining a satisfying social life.
What families can do…
◽ Send a care package. Food items and
spare change are always appreciated! 12 13 14 15 16 17 18
◽ Listen to your student’s successes and
frustrations as s/he continues to adjust.
◽ Encourage your student’s interest in
campus by reading the Commonwealth
Times online.
◽ Encourage your student to contact his/ Reading Days—No Classes
her academic advisor to evaluate his/her
academic performance. 19 20 21 22 23 24 25
◽ Express confidence in personal choices
and adherence to personal values.
◽ Don’t lose the big picture. A failing
experience is not failing out. Annual Friends of the Library Book Sale (Cabell Library) www.library.vcu.edu/development/fol/special_events.html
◽ Attend Fall Fest. Advising for spring
Featured office Fall Fest
University Counseling Services
www.students.vcu.edu/counseling 26 27 28 29 30 31
Last day to
Fall Fest Family withdraw with
Pic Nic a “W” pg. 7

Fall Fest

USC&A Student events Student Accounting DATES

10/24 RAMMadness Basketball Season Kick-Off 10/20 Second Installment Payment Plan due date for the fall 2008 semester
(Siegel Center), 7 p.m.
Student Health DATES
10/20–24 National Collegiate Alcohol Awareness Week
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month
 November 2008
SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY
1

Lots to do...
November is often a stressful month
for students socially, emotionally,
academically and physically.
◽ Students experience increased academic
demands with projects that are due. 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
◽ Students express concerns about grades.
◽ Procrastinators may feel overwhelmed.
Spring registration
◽ Conflicts with roommates or friends may
increase as stress increases.
◽ Stress may be alleviated by exercise,
spiritual practice and social support, or Daylight Savings Ends Election Day
exacerbated by drinking alcohol, poor
eating habits and sleep deprivation. 9 10 11 12 13 14 15
◽ Financial worries or concerns may emerge.
◽ The novelty and excitement from school’s
start may seem very distant.
◽ Stress and fatigue may increase illness.
What families can do…
◽ Provide encouragement and support.
◽ Help alleviate unrealistic self-expectations 16 17 18 19 20 21 22
and clarify parental expectations.
◽ Reflect on your own past, when you were
your student’s age. What did you need?
◽ Encourage students to ask for help.
Featured office
University Student Health Services
www.students.vcu.edu/health
23 24 25 26 27 28 29
30

Thanksgiving Break

USC&A Student events Student Accounting DATES

11/4 Election Night Watch Party 11/3 Advance Registration for spring semester begins
11/8 Challenge Discovery Leadership Trip, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. 11/12 Third Installment Payment Plan due date for the fall 2008 semester
11/20 Winter Lights Celebration (Student Commons and
Hunton Student Center), 7 p.m. – 8 p.m.
 December 2008
SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY
1 2 3 4 5 6

Stress & Vacation Last day of class

Final exams and projects can cause
more anxiety for first year students who
haven’t faced these challenges before.
Students may express concerns about:
7 8 9 10 11 12 13
◽ finishing strong amidst the stress.
◽ how winter break may impact newly
established peer relationships.
December
◽ how changes made will be accepted Commencement
by family and friends back home.
◽ how one’s first semester performance Final Exams
will be evaluated.
What families can do… 14 15 16 17 18 19 20
◽ Encourage students to dig in for the end.
◽ Encourage exercise and participation in
Stress Relief Week.
◽ Send a care package or an encouraging
card. And don’t be offended if your student
forgets to thank you! Final Exams
◽ Include students and their friends in family
holiday plans. 21 22 23 24 25 26 27
◽ Prepare to negotiate expectations around
your student’s return home when students’
burgeoning independence may conflict with Holiday intersession
family rules and expectations.
classes begin
Home sweet home. Thanks for sharing your
student with us this semester, we hope you
enjoy them over break! See you in 2009. Winter begins University Closed

28 29 30 31

University Closed

Student Accounting DATES

12/8 Fourth Installment Payment Plan due date for the fall 2008 semester

Student Health DATES

12/1–5  Stress Relief Week
 January 2009 SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY
1 2 3

More beginnings...
Winter break may influence how students
return to school. Students may:
◽ worry about motivation based on past University Closed
performance and academic confidence.
◽ question major and career choices based 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
on first semester experiences and grades.
◽ worry about maintaining fall semester
friendships while expanding their Holiday intersession
friendship circles. classes end
What families can do…
◽ Encourage your student to capitalize on University Closed Orientation/Registration for new students
a new semester while learning from fall
semester mistakes. 11 12 13 14 15 16 17
◽ Encourage new involvement in campus
activities and programs including
Homecoming.
◽ Encourage use of academic and student
affairs support services to hone
academic and social skills.
Add/drop and late registration
◽ Encourage your student to explore
possible majors through course 18 19 20 21 22 23 24
selection, volunteer experience
and internships.
University closed
Featured offices
University Student Commons & Activities
www.usca.vcu.edu Martin Luther King,
University Career Center Jr. Birthday
Add/Drop & late registration
www.students.vcu.edu/careers
University College 25 26 27 28 29 30 31
www.vcu.edu/uc
VCU Homecoming
Game

Homecoming

USC&A Student events Student Accounting DATES

1/14 Spring Student Organization and Volunteer Opportunities (SOVO)
Fair (Commonwealth Ballroom), 1 p.m. – 2 p.m.
1/24 Student Organization Leadership Conference
(Student Commons), 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
1/25 – Feb. 1  VCU Homecoming Celebration 2009
1/31 Chill & Grill
1/12 Payment due date for the spring 2009 semester for all
advance registered students
1/18 Last day to drop classes and receive a 100% reduction of
tuition and fees for the spring 2009 semester
1/25 Last day to withdraw from classes and receive an 80%
reduction of tuition and fees for the spring 2009 semester
 February 2009 SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY
1 2 3 4 5 6 7

No winter blues...
With the semester well underway now,
your student can expect: Black History Month
◽ Pressure to keep up with assignments. Homecoming
◽ Using time management skills to beat
procrastination. 8 9 10 11 12 13 14
◽ Balancing academic responsibilities with
extracurricular activities.
Spring Career Fair
◽ Relationships beginning and ending as
Valentine’s Day approaches. 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
◽ Dreary winter weather challenging even
the sunniest dispositions.
◽ Cold and flu season bringing aches
and pains. 15 16 17 18 19 20 21
◽ Spring break planning continuing in earnest.
What families can do…
◽ Surprise your student(s).
◽ Support balancing and approaching
tasks rather than avoiding them.
◽ Invite your student(s) to share stories
about their friends and acquaintances. 22 23 24 25 26 27 28
◽ Encourage exploration of Black History
Month programs.
◽ Discuss Spring Break plans. Support
good choices and values.
◽ Ask about summer plans.
Featured office
Office of Multicultural Student Affairs
www.omsa.vcu.edu

February is full of events celebrating Black History Month. There’s something

going on almost every day. For more information, check out the calendar at
www.omsa.vcu.edu.

Student Health DATES Student Accounting DATES

2/23–27  Healthy Relationships Week 2/1 Last day to withdraw from classes and receive a 60% reduction
of tuition and fees for the spring 2009 semester
2/8 Last day to withdraw from classes and receive a 40% reduction
of tuition and fees for the spring 2009 semester
2/9 Deadline to enroll in the Installment Payment Plan for the spring
2009 semester
 March 2009
SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY
1 2 3 4 5 6 7

Spring is coming...
Though midterms are around the corner,
this is also the point when many plans Women’s History
are being made. Your student may: Month
◽ be planning for the fall semester,
including thinking about classes and 8 9 10 11 12 13 14
financial aid.
◽ be considering new roommates.
◽ be finalizing Spring Break plans,
including vacations, Alternative Spring Daylight savings
Break, returning home or working. Spring Break
begins
◽ begin planning for the summer.
15 16 17 18 19 20 21
◽ be enjoying warmer weather and
addressing winter weight gain.
What families can do… Last day to withdraw
◽ Discuss next year’s living options. Listen a “W” pg. 7
to your student’s ideas and encourage
them to gather information about options.
◽ Encourage advice from academic advisors.
22 23 24 25 26 27 28
◽ Encourage balance and stress relief.
Featured office Summer
University College, Advising registration begins
www.vcu.edu/uc
Weekend with Habitat
Advising for fall semester

29 30 31

Fall registration
begins

Intercultural Festival Week

USC&A Student events Student Accounting DATES

3/2 Moving On, Moving Out, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. 3/5 Second Installment Payment Plan due date for the spring 2009 semester
3/17 Moving On, Moving Out, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
3/22–28 STRUT Fashion Week
3/24 & 25 Monroe Park Campus Grad Finale, 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.
3/28 STRUT Fashion Show (Siegel Center), 6 p.m.
 April 2009
SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY
1 2 3 4

Finals are coming...

This can be a taxing month with project
deadlines and class presentations, not
to mention other considerations. Intercultural Festival Week
◽ Spring fever may infect some students,
leading to more play and less work. 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
◽ Concerns about selecting a major and
choosing a career may linger. Intercultural Festival
◽ End of the semester social and
extracurricular activities are picking up.
What families can do… Intercultural Festival Week

◽ Encourage approaching the end of the 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

semester with hard work, optimism and
an attitude of doing one’s best.
◽ Promote outdoor physical activity.
◽ Attend the Intercultural Festival and
get a taste of VCU’s diversity.

Featured office
Recreational Sports
www.recsports.vcu.edu
19 20 21 22 23 24 25

26 27 28 29 30

Last day of classes Reading day

Final exams

USC&A Student events Student Accounting DATES

4/1 Moving On, Moving Out, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. 4/1 Third Installment Payment Plan due date for the spring 2009 semester
4/2 Off Campus Living Fair, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. 4/27 Fourth Installment Payment Plan due date for the spring 2009 semester
4/5 Intercultural Festival, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
4/16 Larry Brown Step Show (Landmark), 7 p.m. Student Health DATES
4/18 4th Annual VCU Relay for Life (Cary Street Field), 11 a.m. 4/20–24  Stress Relief Week
4/23 Leadership and Service Awards (Commonwealth Ballroom), 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month
4/24 Spring Ball sponsored by Activities Programming
Board (Richmond Convention Center)
 May 2009
SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY
1 2

Wrapping up...
In the midst of final exams, it’s also a
time to:
◽ evaluate the last two semesters: Final exams
personal and academic achievements;
friendships; opportunities gained and 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
lost; balance between academics, social
life and extracurricular activities; and
financial management.
◽ reconnect with old friends while
maintaining university friendships.
Final exams
◽ feel sadness over separation from friends
or romantic interests for the summer.
10 11 12 13 14 15 16
What families can do…
◽ Discuss summer living arrangements
and expectations. Commencement
◽ Assist in reviewing accomplishments,
challenges, growth points and
adjustments for next year.
◽ Encourage attendance at graduation
to capture the excitement and envision
17 18 19 20 21 22 23
the goal.

Featured office Summer Session

Records and Registration begins
www.vcu.edu/enroll

24 25 26 27 28 29 30
31 University Closed

Memorial Day
 June 2009
SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY
1 2 3 4 5 6

What to expect...
Some tips from the National Orientation
Directors Association about dealing with
the first year.*
Rule 1—Don’t ask if they are homesick. 7 8 9 10 11 12 13
Some homesickness is normal. Avoid
the power of association. Encourage
involvement on campus. Summer Session II
begins
Rule 2—Write, e-mail, text message or
call (even if they don’t write or call back)
New students, despite new found
independence, are still anxious to 14 15 16 17 18 19 20
maintain family ties and the security
those ties represent.
Rule 3—Ask questions (but not too many)
Convey your interest in your student’s
life. Use communication to strengthen
connection.
Rule 4—Expect change (but not too much) 21 22 23 24 25 26 27
You can’t stop change, you may not ever
understand it, but it is within your power
(and to your student’s advantage) to Summer Session III
accept change. Maturation takes time, begins
be patient.

28 29 30
 july 2009
SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY
1 2 3 4

What to expect... University Closed

Rule 5—Don’t worry (too much) about
emotional phone calls, e-mails or
text messages. VCU Day Independence Day
The first year has many hills and
valleys. You provide a real service 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
as a referral agent to resources on
campus, supporter for help-seeking,
sympathetic ear, and sometimes Summer Session IV
begins
punching bag. It’s a service that
may necessitate your call to some
supportive other, but works wonders
for a frustrated or overwhelmed
student. When in doubt, consult a 12 13 14 15 16 17 18
professional—University Counseling
Services, the Associate Vice Provost
for Student Affairs and Dean of
Students or New Student Programs.
Rule 6—Visit (but not too often)
Visits accompanied by meals out
and shopping sprees are often 19 20 21 22 23 24 25
greatly appreciated while spur of the
moment surprises can be dicey.
Summer Session V
begins

26 27 28 29 30 31
 August 2009
SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY
1

What to expect...
Rule 7—Do not tell your student that
these are “the best years of their lives.”
The first year of university life can
be full of indecision, insecurities,
2 3 4 5 6 7 8
disappointments and, most of all,
mistakes. These years are also
full of discovery, inspiration, good Summer
times and friendships. Accept and classes end
understand these highs and lows by
providing support and encouragement
consistently.
Rule 8—Trust them 9 10 11 12 13 14 15
Finding oneself is a difficult enough
process without feeling that the
people whose opinions matter
most are second-guessing your
own second-guessing.
Move-In weekend

16 17 18 19 20 21 22

Fall classes begin

Move-In weekend
Welcome Week

23 24 25 26 27 28 29
30 31
The College Adjustment

The Differences Between High School & College

HIGH SCHOOL COLLEGE

Teacher/Student Contact Contact closer and more frequent (five days a week). Faculty are available during office hours (posted hours each week) and
by appointment to address students’ concerns.

Competition/Grades Academic competition is not as strong; good grades often Academic competition is much stronger; minimal effort may produce
can be obtained with minimal effort. poor grades.

Status Students establish a personal status in academic and social Students can build their status as they wish; high school status can
activities based on family and community factors. be repeated or changed.

Counseling/Dependence Students can rely on parents, teachers and counselors to help Students rely on themselves; they see the results of making their own
make decisions and give advice. Students must abide by parental decisions. It is their responsibility to seek advice as needed. Students
boundaries and restrictions. set their own restrictions.

Motivation Students receive stimulation to achieve or participate from Students apply their own motivation to their work and activities as
parents, teachers and counselors. they wish.

Freedom Students’ freedom is limited. Parents will often help students Students have much more freedom and must accept responsibility for
if a crisis arises. their own actions.

Distractions There are distractions from school, but these are partially The opportunity for more distractions exists. Time management will
controlled by school and home. become more important.

Value Judgments Students often make value judgments based on parental values; Students have the opportunity to see the world through their own eyes
thus, many of their value judgments are made for them. and develop their own opinions and values.

Adapted from Mullendore, R.H. and Hatch, C. (2000). Helping your first-year college student succeed: A guide for parents. Columbia, SC: OCM and Texas A & M University. (2000).
Contents Parent Association
Important Web Addresses & Phone Numbers 2
VCU Freshman Parent Association
The ABC’s of VCU & the Surrounding Community 3 The Freshman Parent Association at Virginia Commonwealth University exists to
Offices and Information Worth Knowing provide parents and supporting family members an active role in the education of their
student(s), by providing a forum for networking with other parents. It also seeks to further
Academic Honors 7
the educational goals of VCU by improving communication between parents and the
Academic Status 7 university. The Freshman Parent Association serves as a resource for parents seeking
Dining Services 7 general information about the university and student life by recognizing parents as a
valuable resource group.
Disability Support Services 8
Division of Student Affairs & Enrollment Services 8 Purpose
Enrollment Services—Access to Records 8 ◽ To inform parents of VCU’s programs, facilities, services and needs by publishing
Enrollment Services—Student Accounting 9 a newsletter
◽ To sponsor programs and events for freshmen parents so they may become better
Enrollment Services—Withdrawal 11 acquainted with VCU
Honor System 11 ◽ To serve as a liaison between freshmen parents and the entire university community
Judicial Affairs and Academic Integrity 11 ◽ To recognize freshmen parents as a valuable resource group and invite them to
contribute their resources in various ways to the welfare of VCU
New Student Programs 11
◽ To foster a spirit of loyalty among freshmen parents
Office of Multicultural Student Affairs 11
Parking 11 Check out www.vcu.edu/uc/parents to learn how to become involved in the Freshman
Parent Association. We hope that you choose to participate and, most importantly,
Recreational Sports 12 become an active member.
Residential Life & Housing 12
Safety 13
Schools 13
Student Media 13
Technology Services 13
University Career Center 13
University College 14
University Counseling Services 14
University Student Commons & Activities 14
University Student Health Services 15
USHS—The Wellness Resource Center 16
A Parent's Guide to Roommates 16
Campus Map 17

www.vcu.edu

1
Important Web addresses & Phone Numbers
Admissions, Office of Undergraduate www.ugrad.vcu.edu 828-1222 or (800) 841-3638 Mass Communications, School of www.has.vcu.edu/mac 828-2660
Allied Health Professions, School of views.vcu.edu/sahp 828-7247 Medicine, School of www.medschool.vcu.edu 828-9000
Anderson Gallery www.vcu.edu/artweb/gallery 828-1522 Military Sciences (ROTC) www.has.vcu.edu/mil 828-7682
Arts, School of the www.vcu.edu/artweb 828-2787 or (866) 534-3201 Multicultural Student Affairs, Office of www.omsa.vcu.edu 828-6672
Athletics www.vcuathletics.com 828-4000, tix: 828-RAMS New Student Programs www.vcu.edu/uc/nsp 828-3700
MPC: 828-1678 Nursing, School of www.nursing.vcu.edu 828-0724
Bookstores www.bsv.vcu.edu/retailstr
MCV: 828-0336
Business, School of www.business.vcu.edu 828-1595 Parking & Transportation www.bsv.vcu.edu/vcupark 828-8726
Emergency: 828-1234 Pharmacy, School of www.pharmacy.vcu.edu 828-3000
Campus Police www.vcu.edu/police
Non-Emergency: 828-1196
Emergency: 828-1234
Communications & Public Relations www.news.vcu.edu 828-1231 Police, Campus www.vcu.edu/police
Non-Emergency: 828-1196
www.pubinfo.vcu.edu/dsa/ RamCam www.vcu.edu/ramcam 828-1177
Cooperative Education Program 828-1645
coop
Dentistry, School of www.dentistry.vcu.edu 828-9184 Records & Registration www.vcu.edu/enroll/rar 828-1349

Dining Services www.bsv.vcu.edu/vcufood 828-1148 Recreational Sports www.recsports.vcu.edu 827-1100

Disability Support Services www.students.vcu.edu/dss 828-2253 Social Work, School of www.vcu.edu/slwweb 828-1030

Education, School of www.soe.vcu.edu 828-3382 Sports Center www.vcu.edu/sportscenter 828-7821

Engineering, School of www.egr.vcu.edu 828-3925 Student Accounting www.vcu.edu/enroll/sa 828-2228

Student Affairs and Enrollment
Financial Aid www.vcu.edu/enroll/finaid 828-6669 www.students.vcu.edu 828-1244
Services, Division of
Graduate School www.graduate.vcu.edu 828-6916 Student Services Centers www.vcu.edu/enroll/ssc 828-1349
G2GMobile@VCU http://g2g.vcu.edu 828-3018 Technology Services Help Desk www.ts.vcu.edu/helpdesk 828-2227
Honors College www.honors.vcu.edu 828-1803 University Career Center www.students.vcu.edu/careers 828-1645
Housing, Campus www.housing.vcu.edu 828-7666 University College www.vcu.edu/uc 827-UNIV (8648)
Housing, Off-Campus www.usca.vcu.edu/offcampus 828-7205 www.students.vcu.edu/
University Counseling Services 828-6200
counseling
Human Resource Division www.hr.vcu.edu 828-0177 University Student Commons
www.usca.vcu.edu 828-1981
& Activities
Humanities and Sciences, College of www.has.vcu.edu 828-1674 MPC: 828-8828
University Student Health Services www.students.vcu.edu/health
Instructional Development Center www.vcu.edu/mdcweb MCV: 828-9220
MPC: 827-CARD (2273)
VCUCard www.vcucard.com
International Education, Office of www.vcu.edu/oie 828-8471 MCV: 628-CARD (2273)
VCU Libraries www.library.vcu.edu 828-1101 or (866) VCU-BOOK
Libraries (VCU Libraries) www.library.vcu.edu 828-1101 or (866) VCU-BOOK
Wellness Resource Center www.thewell.vcu.edu/l 828-9355
Mail Services www.bsv.vcu.edu/mailsrv 828-3868

www.vcu.edu

2
THE abc’s of VCU & the
Surrounding Community
Anderson Gallery
9011/2 W. Franklin St.
Since 1971, VCU’s Anderson Gallery has become one of the most significant venues for
contemporary art in the Southeast. Well-known for presenting the work of nationally and
internationally renowned artists, emerging figures and regional names, the Anderson Gallery
mounts exhibitions that explore currents in contemporary art and design. Recent exhibitions
have included work by such noted artists as: Yoko Ono, Gregory Crewdson, Teresita
Fernandez, Sally Mann, Gregory Barsamian, Jim Campbell and Heide Fasnacht. Previous
guest curators have included Edward Albee and John Yau. The gallery also houses work by
student artists for thesis and graduate exhibitions each year.
Barnes & Noble College Booksellers
The VCU Barnes & Noble College Booksellers is the main bookstore carrying course
materials, study aids, reference materials, general books and magazines. Students and their
families can pick up VCU sweatshirts, T-shirts and all sorts of other items to show their school
spirit. If you’re hungry, grab a snack or a Quizno’s sub and relax in the Bookmark Bistro.
Broad Street
This may be the most important street to know when you come to Richmond. It runs east
past the MCV Campus, up to Church Hill and west through the Monroe Park Campus,
continuing to the major retail developments at Short Pump and beyond. In fact, if you
continue to follow it west as it becomes Route 250, you could travel as far as Sandusky, Ohio.
Byrd Park/Maymont
Byrd Park is a 200-acre public park located just north of the James River with a fitness/
running track, monuments, an amphitheater, and three small lakes: Shields, Swan and
Fountain lakes. There are tennis courts, baseball fields and a fenced dog park. Byrd Park
also is home to the historic Carillon and the Dogwood Dell outdoor amphitheater.
Located adjacent to Byrd Park, Maymont is a 100-acre Victorian estate and park with
formal gardens, wildlife exhibits, a nature center and the Maymont Children’s Farm.
All of the regular attractions are free and house tours are available.
Campus Connector
The Greater Richmond Transit Company (GRTC) operates
three transit routes on the VCU campus. These routes provide
intercampus service between VCU’s Monroe Park Campus and the
MCV Campus to students, faculty and staff. The VCU Medical
Center route provides transit service between the VCU Medical
Center and other points on the MCV Campus. For schedule and
route information, visit www.bsv.vcu.edu/vcupark.
www.vcu.edu
Carytown
Carytown runs along Cary Street from Thompson Street to Boulevard and is home to many
funky retail stores, restaurants and cafés. For essentials, there are grocery stores, drug stores
and banks. Be sure to head to the historic Byrd Theater for a $2 movie. On Saturday nights,
there’s even a Wurlitzer organ played before the show.
Church Hill
Church Hill is the oldest residential neighborhood in the city and provides some excellent
views of downtown Richmond. St. John’s Church, where Patrick Henry gave his “give me
liberty or give me death” speech, is at the heart of the neighborhood, and the speech is
reenacted regularly. Wander the quiet streets around the parks or visit during the Italian
or Irish festivals.
The Commons
www.usca.vcu.edu • 907 Floyd Ave. • 828-1981
The University Student Commons is the main student life facility
for the Monroe Park Campus. “The Commons,” located in the
heart of VCU’s Monroe Park campus, is a great place to meet
up with friends, host an event, get involved, or study. The Park
Place Food Court, Commons Café and Common Convenience
provide a wide variety of dining options without having to leave
campus. Also located in the Lower Level of the Commons is
Break Point, the university’s game room with pool tables, games
and the widely popular Thunder Bowl. At the Commons, students
can find the following offices: Off Campus Student Services,
Student Organization Development, USC&A Administrative Office,
USC&A Student Programming Office, University Career Center, University
Counseling Services, Disability Support Services, the Office of Multicultural
Student Affairs and the Monroe Park Student Government Association.
CT
The Commonwealth Times is the student press of VCU and is published twice a week during
the school year on Mondays and Thursdays. Sections of the CT include News, Sports, Op/
Ed (opinion) and Spectrum, which covers arts and entertainment. The CT can be read online
at www.commonwealthtimes.com.
Dining on campus
Students may purchase dining plans, whether or not they live on campus. There are a wide
variety of dining options conveniently available at the heart of both campuses, including Park
Place and the Commons Café in the University Student Commons, the Shafer Court Dining
Center with both take-out and dine-in options, Starbucks in Cabell Library, Quizno’s in the
Barnes & Noble Bookstore, Hideaway Café in Hunton Hall—not to mention a variety of
retail restaurants around both campuses that accept RamBucks.
3
Fall Fest—VCU’s Family Weekend
Join the fun at the VCU Fall Fest, a great opportunity for new
students and their families to enjoy VCU and Richmond and
celebrate the university’s remarkable diversity, history and
energetic growth. Highlights include tours of VCU and historic
Richmond sites, RamMadness basketball kick-off, the VCU
Class Ring Ceremony, concerts, The Rocky Horror Picture Show,
mini academic lectures, School of the Arts showcases and much
more. Beyond VCU’s expanding campuses, Richmond offers a wide
array of cultural opportunities and experiences. Visit www.vcu.edu/fallfest
for more information and schedules.
Fan
The Fan, named for the pattern of tree-lined streets that fan out westward from Monroe
Park, is one of the nation’s largest intact Victorian neighborhoods and a popular place
for VCU students to live. Stunning mansions in a wide variety of architectural styles
line picturesque Monument Avenue. The area also includes many small neighborhood
restaurants and shops.
First Fridays
First Fridays has become Richmond’s fastest-growing arts event and a Richmond tradition.
The art and performances that fill the galleries along Broad Street and beyond range from
work by VCU student artists, notable Richmond artists and even nationally recognized
artists. The popularity of First Fridays has been instrumental in speeding the revitalization
of Richmond’s downtown.
Founders Hall
Founders Hall was originally a house when it was built in the late 19th century. Later, it was
part of the Richmond Professional Institute, which became VCU in 1968 and it is now home
to Student Accounting and others.
French Film Festival
Every spring since 1993, French filmmakers, producers and actors make a trip across the
Atlantic to showcase their films and answer questions from the festival’s audience. So when
you buy a ticket for a movie at this festival, a trip inside the filmmaker’s heart and mind comes
along with it. For two weeks, at the largest French film festival outside of France, cultural lines
are blurred as Richmond is treated to a slice of French life.
Fraternity & Sorority Life
Fraternities and sororities truly offer a home away from home experience for many
students at VCU. Membership in a fraternity or sorority provides opportunities for
leadership development, academic achievement, overall campus involvement and social
networking. VCU is home to more than 30 fraternities and sororities, and students can
join most chapters in the first semester of their freshman year, with a high school GPA
of 2.75 or higher. For more information on Fraternity and Sorority Life at VCU, go to
www.usca.vcu.edu/greeklife or call 804-828-4685.
www.vcu.edu
Ginter House
901 W. Franklin St.
The Ginter House is the main administrative building on the Monroe Park Campus.
It houses the offices of Financial Aid, the Provost and others. It is named for cigarette
magnate Major Lewis Ginter (1824-1897), one of Virginia’s wealthiest men who developed
Richmond’s Ginter Park neighborhood and commissioned the Jefferson Hotel.
Grace Street
Alumni and other Richmonders remember Grace Street as a very different place than it is
now. These days, the street is at the heart of VCU’s development. For instance, the Grace
Street Theater is used for classes and dance performances, and there are plans to add more
university buildings while also keeping the current mix of restaurants and eclectic retail.
Hibbs Hall
For VCU, Hibbs Hall is both something old and new. Alumni will remember it as a
classroom building and dining hall. A couple of years ago, the school gutted and updated
this building with high-tech classrooms and offices for the University College and
various departments.
Hollywood Cemetery
Hollywood Cemetery is a short walk from the Monroe Park Campus. In addition to its hills
and scenic views of the river, it is the resting place for two U.S. presidents, Jefferson Davis
and other notable figures. Among its features is a ninety-foot-high granite pyramid built as
a memorial to more than 18,000 Confederate soldiers who are buried
there. There are also local legends about certain tombs, grave sites and
the ghosts that haunt various mausoleums. Be sure to look for a black
iron statue of a dog standing watch over a little girl’s grave.
Homecoming
Homecoming is celebrated during the Rams basketball season. It
has grown into one of VCU’s most popular traditions, featuring
tailgate parties, parades, dances, the crowning of a king and
queen, talent shows and, of course, pep rallies.
Hunton Student Center
Hunton Student Center, a national historical landmark, began life in 1841 as First Baptist
Church. In December of 1938, The Medical College of Virginia (later VCU) acquired
the church building which officially became the first student center for the university. In
2007, a $5 million renovation of the facility was completed. When students on the MCV
Campus need a break between classes, they know to head over to Hunton Student Center
for a great place to eat, study or hang out!
4
Intercultural Festival (ICF)
As one of the most diverse college campuses in the country, there’s a lot of culture to be
celebrated at VCU. Over the past few years, ICF has grown to become one of VCU’s
favorite spring traditions. It now includes more than 30 student cultural organizations
and attracts thousands of festival-goers from the entire Richmond community who
enjoy performances, exhibits, student art shows, international cuisine, fashion shows,
parades, dance lessons and children’s activities.
Jackson Ward
This historic neighborhood is home to 19th- and 20th-century urban row houses, the
Maggie Walker House and a statue of famed Richmond-born dancer Bill "Bojangles"
Robinson. Jackson Ward has become popular with students who live off campus. First
Fridays are a great time to check out the area when the gallery crowds spill over to some
of the spaces off Broad Street. If you are craving fried seafood or other classic southern
cooking, Jackson Ward is a good place to find it.
James River
The James runs through the heart of Richmond, forming one of the most scenic urban
outdoors in the country. Kayakers can find some of the only Class IV rapids in an urban
area, while walkers can find some great trails. On sunny days from spring through fall,
it’s easy to find people lingering on the rocks to relax and catch some sun.
The James River Park System is broken into seven unique sections on both banks. The park
system is considered one of the gems of the city with woods, islands, meadows, wildlife and
excellent fishing. The trails provide excellent biking and hiking alternatives for all skill levels.
For a close visit from VCU’s campuses, head to Belle Isle, which can be reached from the
northside of the river by the footbridge under the Lee Bridge. The island is the site of a
notorious Civil War prison and the remains of a historic iron foundry are still visible.
Landmark Theater
Longtime Richmonders still call this theater “The Mosque.” It is home to concerts by
the Richmond Symphony and Richmond Ballet, and hosts concerts by many nationally
and internationally known music and theater acts. Tucked between Monroe Park and the
University Student Commons, it is one of the most recognizable buildings on the Monroe
Park Campus.
Libraries
VCU Libraries is composed of two main libraries; the James Branch
Cabell Library on the Monroe Park Campus and Tompkins-McCaw
Library for the Health Sciences on the MCV Campus and supplementary
operations. The libraries hold more than 1.97 million volumes, almost
24,000 journal and other serial titles and more than 3.18 million
microforms as well as film, video, sound, manuscript, comic and book art
collections. Services available at VCU Libraries include research assistance,
education services, borrowing materials from other libraries, collaboration
space for students and faculty, and computers and media equipment. Each library houses a
café featuring Starbucks coffee, drinks and light snacks.
www.vcu.edu
Monroe Park
Monroe Park is Richmond’s oldest and most significant park. Statues in
the park include Joseph Bryan, General Fitzhugh Lee and Confederate
General Williams Carter Wickham. The Victorian-era fountain at the
center of the park was completely renovated in 2004. Though the park
was a major training and camp ground for Confederate troops during
the Civil War, it is now a popular spot for VCU students to relax and
play frisbee.
Museums
In addition to the galleries in and around VCU, Richmond offers a wide
array of museums, including the Valentine Richmond History Center, Virginia
Historical Society, the Children’s Museum of Richmond, the Science Museum of
Virginia, the Poe Museum, the Virginia Holocaust Memorial, Tredegar Iron Works and
the Museum of the Confederacy. The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts in the heart of the
Museum District is currently undergoing a substantial expansion and renovation.
Nickel Bridge
It costs 35 cents now, and this locally famous bridge is officially known as the Boulevard
Bridge. It goes from Byrd Park to the South Side where you can check out Forest Hill Park
and sections of the James River Park System.
Oregon Hill
Oregon Hill borders the Monroe Park Campus to the south. This neighborhood of quiet
tree-lined streets is home to an eclectic mix of long-time residents, students and gentrifiers.
The neighborhood is home to the popular Mamma Zu’s restaurant and one of Richmond’s
two farmers’ markets.
Pumphouse–3-Mile Lock Park
On the edge of Byrd Park, the impressive Victorian Gothic Pumphouse still stands where it
was built in 1883—and abandoned in 1924. Still plainly visible are stone locks used on the
James River and Kanawha Canal. One structure, a stone arch, is part of the original canal
built in 1789. George Washington passed through here when he traveled this section in 1791.
Open during daylight hours.
RamMadness
Join us to celebrate the VCU Rams for the new season! Meet the men’s and women’s
basketball teams, coaching staff, Rodney the Ram, the dance team and cheerleaders.
Students can sign up to win great prizes like free tuition, books and parking. Better
yet, it’s part of Fall Fest, so you’ll already be on campus for the weekend!
Residential Villages
The Residential Villages are an exciting way for incoming freshmen who share common
interests, to interact both in and outside of class. All Residential Villages focus special
attention on first-year students, provide a built-in academic and social support system,
and help form lasting friendships, great memories and a sense of community.
5
Richmond Folk Festival
The National Folk Festival, begun in 1934, moves to a new city every three years
and arrived in Richmond in 2005. It has brought a remarkable array of performers to
Richmond, from roots music homegrown in the hills of southwestern Virginia, to Asian
throat singers. It was such a success that local organizers are continuing an annual, locally-
produced festival from Oct. 10-12. So head down to the Brown’s Island area for stellar
music and cultural demonstrations.
Rodney the Ram
The VCU mascot, Rodney makes regular appearances at VCU sporting events—and you’ll
have plenty of chances to meet him at Fall Fest.
Shafer Court
Home to the crossroads of the Monroe Park Campus, this common area between the award-
winning Shafer Court Dining Center, Cabell Library, Hibbs Hall, the Shafer Playhouse
and the Singleton Center bustles with activity throughout the day. Alumni and
others may remember when concerts happened here, and when the streets
still had cars rather than students traveling along it.
Shockoe Bottom and Shockoe Slip
Shockoe Bottom is a scenic area of old warehouses and cobbled streets
on the east side of Richmond. Centered around the historic 17th Street
Market, “the Bottom” as it’s known is a destination for nightlife and
restaurants, such as Bottom’s Up Pizza and Millie’s. It is also home to the
Poe and Holocaust museums.
Just west of the Bottom, Shockoe Slip runs up the hill along Cary Street. It is a
destination for restauraunts, including a mix of old Richmond favorites and more
recent national chains like Morton’s and Buffalo Wild Wings. It is also a short walk
to the Canal Walk.
Shopping
Short Pump. Regency. Stony Point. Carytown. These are three of the likely destinations
you or your students will think of when it comes to necessities and splurges in the
Richmond area.
The Siegel Center
One of the most recognizable buildings on Broad Street, the Siegel Center provides an
arena for sporting events, concerts and career fairs; a recreational center for weight and
fitness training, aerobics, volleyball and basketball; and administrative offices for Recreational
Sports and the Department of Athletics.
Sitterding House
Sitterding House is the last standing house at the heart of the Monroe Park Campus. It
houses the offices of the Vice Provost for Student Affairs & Enrollment Services, the Dean
of Students and the Associate Vice Provost for Enrollment Services.
www.vcu.edu
Slave Trail
Part of the James River Park System, the trail starts at Ancarrow’s Landing and follows the
path slaves took to the docks to be sold. The walk is 1.3 miles in length, and city groups
offer tours from time to time.
STRUT
Every spring, VCU students look forward to the STRUT Fashion
Show. It is an annual tradition that brings together students
in fashion design, fashion marketing, graphic design, student
models and local retail stores to create an innovative and
explosive show. This exhibition of brains, talent, and ingenuity
is a synergy of student ideas and is unique to VCU as well as
the Richmond Community. Everyone with an interest in the arts
is guaranteed to be entertained. STRUT Fashion Week kicks off
with five days of makeovers, panel discussions and contests leading
up to this campus extravaganza!
Student Art Space
The Student Art Space is a gallery located in the University Student Commons. The space
provides a forum for students to exhibit their artwork and learn about gallery management.
Exhibits are coordinated by the student art space organization.
Tuition Payment and Refunds
Payment for tuition, room, board and other university fees is generally due on the first
day of the semester. These charges may be paid in four installments throughout the
semester. The first payment of one-quarter of the amount owed plus a non-refundable
$25 application fee must be paid at the beginning of the semester. Additional
information will be enclosed with the invoices. Refunds for drops or withdrawals are
computed based on the actual drop or withdrawal date certified by the Office of Records
and Registration according to the University Refund Policy. Refunds are not made to
students who do not attend classes and have not completed the required withdrawal
procedure. Students and parents are encouraged to review the Student Financial
Responsibility section which is available on the Student Accounting Web site.
VCUCard
Students are required to carry their VCUCard at all times. The card serves as a library card,
provides security access to some VCU buildings and is accepted for meal plans, debit payment
for merchants on and off campus, and for photocopying, printing and using laundry facilities
in the residence halls. The VCUCard can be used to travel on the Monroe Park Campus and
MCV Campus shuttles. It also can be used for access to Wachovia Bank services. For parking
subscribers, the VCUCard is used for access to the parking decks.
6
Welcome Week
Starting college is stressful enough—the packing and unpacking, meeting
new roommates and leaving home for the first time. Welcome Week is
here to help make the transition as smooth—and as fun—as possible.
Events run the gamut, from college survival classes to the Foam
Dance Party, karaoke, rafting trips, and of course the All Hall
Basketball and Fitness Frenzy.
Work Study
Part-time job opportunities are posted in the VCU Career Center.
Federal Work-Study job listings are posted at www.students.vcu.edu/
careers/jobs. Note: A Federal Work-Study award by Financial Aid does
not guarantee employment.
Several departments hire students directly. For instance, the University Student Commons
& Activities employs approximately 50 students, and Residential Life & Housing employs
approximately 150 students. Other campus employers include Recreational Sports, VCU
Libraries, bookstores and administrative and academic departments.
Students who work on campus 10–15 hours a week often see their grades improve.
Working part-time on campus also helps students develop skills in time management,
setting priorities and assuming responsibilities. Some students continue working for several
semesters with a particular campus employer, gaining more and more responsibility and
excellent on-the-job training.
Offices and information worth knowing
Academic Honors
Dean’s List: The Dean's List is a recognition of superior academic performance. A student is
placed on the Dean’s List for each term in which he or she earns a grade point average of at least
3.5, based on a minimum load of 12 term credits excluding courses graded credit/non-credit,
with no grade below a “C.” A notation is placed on the student's permanent academic record.
Students earning marks of “Incomplete” or “Progress” are not eligible for the Dean’s List for
the term in which these grades were earned.
Graduation Honors: Candidates for the baccalaureate degree who complete at least 45
credits at VCU may qualify for graduation honors. Calculation of the grade point average
(GPA) for honors is based on grades received for all courses taken for a credit at VCU, as
well as accepted transfer credits. To qualify, a student's cumulative GPA for courses taken for
credit at VCU must be at least as high as the minimum requirement for the specific honor
bestowed. Cum Laude is awarded for a GPA of 3.3 to 3.59. Magna Cum Laude is awarded
for a GPA of 3.6 to 3.89. Summa Cum Laude is awarded for a GPA of 3.9 or better. For
additional information, please refer to the Undergraduate Bulletin.
Academic Status
Good Standing: A student is in “good standing” as long as the student maintains a
cumulative 2.0 GPA.
www.vcu.edu
Academic Warning: A student is placed on academic warning when the student’s cumulative
GPA falls below 2.0 (grade “C”) at the conclusion of any semester of attendance (fall, spring
or summer). Notification of warning appears on the student’s academic record. A degree-
seeking student on academic warning may not enroll in more than 14 credits per semester of
attendance except under unusual circumstances and with permission of the dean or designee
of the school or college in which the student is enrolled. A student remains on academic
warning for one semester of attendance, at the end of which time the student must obtain a
cumulative GPA of at least 2.0. Failure to achieve this GPA results in academic probation.
Academic Probation: A student is placed on academic probation when the student’s
cumulative GPA falls below 2.0 for two successive semesters of attendance. Notification of
probation appears on the student’s academic record. A degree-seeking student on academic
probation may not enroll for more than 13 credits per semester of attendance. Students
on academic probation are expected to improve their cumulative GPA by achieving a
semester GPA of 2.0 or better during each semester of attendance. A student who achieves
a cumulative GPA of at least a 2.0 is removed from academic probation. Failure to achieve
a 2.0 semester GPA while on probation results in academic suspension.
Academic Suspension: A student is placed on academic suspension when the student’s
cumulative GPA is below 2.0 for two successive semesters and the following semester of
attendance GPA falls below a 2.0. Notification of suspension appears on the student’s
academic record. A student on a first academic suspension may not enroll at the university
for two consecutive semesters. A student may apply for readmission to VCU for the
semester following the completion of the suspension period. A student
readmitted after suspension enrolls under the academic probation status
and is subject to the provisions of that status. If a student readmitted
after suspension fails to obtain a semester GPA of 2.0 in any
semester before achieving a cumulative GPA of at least 2.0, the
student is placed on a five-year suspension. The student may be
considered for readmission after a minimum five-year separation
from VCU.
Dining Services
1111 W. Broad St., Suite A, Room 128 • (804) 828-1148 • www.bsv.vcu.edu/vcufood
All VCU students residing in University Housing are required to
purchase one of the Residential Dining Plans through VCU Dining
Services. VCU graduate students and students living in university apartments are exempt
from this requirement. Residential Dining Plans include the following program options:
Block Plans: A specific number of meals that may be used at any time during the semester
at any VCU Dining Center or VCU Retail Restaurant participating in the VCU Dining Services
Meal Exchange program.
Unlimited servings dining locations that accept block plans, Dining Dollars, RamBucks,
cash and credit cards. Unlimited servings restaurants include: Shafer Court Dining Center’s
Market 810, located on the Monroe Park Campus, and the Larrick Dining Center, located
on the MCV Campus.
7
Students who participated in a Residential Dining Plan during a spring semester are eligible
to receive an additional free 150 Dining Dollars when purchasing a qualified dining plan for
the following fall semester. Unused Bonus Dining Dollars do not carry over to the spring
2009 semester.
In addition to Residential Dining Plans, all registered VCU students
are eligible to participate in any of the Nonresidential Dining
Plans. Check the Dining Services Web site for more information.
Special Diets: VCU Dining Plan participants with special
dietary needs are asked to call the VCU Dining Services
Office as early as possible to discuss their requirements.
Changes and Cancellations: The deadlines for changing or
canceling a VCU Dining Plan are September 5, 2008 for the fall
semester, and January 25, 2009 for the spring semester. Changes
must be made by 4:00 p.m. Changes or cancellations will not be
accepted after the deadline. Exceptions include:
◽ When a VCU Dining Plan cancellation is due to death, incapacitating illness or military
service, the unused meals and Dining Dollars will be proportionally refunded.
◽ When the VCU Dining Services contract is terminated due to a violation of the VCU
Dining Services Contract Terms and Conditions, the University Housing Contract, or
for disciplinary purposes, the participant may not receive a refund.
◽ Change and cancellation requests made after 4:00 p.m., Friday of the second week of
classes will require administrative evaluation by the VCU Dining Services manager.
Disability Support Services
Monroe Park Campus: 907 Floyd Ave., Room 102 • Voice/TDD: (804) 828-2253 • Fax: (804) 828-1944
MCV Campus: 1000 E. Marshall St., Suite 202 • (804) 828-9782 • TTY: (804) 828-4608 • Fax: (804) 828-4609
www.students.vcu.edu/dss
VCU is committed to providing students with disabilities equal opportunities to benefit from
all programs, services and activities offered. Disability Support Services include:
◽ (but is not limited to), advocacy, adapted materials, alternative testing, academic and
career advising.
◽ Recommendations for appropriate academic adjustments including exam modifications,
classroom accommodations and auxiliary aids supported by recent documentation.
◽ Assistance for the VCU community in complying with the provisions of the Americans with
Disabilities Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1974.
◽ Serving as a liaison between faculty and students with disabilities.
◽ Providing technical assistance to university departments.
◽ Providing current and accurate information regarding disability-related products, programs
and services to current and prospective students, faculty and staff.
◽ Consulting with secondary schools, special educators, rehabilitation or high school
counselors, parents and prospective students concerning university services for students
with disabilities.
◽ Creating a welcoming place for students to meet, share, study, and obtain information
concerning disability related issues and opportunities.
www.vcu.edu
Students with disabilities are responsible for self-identification prior to requesting services/
accommodations. Students are strongly encouraged to request accommodations at least four
weeks prior to the first day of classes. Students may request accommodations at any time
during enrollment at VCU. For additional information visit www.students.vcu.edu/dss.
Division of Student Affairs & Enrollment Services
901 Floyd Ave. • (804) 828-1244 • www.students.vcu.edu
The Division of Student Affairs & Enrollment Services seeks to create a student-centered
culture by promoting community, encouraging engagement and developing students to be
contributing citizens in a global and diverse society. The Division is led by the Vice Provost
for Student Affairs and Enrollment Services and comprises many of the student life and
services departments including:
◽ Undergraduate Admissions
◽ University Student Commons & Activities
◽ University Career Center
◽ University Counseling Services
◽ Disability Support Services
◽ Financial Aid
◽ University Student Health Services
◽ Office of Multicultural Student Affairs
◽ Records and Registration
◽ Recreational Sports
◽ Office of Judicial Affairs and Academic Integrity
◽ Student Accounting
◽ Student Media
◽ Financial Management, Technology & Communications
◽ Residential Life & Housing
The central administration of the division also serves as a resource for students, parents,
faculty and staff who have problems or concerns regarding their interactions with each other
and with the university, and assists in resolving issues or refers inquirers to the appropriate
individual elsewhere in the institution. Students, parents and staff members who have
issues they wish to discuss or who are interested in various programs and opportunities are
encouraged to contact the Associate Vice Provost for Student Affairs and Dean of Students
or the Associate Vice Provost for Enrollment Services.
Enrollment Services—Rights of Students Under the Family
Educational Rights and Privacy Act
901 Floyd Ave. • (804) 828-1244 • www.vcu.edu/enroll/
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) is a Federal law that protects the
privacy of student education records. The law applies to all schools that receive funds under
an applicable program of the U.S. Department of Education.
FERPA gives parents certain rights with respect to their children’s education records;
however, these rights transfer to the student when he or she reaches eighteen or attends a
school beyond the high school level.
8
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords students certain rights
with respect to their educational records:
1. The right to inspect and review the student’s educational records within 45
days of the day the university receives a request for access. Students
should submit to the registrar, dean, head of the academic department, or
other appropriate official written requests that identify the record(s) they
wish to inspect. The university official will make arrangements for access
and notify the student of the time and place where the records may be
inspected. If the records are not maintained by the university official to
whom the request was submitted, that official shall advise the student of
the correct official to whom the request should be addressed.
2. The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that
the student believes are inaccurate or misleading. Students may ask the university to
amend a record that they believe is inaccurate or misleading. They should write the
university official responsible for the record, clearly identify the part of the record they
want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate or misleading. If the university decides not
to amend the record as requested by the student, the university will notify the student of
the decision and advise the student of his or her right to a hearing regarding the request
for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided
to the student when notified of the right to a hearing.
3. The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in
the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure
without consent. One exception that permits disclosure without consent is disclosure
to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person
employed by the university in an administrative, supervisory, academic or research, or
support staff position (including law enforcement unit personnel and health staff ); a
person or company with whom the university has contracted (such as an attorney, auditor
or collection agent); a person serving on the Board of Visitors; or a student serving
on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting
another school official in performing his or her tasks. A school official has a legitimate
educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill
his or her professional responsibility. Upon request, the university discloses education
records without consent to officials of another school in which a student seeks or intends
to enroll. Directory information may be released without a student’s prior consent; this
information is limited to:
◽ student name
◽ date admitted
◽ birth date
◽ mailing address and telephone number
◽ local address and telephone number
◽ university e-mail address
◽ semesters of attendance
◽ major(s)
◽ minor
◽ specialization
www.vcu.edu
◽ school
◽ full- or part-time status
◽ classification (freshman, sophomore, etc.)
◽ degree sought
◽ honors and awards
◽ degrees and dates received
◽ participation in officially recognized intercollegiate sports, weight, height,
hometown, parents’ names and previous school(s) attended
◽ Emergency Contact Information
4. The right to file a complaint with the US Department of Education concerning alleged
failures by Virginia Commonwealth University to comply with the requirements of FERPA.
The name and address of the office that administers FERPA: 
Family Policy Compliance Office 
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington, D.C. 20202
Enrollment Services—Student Accounting
827 W. Franklin St., Founders Hall, Room 123 • (804)828-2228 • www.vcu.edu/enroll/sa/
The Student Accounting Department is responsible for the assessment, billing
and collection of tuition, room, board and other university fees. They also bill third-
party payers for VCU charges and issue refunds to eligible students. Questions regarding
payments or account balances can be made in person, by writing, or e-mailing the Student
Accounting Department at stuacctg@vcu.edu.
Installment Payment Plan (IPP)
The IPP allows tuition, room, board and other university fees to be
paid in 4 installments throughout the semester. Enrollment in this
plan is only available during the first four weeks of the semester
and the remaining installments are due throughout the semester.
The IPP is only offered during the fall and spring semesters. The
invoice payment coupon includes this application. Students must
re-enroll in the Installment Payment Plan each semester. For
more detailed information, please see our Web site.
Living Expense Refunds
When financial aid funds exceed university charges, your student may
receive a refund from Student Accounting. They may be received by direct deposit or
a mailed check; however, students are strongly encouraged to participate in the Direct
Deposit Program in order to receive their refund more quickly. Direct deposit applications
are available at the following locations: the Student Services Centers, the Disbursement
Operations Office, Financial Aid Offices, the Student Accounting Department as well as
online at www.vcu.edu/treasury/directdeposit.pdf.
9
Drop vs. Withdraw
Drop—A student may drop a class (excluding short courses) prior to, and during the first
week only of the fall or spring term. Charges are removed from the student’s account, and
the student’s transcript does not list the class.
Withdraw—When a student withdraws from a class (excluding short courses) within the
first four weeks of the fall or spring term, the transcript lists the class with a mark of “W” and
charges are assessed and adjusted according to the University Refund Policy. The student also
may withdraw from a class between the end of week 4 and the end of week 10 with a mark of
“W” but with no refund of tuition.
Refund of Tuition and Fees
The official University Refund Policy applicable for the fall and
spring semesters only (excluding short courses) is outlined below.
Refunds are calculated on a course-by-course, per credit hour basis,
disregarding the full-time cap amounts. Students who are enrolled
full-time and withdraw from course(s) may not receive a refund.
◽S  tudents dropping or withdrawing from courses through the first
week of class will be entitled to a 100 percent refund of tuition
and fees.
◽ Students withdrawing from courses through the second week of class
will be entitled to an 80 percent refund of tuition and the university fee.
◽ Students withdrawing from courses through the third week of class will be entitled to a 60
percent refund of tuition and the university fee.
◽ Students withdrawing from courses through the fourth week of class will be entitled to a
40 percent refund of tuition and the university fee.
◽ Students withdrawing from courses after the fourth week of class are not entitled to
receive a refund of tuition and fees.
Students in off-campus courses are subject to the same refund policy as all other university
students, if the class is scheduled on the regular term schedule. If the off-campus course is
shorter or longer than the academic term, the refund dates are adjusted accordingly at the
request of the Off-Campus Programs Office. The refund policy and deadlines of the English
Language Program (ELP) are different from the university’s refund policy for academic
courses. Details of the policy may be obtained from the English Language Program Office.
A full refund for Holiday Intersession will be granted, if the course is dropped before
midnight on the day of the first class meeting. Partial refunds are not granted.
A full refund for summer tuition and applicable fees will be granted, if the course is dropped
no later than the day following the first day of a given class. (This also is applicable if the
class does not meet on two consecutive days.) Partial refunds are not granted for the summer
term. This same refund policy also applies to short courses offered during the fall and spring
terms. Refunds are computed based on the actual withdrawal date certified by the Office
of Records and Registration. Refunds are not made to students who do not attend classes
and have not completed the required withdrawal procedure. Refund processing may take
www.vcu.edu
approximately three weeks. Exceptions to this refund policy are made only in rare instances.
Written application for an exception must be filed in the Student Accounting Department to
the Refund/Waiver Appeals Committee.
Refunds of overpayments for non-financial aid recipients must be requested in writing to the
Student Accounting Department. Refund request forms are available at the Student Services
Centers (Founders Hall and Sanger Hall), and online at www.vcu.edu/enroll/forms/sa/
SArefund.pdf.
In accordance with credit card regulations, the university will refund any credit balance on a
student’s account that is the result of a credit card payment back to the credit card account.
The remaining credit balance, if any, will be refunded to the student. Students are responsible
for paying any increase in charges that may occur after the generation of a refund.
Financial Aid Implications
Based on regulatory changes passed by Congress, students who receive Title IV financial
aid funds (grants, loans or work-study) may be required to repay all or a portion of the
financial aid that was disbursed to their student account if they withdraw from VCU prior to
completing 60 percent of the semester. For details on how this requirement applies to your
situation, please contact a counselor in the Office of Financial Aid.
If students have received more funds than they are entitled due to the change in enrollment,
the students must pay these funds back to the university. Students are reminded that they are
ultimately responsible for any unpaid balance on their accounts as a result of the Financial
Aid Office canceling or reducing their awards.
Refund of Room and Dining Charges
Students will not be entitled to a refund of room fees if they are
suspended from the residence halls for disciplinary reasons or if
they voluntarily withdraw from the university residence halls
but remain registered for any course(s) at the university unless
clearance is granted through Residential Life & Housing.
Cancellations or changes to dining plans will be accepted up
to 4 p.m., Friday of the second week of classes. Refer to your
student's Room and Dining Contract Terms and Conditions for
additional information.
Student Financial Responsibility
In order to attend VCU, students who register: Must assume the responsibility of full
payment of tuition and fees generated from that registration. Must assume the responsibility
of full payment of all room, board and other applicable miscellaneous charges. Must keep
a current permanent mailing address on file with the Office of Records and Registration.
Failure to receive an invoice because of an incorrect address does not relieve responsibility for
timely payments. Must have a VCU e-mail address. The student's VCU e-mail address will
be used by faculty and university offices to deliver important communications and serves as
the university's official means of contact with the student.
The university reserves the right to revise or alter all tuition and fees, regulations pertaining
to student tuition and fees, and collection procedures at any time.
10
Enrollment Services—Withdrawal
To officially withdraw from the university before the end of
a semester, a student should submit a completed official
withdrawal form to Records and Registration. Forms may be
found online at www.vcu.edu/enroll/forms. Students also can
use eServices to officially withdraw from all courses. An official
withdrawal must be done before the end of the first 10 weeks
of classes. Failure to withdraw officially may result in a failing
grade in all or some courses.
During the fall and spring semesters, students whose registration
is cancelled prior to the end of the add/drop registration period during
the first week of classes will be entitled to a full refund of tuition and fees. A partial refund
will be given to a student who withdraws after the end of the first week of classes but
before the end of the fourth week; the percentage declines each week the student remains
enrolled. Refunds are calculated on a course-by-course basis, disregarding the full-time
cap amounts. Students who are enrolled and then withdraw may not receive a refund. If the
reduction of charges results in an overpayment on the student account and the student is
not receiving financial aid, a refund form must be completed and submitted to the Student
Accounting Department. Refund forms are also available at www.vcu.edu/enroll/forms.
Honor System
The acceptance of admission to VCU means the student agrees to abide by the VCU Honor
System. Students have an obligation under the Honor System to know and understand what
acts are prohibited, to refrain from committing those acts, to refrain from intimidating
or threatening another student who has made a charge, and when they have suspicion or
knowledge of a violation to report it to the appropriate faculty member or the Office of
Judicial Affairs & Academic Integrity.
Conduct prohibited by the VCU Honor System includes: cheating, plagiarism, facilitating
academic dishonesty, stealing academic materials and lying related to academic matters. A
student engaging conduct that violates the VCU Honor System may receive honor probation,
an assignment of a grade of “F” for the course, suspension, expulsion, or revocation of a
certificate, degree, thesis or dissertation. For more information, visit www.provost.vcu.edu/
policies —Honor System (under the letter H).
Judicial Affairs & Academic Integrity, Office of
University Student Commons • 907 Floyd Ave., Suite 106
Phone: (804) 828-1963 • Fax: (804) 827-1579 • www.students.vcu.edu/judicialaffairs
Email: judicialsystem@vcu.edu or honorsystem@vcu.edu
The Office of Judicial Affairs & Academic Integrity supports the educational mission of
the university by educating students about appropriate behavior and fostering a community
supporting academic success. The office takes the lead in the enforcement of university
policies as outlined in the Virginia Commonwealth University Rules and Procedures and
the VCU Honor System. The Office of Judicial Affairs & Academic Integrity works in
conjunction with university offices to also administer policies for residence halls, off-campus
student conduct, the VCU Alcohol and Drug Policy, the Student Sexual Misconduct Policy
and the Computer and Network Resources Use Policy.
New Student Programs
Hibbs Hall • 900 Park Ave. • (804) 828-3700 • www.vcu.edu/uc
A student’s first year at Virginia Commonwealth University is filled with excitement,
anticipation and questions! VCU’s comprehensive New Student Orientation program, which
is coordinated through the University College, will help students make a smooth transition to
university life, and continued new student programs and services keep families and students
connected to campus resources throughout the first year.
Office of Multicultural Student Affairs (OMSA)
University Student Commons, Room 215 • (804) 828-6672 • www.omsa.vcu.edu
OMSA provides cultural programs, discussion groups, advises cultural student organizations,
scholarship opportunities and much more. This office aims to strengthen the university’s
sense of community through cultural appreciation. Some of the programs offered include the
Intercultural Festival and Mosaic Week and resources include the International News Center
and Multicultural Resource Library. More information can be found at www.omsa.vcu.edu.
Parking
1111 W. Broad St. • (804) 828-8726 • www.bsv.vcu.edu/vcupark/
Parking is available to students in a number of facilities on the Monroe Park Campus and is
sold on a first-come, first-served basis. Commuter students may purchase parking decals per
semester for:
◽ West Main Street Deck, 801 W. Main St.
◽ West Cary Street Deck, 1201 W. Cary St.
◽ Bowe Street Deck, 609 Bowe St.
◽ West Broad Street Deck, 1111 W. Broad St.
◽ West Franklin Street Deck, 1100 W. Franklin St.
◽ SJ Lot, corner of Cary and Jefferson Streets
◽ ZZ Lot, 620 W. Cary St. (must be a registered School of
Engineering student)
◽ SG Lot, 301 W. Cary St.
◽ SL Lot, 103 South Cherry St.
◽ SC Lot, 412 W. Grace St.
◽ HB Lot, 1201 West Broad St.
Housing students residing in university-operated housing (proof of residency required) may
purchase 24-hour subscriptions on a per-semester basis to the:
◽ West Main Street Deck
◽ Bowe Street Deck
◽ CM Lot
◽ GS Lot
◽ Broad and Belvidere Deck

www.vcu.edu

11
Recreational Sports
1200 W. Broad St. • (804) 827-0318 • www.recsports.vcu.edu
Recreational Sports provides a variety of programs, services
and facilities to meet the leisure and health needs of the VCU
community. All currently enrolled students with valid identification
are eligible to use all facilities; informal recreation, swimming
and fitness facilities are available at no additional charge. Some
programs charge nominal fees. More information can be found at
www.recsports.vcu.edu.
Programs
◽ Informal recreation is available at all facilities and includes drop-in use of the fitness
centers, gymnasiums, swimming pools and court space.
◽ Intramural sports leagues and tournaments are offered throughout the year at various
skill levels, as well as men’s and co-rec divisions. Sports include basketball, flag football,
softball, racquet sports, volleyball, soccer, ultimate frisbee and dodgeball.
◽ Fitness/Wellness Programs include group exercise classes (such as indoor cycling,
Pilates, step aerobics, yoga), Personal Fitness Training services, fitness incentive
programs, fitness workshops and certifications.
◽ The Outdoor Adventure Program provides reasonably priced outdoor recreational trips.
Activities such as camping, kayaking, climbing, cross-country skiing, and more, run by
experienced trip leaders are offered throughout the year. For those planning their own
outdoor activities, the Outing Rental Center offers equipment such as canoes, tents,
backpacks, sleeping bags, and trail guides at nominal cost.
◽ Sport clubs give students the opportunity to train and compete against other colleges in a
variety of sports. Clubs vary in focus and programming as student members manage the
operation of the club and decide on club activities.
◽ Aquatics programs are held at our two swimming pools. Members can take advantage
of learn-to-swim for adults and children, water exercise and incentive programs, and
certification programs. Pools are available for group rental.
Facilities
◽R  ecreational Sports operates a facility at the Stuart C. Siegel Center on the Monroe Park
Campus and the MCV Campus Recreation & Aquatic Center. Both offer full service fitness
centers, gymnasiums and Group Exercise classes.
◽ Indoor pools are located at the MCV Campus Recreation & Aquatic Center and on the
lower level of the Franklin Street Gym.
◽ T he Thalhimer Tennis Center is available year round on the Monroe Park Campus.
◽R  enovation of the MCV Campus Recreation & Aquatic Center will continue through
the 2008–2009 academic year. While the facility will remain open during renovation
some short-term closures may occur and will be announced.
◽ Full program and facility details can be found at the Recreational Sports Web site.
www.vcu.edu
Residential Life & Housing
Gladding Residence Center, 711 W. Main St. • (804) 828-7666 • www.housing.vcu.edu
Residential Life & Housing operates a variety of 9- and 12-month living facilities, including
traditional residential rooms, suite- and apartment-style buildings, and high-rise residence
halls. Approximately 5,000 students choose to live on campus each year. Residential life
at VCU offers many rewards and provides students with the opportunity to gain personal
experiences that supplement and complement the formal education gained in classrooms
and laboratories. The Residential Life & Housing program offers students the chance to
make new friends, meet like-minded academic peers and develop leadership skills through
participation in social, academic, governmental and judicial organizations.
The staff of Residential Life & Housing is dedicated to providing community living that
supports each student’s academic, personal and extracurricular pursuits, and its goal is to
offer a sense of belonging for every residential student. Each residence hall is staffed with
a Coordinator of Residence Education, Housing Manager, at least one Graduate Resident
Director and many in-house Resident and Community Assistants.
New freshman students who submit a housing application by June 1 are guaranteed
residential housing. Housing contracts for freshman residence halls are based on the
nine-month academic calendar; housing contracts for residence facilities specified for
upperclassmen are a combination of 9- and 12-month agreements. Single-semester contracts
are available only to new students who enter the university in the spring semester.
Moving in—what to bring
Students may bring alarm clock, blankets, bed and bath linens, desk lamp, flashlight, iron
and ironing board, multi-outlet electrical strips with heavy-duty cords and built-in circuit
breakers, pillows, plants, posters, stereo, toiletries, touch-tone telephone, wastebasket, and
nonflammable decorative items. Students may wish to talk to their future roommate(s) about
possible duplication of items prior to arrival on campus.
What not to bring
Loft beds, personal air-conditioners, pets, standard extension cords and items
that require a flame to operate or that produce heat (no candles, including
decorative; Bunsen burners; incense; alcohol burners; grills; lanterns;
and halogen lights). Illegal drugs, fireworks, chemicals, firearms and
weapons of any kind are strictly prohibited. Students are expected
to abide by the laws of the Commonwealth of Virginia, VCU's
University Rules and Procedures and the policies of the Department
of Residential Life and Housing.
12
How to address mail Student Media
Each student living in university housing has a mail box. Please note the specific nine-digit 817 W. Broad St. • (804) 828-1058 • www.has.vcu.edu/mac/student_info/student_media.html
Zip code for each residence hall. VCU offers many media outlets that allow students to express themselves. Student Media
includes The Commonwealth Times, the independent student-run and -written
Residence Hall Mail Addresses newspaper published twice a week during the school year; The Vine,
an undergraduate student magazine focused on multicultural issues;
Monroe Park Campus Name MCV Campus
(Room No.) Gladding Residence Poictesme, the student literary journal; Amendment, a journal aimed at
Name Center Name encouraging social change through artistic expression; and WVCW,
(Room No.) Ackell Residence 711 W. Main St. (Room No.) Bear Hall
Center Richmond, VA 23220-5500 600 N. 10th St.
a student-run and -managed radio station.
1100 W. Broad St. Richmond, VA 23298-7000
Richmond, VA 23220-3800 Name Other student media outlets on campus include VCU InSight, a
(Room No.) Johnson Hall Name monthly television program produced and staffed by students in the
Name 801 W. Franklin St. (Room No.) Cabaniss Hall
(Room No.) Brandt Hall School of Mass Communications; and the broadcast station VCU TV/
Richmond, VA 23220-4103 615 N. 8th St.
710 W. Franklin St. Richmond, VA 23298-8000 HD student television production operation.
Richmond, VA 23220-4101 Name
(Room No.) RAMZ Hall Name
Name
933 W. Broad St. (Room No.) McRae Hall
Technology Services
(Room No.) Broad & Belvidere 701 W. Broad St. • (804) 828-1177 • www.ts.vcu.edu
Richmond, VA 23220 600 N. 10th St.
Apartments
700 W. Broad St.
Richmond, VA 23298-7000 Technology Services provides media, computing and other support services for the research,
Name
Richmond, VA 23220-3805 (Room No.) Rhoads Hall Name instructional, health care and public service endeavors of VCU students, faculty and staff.
Name 710 W. Franklin St. (Room No.) Rudd Hall Services include the Help Desk and support for desktop applications, labs and classrooms,
Richmond, VA 23220-4101 600 N. 10th St.
(Room No.) Capital Garage
Richmond, VA 23298-7000
networks, wireless access, IT-related procurement, audiovisual equipment, teleconferencing,
Apartments
1301 W. Broad St., Apt. #
Name distance education and voice/video production.
(Room No.) West Grace Student Name
Richmond, VA 23220
Housing (Room No.) Warner Hall G2GMobile@VCU Computer Program
701 W. Grace St. 600 N. 10th St. All students are required to have a personal computer. Technology Services has teamed with
Richmond, VA 23220-4191 Richmond, VA 23298-7000
Lenovo, makers of award-winning ThinkPad laptop computers, to offer specially formatted
machines to VCU students through the G2GMobile@VCU program. Special pricing on
Safety Apple laptop computers are also available. These specifications and pricing are revised annually
www.vcu.edu/police • (804) 828-1234 or (804) 828-HELP for emergencies
and can be found at g2g.vcu.edu.
(804) 828-1196 for non-emergency dispatcher • (804) 828-WALK (9255) for Campus Security Escort Service
The VCU Police Department has jurisdiction at the university. The force consists of both Student E-mail Accounts
sworn police officers and trained security personnel. VCU Police cars are identifiable Student e-mail accounts are used for official university communications, and are linked to
by gold reflective stripes on white. Services are available 24 hours a day, 7 days the eID system, which allows broad access to other VCU services. For more information,
a week. VCU Police officers encourage students to notify the department if go to www.vcu.edu/email.
suspicious activity is seen. All incidents are investigated promptly.
University Career Center (UCC)
The Campus Security Escort Service provides escorts for members of the University Student Commons, Room 143 • (804) 828-1645 • www.students.vcu.edu/careers/
VCU community traveling to or from VCU-related activities. The workers The University Career Center assists students and recent alumni to identify and achieve their
wear distinctive uniforms and are in constant radio contact with VCU career goals. Career Center staff work with students to help them explore career options,
Police dispatchers. Hours are 5 p.m. to 7 a.m. nightly on both campuses. decide on career directions and develop sound strategies for realizing their career goals.
Schools The Career Center offers a career library of more than 600 books and publications. Students
The Monroe Park Campus is organized into one college and eight schools: The College of have access to employer literature, recruiting brochures, graduate and professional school
Humanities and Sciences (which includes the schools of Government and Public Affairs, publications, and five online computers.
Mass Communications and World Studies) and the schools of the Arts, Business, Education, Career counseling sessions are offered by appointment using assessment tools such as the Strong
Engineering and Social Work. The MCV Campus houses the schools of Allied Health Interest Inventory, the Self-directed Search and the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator. Students
Professions, Dentistry, Medicine, Nursing, Pharmacy and Public Health. In addition, the may receive assistance with resume development, job search skills and interviewing techniques.
School of Graduate Studies serves students on both campuses.
www.vcu.edu

13
The Career Center maintains job postings of full-time, part-time, internship and co-op
positions for students who are eligible. These postings may be accessed 24 hours a day
through an account with the Career Center. Both on- and off-campus work study positions
for eligible students can be viewed online at www.students.vcu.edu/careers.
The Career Center also offers a comprehensive Cooperative Education Program that blends
traditional academics with paid work assignments in industry, business,
government and nonprofit organizations. For additional information,
including eligibility, go to www.students.vcu.edu/careers
and the “Co-op” link.
Graduating students use the Career Center to interview with
business, industry, government and education representatives who
visit the campus to recruit prospective graduates for permanent
positions in their respective organizations. Students are encouraged
to sign up as participants in the Career Center’s Web-based resumé
referral system called eRecruiting in order to be referred to employers
and have access to job listings.
University College
www.vcu.edu/uc • Advising Center: (804) 827-UNIV • Learning, Writing & Testing Centers: (804) 827-8108
The University College (UC) enhances student engagement and success by providing a central
home for academic support services and the core curriculum. The UC offers:
◽ Academic Advising
◽ Learning Support Services
◽ Campus Learning and Writing Centers
◽ Orientation and New Student Programs
◽ Core Curriculum
University Counseling Services
Monroe Park Campus: (804) 828-6200 • University Student Commons, Room 238
MCV Campus: (804) 828-3964 • 1008 E. Clay St. (Grant House B011)
University Counseling Services (UCS) provides psychological services to the university
community. The mission of UCS is to create an environment that fosters student growth,
development and psychological well-being.
Members of UCS’ professional staff include clinical psychologists, licensed clinical social
workers, a consulting psychiatrist, psychology and social work interns, and advanced
graduate students. UCS provides free brief psychotherapy to currently enrolled students
as available. UCS adheres to professional, legal and ethical guidelines established by
professional organizations and state law to protect student confidentiality.
University Counseling Services include:
◽ Counseling and psychotherapy—Individual and couples work is designed to deal with
personal and interpersonal issues.
◽ Group counseling—Ongoing psychotherapy groups focus on personal and social concerns.
www.vcu.edu
◽ Psychiatric services—Limited services include medical evaluation, diagnosis and
treatment with psychotropic medication.
◽ Consultation and outreach—Presentations, workshops and staff consultation are
available to student organizations, academic departments and other groups on issues
relevant to each group’s needs.
◽ Safe zone—Workshops for faculty and staff designed to reduce homophobia
and heterosexism.
University Student Commons & Activities
www.usca.vcu.edu • 907 Floyd Ave. • 828-1981
The University Student Commons & Activities (USC&A) department can help your student
get involved. The staff is dedicated to helping students become more engaged in campus life
and has something for everyone. Participating and getting involved with campus activities
will truly enhance your student’s college experience. The USC&A also offers a variety of
student employment opportunities. For more information on all the services the USC&A
has to offer, please visit www.usca.vcu.edu.
Facilities
The University Student Commons, located in the heart of the Monroe Park Campus, is the
main student-life facility for this campus. It offers a great place to meet with friends, host
an event, get involved or study. The Park Place Food Court, Commons Café and Common
Convenience provide a wide variety of dining options without having to leave campus. Also
located in the Lower Level of the Commons is Break Point, the university’s game room with
pool tables, arcades and the widely popular Thunder Bowl. At the Commons, students can
find the Student Organization Service Center, Off-Campus Student Services, University
Career Center, University Counseling Services, Disability Support Services, the Office of
Multicultural Student Affairs and the Student Government Association.
The Hunton Student Center is located on the MCV Campus. Hunton Student Center is a
great place to study or grab a bite to eat between classes. The renovated 1841 church building
has a state-of-the-art learning center, managed by VCU Libraries, along with spacious study
areas on two floors including private group-study rooms. Also located at Hunton are the offices
for the Associate Dean of Students, MCV Student Government Association, the Hideaway
Café and a student recreation area.
Information Centers can be found at both the Commons and Hunton Student
Center. For a complete list of services and programs that these facilities
offer, please visit www.usca.vcu.edu.
Programs
USC&A offers a wide variety of programs and leadership
opportunities for students on both the Monroe Park Campus and
the MCV Campus. The following programming offices are included
in the USC&A: Monroe Park Campus and MCV Campus Programs
Office, Fraternity and Sorority Life, Leadership Development and
14
the Office of Student Organization Development. Through these offices, several university
traditions and major events are coordinated. These events include: Student Organization
& Volunteer Opportunities (SOVO) Fair, Jazz on the Green, Fraternity and Sorority
Recruitment, RamMadness, Homecoming, Greek Week, STRUT Fashion Show and the
Leadership & Service Awards.
Students are encouraged to participate in these university traditions
along with participating in other programs and events offered during
the week and on the weekends. For a complete listing of programs
and events, please visit www.usca.vcu.edu.
Services
USC&A also offers many services for students and the entire VCU
community including Information Services, Off Campus Student
Services and Event & Conference Services.
For directions to a campus building or information about programs and
events, the USC&A Information Services staff can help! Stop by either Information Center
(located at the Student Commons and Hunton Student Center), call 828-1981 or go to www.
usca.vcu.edu/information.
Off Campus Student Services (OCSS) offers a variety of ways to assist and educate those
who drive, ride, walk or bus to campus. OCSS provides a Web-based housing search
system, ride-share assistance, a car emergency tool kit for check-out, bicycle registration and
coin-operated rental lockers providing secure storage for personal belongings, as well as
educational programs for off campus students. For more information visit www.usca.vcu.
edu/offcampus.
Event & Conference Services offers a professional staff of event planners to assist clients
with planning and implementing programs and events held in USC&A managed facilities
and at VCU in general. From simple meetings to large summer conferences, our clients can
enjoy the appeal of a collegiate environment with many amenities of a full-service conference
center. For a complete list of services, please visit www.usca.vcu/es
University Student Health Services
Monroe Park Campus: 1300 W. Broad St. Suite 2200 • (804) 828-8828
MCV Campus: 1000 E. Marshall St. #305 • (804) 828-9220
www.students.vcu.edu/health
University Student Health Services (USHS) provides quality outpatient medical care and
public health services including health education programming which empowers students
to become full participants in their health care. USHS targets services in five areas:
medical services, public health, preventative medicine and health education, teaching and
research. They are accredited by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care
(AAAHC). For more general information or information about eligibility and charges see
www.students.vcu.edu/health.
Professional staff and services
The highly qualified staff including physicians, a physician assistant, nurse practitioners,
registered nurses, pharmacists, health educators, and a psychiatrist provide a variety of
www.vcu.edu
clinical services including primary care services, women’s health, allergy shots and travel
medicine. A pharmacy is located on the Monroe Park Campus. Details pertaining to
these services as well as information regarding our appointment policy are also available
on the Web site.
Immunizations
In compliance with Virginia state law, VCU requires all full-time students to submit
immunization records to USHS. Detailed information is available at www.students.vcu.
edu/health/immunizations.
Health insurance
USHS has no infirmary beds and does not cover hospitalizations, X-rays, prescriptions,
referrals to specialists, laboratory tests associated with chronic illnesses as well as other
medical expenses. Therefore it is ESSENTIAL that students have adequate health insurance
to cover the cost of hospitalization and other expenses. VCU does sponsor a health insurance
program for students, their spouses and their dependents. See www.students.vcu.edu/
health/insurance for more details.
After-hours emergency service
In the event that an urgent medical problem arises after regular office hours, students may
call the practitioner on call for advice. See the Web site for instructions.
Parental consent
If your student is under 18, it is important to sign a consent form and send it to USHS. It can
be found on the required immunization form your student received in the VCU Handbook
for Accepted Students or online at www.students.vcu.edu/health/immunizations. Certain
diagnoses and conditions will be treated in a confidential manner and without parental
consent regardless of the student’s age. These diagnoses include contraception, pregnancy,
family planning, diagnosis and treatment of sexually transmitted infections, mental health
issues and substance abuse.
Strict confidentiality is assured if, or once your student turns 18. No information will be
released to anyone—including parents—without the student’s consent or a court order.
While this may prove worrisome or frustrating to you as a parent, strict confidentiality
is essential in promoting a therapeutic relationship with the health care provider and in
encouraging the student to take responsibility for his or her own health care.
Checklist of essential personal health information every
college student should bring to school:
◽H ealth insurance information with name and telephone
number of primary care provider, if applicable
◽ List of current medications and dosages
◽ List of allergies to medications, foods, etc.
◽ Previous medical history
◽ Copy of immunization record
◽ Updated family medical history
15
The Wellness Resource Center
815 Cathedral Place P.O Box 842022 • (804) 828-9355 • www.students.vcu.edu/health/thewell
The Wellness Resource Center is engaged in the science and art of empowering all
students to move towards optimal health—a balance of physical, emotional, social,
intellectual and spiritual health. The Well is committed to helping VCU students learn
about health through one-on-one sessions, group presentations and awareness events.
Services offered at The Well include programs dealing with the following issues:
◽ Nutrition, disordered eating and body image
◽  ape, sexual assault, stalking and domestic violence
R
◽ Sexual health
◽  moking and tobacco cessation—see www.smokefreeVCU.org and come by for a
S
free Quit Kit.
◽ Stress
◽S ubstance Abuse Education and Prevention—visit our confidential and anonymous
online assessment at www.myonlinesurveys.com/vcu, password: vcu.edu
Volunteer opportunities at “The Well”
The Well has many volunteer opportunities for students. Applications are available online:
◽P
 roject Reach: Peer educators who are trained to help VCU students make healthy
choices teaching about a variety of important college health concerns: nutrition,
stress, body image, sleep, sexual health, and alcohol.
◽V
 CU Cancer Awareness Team (CAT): Peer educators who work to raise awareness of
cancer and encourage prevention and early detection among VCU students. This group
participates in Relay for Life and is a chapter of Colleges Against Cancer through the
American Cancer Society.
◽S
 AVES: Peer educators who teach men and women
about healthy relationships, sexual assault, stalking,
and relationship violence.
Health research about VCU students
VCU students are healthier than they think—because they use many creative health
strategies. For research findings about the health behaviors at VCU,
interesting health strategies and recent poster material see www.
yourstrategy.org.
www.vcu.edu
A Parent's Guide To Roommates: Dos and Don’ts
Though students bear the primary responsibility for successful roommate relationships, parents play an
integral role. While conflict is likely to occur when living in such close quarters with another person, it
doesn’t have to be as disruptive as it might appear at the outset. Your student often will take his or her
cues from you. The tips below will help you support them on the road to easier roommate living.
DOs:
◽ DO encourage your student to talk to his/her roommate honestly, even if he or she is normally shy.
Good communication is key to a good living relationship. Remind your student to set expectations
and guidelines for how the room operates. Do this early revisit those guidelines throughout the year
to make any necessary changes. Hall staff is happy to help.
◽ DO encourage your student to create a roommate or suitemate contract. A contract that states
each roommate’s likes, dislikes and habits is a useful tool in beginning communication between
roommates and will assist in discussing the disagreements that all roommates inevitably have.
◽ DO ask staff for guidance. Remember that patterns change as the year goes on. The roommate
who once was a morning person could become a night person, so it’s important to respect growth
and development.
◽ DO talk to your student about his/her living situation and encourage him/her to involve hall staff.
Often, issues that seem to have no solution can be resolved with the quick involvement of our
trained staff. Remind them to be assertive but also ready to compromise. A new living situation is
tough often doesn’t play out exactly the way that only one person would like it to. Communication
begins with stating needs clearly; that can help ensure conflict doesn’t occur in the first place.
◽ DO know the resources and remind your student of them. Each student is assigned a Resident
Assistant and each building has at least one Resident Director who lives in the building. Master’s-
level professional staff are assigned to run each hall; there is a residence life staff member on call
at all times.
DON’Ts
◽ DON’T play the blame game. Most roommate conflicts result from a lack of communication of clear
expectations on both sides. Remember, you’re only hearing one side of the story.
◽ DON’T assume that your student and their roommate have to be exactly alike. Good living
situations are a result of communication and mutual respect for one another. Not everyone has the
same definition of “early” or “clean”; it’s important that students communicate their needs clearly.
◽ DON’T get caught up in “winning.” Every parent wants their student to be happy and healthy…
and happy. When dealing with a conflict, the goal is to work through the problem and improve
the living situation for everyone. Everyone, including your student, has to be willing to compromise
a little bit.
◽ DON’T assume your student is in it alone. Any student can seek his or her RA to assist with a
mediation. Or any of our staff. We want to help resolve the conflict and make sure everyone grows
from the experience.
Finally, DON’T hesitate to contact the Residential Life and Housing Office if you have
questions, concerns or issues you need to discuss with us. Our central office number is
(804) 828-7666.
16
Monroe Park and MCV campuses map

64

1
301

MCV CAMPUS

7TH ST.
95 T. MCV Rec &
64 DUV
AL S Aquatic Center

C
VA BioTech Park Cabaniss

H
AM
Hall
33

BE
95
JACKSON ST.

RL
MCV Campus N Parking
MONROE PARK CAMPUS

AY
Low-Rises Deck School
Biotech I
BioTech

N
of Nursing

E
AV
33

E
LEIGH ST. LEIGH ST.
��

12TH ST.
LOMBARDY ST.

COLISEUM

��
HANCOCK ST.

��
HARRISON ST.

BELVIDERE ST.
GOSHEN ST.

CATHERINE ST. D Parking

GILMER ST.
BOWE ST.

Deck

BR
Museum of
CLAY ST. CLAY ST. Valentine Museum
& History Center
Nelson
the Confederacy

O
O
Clinic

MONROE ST.

K
HENRY ST.
Main

RD

11TH ST.
Hospital

.
MARSHALL ST. MARSHALL ST. ��
Bowe St. Deck

JEFFERSON ST.

COLLEGE ST.
10TH ST.
MADISON ST.

FOUSHEE ST.

9TH ST.
Broad &

ADAMS ST.
Sanger

��
Ackell

��
Siegel Center Residence Belvidere Hall
Center Fine Arts Center Student Apts.
BROAD ST. BROAD ST.
�� �� �� TO 18TH ST.
Capital W. Broad St. Deck RAMZ Hall
Garage
HARRISON ST.

Apts.
RYLAND ST.

SHAFER ST.

LAUREL ST.

��

14TH ST.
GRACE ST. W. Grace GRACE ST. � � VCU CAMPUS CONNECTOR
Student
��

CAPITOL

GOVE
Housing
Rhoads Hall SQUARE

R NOR
FRANKLIN ST. Brandt Hall � � FRANKLIN ST. VCU CAMPUS CONNECTOR � �
Johnson Hall

15TH ST.
BANK ST.
�

ST.
Shafer Court MONROE
�

WEST AVE. Hibbs

�
Hall PARK School of
MAIN ST. MAIN ST.
CA

2ND ST.

3RD ST.

7TH ST.

8TH ST.
5TH ST.

6TH ST.
4TH ST.
1ST ST.
Engineering
TH

Singleton East Snead Hall

BE
ED

PAR K AV Center � �

13TH ST.
12TH ST.
E.
RA

Cabell �
LV
�

School of
�
LP

Library
I

Engineering
�

DE
L.

West
PI

CARY ST. CARY ST.

RE

E .
NE

AV Gladding
ST

D Cary St. Student

AVE .
ST

OY Student Residence VCU Brandcenter

MO

VE Housing
G RO FL
.

Commons Main Center

RR

Street . CANAL ST.

HA

Harris Hall ST
IS

Temple Deck D
RR
ST

Bldg. AN
195
HAR

L
.

IS

ER D OWNTOWN EXPRESSWAY
LOM

LA
ON

MB
UR
VE Y
P LU M

CU
ST
B

Oliver Hall BYRD ST.

EL
CH
.
ARDY

Cary St. E .
ST.

Trani
ST

Gym AV
ER

ST.
ST.

Life Sciences
.

MAIN D
LIN

RY

Bldg. OO
ST.

DE

EW
ST

L .
N

ID ST
.
ST

R LE
.

MA
Hollywood BE
ST. Cary St. Deck Cemetery AL
North
C A RY
 2008–2009
Calendar for
Parents & Families
Fortieth and forward Division of Student Affairs New Student Programs
Get ready! You are set to begin your VCU experience during a very special year. & Enrollment Services University College
Forty years ago, in the summer of 1968, Richmond Professional Institute merged Sitterding House Hibbs Hall, First Floor
with the Medical College of Virginia to become what is known now as Virginia 901 Floyd Ave. 900 Park Avenue
Commonwealth University. VCU is celebrating this important milestone in its P.O. Box 843017 P.O. Box 842507
evolution to becoming a world-class research and teaching university, and you're
Richmond, Virginia 23284-3017 Richmond, Virginia 23284-9079
invited! Centered around the theme "Fortieth and forward," a variety of events
and programs are being planned throughout the fall semester that you won't want
to miss, so be on the lookout for future announcements. (804) 828-8940 (804) 828-3700
www.students.vcu.edu www.vcu.edu/uc

DIV-08-0056. VCU is an EEO/AA institution.