February 2016 Parent & Family eNewsletter
Vol. 15 Issue 2
In this issue...
General News
- Tickets on Sale for Spring Break Bus Trip
- Parent Pulse Poll
- Register for Sibling Weekend 2016: February 20-21, 2016
- Valentine's Day Massages
- Feed Your Inner Red Raider!
- University Career Center: A Busy Spring Semester Ahead!
- President Select Membership Info Session: February 2nd
- Chancellor's Ambassadors Application Now Open!
- Save Now for a Ring Later!
- TTU First Annual Sex Week
- Women's Night at the Rec Center
- Parent & Family Bumper Sticker Contest
- 1098T Information
- 2016 Lubbock Visitor's Guide
- For your complete Texas Tech news, visit Texas Tech Today
Financial Tips/Info
- Spring 2016 Budget Payment Plan and Emergency Payment Plan due February 25th
- Red to Black: Peer-to-Peer Financial Coaching
Scholarships/Job Opportunities
- Red Raider Camp Hiring!
- Summer job opportunities for your student: Join the Crew!
- Is your student looking for a job?
- Students planning to work on campus need original social security card
Academic
- Study Abroad Fair: February 3rd
- Pre-Professional Health Fair
- University Writing Center
- SOAR Learning Center empowers students in pursuits of success
Housing
- TTU Off Campus Housing Fair
- Living Off Campus - Common Pitfalls
- Consider renters insurance for your student whether they are living on or off campus
Important Dates
Extracurricular Activities
- Volunteer Fair: February 8th
- Have your student check out Orgsync for ways to get involved
- Student Union and Activities Calendar
Texas Tech Parents Association
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Tickets on Sale for Spring Break Bus Trip
Does your student need a ride home for Spring Break? Parent and Family Relations is pleased to announce that Break Shuttle will provide bus trips to assist Texas Tech students in traveling home for Spring Break 2016. Break Shuttle is the largest break/event transportation service for colleges and universities in the country.
Charter buses will transport students to/from Lubbock for Spring Break. Destinations are Dallas/Fort Worth, Houston, and San Antonio/Austin. Buses depart Lubbock on Saturday, March 12th and return to Lubbock on Sunday, March 20th. Seating is based on availability and is sold on a first come, first served basis. Prices vary by destination. More information about this trip and the online registration link can be found below.
Bus trips are provided by Break Shuttle, a separate entity from Texas Tech University. Parent and Family Relations at Texas Tech University works with Break Shuttle to ensure these trips are possible.
For more information and the registration link, visit http://www.depts.ttu.edu/parentrelations/bustrips.php.
Questions about registration or anything connected to the bus trip should be directed to Break Shuttle, http://www.breakshuttle.com/, information@BreakShuttle.com, or (855) 620-1924.
Parent Pulse Poll
Each month, Parent & Family Relations will conduct a Parent & Family Pulse Poll—a brief poll about Texas Tech parent and family experiences. We will share our poll results each month online. Here is the link to this month's Parent Pulse Poll
For past poll results visit http://www.depts.ttu.edu/parentrelations/polls.php.
Register for Sibling Weekend 2016: February 20-21, 2016
Mark your calendars for the weekend of February 20-21, 2016! Parent and Family Relations will be hosting Sibling Weekend for your younger children ages 8-15.
Enjoy a weekend filled with fun, educational, and spirited events sure to get siblings of Texas Tech students excited about college and share in the traditions of Raiderland. Sibling Weekend invites Texas Tech students to spend time with their brothers or sisters in a weekend filled with great activities just for them. Siblings between the ages of 8 and 15 are invited to attend. This is one event they will not want to miss!
Registration, tentative schedule, and more information are available online at www.parent.ttu.edu.
Valentine's Day Massages
Looking for a relaxing, fun Valentine's gift for your student? Recreational Sports offers massages by licensed massage therapists. You can purchase a gift card (we will mail it to your student) by calling (806) 742-3828. Cost is $40 for an hour or $25 for a half hour.
Feed Your Inner Red Raider!
Hospitality Services want your Red Raider to get the most out of their Dining Bucks, so we're providing them with numerous options when it comes to Dining Plans!
Need to make a change? On-campus Resident Dining Plan holders have the option to raise or lower their Dining Plan Level through the 20th class day of the spring 2016 semester. The 20th class day in the spring semester is February 17th, 2016 (Dining Plan Change Form or call 806.742.2661).
Do Dining Bucks rollover? Students can roll unused Dining Bucks to their next on-campus living contract. Dining Bucks do not roll to an off-campus/commuter Dining Plan and they are non-refundable and non-transferable.
For more information about on-campus dining options or Dining Plans visit hospitality.ttu.edu or call 806.742.1360. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @EatAtTexasTech
University Career Center: A Busy Spring Semester Ahead!
Is your student graduating in May or August and looking for a job? Or maybe they have a few more semesters to go and would like to find an internship or part-time job. Parents can emphasize the importance of career exploration and development to their students by encouraging them to attend the University Career Center's spring events.
Summer Camp Job Fair, February 10th from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM in the SUB Ballroom. This event brings camps from Texas and the region to fill their summer positions. Summer camp jobs are a great way to have fun, gain work experience, and make money.
Resume Critique Days, February 18th and 29th, March 22nd and April 20th at the University Career Center. Students and alumni can walk in without an appointment and have their resume critiqued by career professionals.
Mocktail Party, February 23rd from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the McKenzie-Merket Alumni Center. This is the perfect event to practice socializing in a reception environment; for example, how to shake hands while holding a plate of food and a beverage. Networking tips and professional conversational topics are discussed.
The All Majors Job Fair:Put Your Degree to Work, March 2nd from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM in the SUB Ballroom. Students and alumni can visit with 50 employers, many recruiting all majors. UCC is partnering with Tech Activities Board (TAB) to provide those attending a free professional headshot.
Teacher Job Fair, March 22nd from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM at the Lubbock Memorial Civic Center. Representatives from top school districts will be in attendance at this year's Teacher Job Fair.
Non-Profit Fair, April 6th from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM at the University Career Center. Non-Profit organizations from Lubbock will be in attendance. Students interested in acquiring practicum experience, internships, or full-time employment in a non-profit organization will have the opportunity to talk with representatives and pick up valuable information about various organizations.
Parents can help their students prepare for these opportunities by:
- Encouraging their student to attend multiple events
- Reminding them that the University Career Center can help with resumes, cover letters, and mock interviews
- Providing guidance on professional dress
- Sharing effective networking strategies
- offering encouragement
We encourage you and your student to contact us for advice on how to best prepare for any of the above mentioned events by calling 806-742-2210. University Career Center hours are Monday through Friday, 8 am to 5 pm.
President Select Membership Info Session: February 2nd
President's Select is a group of Texas Tech University student ambassadors chosen specifically to serve Texas Tech through the Office of the President, Office of Admissions and Texas Tech Athletics in the recruitment of new students and the fostering of relationships with all University publics including prospective students, special guests and alumni.
One of Texas Tech's most recognized organizations, President's Select members are the official ambassadors for Texas Tech representing many facet of the campus. Duties include conducting regular campus tours and attending admissions, athletics and presidential events. Members are actively involved in leadership roles throughout the campus including student government, Greek fraternities and sororities, professional and academic organizations.
Membership Information Session
Tuesday, February 2, 2016
Time: 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.
Location: Human Sciences Room 169
For more information and to apply visit http://www.ttu.edu/administration/president/presidentsselect/Join/.
Chancellor's Ambassadors Application Now Open!
Chancellor's Ambassadors is an organization comprised of top undergraduate and graduate students from the Texas Tech University System. Selected to serve through a competitive application process, these students act as the official hosts for events held by the Office of the Chancellor, Institutional Advancement, and the Board of Regents.
Membership Requirements:
- Undergraduate students must have at least 60 hours of coursework completed by the end of the spring 2016 semester.
- Must have a 3.0 cumulative GPA.
- Must meet established point requirements designated for each academic year.
If you have any questions, contact michela.heth@ttu.edu.
Save Now for a Ring Later!
The Official Texas Tech Class Ring symbolizes a significant achievement in a student's academic career. Students only need 75 hours to purchase a class ring, but they can begin saving as soon as their first day of class.
The Texas Tech Alumni Association has made it easy to save for your ring through the Ring Savings Program. Each semester you can set aside a refundable $75, which may then be applied toward the purchase of your Official Texas Tech Class Ring, upon eligibility.
To enroll and begin saving today, simply log on to Raiderlink.ttu.edu, click on the MyTech tab, and sign up in the Official Class Ring section under Optional Services.
It's never been easier to join the "Tradition."
For more information on the Official Texas Tech Class Ring, visit the Texas Tech Alumni Association online at www.texastechalumni.org/ring.
TTU First Annual Sex Week
The Risk Intervention and Safety Education department will be hosting the first annual Sex Week, February 8-11, 2016. The week will feature events on consent, communication, intimacy in relationships, self-empowerment, and readiness for sex. All events are open to students of all genders and orientations.
For more information visit www.rise.ttu.edu.
Women's Night at the Rec Center
Texas Tech women are invited to attend the 2016 Women's Night at the Rec Center. This event will only be open to females and is aimed to include a night of free, inclusive, and healthy fun for women of the Texas Tech community. The goal of the event is to educate and empower women on issues surrounding mental health, physical health, and self-care via health workshops, exercise classes, climbing and bouldering, nutrition & exercise tips, giveaways, food, prizes, and more!
Save the date for February 12th from 8PM-10PM
For more information visit http://www.depts.ttu.edu/recsports/specialevents/womensnight.php.
Parent & Family Bumper Sticker Contest
Parent and Family Relations is sponsoring a bumper sticker design contest. This bumper sticker will be distributed to all parents and family members during Red Raider Orientation.
Design your bumper sticker in graphics software (preferred: Vectorized Artwork in an EPS or Adobe Illustrator File) or draw a detailed sketch. Include your name, contact info, and PDF of artwork. Submissions can be sent via email to parent@ttu.edu or dropped off at Parent and Family Relations in 201Q Student Union (2nd floor of the SUB). Include your name and contact information.
Design criteria: colors must be red, black, and/or white, size must be 7"Wx 2"H (with full bleeds), and the words "Red Raider Family" are the only words to be used.
If you use the Double T logo, be sure to follow guidelines on the use of the Double T. Information on proper use can be found at: http://graphics.fansonly.com/schools/text/graphics/t-standards.gif.
Submission deadline is Monday, March 28th at 5:00PM.
Winner will be notified after April 4th. The prize is a Red Raider prize pack.
Call 806-742-3630 or email parent@ttu.edu for more information.
1098T Information
Texas Tech University has made it even easier for students to access and view or print 1098-T tax forms when they become available each year. Students that have accepted the Global Electronic Consent during registration or have completed the paper Electronic Consent form may access their 1098-T from the Raiderlink portal and completing the steps below.
- Click on the TTU MyTech tab in Raiderlink
- Click on the Student Business Services link in the Action Items box
- Click on the 1098T - View and Print link
- A new window will open your personal 1098-T page
For additional information visit http://www.depts.ttu.edu/studentbusinessservices/feeInfo/1098T.php.
Note: Students that have not completed the Electronic Consent form will receive a paper copy of the 1098-T by mail. Student Business Services will mail 1098-T forms no later than January 31st to the permanent address that is on file in Raiderlink.
2016 Lubbock Visitor's Guide
When you make plans to visit your student be sure to check out the interactive visitor guide provided by Visit Lubbock.
For your complete Texas Tech news, visit Texas Tech Today
Keep up-to-date about everything Texas Tech by visiting Texas Tech Today, a complete news source for Texas Tech University.
Spring 2016 Budget Payment Plan and Emergency Payment Plan due February 25th
February 25 – Budget Payment Plan and Emergency Payment Plan installment payment date. For more information visit www.sbs.ttu.edu.
Red to Black: Peer-to-Peer Financial Coaching
Red to Black Peer Financial Coaching is partnering with America Saves to celebrate America Saves Week! America Saves is a national campaign involving more than 1,000 non-profit, government, and corporate groups that encourages individuals and families to save money and build personal wealth.
On February 22 through February 24, Red to Black Peer Financial Coaching has several activities planned to help promote savings awareness amongst students, including making savings pledges, photo booths, and giveaways! Please encourage your students to attend!
Red to Black Peer Financial Coaching offers peer-to-peer financial coaching for all Texas Tech Students. We are available to assist students in creating a budget, setting savings goals, making financial aid dollars last, and so much more. Students can learn more about our program at www.r2b.ttu.edu.
Red Raider Camp Hiring!
Does your student love Texas Tech? Do they want a fun and unique experience this summer? They should be a part of Red Raider Camp Staff! Each year Red Raider Camp (RRC) hires energetic, fun, and spirited students to work Red Raider Camp. These students get an incredible opportunity to have a fun and exciting job while representing Texas Tech! Being on the Camp Staff is a unique experience; students will interact with and guide new students through Red Raider Camp, develop leadership skills, and have a lot of fun while showing their Red Raider pride! Red Raider Camp is our 3 day-2 night spirit camp in Brownwood, Texas! For more information on the program visit www.redraidercamp.ttu.edu.
The Camp Staff are students who work all 3 Camp sessions. Camp will take place July 31 to August 10. This gives students the opportunities for summer classes, internships, or just a chance to go home.
If your student is interested in the position, they should attend an information session (dates below). Attending an information session is required in order to receive an application.
Wednesday, February 10 @ 4:00 p.m. & 5:00 p.m.
Thursday, February 11 @ 3:30 p.m. & 5:00 p.m.
Monday, February 15 @ 5:00 p.m.
Tuesday, February 16 @ 5:00 p.m.
All information sessions will be held in the Student Union Building. Room will vary by info session. Please refer to the website for correct location.
Do you or your student see Red Raider Camp as a part of his/her summer? If you or your student has any further questions, please contact Stefan Altheide at stefan.altheide@ttu.edu or visit us at www.redraidercamp.ttu.edu.
Summer job opportunities for your student: Join the Crew!
Is your student looking for an exciting summer job? They should join the Crew! Each year Red Raider Orientation (RRO) hires students from a wide range of backgrounds, colleges, and organizations. These students get an incredible opportunity to have a fun and exciting job while representing Texas Tech! Being on the Crew is a unique experience; students will interact with and guide new students through Red Raider Orientation, develop relationships with fellow Crew members and Tech faculty/staff, and have a lot of fun while showing their Red Raider pride!
The Crew are students who work the 2 Day RRO sessions. The Crew is divided into two staffs, each working one half of the summer.
1st Half: June 3 - July 1
2nd Half: July 12 - August 8
If your student is interested in the position, they should attend an information session (dates below). Attending an information session is required in order to receive an application.
Wednesday, January 27 @ 11:00 a.m. & 2:00 p.m.
Thursday, January 28 @ 12:30 p.m. & 2:00 p.m.
Monday, February 1 @ 12:00 p.m. 1:00 p.m. & 3:00 p.m.
Tuesday, February 2 @ 12:30 p.m. & 2:00 p.m.
Wednesday, February 3 @ 6:00 p.m. *SUB Lubbock Room
All information sessions will be held in the SUB Traditions Room (*except for the session on 2/3) on the 2nd floor of the Student Union Building.
Do you or your student see Red Raider Orientation as a part of his/her summer? If you or your student has any further questions, please contact Madison Proctor at madison.proctor@ttu.edu or visit us online.
Is your student looking for a job?
Encourage your student to visit Texas Tech Human Resources and University Career Center for on-campus and off-campus employment.
Students planning to work on campus need original social security card
Is your student planning to get a new job on campus? Students who work on campus must bring their original Social Security Cards for human resources processing due to federal I-9 requirements. Remind your student to keep his or her social security card in a safe place.
Study Abroad Fair: February 3rd
The spring study abroad fair will be Wednesday, February 3rd from 10:00 am-4:00 pm in the SUB Ballroom. Representatives from various programs will be on hand to meet with students and provide information about study abroad options.
TTU faculty who will lead summer programs will also be available as well as many study abroad returnees. Learn about scholarship and financial aid possibilities that may help you pay for the experience. Drop by during the day and explore your opportunity to earn credit in an international location.
For additional information contact the Study Abroad Office 806-742-3667.
Pre-Professional Health Fair
Is your student interested in going into the health profession? Encourage them to attend the Pre-Professional Health Fair to learn and explore various programs. This event is FREE to attend and open to everyone.
Tuesday, February 9th 2016
10:00 am-2:00 pm
TTU Library
Creslin Room
For more information visit https://www.depts.ttu.edu/pphc/.
University Writing Center
The University Writing Center offers undergraduates, graduate students, faculty, and staff 30-minute, one-on-one tutorials on any type of writing, including resumes, personal statements, research papers, and articles for publication. We believe that writing serves as one of the primary means for learning and communicating, and that every good writer needs a good reader.
The UWC is open for the spring term. Our hours are Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. We are located in RM.175 of the English/Philosophy Building.
To set up an appointment, call (806) 742-2476 or visit them online at http://uwc.ttu.edu/.
SOAR Learning Center empowers students in pursuits of success
The SOAR Learning Center's mission is to empower students in their pursuit towards academic success while providing an encouraging and safe learning environment. The Learning Center works to enhance the academic endeavors of all currently enrolled Texas Tech students by offering a variety of free services such as peer & online tutoring, academic mentoring, and supplemental instruction. Tutoring and academic mentoring is available Monday through Thursday from 8am-8pm and Friday 8am-5pm.
An additional resource available to students at the Learning Center is access to a licensed professional counselor with over 25 years in education. Stacy Elliot, M.Ed., LPC is a LEARNING SPECIALIST/SENIOR COUNSELOR available to work holistically with students striving to be successful in college. As a counselor, she works to help students resolve personal issues that may hinder their academic success. The Learning Specialist is available Monday through Friday 8am-5pm by appointments and accepts walk-ins.
The SOAR Learning Center is located in Holden Hall Room 80 and our office number is (806)742-3664. Visit us at www.lc.soar.ttu.edu.
TTU Off Campus Housing Fair
Student Legal Services and University Student Housing is hosting an Off Campus Housing Fair February 9th in the Student Union Ballroom from 10AM - 5:30PM. Various off-campus apartments will be there to let your student know about off-campus housing opportunities. Student Legal Services will be there to talk to your student about leases and other issues with living off campus. This event is part of Student Legal Services' "Know Your Rights Week." For more information, contact Student Legal Services at 806-742-3289 or visit University Student Housing website.
Living Off Campus - Common Pitfalls
Is your student living off campus or considering living off campus? Be sure to read Common Pitfalls when it comes to living off campus.
Consider renters insurance for your student whether they are living on or off campus
Most landlords do not require the tenant to have renters insurance. All landlords deny liability for any damages to your personal property caused by water, smoke, or fire. Student Legal Services highly recommends any student, living off campus or on-campus, to obtain renters insurance. Renters insurance is a cost effective way to replace damaged property. Speak with your insurance representative to discuss your options.
If you or your student has any other questions about renters insurance please call 806-742-3289 or visit www.depts.ttu.edu/sls/.
College Renters Insurance offers coverage starting at $5,000 with a $100 deductible.
Coverage for your personal property starts as low as $12 per month.
Visit www.CollegeRentersPlan.com/ttu to see all of the coverage options available or call (866) 572-1617.
Career Center Events
University Career Center Events
Summer Camp Job Fair
February 10th | 11am – 3pm
SUB Ballroom
Resume Critique Day (walk-in resume critiques)
February 16th | 9am – 4pm
University Career Center | 150 Wiggins Complex
Etiquette Dinner
February 18th | 5:30pm – 8pm
McKenzie-Merket Alumni Center | Students can register here
How to Work a Job Fair (workshop)
February 23rd | 2pm – 3pm
University Career Center | 150 Wiggins Complex
Mocktail Party
February 23rd | 5pm – 7pm
McKenzie-Merket Alumni Center | Students can register here
CASNR Career Expo
February 24th | 11am – 3pm
SUB Ballroom
Resume Critique Day (walk-in resume critiques)
February 29th | 9am – 4pm
University Career Center | 150 Wiggins Complex
Webinars
These webinars are 30-45 minute live informational sessions focused on career growth
and development. Topics include resume and cover letter writing, job fair preparation,
and industry insights! Visit the UCC website for a complete listing of upcoming webinars.
For a full list of upcoming events and webinars, please visit the University Career Center Events page.
This month's academic and event calendar
February 5, Friday
Last day for student-initiated drop on MyTech without academic penalty (drop does not count against drop limit). All drops are the responsibility of the student.
Last day to drop a course and have course charges removed. Students who drop to 0 hours are considered to be a withdrawal. Financial penalties apply for withdrawals after January 20.
February 6, Saturday
Student-initiated drop made on or after this date counts against drop limit. All drops are the responsibility of the student.
February 17, Wednesday
Last day to withdraw from the university and receive partial financial credit. For more information see www.depts.ttu.edu/studentbusinessservices/calendar/withdrawDates.php.
Last day to withdraw from the university and receive pro-rated room and dining plan refund. For more information see housing.ttu.edu/contractguide.
Last day to change on-campus dining plan level for the spring semester.
For the Texas Tech event calendar, please CLICK HERE.
Volunteer Fair: February 8th
Volunteering is a great opportunity to get involved in the community. Be sure to let your students know about the upcoming Volunteer Fair.
Spring 2016 Volunteer Fair
Monday, February 8, 2016
10:00 am - 1:00 pm
Student Union Building, Red Raider Ballroom
For more information visit http://www.depts.ttu.edu/sub/Outreach/volfair.php.
Have your student check out Orgsync for ways to get involved
Is your student involved in student organizations? If not, have him or her visit http://ttu.orgsync.com for a list of and contact information for all registered student organizations. It is especially important for students living on and off campus to get involved and stay connected to campus.
Student Union and Activities Calendar
Student Union and Activities always makes sure there is plenty for your Tech students to do! If your student complains that he or she can't find any fun activities or meet many people on campus, tell him or her about these exciting, FREE activities.
Click HERE for the complete Activities Calendar.
Looking for ways to get involved?
For more ways to get involved as a parent or family member of a Texas Tech student, join the Texas Tech Parents Association at www.texastechparents.org. Your membership dues support programs such as scholarships for Texas Tech students, the Road Raiders Safe Travel Network, and local chapters all over Texas.
You can also get involved in various chapter activities throughout the year. Come enjoy a fun time with other Texas Tech parents and family members. Click HERE to view community calendar of events.
Parent and Family Relations
-
Address
Drane Hall 2515 15th St., Box 45020, Lubbock, Texas 79409-5020 -
Phone
806.742.3630 -
Email
parent@ttu.edu