November 2015 Parent & Family eNewsletter
Vol. 14 Issue 11
In this issue...
General News
- Parent Pulse Poll
- What you should do if your student is stressed or homesick
- Airport Transportation Recommendations
- Thanksgiving and Winter Break Bus Trip Tickets Available!
- Texas Tech Annual Security Report
- University Career Center: Helping your student achieve the best!
- Order the 2015 Official Texas Tech Ornament
- Feed Your Inner Red Raider!
- Texas Tech Alumni Association Pre-Game Football Events
- For your complete Texas Tech news, visit Texas Tech Today
Parents of Incoming Freshman/Transfers
Financial Tips/Info
Scholarships/Job Opportunities
- The TTU Current Student Scholarship application is live!
- Is your student looking for a job?
- Students planning to work on campus need original social security card
Academic
- Advance Registration for currently enrolled students begins November 5th
- University Writing Center
- SOAR Learning Center empowers students in pursuits of success
Housing
- Living Off Campus - Common Pitfalls
- Consider renters insurance for your student whether they are living on or off campus
Student Perspectives
Graduation
- Fall Commencement Dates
- Texas Tech Ring Ceremony
- Regalia Rentals Now Available
- The Official Texas Tech Ring Savings Program
Important Dates
- Save the Date for Sibling Weekend: February 20-21, 2016
- Career Center Events
- Save the date for Carol of Lights: December 1st
- This month's academic and event calendar
Extracurricular Activities
Texas Tech Parents Association
- Road Raiders: Have a peace of mind when your student is traveling during Thanksgiving
- Looking for ways to get involved?
LIKE US ON FACEBOOK!
Parent Pulse Poll
Parent & Family Relations conducts a Parent & Family Pulse Poll—a brief poll about Texas Tech parent and family experiences.
Last month's poll about student involvement revealed many students are involved with one, two, and three student organizations. For the complete results of the poll and student involvement visit http://www.depts.ttu.edu/parentrelations/polls.php.
What you should do if your student is stressed or homesick
Has your student called home feeling stressed or homesick? Below are some tips that can help you and your student:
My student is stressed out....What do I do?
- This is a great time to remind your student about campus resources such as:
- Student Counseling Center- Services offered include individual counseling, couples counseling, and group counseling. Located on the 2nd floor of the Student Wellness Center in room 201 (on the corner of Flint Ave and Main St).
- The Mind Spa- Offers Relaxation Room with tools for stress management including zero-gravity massage chair, stress management audio-video library and biofeedback software which teaches breathing and imagery techniques for managing stress. Mind and Body Room provides recliner and Xbox 360 with games to assist in full body relaxation.
- Rec Center Massages- Purchase a gift card for your student to receive a massage during those high stress time. Gift certificates can be ordered over the phone with a credit card.
- Share Tips for Managing Stress provided by SOAR (Support Operations for Academic Retention) http://www.depts.ttu.edu/soar/LC/Index.php
- Encourage your student to join an intramural team sport. Intramurals are the way to relieve stress in a fun environment. http://www.depts.ttu.edu/recsports/intramurals/team.php
- Buy your student dinner. Many places in Lubbock offer online ordering and will deliver to your student. Make sure to make arrangements with your student for delivery. Here is a list of dining options in Lubbock: http://www.visitlubbock.org/visit/eat-drink/#dining
- Keep in mind that students are often worried about problems at home. Parents sometimes do not realize the burden they are placing on their students which can cause them to feel guilty for coming to school or the opposite – to avoid going home because of the problems at home.
My student is homesick....What do I do?
- Missing home is normal for college students so as parents it is important to be supportive and positive for your student.
- Encourage your student to stay on campus rather than making frequent visits home. It is more difficult for students to experience college life and make connections and friends on campus if they are going home too often.
- Try to limit the number of times you call your student. This can cause the student to be anxious about their adjustment and could place doubts in their mind.
- Discuss at the beginning of the semester dates for student to come home so the student and family look forward to these dates.
- Consider sending a care package to let your student know you are thinking about them
- Include items that are only found in your town
- Handwritten note
- Favorite snacks, candy, drinks, etc.
- Baked Goods!
- Encourage student to get involved with a student organization.
- Let your student know about Tech Activities Board (TAB) for fun free events held on campus just for Texas Tech students. Here is a link to their events calendar: http://www.depts.ttu.edu/sub/StudentActivities/Calendar/index.php
- Initiate times when you can Skype/FaceTime your student to help student not feel so far away from home.
Airport Transportation Recommendations
At this time, Texas Tech University does not offer airport shuttle service. Students needing rides to the airport are encouraged to get rides from friends or utilize the following resources: Uber, Yellow Cab of Lubbock, or Checker Cab
Thanksgiving and Winter Break Bus Trip Tickets Available!
Does your student need a ride home for Thanksgiving or for the Winter 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 Thanksgiving 2015 and Winter Break 2015.
Destinations include: Dallas/Fort Worth, Houston, Austin, San Antonio, and El Paso (Thanksgiving only). This trip is organized to help students travel home at a lower cost who might not otherwise be able to make it home for Thanksgiving/Winter Break.
Visit http://www.depts.ttu.edu/parentrelations/bustrips.php for bus schedule, pricing, and to purchase tickets.
Seats are limited so be sure to purchase tickets soon!
Texas Tech Annual Security Report
The Annual Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics report contains information regarding campus crime statistics, campus crime prevention programs, university resources, and policies and procedures for when crimes occur. Visit https://www.depts.ttu.edu/ttpd/clery.phpto view the annual security report.
University Career Center: Helping your student achieve the best!
Is your student taking the necessary steps for their career path? Is your student struggling to choose a major? Perhaps they have come to you for advice on what to do this semester. If so, we have a checklist that will help in the process.
Parents, we encourage you to visit our website where you will find the University Career Center (UCC) Career Development Checklist. The checklist serves as a semester-by-semester guide on what your student can be doing to prepare for their future.
The Career Development Checklist provides suggestions for ongoing activities, as well as recommendations for each semester. The UCC recommends ongoing activities such as joining a student organization to gain leadership experience. Also in the checklist are activities suggested for each semester that build toward graduation and a career.
Parents, students, and the University Career Center all play an integral role in this process and we are happy to help! Along with your guidance, your student can receive help with this checklist by coming in to our offices at 150 Wiggins Complex (Next to Sam's Place West).
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.
Order the 2015 Official Texas Tech Ornament
The 2015 Commemorative Texas Tech Ornament will remind you of the pride and joy of being a Red Raider, as it features the Masked Rider giving a guns up. It is also surrounded by the words "Fearless Champions" from Texas Tech's alma mater and is accompanied by our Double T logo.
Price: $32.48 (includes shipping and handling) Purchase Now
Contact Mandy Wiley at the Texas Tech Alumni Association for more information or to order by phone at 806-742-4258 | mandy.wiley@ttu.edu
Feed Your Inner Red Raider!
Hospitality Services invites your student to experience more than 50 award-winning dining choices and countless delicious food options on campus. Students can let their appetite be their guide as they dine in a variety of all-you-care-to-eat options, express kiosks, food courts, mini-markets, and retail outlets conveniently housed in 21 locations across campus.
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
Texas Tech Alumni Association Pre-Game Football Events
Coming to the Game? Join us for the Best Pregame Party in Town!
We are very excited for game day here in Lubbock! Meet your friends and support the Red Raiders in the Frazier Alumni Pavilion. The Texas Tech Alumni Association's climate-controlled facility provides easy access to the Jones, plus snacks, cold beverages and clean restrooms. You won't miss a play... games from around the country are always on the big screens. Doors open three hours before every home game and the guys from Double T 104.3 provide extensive pregame coverage along with a ton of special guests.
Admission to the Frazier Alumni Pavilion is a free benefit of your Alumni Association membership. You don't have to be a graduate of Texas Tech to be a member. Support your student and future Red Raiders today by joining for as low as $50. Your gift provides for academic scholarships, faculty and staff enrichment, alumni awards, and much more. Remember, all prices are the same for single or joint memberships, so you are essentially getting two memberships for the price of one! Memberships can be purchased online at www.texastechalumni.org/join, or at the door on game day.
We hope to see you there!
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.
AlcoholEdu & Haven Courses
The deadline for completion of Part 2 of the online AlcoholEdu® for College course was October 19, 2015. Every Texas Tech first-year freshman and new transfer student is required to complete Part 1 and Part 2 of BOTH AlcoholEdu® and Haven®. This ensures that every member of the Texas Tech community has an appropriate and accurate understanding of alcohol use and alcohol abuse, relationship and sexual violence warning signs, and how to get involved when they have concerns about others. I urge you to ensure your student completes AlcoholEdu® and Haven® as soon as possible.
If your student does not complete Part 2 of each course, a hold will be placed on his or her ability to view final grades.
If your student has questions about how to complete the course, please direct him or her to visit www.rise.ttu.edu or contact Dr. Kimberly Simón, Director, Risk Intervention & Safety Education (RISE), at 806-742-2110 or rise@ttu.edu. Thank you for your contribution toward helping us maintain a safe and healthy campus community.
Student Mailing Information
Do you need to mail your student a letter or care package? We got you covered!
Mail is delivered directly to each residence hall or complex and posted in their mailboxes. The box number corresponds with the room or apartment number in each hall or complex.
Visit University Housing's website for complete details about how mail should be addressed http://housing.ttu.edu/facilities/mail or watch our how-to video on mailing a package to your student.
Finances at Texas Tech University
Finances are a key part to sending your student off to college and we want to be sure you have all the resources available to you.
Do you need to be added as an authorized user to view your student's bill? We have provided a helpful how-to video about adding an authorized user.
Student Business Services, your office for all things related to your students bill, has provided a presentation regarding ebill, payment plans, deadlines, and more. Click here to view presentation and Fall 2015 Paying the Bill Checklist.
Financial Aid is also available to assist with scholarships, loans, grants and more! Visit their presentation online at: http://www.depts.ttu.edu/parentrelations/resources/Financial_Aid_2015_RRO_Presentation.pdf.
Final Installment Payment Due: November 25
November 25 - Final Installment payment due for Emergency Payment Plan and Budget Payment Plan. For more information visit www.sbs.ttu.edu.
Red to Black: Peer-to-Peer Financial Coaching
Red to Black offers peer-to-peer financial coaching to Texas Tech students. We help support your student through individual coaching sessions and group presentations on topics such as creating spending plans, the importance of starting to save early, maximizing financial aid (including student loans), how to choose employee benefits and establishing and wisely using credit. Our purpose is to empower students so that they can achieve their financial goals. We believe that no one understands the needs and concerns of students better than fellow students! Our offices are located in the East Basement of the SUB in room 024. Visit our website at www.r2b.ttu.edu for more information!
The TTU Current Student Scholarship application is live!
Current students go to https://apps.texastech.edu/scholarhship/ to complete their application for 2016/2017 competitive scholarship opportunities.
Deadline to submit is February 1st!
If you have any questions, please contact:
TTU Scholarship Office
806-742-3144 or scholarships@ttu.edu.
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.
Advance Registration for currently enrolled students begins November 5th
Spring and Summer 2016 Advance Registration General Information
- Only students currently enrolled for the fall 2015 semester may participate in advance registration November 6-24. Graduate School students may register anytime beginning November 6.
- Students will register according to classification. Students will not be permitted to register prior to their assigned date. Registration materials will be distributed through the student's major department. Each student should see an advisor before attempting to register.
- To ensure reasonable spacing of final exams, students should consider the final examination schedule while planning their registration.
- On their assigned day, students can register on MyTech (beginning at 3:00 p.m.). Classifications for registration are based on hours completed at the end of the summer 2015 semester (90 or more hours, senior; 60-89 hours, junior; 30-59 hours, sophomore; 0-29 hours, freshman).
- If a student's TSI scores indicate a need to enroll in TSI remediation, the student must visit the TSI Skills Development Office (72 Holden Hall, 806 742-3242) before registration.
Advance Registration Schedule (Currently Enrolled Students Only)
| Classification | Date |
| Graduates and Seniors | Thursday, November 5, 2015 |
| Juniors | Tuesday, November 10, 2015 |
| Sophomores | Friday, November 13, 2015 |
| Freshman | Wednesday, November 18, 2015 |
| Former Tech/Second Undergraduate Degree | Monday, November 23, 2015 |
| Open Registration | Tuesday, November 24, 2015 |
Procedure: Students enrolled during Fall 2015 should contact their major department office.
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 fall 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 9am-8pm and Friday 9am-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.
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.
Preparing for Finals
Students can provide a great insight about life as a Red Raider. We want you as parents and family members to hear directly from students about their experiences and tips to help you and your student through this transition.
Finals are going to quickly approach and we want your student to be successful. Check out some tips from students about preparing for finals.
Homesickness
Students can provide great insight about life as a Red Raider. We want you as parents and family members to hear directly from students about their experiences and tips to help you and your student through this transition.
Adriana Lopez
Hometown: Dallas, Texas
If your student is homesick, which will happen, just being there for your student is all they need. My first semester at Tech was so hard because I was used to seeing my family every day and now I was on my own in charge of making a life for myself in a city I was unfamiliar with. I tried to call my parents as much as possible when I was feeling homesick and we Skyped every weekend on Saturday nights, so it was a set time each week that I would get to see them. This open communication with my parents helped me get through my first two semesters and I was really grateful for their support. My parents would also send me care packages, not regularly, but enough for me to get a taste of home every once in a while. They included things that my mom would typically cook at home, a handwritten card signed by my whole family and other necessities that I had forgotten at home. It helped to know they were thinking about me and missed me just as much as I missed them.
Julia Pena
Hometown: Austin, Texas
- Encourage involvement – If your student is feeling homesick, encourage them to get involved on campus and make friends. They will soon be hanging out with friends and involved in their new organizations. This will keep your student busy and having fun so that it will take their mind off of missing home so much.
- Plan trips home – I do get homesick and this is the number one thing that helps me. I plan my trips home and mark them on a calendar. It helps me to see that it won't be long until I am home again. I look forward to the few days or the holidays that I get to spend at home.
- Communicate – Don't be afraid to communicate. Sometimes curing homesickness is just a little bit of communication with family from home. My family and I text, call, and FaceTime/Skype. This helps me feel connected at home while still enjoying college.
Fall Commencement Dates
If your student is graduating in December, congratulations! Below is the Fall 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.
Friday, December 11, 2015
3:00 p.m.
Arts and Sciences
7:00 p.m.
Graduate School
Saturday, December 12, 2015
9:00 a.m.
Architecture
Education
Engineering
Human Sciences
Visual & Performing Arts
1:30 p.m.
Agricultural Sciences & Natural Resources
Business Administration
Mass Communications
Honors College (EVHM and HAL Majors Only)
University Programs
Wind Energy
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: http://www.depts.ttu.edu/provost/commencement/
Texas Tech Ring Ceremony
The Official Ring Ceremony is not to be missed! Much like a commencement ceremony, family and friends are invited to attend this special tradition that serves to honor each ring recipient and to pass on the importance of all that the Official Class Ring symbolizes: loyalty, tradition, service, honor, and lifelong relationships.
The ceremony will be held November 9, 10, 11, 2015.
*Please note: Rings must be ordered between August 15 and October 3 for eligible students.
Registration for the event begins at 6:30 p.m., while the presentation starts at 7 p.m.
For more details visit the Texas Tech Alumni Association or 806-742-3641.
Regalia Rentals Now Available
Regalia purchases and rentals are now available through the Texas Tech Barnes and Noble Bookstore. For more details about deadlines and cost CLICK HERE.
Save Now for a Ring Later: The Official Texas Tech Ring Savings Program
It's never too late to plan for the future. The Texas Tech Alumni Association is proud to offer the Official Texas Tech Class Ring Savings Program, which allows students to save over time for the ultimate symbol of college success.
With the Ring Savings Program, a refundable $75 is conveniently added as an optional fee to tuition and fee statements for spring and fall semesters beginning as early as freshman year.
Once students meet eligibility, the amount can then be applied toward the purchase of the Official Texas Tech Class Ring.
It's never been easier to support tradition. 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.
Questions? Contact the Texas Tech Alumni Association at (806) 742-3641 or visit www.texastechalumni.org/ring.
Save the Date for Sibling Weekend: February 20-21, 2016
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. Mark your calendars for the weekend of February 20-21, 2016!
Online registration and the full schedule will be available online at www.parent.ttu.edu in December.
Career Center Events
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.
Save the Date for Carol of Lights: December 1st
The 2015-2016 Academic calendar only provides three class days between the Thanksgiving recess and the beginning of final exams. In accordance with university operating procedures, and to ensure continued focus on student academic success, the 57th Annual Carol of Lights has been scheduled on Tuesday. December 1, 2015.
Carillon starts at 6:30 p.m. and ceremony begins at 7:00 p.m. in the Memorial Circle/Science Quad. For assistance with special needs, contact rha@ttu.edu. Singers will be provided for the hearing impaired and ADA parking will be available from 15th street.
Visit http://housing.ttu.edu/caroloflights for more details.
This month's academic and event calendar
November 5, Thursday
- 3 p.m., First day of spring 2016 semester and summer 2016 term advance registration for currently enrolled students (continues through November 23).
November 23, Monday
- Last day of advance registration for spring and summer 2016.
November 24, Tuesday
- Open registration for spring and summer 2016 begins.
- Last day to transfer between colleges.
- 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.
November 23 – December 2, Monday – Wednesday
- Period of no examinations except for makeup exams or scheduled lab exams.
November 25 – 29, Wednesday – Sunday
- Thanksgiving holiday. No meals available at any Hospitality Services location. University employees will not be on duty November 26-27.
November 25, Wednesday
- Last day for undergraduate degree candidates to remove grades of I and PR.
November 30, Monday
- Classes resume.
- Raiderlink available for grading (degree candidate grades due at noon December 10).
For the Texas Tech event calendar, please CLICK HERE.
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.
Road Raiders: Have a peace of mind when your student is traveling during Thanksgiving
The Texas Tech Parents Association is here to help all Texas Tech students while they are traveling with the Road Raiders Safe Travel Network. Road Raiders are Tech Parents members who can help if your student needs directions, a rest stop, or help with car trouble while traveling.
The Road Raiders list is available for student online. They can search by city from a wireless phone or computer at www.texastechparents.org.
Drive Safely. Stay Alert. Be Prepared
For more information visit www.texastechparents.org.
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