July 2016 Parent & Family eNewsletter
Vol. 15 Issue 7
In this issue...
General News
- Family Weekend Football & Event Tickets on Sale Now!
- Parent Pulse Poll
- Student Counseling Center Crisis Helpline
- Gaining Transferrable Skills in the Classroom
- Remind your student to update emergency alert information
- Feed Your Inner Red Raider!
- 2016 Lubbock Visitor's Guide
- For your complete Texas Tech news, visit Texas Tech Today
Parents of Incoming Freshman
- Parents, join your student at the Study Abroad info session during RRO!
- Are you coming to Red Raider Orientation this summer?
- Raider Ready: IS 1100 Course
Financial Tips/Info
- Summer II payment deadlines
- Fall 2016 Bills
- FAFSA® Changes for 2017–18
- Complete Enrollment Certification to Receive Financial Aid
- Red to Black: Peer-to-Peer Financial Coaching
Scholarships/Job Opportunities
- Searching for Scholarships
- Is your student getting scholarships from groups other than Texas Tech for 2016-2017?
- Hospitality Services Hiring for Fall 2016
- Is your student looking for a job?
- Students planning to work on campus need original social security card
Academic
Housing
- Fall 2016 Move-In
- Living Off Campus - Common Pitfalls
- Consider renters insurance for your student whether they are living on or off campus
Graduation
Important Dates
Extracurricular Activities
Texas Tech Parents Association
LIKE US ON FACEBOOK!
Family Weekend Football & Event Tickets on Sale Now!
Mark your calendars for Thursday, September 29th - Sunday, October 2nd for this year's Family Weekend at Texas Tech University when Texas Tech football faces the University of Kansas.
Order your discounted Family Weekend football tickets to the Texas Tech vs. Kansas game. The Promo Code you will enter is FAMILY16. For questions regarding ticket sales, please contact the Texas Tech Athletic Ticket Office at 806-742-4412.
Visit our website for Family Weekend schedule and registration information.
You will want to make your hotel reservations soon as rooms will fill up quickly. Click HERE for a complete listing of Lubbock hotels.
The Texas Tech Parents Association will be Celebrating 60 Years during Family Weekend 2016. Various events will be hosted to celebrate this milestone anniversary. Serving and supporting parents, students, and Texas Tech University, your Parents Association was founded in October 1956 and begins celebrating 60 years of serving and supporting Red Raider parents, their students and Texas Tech University. Learn more and join the Texas Tech Parents Association at www.texastechparents.org.
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 poll about fraternity and sorority life: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/J3VQLT8
For past poll results visit http://www.depts.ttu.edu/parentrelations/polls.php.
Student Counseling Center Crisis Helpline
A new 24-hour telephone helpline service is available to assist Texas Tech students who are experiencing a mental health or interpersonal violence crisis. The TTU Crisis HelpLine number is (806) 742-5555. Students can call the helpline and speak immediately with a mental health counselor.
Parents who are helping a student in distress can also call the helpline for assistance. In addition to assisting with immediate crises, the helpline counselors will be familiar with Texas Tech and Lubbock community resources and will be able to direct the caller to the appropriate resource.
Gaining Transferrable Skills in the Classroom
You want college to be a good experience. For the experience to be a positive one, the college needs to be a good fit for your student. College students learn important transferrable and marketable skills that can aid in their job search. These skills can be acquired and practiced in a classroom setting. Below is a list of the most common transferrable and marketable skills that can be gained through school. Help your student understand how classroom time can transfer seamlessly as experience on their resume and cover letter.
- Ability to meet deadlines (time management)
- Ability to handle several tasks (prioritize)
- Adaptability
- Setting and reaching goals
- Team work
- Conflict management
- Research skills
- Clear, concise writing
By helping students understand that classroom time is a vital component of gaining skills that will directly impact their ability to get a job, you can help prepare them for the transition from college to job. Framing classroom time as not only a necessity to graduate, but as preparation for their future jobs, parents can help their student understand the importance of attending and participating in class.
You can review the University Career Center events and online resources anytime by visiting www.careercenter.ttu.edu. Students can set up an appointment by calling 806-742-2210. University Career Center hours are Monday through Friday, 8 am to 5 pm.
Remind your student to update emergency alert information
Texas Tech's Emergency Communications Center is intended to inform the Texas Tech University community about what to do in advance of, during and after an emergency.
If your student has not already done so, remind him or her to update their cell phone, home phone, or text message information at www.ttu.edu/emergencyalert. Up to four phone numbers can be entered, with TTY/TDD for hearing impaired and text messaging options. The system is used to alert the university community of emergency situations and class cancellations or delays.
Students will need their eRaider login to update their information at http://www.depts.ttu.edu/communications/emergency/.
Feed Your Inner Red Raider!
Hospitality Services features 21 dining locations at Texas Tech University, making it easy for your student to pop in for breakfast, lunch or dinner, snatch a Grab-N-Go item or just pick up an energizing snack. We offer more than 50 dining options, including all-you-care-to-eat venues, express kiosks, food courts, mini-markets, national brands, retail outlets and even a food truck.
Hospitality Services strives to promote your student's educational needs by creating a supportive environment that allows them to receive the full benefits of the university and to accomplish their personal goals. We are dedicated to student success!
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
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.
Parents, join your student at the Study Abroad info session during RRO!
Texas Tech's Office of International Affairs wants to help you and your student learn all there is to know about studying abroad!
During orientation, join us in the Lubbock Room at the Student Union Building for our study abroad presentation. Study abroad advisors will be there to discuss the different programs, how credit applies, the benefits of studying abroad, and what options your student has for funding their trip abroad!
Also, swing by our table at the resource fair to speak directly with advisors to get any additional questions answered!
See you soon!
Wreck 'Em, Tech!
Are you coming to Red Raider Orientation this summer?
Are you attending Red Raider Orientation this summer? Parent & Family Relations will be providing you with a copy of the Parent & Family Guide, conduct parent and family orientation presentations, and show you how to get involved. We look forward to seeing you this summer!
Be sure to check out our video about What to Expect at Red Raider Orientation.
Visit www.redraiderorientation.ttu.edu or call the Center for Campus Life at 806-742-5433 for information about Red Raider Orientation.
Raider Ready: IS 1100 Course
RaiderReady: IS 1100 is a course designed to bridge the gap between high school and collegiate success. Students who enroll in this one-hour class can expect to learn and further develop note, studying, and test taking skills, academic professionalism, as well as stress management.
RaiderReady is an invaluable resource not only for the quality of skills our students learn, but also the relationships built while doing so. Allowing the students a place and faculty member to navigate freshman year creates success, and is evident in higher numbers of students returning for a second year in comparison to the university average.
Summer II Payment Deadlines
Summer II deadline for payment in full or enrollment in payment plan is July 5.
Summer II payment plan due date is July 25.
Summer II book loan due date is July 25.
For more information visit Student Business Services website.
Fall 2016 Bills
Fall bills will be issued July 26, 2016. Be sure your student is checking his or her Texas Tech email to receive this information. For more information regarding the bill visit Student Business Services website.
FAFSA® Changes for 2017–18
Students will be able to submit a FAFSA® earlier. Students will be able to file a 2017–18 FAFSA as early as Oct. 1, 2016, rather than beginning on Jan. 1, 2017. The earlier submission date will be a permanent change, enabling students to complete and submit a FAFSA as early as October 1 every year. (There is NO CHANGE to the 2016–17 schedule. The FAFSA became available January 1 as in previous years.)
Students will use earlier income information. Beginning with the 2017–18 FAFSA, students will be required to report income information from an earlier tax year. For example, on the 2017–18 FAFSA, students (and parents, as appropriate) will report their 2015 income information, rather than their 2016 income information.
Learn More https://studentaid.ed.gov/sa/about/announcements/fafsa-changes
Complete Enrollment Certification to Receive Financial Aid
All students attending Texas Tech must complete Enrollment Certification in order to receive funding. Here are the steps to complete:
- Log into MyTech, access your Financial Aid under "Manage My Finances"
- Select "View/Accept Aid Package", select aid year (2016-2017)
- The Expected Certification Tab is the third tab, please answer the questions, and click submit information.
Watch this tutorial on how to complete enrollment certification: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CUrnfRJibXY
Red to Black: Peer-to-Peer Financial Coaching
Hi, Parents! As the end of the semester is quickly approaching, it is time to start looking towards summer jobs, or even graduation. One of the services Red to Black Peer Financial Coaching can assist your student with is helping them evaluate employee benefits packages. Have your student contact us today to learn more! 806-742-9781| redtoblack@ttu.edu | www.r2b.ttu.edu
Searching for Scholarships
The Scholarship Office recently developed a new search tool for external scholarships. Most of the scholarships listed are scholarships that students at Texas Tech have actually received.
Learn More http://www.depts.ttu.edu/scholarships/ExternalScholarships/ScholarshipSearch.php
Is your student getting scholarships from groups other than Texas Tech for 2016-2017?
Is your student expecting scholarships from sources outside the university? Please help them remember to report them through our new online form https://apps.texastech.edu/finaidForms/ttu/externalScholarships.
*This is a secured form, so the student will need to sign in using their eraider to access it.
Hospitality Services Hiring for Fall 2016
Hospitality Services has positions available in many of their dining locations, the StrEat food truck, and even with Top Tier Catering for fall 2016. No matter what kind of atmosphere your student wants to work in -- Hospitality Services has just the position for them!!
Advantages to working for Hospitality Services:
- Flexible schedule – can work around your student's class schedule (students can work anytime between 6AM-2AM, 7 days a week)
- Holidays off (e.g. Winter Break, Spring Break)
- Competitive pay rates and fast advancement opportunities
- Training Pay raises
- No Social Security Tax withheld
- Discounted meals
Applying is easy!
- Download an application online at hospitality.ttu.edu and e-mail it to dee.nguyen@ttu.edu OR
- Apply in person at Hospitality Services at the Wiggins Complex. They have printed applications students can fill out by hand.
Questions about student employment within Hospitality Services, please contact Dee Nguyen, Recruitment Supervisor, at dee.nguyen@ttu.edu, or call 806.834.0946
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.
The Learning Center - Summer Tutoring
If your student is taking classes this summer The Learning Center has tutors on hand.
Tutoring for Summer I will begin Tuesday, June 6th. For more details visit The Learning Center website.
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.
Fall 2016 Move-In
Residence Halls officially open on Sunday, August 21st at 10:00 a.m. For information about what to do when you arrive, what to bring, what not to bring, room dimensions, and other information, visit http://www.depts.ttu.edu/housing/movein.php.
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.
Commencement Dates
If your student is graduating in August, congratulations! Below is the Summer Commencement schedule for Texas Tech University.
PLEASE NOTE: The colleges are listed below in alphabetical order and NOT necessarily in the order in which they will be recognized.
Saturday, August 13, 2016
9:00 a.m.
Business Administration
Engineering
Graduate School
Human Sciences
Visual & Performing Arts
University Programs
1:30 p.m.
Agricultural
Architecture
Arts and Sciences
Education
Graduate School
Honors College (EVHM and HAL majors only)
Media and Communication
Texas Tech has a Commencement web site, which is your one-stop-shop for all things related to Commencement, including the schedule for upcoming ceremonies, lists of hotels (which sell out quickly!), parking information, and information about ordering invitations and photos of the big day.
Bookmark this site for all of your Commencement needs:
https://www.depts.ttu.edu/provost/commencement/
Graduation Fair and Ring Ceremony Dates
Graduation Fair
September 13th, 14th and 15th
9:00 a.m. to 5 p.m.
McKenzie Merket Alumni Center)
Ring ceremony
November 7th, 8th and 9th
McKenzie Merket Alumni Center
Please visit the Alumni Association website for detail on these special events for our graduates.
This month's academic and event calendar
July 4, Monday
University holiday.
July 5, Tuesday
Last day to withdraw from the university. Although withdrawal can be processed until
this date, all tuition and fees related to the registration are due in full and no
refunds will be issued.
Last day for undergraduate degree candidates to remove grades of I and PR.
95% payment of mandatory tuition and fees or enrollment in a payment plan due for Summer II. Registrations after this date require immediate payment or enrollment in a payment plan.
July 6, Wednesday
Raiderlink available for grading.
July 7, Thursday
Last day of classes.
July 8 – 9, Friday – Saturday
Final examinations.
July 9, Saturday
First summer term ends.
July 10, Sunday
Students without room reservations for the second term must vacate residence hall
rooms by 10 a.m.
Minimal dining locations open (www.depts.ttu.edu/hospitality).
10 a.m., Residence halls open for Summer II occupancy.
July 11, Monday
Noon, Final grades due via Raiderlink.
Faculty on duty.
Last day to register or withdraw from the university without financial penalty. For more information see www.depts.ttu.edu/studentbusinessservices/calendar/withdrawDates.php.
Select dining locations open for summer (www.depts.ttu.edu/hospitality).
July 12, Tuesday
Classes begin.
July 13, Wednesday
Last day for student-initiated addition of a course on MyTech. Course may be added
until July 15 with advisor permission.
Last day to withdraw from the university for Summer II and receive partial financial credit. For more information visit Student Business Services.
July 15, 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 July 6.
July 16, Saturday
Student-initiated drop made on or after this date counts against drop limit. All drops
are the responsibility of the stude
Complete calendar information:
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