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CWU : Family, Friends & Alumni |
 Family, Friends & AlumniThe Central Washington University Family, Friends & Alumni Page is here to help you find the information and resources you need to make the most of your son or daughter's college experience. Attending college is an important milestone in every young adult's life. As a parent, you play a very significant role in helping your son or daughter explore their options and supporting them in experiencing the joys and challenges that come with college life. Central Washington University is committed to providing you and your young adult with the answers, information and resources you need to guide you through the higher education process and staying connected as you become a part of our community. The links in the table of contents listed below will guide you to information that is of interest to parents. Links to the left will guide you to parent information pages. All bold words are links and some offer screen tips on the information you will find. In the event that you cannot find the information for which you are looking, please contact University Housing and New Student Programs at 509-963-2735 or via e-mail at discover@cwu.edu. General Information about Central Washington UniversityA popular first-choice among college applicants, Central Washington University is one of the state's fastest growing higher education institutions. Recognized for its outstanding academic programs, small class sizes, personal attention, and beautiful setting, Central is located in historic Ellensburg, at the foothills of the Cascade Mountain Range-an easy two hour drive from Seattle and just a few hours from Spokane. With a beautiful main residential campus and six university centers, we are able to serve students throughout the state. General info links:Steps To Follow After AdmissionBeing admitted to college is an exciting time, but it also requires following certain steps to make sure your student's transition to campus life goes as smoothly as possible. We offer the following information to help guide you through the process. Look for your CWU Acceptance Book in the mail within two weeks after or receiving your acceptance letter. Students attending the Ellensburg campus will receive the Discover! New Student Orientation book via USPS mail in April. Then, new freshmen, transfer students and post-baccalaureate students who have been admitted to CWU and the University Centers should use the following checklists: Ellensburg Campus New Student ChecklistInternational Students - Main Ellensburg CampusUniversity CentersNew Student Programs and ResourcesDiscover! New Student OrientationTo assist with class registration and the college transition process, Central requires all freshmen with 0-44 transferable credits, all Running Start students and students with AP credit to attend a two-day Discover! New Student Orientation program offered in several sessions throughout the month of July. Parents are encouraged to attend Discover! to learn more about academic, social, and personal resources that can help their child adjust to college life. Transfer students--defined as students entering Central with 45 or more transferable credits--participate in a one-day Discover! program in late July or early August. Transfer students receive academic advisement, help with class registration and information and resources to help guide them through their first year at Central and beyond. For more information, go to Discover! New Student Orientation. Wildcat Welcome WeekendWildcat Welcome Weekend is a three-day program that launches fall quarter. All freshmen are required to attend as part of UNIV 101 or MUS 104 credit. It gives students the opportunity to get settled at Central, begin making new friends, and learn how to succeed in college. A variety of educational sessions and many social activities fill the weekend. Students will receive the entire weekend schedule on move-in day in the fall. Packing for CollegeEvery student needs to bring with him or her certain items to make his or her room comfortable and appealing. It is a good idea to have your student check with his of her roommate as to what each will be bring to avoid unnecessary duplicates. Listed below are some recommended items and those that are prohibited. If you have any questions, contact University Housing and New Student Programs.
CWU Housing OptionsCentral Washington University is very proud of its on-campus residence halls and apartments. Our 18 residence halls house 35 to 255 students in affordable housing amenities that give it the comfort of home. Each room is supplied with cable, internet connection, phone jack, and micro-fridge units. All residence halls have a kitchen and common area lounges for community gatherings and study environments. The residence halls are a great place to meet new people and get involved in campus activities. To view pictures and information about individual residence halls, link on the following:
Living Learning Communities (LLCs) and Theme HousesSeveral of the residence halls house programs called Living Learning Communities (LLCs) and Theme Houses. LLCs allow students to develop relationships with faculty from certain disciplines or interests. These living experiences complement a student's education by providing activities that enrich their studies and life-long opportunities. Active participations is required to live in an LLC. Theme Houses connect students to enrichment beyond the academic and traditional social settings. They differ from LLCs because they primarily focus on common interests rather than a specific area of study. Active participation is required to live in a theme house. Apartments and Family HousingCentral Washington University currently maintains five apartment complexes on campus (studio, one, two and three bedroom layouts) designed for single students, students with families, and staff. These apartments are an important component of the overall CWU residential services program. Apartment rates include water, heat, electricity, sewer, and garbage services and also include basic TV-FM cable services. With the exceptions of Brooklane and Campus Courts, rates also include basic telephone service (tenants must provide their own telephone). This package system simplifies life by enabling residents to make one easy combined payment. Click on the following links to view apartment photos, layouts and details: For more information, call University Housing and New Student Programs at (509) 963-1831 or 1-888-CWU-HOME. Other University Housing links
Dining Services-Feeding the Mind and the BodyCWU Dining Services is proud to offer a wide variety of meal options to students. The Central Connection Card, the convenient campus debit card, eliminates the need for students to carry cash. All food purchases are 5% off regular prices and parents can add money to their student's account as needed. The following locations on campus give students choices for full meals, snacks, or late evening fare: North Campus-North Village Café offers ala carte menu options such as a fresh salad bar, the wildcat grill, sandwich bar, and the special entrée of the day. Central Campus-In the Student Union Building (SUB), Central Café, Tomassito's Italian Café, and the Hotdog Stand offer students a variety of options. In addition, CATS Espresso, Wellington's Lair, and the Smoothie Bar provide coffee and other beverages. South Campus-Tunstall Commons East serves all-you-can-eat dining, and Tunstall Commons West serves ala carte. Convenience Stores-There are also two convenience stores located at the north and central parts of campus where students can purchase food and beverage items, as well as other novelties with their Connection Card. For more information on Dining Services call (509) 963-1591 or browse to the following: Budgeting and Financing a College EducationIn planning for the financial undertaking of sending a child to college, many families budget for tuition, meals, and housing. However, many don't plan or budget for the cost of the following: Don't forget to budget for...Books Laundry Telephone Student Weekly Spending
Student Financial AssistanceAt Central Washington University, over 80 percent of all CWU students receive some type of student financial assistance. To be eligible for federal financial aid at CWU, students must do the following:
A variety of need-based and non-need-based programs are available to supplement student and family resources. Each student's eligibility is individually determined through the federal need-analysis formula. For more information, contact the Office of Financial Aid at 509-963-1611 or via e-mail at finaid@cwu.edu Financial Aid LinksStudent Support and ActivitiesAcademic AdvisingAlthough the ultimate responsibility for making decisions about educational plans and life goals rests with students, many need direction in finding which classes to take, course information, graduation requirements, etc. Central Washington University's Academic Advising Center helps students by providing them with the information and resources they need to lead them down the right path toward earning their degree. We encourage your student to have regular contact with the Academic Advising Center. For more information call 509-963-3523 or fill out this contact form. The CWU Student Advising Handbook is also available for download in Adobe Acrobat (.PDF) format. Having trouble viewing this file after download? To view this file you need to install Adobe Acrobat Viewer. Go here for a free copy of Acrobat Reader. Campus Support and ActivitiesCenter for Excellence in Leadership - Encourages student leadership, experiential learning and personal growth in areas of interest. Civic Engagement Center - Offers hands-on practice, leadership and communications skills, a chance to work with a diverse group of people, community involvement and activities that help develop employment skills. College Assistance Migrant Program (CAMP) - Focuses on providing financial and academic support services to freshmen students from migrant and seasonal farm-working backgrounds. Disability Support Services (DSS) - Ensures CWU students with disabilities are provided equal access to university programs and services. Diversity Education Center - Encourages a campus environment that welcomes all cultural identities. Student Leadership Opportunities - Provides opportunities for students to get involved in residence hall, orientation and other campus programs. Student Support Services (SSS) - Assists students who are low-income, first generation (neither parent has a 4-year degree), or physically or academically challenged. Registrar ServicesWelcome to Registrar Services! The Registrar Services staff is dedicated to assisting students' progression throughout their academic careers. This is accomplished through effective communication regarding enrollment services, records maintenance, academic evaluation, and graduation. We consistently provide a spirit of teamwork, with integrity and professionalism, to the CWU and external communities. From the Registrar Services homepage you can view Academic Calendars, find out information on commencement or tuition and fees, or determine who to contact when you need help. You can also call the Registrar directly at (509) 963-3076 for further information or general questions. Career ServicesCareer Services emphasizes a holistic approach to career and life planning. The program is committed to empowering individuals to enter the competitive and evolving global arena with confidence and competence. Their goal is to help students apply their education and experiences to career goals over a lifetime. Career Services offers a wide variety of classes and programs aimed at encouraging self-awareness, exploring major and career choices, providing training and education, and assisting students with securing a permanent job. These classes and programs include the Career Exploration Class (University 103), our Majors Career Fair, internship opportunities, as well as resume and cover letter workshops. Central's Career Services is a wonderful source of information for all students at the University. Please encourage your student to utilize this valuable resource and start planning for success in their future. Diversity CenterThe Diversity Education Center encourages a campus environment that welcomes all cultural identities. We support the richness of variety in ethnicity, gender, language, sexual orientation, religion, age, skills and disabilities, professions, beliefs, and values-in short, all characteristics that make us human. The Diversity Education Center also is committed to the following goals:
CWU's Civic Engagement Center provides exciting service opportunities for students with any level of experience. Through these hands-on practices, students develop leadership and communication skills, work with diverse groups of fellow scholars and community members, develop expertise in areas employers are looking for, and increase their awareness of how to become involved in their communities. Visit our Center's website to discover how Central students are taking action. Other Resources
Student Health and SafetyHealth and CounselingThe CWU Department of Health, Counseling and Wellness serves students in two locations. The Health & Counseling Center is a fully accredited outpatient health center with lab, x-ray, physicians, nurse practitioners, PA's, and nursing staff. Located in the same building is the Counseling Center with three licensed psychologists, two licensed mental health counselors and one licensed marriage and family counselor. The Center also trains pre-doctoral counseling psychology interns. In addition, the Wildcat Wellness Center utilizes scientific evidence and research to create programs and services that reduce high risk behavior related to alcohol and drug misuse; promote sexual responsibility, fitness, nutrition, stress reduction and other positive health behaviors; prevent and respond to sexual assault; and advocate healthy living on the CWU campus. Student ConductAll students are expected to abide by the University's judicial code. Students have access to the Judicial Code in their Course Catalog, on the web, and in a student handbook that is given to all of our students living in the residence halls. Central Washington University strives to make the judicial process an educational experience for all students. Alcohol & DrugsAccording to an American Medical Association Survey in 2001, most parents (95%) believe that excess alcohol consumption is a serious threat to their children. A significant majority (81%) indicated that they would feel more comfortable sending their student to a college that has strong policies and programs to deter underage and high-risk drinking. Central Washington University is committed to an environment that is free of alcohol and other drug abuse for students, faculty, and staff. It maintains this commitment in support of academic excellence, work performance, and quality of life, as well as for the future well being of all members of this community. Don't hesitate to contact the Director of Wellness at 963-3214 if you have any questions/concerns/comments about alcohol and drug educational resources for students.
SafetySafety on any university campus is of concern for parents, students and university employees. Education, the business of Central Washington University, can only take place in an environment in which all students and employees feel safe. Central recognizes this and employs a number of security measures to protect the members of its community. While the Ellensburg community, with its small-town feel and neighborly friendliness, is perceived to have a relatively low crime rate, crime prevention remains a high priority of the university and community. Central is dedicated to ensuring the safety of its students and employees. A professionally trained and supervised police force, a closely screened and well-trained residential life staff, and the students and employees themselves all share in the responsibility of making Central a safe place to study, work and live. For more information, browse to Public Safety and Police or call (509) 963-2959. Emergency ProceduresCentral Washington University has created campus emergency procedures for a number of possible crisis situations including:
Important Numbers:
When reporting an emergency: be prepared to state your name, address and nature of the problem. Stay on the line to answer any questions the dispatcher may have. DO NOT hang up until the dispatcher has!! Campus LifeThe mission of Central Washington University's department of Campus Life is to enrich students' experiences outside the classroom by providing social, cultural, recreational, and educationally diverse programs, services and apprenticeships. Central is proud to enhance the college experience for students and support the Ellensburg community through programs such as the classic film series, the annual holiday Ware Fair and many others. EventsIn an effort to provide "outside the classroom" experience for students, Central Washington University hosts a number of academic and social events. An updated list can be found on the events calendar. AthleticsCentral is very proud to offer a variety of athletic programs for the students attending CWU. Sports for men include football, basketball, baseball, cross country, and track and field, while women's sports include volleyball, soccer, basketball, cross country, track and field, and softball. Wildcat athletics are full of excitement and are a great way to make friends that will last a lifetime. Helping Students Adjust to College LifeParents often wonder how they can better assist their son or daughter through the college transition process. While every student is different, here are some resources to assist you in coaching your student through this challenging, yet exciting, time. Parental Strategies - A Survival Guide for Parenting a College FreshmanAs the parent of a college student, there are many adjustments that you will make as a result of your son or daughter attending college. Parenting a college freshman requires a great deal of patience and resourcefulness. You will share all their joys, frustrations, successes, and failures. We have included some thoughts and suggestions to help make the transition to college smoother for both you and your new college student. The Transition to AdulthoodTheorists who specialize in the study of young adults have identified certain "tasks" and behaviors associated with psychosocial development between the ages of eighteen and twenty-two. An understanding of these developmental processes can assist parents in maintaining positive relationships with their student during the college years. Three personal "developmental tasks" are associated with the college years:
Behavior will vary from student to student, but generally parents may expect some of the following changes. Developing Autonomy
Developing Mature Interpersonal Relationships
Developing Purpose
Parenting Tips for Success
Supporting Your Student's Transition-A Sample of Adjustment ExperiencesAs you know, certain times of the year are more difficult than others. During these times, additional support for your child is helpful and encouraging. Please remember that this is only a guide designed to help you understand the types of pressures encountered by college students--keep in mind that students experience and react to stress in different ways. September October November and December January and February March May and June By listing the above concerns, we do not want to alarm you. We simply want to make you more aware of the issues your child may experience during their first year in college. Helpful tips for supporting students during stressful periods:
Helpful Parenting Tips Related to Drugs and AlcoholParents are an important partner in higher education and can play an important role in helping to reduce high risk drinking and illicit drug use on campus and in the community. Active family involvement has been found to be a protective factor against alcohol and other drug abuse. It is suggested that parents talk with students about campus life to help prevent problems from occurring once students begin their college experience. Parents can play a critical role in ensuring a smooth transition from home to campus life by staying in touch with their student, even through brief telephone or e-mail contact. The following is a list of eight talking points:
Parents and guardians often find it difficult to talk about alcohol and other drug use because they may drink or use drugs themselves. Another concern that parents and guardians have is that discussion about such a subject as personal as substance use could bring up sensitive family issues. The truth is that virtually every family has been impacted, directly or indirectly, by substance abuse. There is often the personal concern that in order to discuss alcohol use with their son or daughter they must preach abstinence. This simply is not true. The important message is to be responsible and remember to maintain personal and community safety. If you have questions or would like assistance regarding alcohol or other drug issues and your student, you can contact the Wildcat Wellness Center at 509-963-3214. FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act)The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 is a Federal Law which states that (a) a written institutional policy must be established and (b) a statement of adopted procedures covering the privacy rights of students be made available. The law provides that the institution will maintain the confidentiality of student education records. Central Washington University accords all the rights under the law to students who are declared independent. No persons outside the institution shall have access to nor will the institution disclose any information from a student's education records without the written consent of students except to personnel within the institution, to officials of other institutions in which students seek to enroll, to persons or organizations providing students financial aid, to accrediting agencies carrying out their accreditation function, to persons in compliance with a judicial order, and to persons in an emergency in order to protect the health or safety of students or other persons. All these exceptions are permitted under the Act. In order for the CWU staff to talk to parents regarding their student's grades, financial aid, or student accounts, we need to verify that a "Release of Information" form has been signed by the student. Suggested Reading List for Parents and StudentsThe following books may be purchased from the University Store.
Staying ConnectedCorresponding with Your StudentMail:Students living in the residence halls will have a mailbox where they can receive letters and small packages. Larger packages are delivered to Barto Hall, and students will be notified to pick them up if they receive one. Student's Name Telephone:(509) 963- ________ E-mail:username@cwu.edu Visiting the CWU Main Campus in EllensburgDirections to EllensburgSeattleTake I-90 East bound to Ellensburg Exit #106. Follow the road through the intersection of Main for 5 more blocks. Yakima, Tri CitiesTake I-82 North bound to I-90 West bound for Seattle. Take the very first exit #109 towards campus. Take a right off the off-ramp, and follow Canyon Road/Main Street to University Way. Turn right on University Way, and go 5 more blocks. SpokaneTake I-90 West bound to Ellensburg Exit #109. Take a right off the off-ramp and follow Canyon Road/Main Street to 8th Avenue. Turn right on University Way. Turn right on University Way, and go 5 more blocks. WenatcheeTake U.S. 97 South bound over Blewett Pass into Ellensburg. Follow University Way through the intersection of Main Street and continue for 5 more blocks. Other Resources:
Important Contact Numbers
In the event that you cannot find the information for which you are looking, please don't hesitate to contact University Housing and New Student Programs at 509-963-2735 or via e-mail at discover@cwu.edu |
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Contact Information
CWU 400 E. University Way Ellensburg, WA 98926 Phone: (509) 963-1111 |
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