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WWFAQ (pronouned WAH-WAH-FAK) is full of PA deadline dates, to do's, tips and answers to questions you just may get from your new students. To say this is a helpful resource would be an understatement; the content was purely created by the Board of Directors and from the advice of returning Peer Advisers. Open it. Read it. Know it. Love it.
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Hi Peer Advisers!
Welcome to WWFAQ! This booklet will serve as a resourceguide for you throughout the summer. Inside you will findeverything from frequently asked questions about school specifictopics, contact information for various resources aroundcampus, a first email writing guide, and much more! We hopethat this guide proves resourceful for you all as you begin tocommunicate with your new students. With all of thepublications being thrown your way this summer (ie.WWFAQ,Purple Prep and March to the Arch) you will be extremelyprepared to tackle any obstacles that you encounter! As always,if you have any questions that are not covered in theseresources or if you are confused about something, pleasecontact your Board member! We are more than happy to answerany and all questions that you may have over the summer.Finally, all of us here on the Board would like to thank you foreverything you have done so far! We know that you all are goingto be absolutely wonderful Peer Advisers and that you all willmake us proud this summer! We cannot wait to see you back oncampus in September while we make Wildcat Welcome 2011 thebest one yet! Until then, have a wonderful summer and stay intouch!
Go 'Cats!The Board of Directors.
NEW STUDENT CHECKLISTPA SUMMER CHECKLISTGENERAL INFORMATIONWEINBERG COLLEGE OF ARTS AND SCIENCESCHOOL OF EDUCATION AND SOCIAL POLICYMCCORMICK SCHOOL OF ENGINERRINGAND APPLIED SCIENCE
TRANSFERSSCHOOL OF COMMUNICATION
BIENEN SCHOOL OF MUSICMEDILL SCHOOL OF JOURNALISMPARENTS AND FAMILYHELPFUL CONTACTS AND RESOURCES
ACTION ITEM FIRST CHANCE LAST CHANCE
Activate NetID and Northwestern e-mail Account Immediately Do not delay!
Pay housing deposit
Apply for 9PAY monthly installment plan
Complete housing application
Apply to pre-Wildcat Welcome Programs
Complete, mail health records
Submit I-20/DS-2019 request
Add parent/guardian access to student account in CAESAR
Mail final high school transcript
Choose billing preferences in CAESAR
Verify address in CAESAR
Request transmittal of AP/IB scores (if seeking credit)
Sign Housing Contract; request unloading permit
Complete loan applications (if receiving aid)
Send your photo to your Peer Adviser
Register for International Student Orientation
Follow financial aid "To-Do" list in CAESAR (if receiving aid)
Enter emergency contact information in CAESAR
Take placement/assessment exams online
Complete your school-specific requirements
Pay fall tuition, fees in CAESAR
Complete AlcoholEdu
Complete For the Record
Complete Wildcat Safety Course, Emergency contact form
Immediately
Immediately
5/15
Immediately
Immediately
Immediately
6/1
Upon Graduation
Immediately
8/1
Upon availability
Early August
Mid-June
Per Mid-July Email
Immediately
Mid-June
8/1
6/15
8/11
Varies by School
Early August
Mid-August
Late August
5/24
6/1
6/3
6/30; varies
7/1
8/1
8/1
8/15
Do not delay!8/1
As soon as possible
8/15
8/15
8/15
8/31
8/31
Ongoing/monthly
9/1
9/1
Varies by School
9/1
9/5
9/12
9/5
Read OBON's The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks Mid-July 9/12
ACTION ITEM FIRST CHANCE LAST CHANCE
Request housing landline/in-room telephone service
Preship items for move-in day to package center
Attend 9/9-9/12 International Student Orientation
Register with Services for Students with Disabilities if applicable
Change meal plan
8/8
9/8
Only chance
Immediately
8/22
9/1
Ongoing
9/9-9/12
Do not delay!
9/30
Complete Health Insurance Coverage Selection Form 7/1 10/3
Every item is REQUIRED for ALL newstudents except when noted if it is:
OptionalOnly applicable to students inUniversity HousingOnly required for InternationalStudents
The New Student Checklist is to use for your reference andknowledge. You are not expected to remind new studentsof every deadline, they have it all in front of them in PurplePrep.
Read The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks Ongoing
Stay in Contact with your Board Member Ongoing
Check your email regularly for Wildcat Welcome communication Ongoing
Stay in contact with your facutly adviser Ongoing
Familiarize yourself with Northwestern's campus Ongoing
Clean up your Facebook profile June 20
Read March to the Arch June 27, August 8
Email your advisees (BCC Your board member) Within 1 week of receiving them
Create a Facebook page for your group Mid-July
ACTION ITEM DEADLINE
Create a email thread with your advisees to discuss One Book Early August
Obtain the cell phone number of each of your advisees Mid August
Receive and format new student NU Mosaic Photos August 17
Begin PA Fall Training 4:00 PM Friday, September 9
Every item is REQUIRED for ALL PeerAdvisers. Click the Purple Box below to find aninteractive campus map!
All Peer Advisers will begin Fall Training at 4:00pm on Friday, September 9th (you will receive an emailin September with your 4:00pm meeting location). For those living on campus, you will be allowed tomove-in at 1:00pm on Friday, September 9th. We suggest you arrive early so you have a full three hoursto move your items into your new room!
Fall training will run throughout the weekend until 10:00pm on Sunday evening so plan on spending theentire weekend with us! This will be an amazing two days with 220 awesome people. You will be able tosee the ENUs in advance, experience ENU breakout session scenarios, learn a few new icebreakers,how to work with different students, walk through your specific Wildcat Welcome schedule day-by-day…and some extra fun, of course!
Remember, the Housing Policy, Alcohol Contract and Attendance contract begin at 4:00pm on Friday,September 9th and run through Monday, September 19th.
•Do not be discouraged if your advisees do not respond promptly. Sometimes, they will be onvacation when you first email them! Be patient and, when they do respond, show them how excitedyou are to hear back from them!
•Make yourself available over the summer in as many ways as possible! Be accessible to your newstudents.
•Send your advisees a packing list for college! Remind them that there are stores located close tocampus.
•Talk about yourself, too. It is good for the students to have an idea of who you are as well! Begenuine in your responses.
•Don't be afraid to answer questions! But, if you don't know the answer to a question, don't guess.Ask your adviser or board member who knows the answer. Similarly, don't be afraid to ask tyouradvisees questions!
•Only speak positively about Northwestern. Anything slightly negative can have an impact on theirperception of Northwestern. Be extremely positive and inviting to the university!
•Send your new students short reminders about what they should be doing (placement tests,housing contract, sending in AP scores, buying tickets to social events)
The following pages contain general tips forthe summer in areas such as communication,academic advice, and deadlines! Much of thefollowing tips and tricks were provided byreturning Peer Advisers!
•In your first email to them, explain to your new students what Wildcat Welcome is and what roleyou play as a Peer Adviser. You can find a sample First Summer Email to advisees later in thisbooklet. This will help to ease their nerves over the summer.
•Do an email ice breaker: Name, hometown, summer activities, hobbies
•Encourage your new students to get to know each other! Later in the summer all of their friends willhave gone to school and they might be lonely!
•Make sure you have everyone's phone numbers before Wildcat Welcome. This will makecommunication during the week much easier.
•Co-PAs: Coordinate with your Co-PA so that you have a plan of attack for the summer and howyou are going to work as a team.
•Keep in touch with your Board member! BCC him or her on your first email to your advisees. Makesure you update the board on everything that is going on. It is okay to ask your Board member anyquestion, no matter how small!
•Get to know other Peer Advisers so you can ask for help over the summer! And, you may be ableto set up events between your groups during the week!
•Organize your time. Obviously we all have commitments outside Wildcat Welcome but being aPeer Adviser should be your number one priority. Wildcat Welcome is for the new students!
•Your advisees may feel hesitant about askingyou quesitons and emailing you. You can helpfix this problem by contacting them frequently.The more approachable you seem, the morecomfortable they will feel in asking youquestions.
•Always be genuine.
•Try to get to know your advisees over thesummer! This will make the first time you seethem more like a friendly reunion rather than afirst impression. Facebook stalking is totallyappropriate and welcome. Do it.
•Get to know your advisers! This will make communication over the summer and during the weekmuch easier. A good Peer Adviser knows who to ask for help and how to use this advice.
•Know basic information about your school. If you find something online, provide your adviseeswith a link to the site where you found the information so they can search for things themselves andknow where you got the information!
•Know the resources for your language placement exams. You can find the information in PurplePrep and online! Make sure you remind your students to take these placement exams, even if theymight not be sure that they want to take the class!
•Do not make something up if you don't know the answer to a question. Confirm any doubts youmay have with a faculty member, Board member, or website before you answer a question!
•Remind your students to mail their final high school transcript so that it reaches Northwestern nolater than August 15th. It must show the date of graduation
• If your students took AP/IB exams, their credits may count toward their Northwestern degree.Remind them to ask the AP/IB testing service to send NU a copy of the official score report. If thescores do not appear on Caesar at the end of the summer, remind the students that this is not aproblem. They can bring a copy of the scores to campus.
• Remind your students that taking a foreign language exam over the summer is best because theirskills are still sharp! It is best to take a placement exam over the summer even if they are not surethat they will be continuing on the foreign language track.
• All of your new students have received a copy of The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks. Remindthem that this is required reading. To find more information click the purple box below!
Important Note: The information regarding Chemistry Placement tests in Purple Prep is now incorrect asit has recently been updated. The information given in that book stated an ALEKS Chemistry exam wasrequired for students to enroll in CHEM 101,2,3 and 171,2. This exam is not being administered to anynew students. Students receiving an AP Chemistry score of 5 and planning on enrolling in OrganicChemistry do not need to take the ALEKS Math exam. However, you should encourage all new studentsto take it in case they decide to not enroll into Organic Chemistry after going through advising.Students receiving and AP score of 1-4 still have to take the ALEKS Math exam and will be placed intothe following courses based on their score:1,2 - CHEM 1013,4 - CHEM 171If students want to place into a higher level chemistry course than CHEM 101 without AP Placement, theywill need to take the Northwestern chemistry placement exam as well as the ALEKS Math exams.The Northwestern chemistry placement and ALEKS Math exams will be available on BlackBoardduring the summer and must be completed before Wildcat Welcome.
The first email you send to youradvisees is an extremely importanttask to complete over the summer. Itis the new student's first contact withyou! Below you will find some tips onwhat to include in your email as wellas a sample email!
•Introduce yourself. Tell them about what you do at Northwestern, some of your hobbies, yourhometown, anything! This will help put a personality to your email and will make them feelcomfortable about talking to you.
•Explain to the new students that you will be their Peer Adviser and what that means. Along thosesame lines, explain to them what Wildcat Welcome is. Tell them what to expect!
•Be sure not to throw too much information at them in your first email! This not only preventsmassive amounts of confusion, but it also gives you many opportunities to email them in the future!
•Give them a question or two to respond to, like some sort of ice breaker. Tell them to "reply all" sothat everyone is involved!
•Explain to them that you are here as a resource for anything and everything Northwestern!Encourage them, even beg them, to ask questions!
•Somewhere in the email, give them your cell phone number. Tell them that they can contact youby any means possible!
•BCC your board member and your Faculty adviser so that they know you have contacted youradvisees.
•Do not persuade your students to join a single organization. Do not shed light on only oneorganization.
•Ex: I’m Josh. I am in a number of student organizations on campus. I am active in myfraternity, get down with my mad singing skills in an on-campus a cappella group andplay intramural sports.
Hey guys!
Welcome to Northwestern! I'm Willie the Wildcat, your Peer Adviser for Wildcat Welcome, whichmeans I have the lovely job of introducing you to NU during Welcome week! During that week, wewill be meeting as a group and partaking in various amazing events to help acclimate you to NU!I'm here to make sure that you guys figure your way around (literally and figuratively), answer yourquestions, address any concerns, and try to help make the transition to college as smooth and funas possible. Wildcat Welcome, and the first quarter can be a little overwhelming, and I want to helpyou stress out as little as possible!
Little bit about me: I'm a sophomore Mascot major, doubling in either Costume Science orInternational Mascots. I live in Ryan Field, but was born in Virginia and have family all along theEast Coast. As far as the mascotting side of life goes, I do as many different things as I can, but amprimarily interested in rousing the crowd, intimidating the other team, and appearing on the front ofPurple Prep. This coming year, I'll be at every football game cheering on the 'Cats, among otherendeavors. As far as non-mascotting side of life goes, I enjoy long walks on the beach, bow ties,and cuban food.
OK, onto the important stuff:#1 piece of advice: BREATHE. The beginning of college can be overwhelming and stressful - it isfor everyone, regardless of how they act. Especially at NU, things can happen very fast and it'seasy to get caught up in what every other exceedingly overcommitted person is doing. It's hard toget perspective sometimes, especially in the beginning, but everything typically works out OK.
Registering for classes: Don't worry about this too much. We'll have time set aside during WelcomeWeek for the faculty advisers and peer advisers to help you figure your classes out, explainrequirements, and show you how to register. As for placement exams (for languages, etc.), there isinfo on the orientation section of NU's website and in Purple Prep about doing it ahead of timeonline. If you can't do it ahead of time, there are opportunities to take care of this when you get tocampus. In general, don't stress about these either.
Feel free to e-mail me back with questions/concerns/thoughts and let me know a little bit aboutyourself - where you're from, what you are interested in (theatre and beyond), and if there arespecific things you're looking to get involved in. I am here for whatever you need, whether you havequestions, concerns, want to hear first hand just how incredible Northwestern is, or just needsomeone to talk to. Facebook me (if I don't Facebook you first)! The best way to contact me is to e-mail or call me (555-555-5555).
Let's get the conversation going! Please 'reply all' to this email with the following: Name,hometown, probable major, summer activities, favorite hobbies, favorite food, and thing you aremost excited for about Northwestern!
I cannot wait to see you all in the fall!
Go cats!Willie the Wildcat
:
Weinberg PAs! Please tell your new studentsthat nearly all of this information has alreadybeen sent to them in their “Purple Prep” bookletand can be found online as well. Purple Prepcontains a handy “Action Items” list, whichwill be very helpful for your new students.Please tell them to use it whenever you speakwith them!
Also, please keep in mind that Weinberg hasinstituted many new programs and policies fornew students this year. Be cautious when youcite your first-year experience because theirexperience will be different!
Q: WHAT IF I AM UNSURE OF MY MAJOR? IS IT BAD TO COME IN UNDECLARED?
A: Not at all! Entering Northwestern unsure of exactly what you want to study is ok! Manystudents enter undeclared. Take your freshman year as an opportunity to take classes you findinteresting and go from there. You will find something you are interested in eventually. Talk toyour PA, your faculty adviser, your professors, and upperclassmen you meet about theirexperiences as well.
Q: WHEN SHOULD I SUBMIT MY FRESHMAN SEMINAR “TOP 10” PREFERENCES?
A: These are due June 6th, 2011. Check your Purple Prep booklet for more information and an“Action Items” list with all the dates!
Q: WHAT IF I AM NOT SURE I WANT TO TAKE A CERTAIN CLASS AND IT REQUIRES APLACEMENT EXAM?
A: Take the placement exam anyways. Taking the placement exam does not lock you into takinga class and will ultimately provide you with more options. It is encouraged by WCAS. Click thebox below for more information!
Q: WHEN CAN I TAKE MY PLACEMENT EXAMS?
A: Subject placement exams are open from 6/15-9/1. Set some time aside to take your placementexam in a quiet place and try to do your best! Highscores on placement exams can place you out ofintroductory courses and give you more space inyour schedule. Click the purple box below for moreinformation!
Q: WHAT IS THE ACADEMIC INTEGRITY ESSAY?
A: Something new! WCAS requires all new students to write an essay on academic integrity. This must becompleted and submitted on June 6th, 2011. The new students will receive further instructions on this.
Q: WHAT ARE THE WEBINARS AND SHOULD I WATCH THEM?
A:Webinars are new as well! New students should watch them to gain valuable information about NUbefore they get here. The new students will receive further instructions on how to access the summerwebinars.6/1 webinar: Choosing Your Freshman Seminar6/15 webinar: Advanced Placement/NU Placement Exams9/1 webinar: Planning Your Fall-Quarter Schedule
Your advisees will have to take the ALEKS assessment before they take any Math/Chemistry course atNorthwestern, regardless of if they are in a special program like HPME, ISP, or MMSS.
Q: WHAT IS ALEKS?A: Assessment and LEarning in Knowledge Spaces is a Web-based, artificially intelligent assessment andlearning system. ALEKS uses adaptive questioning to quickly and accurately determine exactly what astudent knows and doesn't know in a course. A student who shows a high level of mastery of an ALEKScourse will be successful in the actual course she is taking. ALL NORTHWESTERN ALEKS TESTSARE DUE 9/1/2011.Important Note: The information about placement exams in Purple Prep is incorrect. The informationgiven in that book stated an ALEKS Chemistry exam was required for students to enroll in CHEM 101,2,3and 171,2. This exam is not being administered to any new students. Students receiving an APChemistry score of 5 and planning on enrolling in Organic Chemistry do not need to take the ALEKS Mathexam. However, you should encourage all new students to take it in case they decide to not enroll intoOrganic Chemistry after going through advising. Students receiving and AP score of 1-4 still have to takethe ALEKS Math exam and will be placed into the following courses based on their score:1,2 - CHEM 101.3,4 - CHEM 171If students want to place into a higher level chemistry course than CHEM 101 without AP Placement, theywill need to take the Northwestern chemistry placement exam as well as the ALEKS Math exams.
Organic Chemistry AP Chemistry 5: No Placement exam neededAP Score lower or No AP credit: take NU ChemistryPlacement exam and ALEKS math exam.
For any other Math/Chemistry courses: contactyour Peer Adviser or cick the purple box below:
Special Program PAs: please contact your faculty advisers/program coordinators for any extraquestions or issues about your program you do not see here. They will have the most up-to-dateinformation for you.
All incoming HPME students taking Math/Chemistry must take ALEKS. Refer to ALEKS assessmentinformation above for requirements.New HPME students will have access to the “Current students” section of the HPME website. This iswhere they will find the most up-to-date information and answers to program-specific questions.
Q: WHAT IS THE TYPICAL COURSE TRACK IN THE FIRST YEAR FOR HPME STUDENTS? DO MOSTHPME STUDENTS TAKE A CERTAIN CLASS IN THEIR FIRST YEAR VS. SECOND, ETC.?
A: YEAR 1:FOR HPME WCAS: Chemistry 171-0, 172-0 and Physics 135-1, 2, 3.
Or taking Organic Chemistry 210-0 alone.
FOR HPME MEAS: Engineering Analysis 205-3 and Physics 135-2, 3.
FOR SoC HPME: Please see your adviser
Q: DO HPME STUDENTS HAVE TO SUBMIT A “TOP TEN” PREFERENCE FOR FRESHMAN SEMINARS?
A: The majority of HPME freshmen use one of their waivers on their freshman seminar. In this case, theydo not have to submit a top ten preference.
CHEMISTRY/MATH COURSE REQUIRED TESTGeneral Chemistry 101 Series ALEKS Math Exam
General Chemistry 171 Series No AP Credit: take Northwestern Chemistry Placement examand ALEKS Math Exam
AP Chemistry 1-4: Take ALEKS math examAP Chemistry 1 or 2: Take CHEM 101AP Chemistry 3 or 4: Take CHEM 171
Math 212, 220 or 224 ALEKS Math Exam
Remember: all first year students planning to enroll ineither Chem 101 (General Chemistry) or Chem 171(Accelerated Inorganic Chemistry), even those who takethe department's online placement exam, are required totake the ALEKS assessment of basic math skills beforeSeptember 1.
Q: ARE THERE ANY OTHER REQUIREMENTS OR IMPORTANT FACTS INCOMING HPME STUDENTSNEED TO KNOW?
A:Waivers can be a confusing topic. As a WCAS HPME, you are allowed to waive a total of 4required courses. Typically WCAS HPME students waive a freshman seminar, a major class, andtwo distros. Other students choose to waive two major classes, one distro, and a freshman seminar.It is possible to take both freshman seminars and waive two major classes and two distros.
For more questions, please refer your new HPME students to:
Ravi AlladaFaculty Adviser - [email protected]
All incoming MMSS students taking Math/Chemistry must take ALEKS. Refer to ALEKSassessment information above for requirements.
Q: WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS FOR PLACEMENT EXAMS FOR MATH/CHEMISTRY/ETC. FORINCOMING MMSS STUDENTS?
A: Incoming MMSS students are provided with information from the MMSS Office in June about theMMSS math sequence and how to determine where a student fits into the curriculum. Most MMSSfreshmen will take Math 285-1,2,3 upon entering the program.Q: WHAT IS THE TYPICAL COURSE TRACK IN THE FIRSTYEAR FOR MMSS STUDENTS? DO MOST MMSSSTUDENTS TAKE A CERTAIN CLASS IN THEIR FIRST YEAR VS. SECOND, ETC.?
A: MMSS has a sequenced core of requirements.Typically, incoming MMSS freshmen take 2 MMSSclasses per quarter their first year:
Fall: Math 285-1 & MMSS 211-1Winter: Math 285-2 & MMSS 211-2Spring: Math 285-3 & MMSS 211-3
Q: I AM PURCHASING A NEW COMPUTER FOR COLLEGE.DOES MMSS REQUIRE OR RECOMMEND A PC OR AMAC?
A: MMSS has no preference or requirement. It is entirelyup to the student.
Gary GalbreathFaculty Adviser - [email protected]
All incoming ISP students taking Math/Chemistry must take ALEKS. Refer to ALEKS assessmentinformation above for requirements.
ISP sends out information to all entering ISP students during the summer, and maintains aBlackboard site specifically for them. Please refer to this resource in your response to the questionsof the new ISP students.
For more questions, please refer your new ISP students to:
Steven DautProgram Coordinator - Integrated Science [email protected]: 847-491-7219
Q: ARE THERE ANY OTHER REQUIREMENTS OR IMPORTANT FACTS INCOMING MMSS STUDENTSNEED TO KNOW?A: For MMSS freshmen, MMSS 211-1 counts as one of their freshman seminars, so there is noneed to choose a seminar for the fall. They will take their second seminar in either winter or springquarter.
For more questions, please refer your new MMSS students to:
Sarah FerrerMMSS [email protected]
WCAS New Student Action Items
Go now and often to the website for new Weinberg Students. Click the Purple Box.
If not already done, request transmittal of AP/IB Scores to NU upon availability.
Participate in 6/1 Webinar: Choosing Your Freshman Seminar.
Submit "Top 10" Freshman seminar Preferences by 6/6.
Submit required essay on academic integrity by 6/6.
Participate in 6/15 webinar: Advanced Placement/NU Placement Exams.
Between 6/15 and 9/1 take any necessary placement exams.
Complete the ALEKS assessment by 9/1 if taking 2011-12 Chemistry Courses.
Participate in 9/1 webinar: Planning your Fall-Quarter schedule.
Wednesday, September 14th - Seminar Group Advising Sessions
WCAS Advising and Registration
Thursday, September 15th - Individual Advising Sessions
Friday, September 16th - Registration
Q.WHERE CAN I FINDDESCRIPTIONS OF THE FOURDIFFERENT CONCENTRATIONS?
A.Descriptions of the concentrationsas well as a “Which concentration isright for me?” guide can be found onthe SESP website. Click the PurpleBox to find it!
Q. WHAT IS THE CIVIC ENGAGEMENT CERTIFICATE PROGRAM?
A. The program is available to all NU freshmen, sophomores, and juniors and consists of a 2 year, 5quarter program allowing students to pursue, and receive credit for community service work in orderto gain a more thorough understanding of how to make a positive social and economic impact intheir community. Students in this program will complete 100 hours of community service as well asa Capstone Project relevant to a community organization. More information about the program isavailable online. Click the Purple Box to find out more!
Q. WHAT ARE THE COURSE REQUIREMENTS NEW STUDENTS SHOULD BE LOOKING TO FULFILL INTHEIR FIRST YEAR?
A. It is likely there will be changes to SESP concentration requirements. Since these have not yetbeen approved or finalized, however, the SESP PAs will discuss them in school-specific training onMay 25th. There will be changes in the economics requirement. For questions, contact SusanOlsen.
Q. WHERE CAN I FIND A LISTING OF SESP RESOURCES?
A. An extensive list of resources is available on the school’s website. Click the Purple Box to find it!
Q. WHAT IS THE PRACTICUM PROGRAM?
A. The practicum is a quarter-long experience thatSESP students undertake some time during theirjunior year (or the during the summer before or after)It allows SESP students to engage in hands-onlearning while working for an organization related totheir concentration. Practicum sites must be inChicago during the school year but can be inWashington DC or San Francisco only during thesummer. More information about the practicum canbe found by clicking the purple box!
Q. WHY IS SESP AWESOME?
A. SESP is awesome because itʼs an extremely close-knit community with small classes where you will getto personally know the majority of your fellow studentsand many of your professors. SESP students share amotivation to improve the lives of people. Also, wehave fantastic advising support and there is almostalways free food available somewhere in Annenberg.
Q. WHAT SORT OF RESEARCH ARE SESP PROFESSORS INVOLVED IN?
A. SESP runs the Institute for Policy Research, which includes professors from SESP as well asother schools. Click the Purple Box to find out more!
Q. WHAT SORT OF ADVISING DO NEW STUDENTS HAVE ACCESS TO IN THE SCHOOL OFEDUCATION AND SOCIAL POLICY?
A. Each concentration has a designated adviser. When new students register for fall classes on theFriday of Welcome Week, they will do so in the SESP computer lab in Annenberg and will beassisted by these advisers as well as upperclassmen in the school.
Q. WHERE ON CAMPUS DO SESP STUDENTS TAKE CLASSES?
A.While it is likely that SESP students will take classes all over campus, the school and itʼs advisingoffices are primarily located in Annenberg Hall, at 1881 Sheridan rd.
SESP New Student Action Items
Go now and often to the website for new SESP Students. Click the Purple Box.
If not already done, request transmittal of AP/IB Scores to NU upon availability.
RSVP for optional Webchat: General Information for SESP Students by 8/15
Participate in optional 8/17 Webchat: General Information for SESP Students
Follow the link in the purple box and answer the questions by 8/31
Between 6/15 and 9/1 take any necessary placement exams.
SESP Advising and Registration
Wednesday, September 14th - Group Advising Sessions
Thursday, September 15th - Individual Advising Sessions
Friday, September 16th - Registration
Q: DO I HAVE TO TAKE THE MATH PLACEMENT EXAM?
A: The math placement exam must be taken by all incoming MEAS students. The exam will beavailable on BlackBoard from 7/11 - 9/6. If new students have technical problems with the exam,they should email [email protected]. This math exam is MEAS-specific and is differentthan the ALEKS math placement exam (see below). Ensure new students that the placementbased on the results of this exam are not binding, and if they feel that their coursework/AP/IB scoresare a better representation of their math knowledge, there are MEAS math placement advisingsessions during Wildcat Welcome.
Find the situation below that best fits you and follow that procedure.1) If you have not taken calculus before:Simply complete the first exam that covers algebra and trigonometry.2) If you have taken one or more courses in calculus (this includes students who have taken AP/IBCalculus):Complete all three sections of the placement exam. If there are questions on the exam with materialyou have never seen, just leave those questions blank.3) If you have taken advanced calculus – beyond that of AP/IB or beyond basic differential andintegral calculus:e-mail [email protected] with further details about your situation. Someone will contactyou regarding your specific situation. You will ultimately submit material from these courses forevaluation (either for credit or for placement purposes).
Q: HOW DO I SEND IN MY AP SCORES?
A: AP/IB scores should be sent during thesummer to the Office of Undergraduate Studiesand Advising at 1922 Sheridan Rd. In case ofan error, etc. tell your new students to bring acopy of their scores with them to campus. Also,reassure them that it may take a while for thecredit to show up on CAESAR.
Q: IS THERE ANY SPECIAL SOFTWARE THAT INEED?
A: All MEAS students must purchase MatLab.This may be done before arriving on campus.They can purchase the software for a discountwith the Northwestern license. The link forpurchasing is included in the Purple Prepbooklet they all have received.
Q: DO I NEED TO TAKE THE CHEMISTRY PLACEMENT EXAM?
A: The chemistry placement exam must be taken by ALL students taking CHEM 101,2,3 or CHEM 171,2.This exam consists of the ALEKS Math exam. Note that the ALEKS Math exam is different than the MEASmath placement exam.
Q:WHAT MAJORS REQUIRE CHEMISTRY?
A: The following MEAS majors require chemistry: Biomedical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, CivilEngineering, Environmental Engineering, Manufacturing and Design Engineering, Materials Science andMechanical Engineering. Because chemistry is an option for fulfilling the basic science requirement forevery MEAS major, and because majors often change, you should STRONGLY encourage all of your newstudents to take this exam.
Q: WHAT IF I GOT A 5 ON THE CHEMISTRY AP?
A: Students receiving an AP Chemistry score of 5 and planning on enrolling in Organic Chemistry do notneed to take the ALEKS Math exam. However, you should encourage all new students to take it in casethey decide to not enroll into Organic Chemistry after going through advising.Students receiving and AP score of 1-4 still have to take the ALEKS Math exam and will be placed into thefollowing courses based on their score:1,2 - CHEM 1013,4 - CHEM 171If students want to place into a higher level chemistry course than CHEM 101 without AP Placement, theywill need to take the Northwestern chemistry placement exam as well as the ALEKS Math exams.The Northwestern chemistry placement and ALEKSMath exams will be available on BlackBoard during thesummer and must be completed before WildcatWelcome.
Important Note: The information in Purple Prep isincorrect. The information given in that book stated anALEKS Chemistry exam was required for students toenroll in CHEM 101,2,3 and 171,2. This exam is notbeing administered to any new students. They willreceive the correct information again in a McCormickbulletin later in the summer.
Q: HOW DO I TRANSFER MY CREDITS FROM HIGH SCHOOL?
A: Students who took college coursework during high school will need tosubmit syllabi and transcripts from the courses to Dean Holtgreive in order toget those courses to count for credit at Northwestern. Documentation shouldbe submitted by August 19th. Click on the Purple Box to find out more aboutthe credit process!
Q: WHAT IF I WANT TO TRANSFER OUT OF MEAS?
A: The deadline to transfer out of MEAS and into a different academic schoolis September 1st. If they switch by this deadline, they will be given a new PAin the academic school into which they are transferring. After this date,school transfers are considered on a case-by-case basis. If they are unsure ifthey would like to transfer schools, encourage them to stay in MEAS for atleast one quarter and reassure them that transferring is possible even afterseveral quarters. This transfer deadline should only be considered for newstudents completely positive they no longer want to be in MEAS. In order totransfer, they would need to contact the Dean of the academic school intowhich they would like to transfer.
Q: WILL THERE BE A MEAS WEBINAR?
A: There will be one webinar session on 7/25 at 2pm. There is a link to thesession on the MEAS welcome page as well as the OPP page. The transcriptof the session will be available after the webinar.
Q: WHAT IS CO-OP?
A: There will be four info sessionson the last day of Wildcat Welcomeheld by the McCormick Office ofCareer Development. Details willbe in their Wildcat Welcomeschedule books. For moreinformation they can look at theMCD website. Click the Purple Boxto find out more!
Inform your new students of the accessibility of The Undergraduate Engineering Office and theservices it provides (Tech L269). This office is welcome to all new students on a drop-in basis forany MEAS-related questions. If they have questions their advisor cannot answer, or they would liketo change advisors, they may do so in this office as well.
Q: WHAT IF I AM UNDECIDED?
A: If a new student is coming in as an undecided engineering student, reassure them that manystudents are in the same position and major declaration is not encouraged until spring quarter offreshman year. They will take the same four classes listed below. Inform them that there arevarious events during winter quarter intended to assist in selecting a major.
Q: WHAT CLASSES SHOULD I TAKE FIRSTQUARTER?
A: First Quarter Courses-
This is the suggested first quarter course loadfor new students.:
MATHEA1CHEMISTRYELECTIVE/EDC
MATHMath is a requirement for all MEAS majors. New students will be placed into 220, 224, 230 or thehonors equivalents based on the results of the MEAS math placement exam. There are advisingsessions specifically for math placement during Wildcat Welcome.
Engineering Analysis(EA)EA is a requirement for all MEAS majors. New students will either be placed into standard EA 1 orhonors EA 1.
CHEMISTRYChemistry is a requirement for majoring in Biomedical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, CivilEngineering, Environmental Engineering, Manufacturing and Design Engineering, Materials Scienceor Mechanical Engineering. However, you should STRONGLY encourage taking chemistry duringthe first quarter, as it is an option for fulfilling the basic science requirement for majors not requiringchemistry and may be a requirement if they end up switching majors. Freshmen do not alwaysrealize that CHEM 101 is only offered in the fall.
EDCEDC 1 may be taken during the fall quarter or winter quarter, and this really is up to the newstudent. While you may present the pros and cons if they ask, please do not highly encourage ordiscourage taking EDC during fall or winter.
ELECTIVEIf EDC 1 is not taken during fall quarter, this space is typically filled by an elective. If new studentshave questions about their fourth class, please refer them to their academic advisor. Also, remindthem that their first quarter will likely be more rigorous than they expect and there are opportunitiesfor flexibility with the fourth class to make the course load more manageable.
Q: WHAT DO I DO ABOUT HONORS SEQUENCES?
A: If new students are recommended to enroll in an honors sequence for math, EA or both, they willreceive an invitation in their purple folders they get during Wildcat Welcome. This invitation isdetermined by previous coursework, AP/IB scores and placement exam scores. An honors EAinvitation is often based on previous computer programming experience as well. Remind newstudents that these courses are more challenging and in-depth than the regular sequences and arenot weighted like a high school honors course; honors will be denoted on the transcript but there isno GPA weighting. Students do not have to enroll in the sequence if they receive an invitation. If anew student feels they should be in an honors sequence but did not receive an invitation theyshould go to the Undergraduate Engineering Office (Tech L269). If students begin the honorssequence and feel that it’s not a good fit for them, they can request to switch into the regularsequence. At the end of an honors course, they have the option to switch to regular EA thefollowing quarter.
Q: WHAT DO I DO ABOUT THEME REQUIREMENT? WHAT IS IT?
A: Although you will likely get many questions on the theme requirement, you should inform yournew students that this is not something typically addressed during the first year. There are themeworkshops for every quarter the week before registration. If they would like to see theme examplesand accepted courses, they can go to this website: at the Purple Box! AP/IB scores may be used tocontribute to the theme. If a new student expresses interest in pursuing a language, inform themthat those sequences often begin in fall quarter, and should be used to fill their elective spot.Making space in their first year schedule for a sequence such as this is possible and can be workedout with their academic advisor or with the help of the Undergraduate Engineering Office.
MEAS New Student Action Items
Go now and often to the website for new MEAS Students. Click the Purple Box.
If not already done, request transmittal of AP/IB Scores to NU upon availability.
Participate in the Webinar on 7/25
Apply to transfer any college course credit (excluding AP/IB) by 8/19
Complete mandatory mathematics placement exam by 9/6
Complete any other necessary placement exams (Including ALEKS) as appropriate.
Purchase MATLAB software by 9/6
MEAS Advising and Registration
Wednesday, September 14th - Group Advising Sessions
Thursday, September 15th - Individual Advising Sessions
Friday, September 16th - Registration
Q: WHERE CAN STUDENTS GO ONCAMPUS FOR SOC-RELATED HELP?
A: Students can go to any of thefollowing: SoC Student ResourceCenter (and Departments and AcademicAdvisors), Registrar’s Office, StudentFinancial Services, Student Affairs,Services for Students with Disabilities,Counseling and Psychological Services,Study Abroad, Office of Fellowships,University Career Services, UniversityAcademic Advising Center.
Q: MAY I DOUBLE MAJOR IN THE SCHOOL OF COMMUNICATION?
A: The School of Communication does not allow double majors where both majors are withinthe SoC. Double counting between majors/majors and majors/minors is almost never allowed.See your advisor for more information.
Q: CAN I DOUBLE MAJOR AT ALL?
A: You can definitely double major, most easily through Weinberg. Many of the small schoolshave restrictions. If you choose to do so, your primary major is your major in the School ofCommunication, and you must complete the distribution requirements for SoC, NOT for yourother school. In addition, you must complete the major requirements for both.
Q: HOW MANY MINORS MAY I COMPLETE?
A: There’s no limit to the number of minors that you can complete as a SoC student. Also, youhave the opportunity to minor within SoC or in another school, such as Weinber. The SoCoffers minors in Human Communication Sciences, Theatre, Dance and Film Studies. See theUndergraduate Catalog for info on other schools. Click the Ppurple Box to find out more!
Q: ARE THE DISTRIBUTION REQUIREMENTS THE SAME FOR SOC STUDENTS AS OTHER NORTHWESTERNSTUDENTS?
A: No. SoC has different distribution requirements than the other schools. They are listed in theUndergraduate Catalog online. It is important to make sure to look at the SoC-wide requirements, as wellas your major's own requirements.
Q: HOW CAN NEW STUDENTS MEET AND INTERACT WITH FACULTY?
A: During Wildcat Welcome, SoC hosts departmental welcome sessions, group advising, and a party withthe faculty for the new students. Beyond Wildcat Welcome, feel free to send your professors an e-mail orgo to his or her office hours! Faculty are always excited to meet new students!
Q: IS IT POSSIBLE TO SWITCH MAJORS?
A:Within SoC, it's generally very easy to switch majors. The only exception is that the theatre program iscapped at 100 students, in order to keep acting classes small. Given the high popularity of the program,this maximum is reached quickly, so switching to the theatre program can be tricky. Otherwise, it's rarely aproblem to transfer into a new major—even outside the School of Communication. Inter-school transfersare very common at Northwestern, as students are expected to test a variety of interests. Of course, it'smuch easier to transfer majors/schools earlier in your NU career, so you have time to complete thenecessary requirements for graduation—not all majors have comparable requirements so extra classesmay be needed. Discussing your options with your adviser will ensure that the transfer process goessmoothly.
Q: HOW MANY PRODUCTIONS OPPORTUNITIES ARE THERE ON CAMPUS?
A: In a typical year, there will be somewhere between 60 and 80 shows produced on campus. TheMainstage season in the Theatre and Interpretation Center consists of between five and seven showsannually. There are also many student theatre, dance and improv opportunities for performance oncampus. None of the productions, mainstage or otherwise, require that you be a theatre major to be cast ina show.
Q: WHERE CAN PEER ADVISERS FINDMORE INFORMATION TO ANSWER SOCNEW STUDENT QUESTIONS?
A: Visit the SoC New Student Website byclicking the Purple Box!
SoC New Student Action Items
Go now and often to the website for new SoC Students. Click the Purple Box.
If not already done, request transmittal of AP/IB Scores to NU upon availability.
Between 6/15 and 9/1, complete any necessary placement exams
Complete survey online by 8/16. Click the Purple Box to find out more!
Participate in webchats with advisers as noted in August e-mail.
Complete any major-specific requirements as notied in August e-mail from advisers
SoC Advising and Registration
Wednesday, September 14th - Departmental Welcome and Group Advising Sessions. Language Placement
Friday, September 16th - Registration
Thursday, September 15th - Individual and Small Group Advising Sessions. Academic Integrity Sessions.
Q: WHEN DO I GET MY ADVISEES?
A: You won't get your advisees until late into the summer. It's very unlikely that groups will beformed before August, and it's very possible that people can be added/subtracted up until the weekof Wildcat Welcome.
Q: WHAT DO I DO IF MY TRANSFER STUDENTS DO NOT RESPOND TO MY EMAILS?
A: It's very common for transfer students to be unresponsive over the summer. Do your best tocontact them, especially to get their phone numbers, and contact Natalie Osterweil and your boardmember if any of your students are being unresponsive.
Q: HOW DOES ACADEMIC ADVISING WORK FOR TRANSFER STUDENTS?
A: Academic advising for transfers is very particular by school. Students should receive a letter fromtheir school outlining how they should go about advising. It is often possible to be advised over thesummer (in person, or over the phone in some cases), and the best way to get questions answeredabout each school's policies is to be in contact with advisors from your academic school.
Q: WILL TRANSFER STUDENTS HAVE TOREGISTER DURING WILDCATWELCOME?
A:Most transfer students will have hadthe opportunity to register before arrivingon campus. They will also have hadsome academic advising over thesummer. During Wildcat Welcome, thereare advising sessions available for thetransfer students just in case they mayneed more help!
FINAL COLLEGE TRANSCRIPT: This should be sent to the Office of Undergraduate Admission so the registrar canassess your credit. The transcript must include one full year of undergraduate study. Final admission iscontingent upon receipts of your final transcript.
Notes For Incoming Transfer Students
TRANSFER EDITION OF PURPLE PREP: As students are accepted, they will receive an electronic copy of thetransfer edition of Purple Prep, packed with information specifically tailored to transfer students. We suggestTPAs also peruse this book.
AP/IB EXAMS: These may count toward your NU degree. Ask the AP/IB testing service to send NU a copy ofyour official AP grade report and/or IB transcript.
PLACEMENT EXAMS: Exams are available in mathematics, chemistry, physics and many foreign languages.Your previous college course work in these fields will be assed when you matriculate, but please note thiscaveat: a year of course work completed at another school- especially in foreign languages- may not beequivalent to a year at NU. If you have received credit for less than two years of language instruction, youshould strongly consider taking the exam to verify the placement and plan to discuss your results with youracademic adviser. It is helpful to bring copies of the relevant course syllabi (from foreign languages, math,phsyics) from your previous institution when you discuss placement with a departmental adviser. Specificson placement exams can be found in the transfer edition of Purple Prep.
CREDIT EVALUATION: Review the credit evaluation you receive from the registrar’s office. This summary showsthe total number of credits accepted from your former school, the corresponding NU course numbers andyour progress toward meeting NU’s Undergraduate Residence Requirement.
ONE BOOK ONE NORTHWESTERN: Transfer students will receive their free copy of Henrietta Lacks when theyarrive for Wildcat Welcome.
Q: WHAT PLACEMENT TESTS DO NEW STUDENTS NEED TO TAKE?
During Wildcat Welcome, students will take a music theory/aural skills placement exam todetermine their theory section placement as well as offering the possibility to place out of certainquarters of theory and/or aural skills if appropriate. For specific questions about this placement test,contact Dr. Susan Piagentini at [email protected]. A keyboard skills diagnostic testis also taken during orientation; questions can be directed to Professor Karen Kan-Walsh at [email protected].
Q: WHAT DEGREES ARE OFFERED BY BSM?
A: The BSM offers two undergraduate degrees: the Bachelor of Music (B.M.) and the Bachelor ofArts in Music (BAMus). Performance majors are only offered through the B.M.
Q: IS IT POSSIBLE TO DOUBLE MAJOR?
A: Students can complete double majors from within the BSM and/or with a Weinberg major withinfour years (if the majors are under one degree). Dual degrees have a five year residencyrequirement (more information about the period of study required can be found under the“Undergraduate Residence Requirement” section of the Northwestern Undergraduate Catalog).Click the Purple Box!
Most of the information found in this section canbe found in greater detail in the Bienen School ofMusic (BSM) Undergraduate Handbook byclicking the Purple Box!
Q: WHAT COURSES DO FRESHMEN USUALLYENROLL IN?
A: Incoming freshmen typically register for year-long music theory, aural skills, and keyboardskills sequences. Most performance majors alsoregister for lessons and ensemble.
Q: CAN NON BSM STUDENTS TAKE SCHOOL OF MUSIC CLASSES?
A: Students outside the BSM can also complete selected academic majors or a concentration inmusic (see the BSM Undergraduate Handbook for more details). Non-major lessons are alsoavailable for selected instruments as well as music classes listed under the GEN_MUS department.More information can be found by clicking the Purple Box!
Q: WHO ADVISES MUSIC STUDENTS?
A: Dr. Linda Garton (E-mail: [email protected]) advises all music students,while BSM/WCAS dual degree students have specific advisers assigned during the summer.
Q: WHAT ARE THE DISTRIBUTION REQUIREMENTS FOR B.M. STUDENTS?
A: B.M. students need to take one course each in Area I/II (combined; can be fulfilled with a musictechnology course), III, IV, V, and VI of the Weinberg distribution areas; one writing-intensive courseis also needed (such as an English course or freshman seminar, the latter of which music studentshave the last choice after Weinberg students).
Q: WHERE CAN I PRACTICE MY INSTRUMENT?
A: Practice rooms are available in the MusicAdministration Building (for pianists andvocalists), Regenstein Hall (for all otherinstrumentalists), and the Beehive (for allmusicians); some dorms may also offer practicespaces (e.g., Jones Residential College andShepard Residential College). Practice timesneed to be scheduled in Regenstein Hallthrough signup sheets on the practice roomdoors; at most two hours can be signed out at atime per person per room.
FOR A FULL LIST OF DEGREE REQUIREMENTS FOR EACH MAJOR, consult the UndergraduateHandbook.
PIANOPianists are required to go to recital hour (0 credit;Thursdays at 1-1:50 PM) and studio class (once aweek at a studio-specific time). They also have oneyear of ensemble (duo/collaborative coaching classcounts, as well as being a pianist or other musician in alarge ensemble) and one quarter of chamber (pianotrio class counts as well as the chamber musicprogram). Juries usually consist of repertoire andtechnique portions (more details can be found in theBSM Undergraduate Handbook). New piano studentsrank teacher preferences and usually know of theirstudio placement by the start of Wildcat Welcome week(contact Professor James Giles [email protected] for questions regarding studioplacement).
Strings
COURSE OF STUDY ENSEMBLE REQUIREMENT ENSEMBLE AUDITION CHAMBER REQUIREMENT OTHER
Piano
Voice
Winds andPercussion
1 year N/A 1 Quarter Recital hour;studio class
4 years 3/year (1st for ensemble,others for seating)
2 Years Studio ClassStrings 4 years 3/year (1st for ensemble,others for seating)
2 Years Studio Class
Jazz 4 years (jazz orchestra) N/A 2 Years (Jazz combo) Jazz improvisation;keyboard
4 years 1/year 2 years (operaworkshop)
Solo class; possiblestudio class
4 years 3/year (differentensemble possible)
2 years (see details) Reedmaking (oboes);
studio class
Music Education 4 years Followsperformance type
1 Quarter Music Ed 314; studio
class (by type)
MusicComposition
1 year N/A N/A Colloquium
Academic 1 year N/A N/A Follow studio classof performance type
Bachelor of Artsin Mus
1 year N/A No sophomore aural
skills; Weinberg distros; 2
years of language
N/A
FOR A FULL LIST OF DEGREEREQUIREMENTS FOR EACH MAJOR,consult the Undergraduate Handbook.
VOICEVocalists have vocal solo class (0 credit;Mondays at1-1:50 PM), with some teachersholding studio class (once a week at a studio-specific time). Voice students also take diction(0 credit; Wednesdays and Fridays at 1-1:50PM) which includes homework and exams.Auditions occur during Wildcat Welcome, withfreshmen usually placed in University Singers(Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 3:30-4:50 PM); ensemble placements are for theentire year with auditions held once per year.Students must enroll in ensemble for four years,as well as two years of opera workshop (0.5credit). New voice students are sent an onlinesurvey to select their preferred studio andreceive their assignments on Thursday ofWildcat Welcome. (contact Professor KurtHansen at [email protected] forquestions regarding studio placement).
STRINGSString students have studio class once a week (time depending on studio). Orchestra placementauditions are held during Wildcat Welcome and are kept for the entire year; auditions occur everyquarter to determine seating. Chamber music is a two-year requirement for violin/viola/cello to bedone during the sophomore and junior years. Double bass has a one-year chamber requirement.New violin students send in teacher preferences in the spring and usually know their studio beforethe start of Wildcat Welcome (contact Professor Gerardo Ribeiro at [email protected] forquestions regarding studio placement).
WINDS AND PERCUSSIONWind and percussion students may have studio class depending on the studio (once or multipletimes per week). Ensemble auditions are held during Wildcat Welcome week and at the start ofevery quarter, with the possibility of a different ensemble placement for every audition. Studentshave 2 years of chamber music required. Percussion students take percussion ensemble for atleast two years (usually stay for four years); saxophone students take saxophone quartet for at leasttwo years (but usually stay for four years). Oboe students take one year of reedmaking (0.5 credit)during their first year. New students should hear their studio placement details over the summer. Ifthey do not receive a placement before Wildcat Welcome, they will be placed in time for registrationon Friday of Wildcat Welcome.
JAZZJazz students take improvisation classes for two years (0.5 credit), jazz orchestra for four years,and jazz combo for two years (0.5 credit; usually with around three people per group). Jazzstudents also do not take the normal keyboard skills sequence; instead, they take jazz keyboard,offered every other year, for two quarters (0.5 credit).
MUSIC EDUCATIONMusic education students take Music_Ed 260 “Music Teacher as Communicator” (1 credit) duringtheir first quarter. Students also take Music_Ed 314 (0 credit; Fridays at 8-8:50 AM) for four years.If students are on the instrumental track, they should also take at least one instrument class perquarter. Music education students that are not double majoring in a performance major completethe same core instrumental requirements and attend studio, lessons, and juries (with junior standingjury requirements altered), and are required to participate in chamber music for one quarter.
MUSIC COMPOSITIONMusic composition students take lessons (composition class) and have colloquium once a week (0credit) for four years. They also have one year of ensemble required and do not need to perform ina chamber group. Composition students study with different teachers each year, and usually knowtheir first year teacher by the start of Wildcat Welcome week (contact Professor Lee Hyla at [email protected] for questions regarding teacher selection).
ACADEMIC MAJORS (MUSICOLOGY, MUSIC COGNITION, MUSIC THEORY, ETC.)All students planning to complete an academic major should contact Dr. Linda Garton (E-mail:[email protected]) as soon as possible to clarify the specific requirements oftheir major. In general, students take one year of ensemble and one year of lesson with theirvoice/instrument type (and following those studio classes, if applicable). No chamber groupexperience is required.
Bachelor of Arts in Music(Academic Majors)BAMus students do not take lessons, andhave one year of ensemble required.Additionally, students do not need to take thesophomore aural skills sequence nor the twomusicology electives required for B.M.students. B.A. students follow the distributionrequirements of Weinberg and have tocomplete two years of a foreign language.
BSM New Student Action Items
Four year music students: Watch for summer music mailing in July
Five-year dual-degree students: Watch for summer music mailing in July
BSM Advising and Registration
Wednesday, September 14th - Departmental Welcome and Group Advising
Friday, September 16th - Registration
Thursday, September 15th - Group and Individual Advising Sessions
Q: WHEN WILL I RECEIVE MY MEDILL HANDBOOK?
A: Medill handbooks will be distributed during Wildcat Welcome—no need to request one for reviewin advance. Students should bring their handbook to each advising meeting. Students and advisersshould reference their handbooks for all aspects of the Medill degree requirements and schoolpolicies.
Q: CAN I REVIEW COURSE OPTIONS BEFORE ARRIVING ON CAMPUS?
A: You are encouraged to navigate CAESAR in advance—youʼll need your Net I.D. and passwordfor access. In CAESAR, students can review the university course schedule and registrationappointment times. Registration appointment times will be posted during Wildcat Welcome for firstyear students. First year students cannot enroll in more than four courses for fall. Students willregister for classes on the Friday, September 16. A lab will be reserved in the McCormick TribuneCenter for students who would like advising/assistance with registration.
Q: WHEN DO I MEET WITH MY FACULTYADVISER?
A: Youʼll receive a welcome message fromyour faculty adviser during the summer. Allfirst-year students are required to meet withtheir faculty advisers once a quarter. PeerAdvisers may also serve as a great resourceduring advising sessions throughout the year.
Q: WHAT IS MEDILLʼS FOREIGN LANGUAGE REQUIREMENT?
A. As part of the 11-unit Global & Diverse Cultures requirement, 3 units must be in a foreignlanguage unless students can demonstrate “proficiency” as defined by WCAS. That definition is:earning a 4 or 5 on the appropriate AP exam (French, German, Spanish; WCAS accepts a 5 onlyfor Latin), OR passing a specific course for each language offered at NU. Seehttp://www.cas.northwestern.edu/advising/forlangtable.html for a complete list of courses. Foreignlanguages are the only courses in the G&DC requirement to which AP credits may be applied.Students may take different languages rather than a sequence. Finally, a policy has beendeveloped for Medill students with a clinically diagnosed disability affecting foreign languageacquisition. For more information, students may contact Services for Students with Disabilities at847.467.5533 or email [email protected].
Q: HOW CAN I USE MY AP CREDITS?
A: During Wildcat Welcome your advisers will help you determine how your credit applies. In thefall, students should check their unofficial transcript in CAESAR to make sure that their AP credithas been applied. If the credit is still missing by the end of fall quarter, or it isnʼt awarded correctly,students must contact Dick Weimer (WCAS Assistant Dean for Academic Standing,[email protected] (847)491-7559). An AP chart is available in the back of the Handbook tohelp students identify where they can use this credit in their Medill degree progress.
Q: CAN I BE PRE-MED AT MEDILL?
A:Notify Keri Disch and/or Michele Bitoun if youintend to be pre-med, and contact the UniversityAcademic Advising Center for pre-med specificinformation. The Advising Center hostsinformation sessions, visits from med schooladmissions officers, and helps students preparefor the MCAT and keep track of prerequisitecourses. Click the Purple Box for more!
Q: CAN I DO IT ALL: STUDY ABROAD, JR ANDDOUBLE MAJOR?
A: Take things as they come—careful courseplanning will allow for you to take advantage ofseveral opportunities at NU. Students shouldalso attend informational sessions about variousacademic opportunities at NU and Medill.
YOUR ADVISERS IN THE OFFICE OFSTUDENT LIFE
If you donʼt know the answer tosomething and canʼt find it in yourhandbook, call Dorina AguilarRasmussen (847) 491-3586 or KeriDisch (847)491-4484. Students areencouraged to set up advisingmeetings by calling 847.467.1882 orvisiting Fisk 100 to sign up in theappointment book.
Check the Purple Prep for scheduleinformation for the AP and ForeignLanguage Requirement Webinarshosted by the Office of Student Life.
Medill New Student Action Items
Go now and often to Medill's BSJ 15 website. Click the Purple Box.
If not already done, request transmittal of AP/IB Scores to NU upon availability.
Between 6/15 and 9/1, complete any necessary placement exams
Complete Medill summer book and reading project per July e-mail
Participate in webinar on foreign language credit on 7/26
Participate in webinar on AP credi on 7/12
Medill Advising and Registration
Wednesday, September 14th - Group Advising
Friday, September 16th - Registration
Thursday, September 15th - Individual Advising Sessions
Purchase any necessary technology tools
Visit your faculty adviser's website on Blackboard
Complete Medill Freshman Skills Assessment on your faculty adviser's Blackboardwebsite in August
Complete technology survey as noted in August e-mail
Crying parents? Not a problem!Here are some FAQs fromparents so you can address allof those concerns. They mayalso help you during the weekwhen you interact with theparents face to face!
Q: WHAT AM I SUPPOSED TO DO WHILE MY DAUGHTER/SON IS AT ORIENTATION? I WASUNDER THE IMPRESSION WE’D BE TOGETHER FOR THESE FIRST COUPLE OF DAYS!
A:While your student is at their mandatory orientation, the parents have their own orientation thatthey can attend as well! Throughout the day on Tuesday, there are multiple events that you canattend! There is the Carnival of Resources, school specific sessions, as well as general informationsessions on a variety of topics pertinent to new students and their parents! Don’t worry though;you’ll have time at night, after their events have finished to see your student! Also, there will be apresident's welcome for family members on Monday night.
Q: I’VE ALWAYS PROVIDED MY STUDENT WITH EVERYTHING THEY’VE NEEDED – SUPPORT,INFORMATION, GUIDANCE, ETC. HOW WILL MY STUDENT GET WHAT THEY NEED AT SCHOOLWHEN I’M NOT THERE?
A: Northwestern provides the students with a multitude of resources that make their transition tocollege and gaining independence easier! You should attend the Carnival of Resources - a huge fairin which all major resources available to your student will have a booth, and you can not only seewhat support Northwestern provides for your student, but you can talk one-on-one with universityadministrators and get any questions you have answered! All major university departments fromCounseling and Psychological Services, University Police, Student Financial Services, ResidentialLife, amongst many others will have representatives present to field any and all concerns you mayhave!
Q: MY DAUGHTER/SON HAS NO IDEA WHAT THEY WANT TO MAJOR IN? HOW WILL THEYFIGURE IT OUT WITHOUT ME THERE TO HELP THEM?
A: One of the many information sessions Northwestern offers during the Parent and FamilyOrientation is one about University Career Services. It is an entire department dedicated to guidingstudents along a successful career path that suits their interests as well as assisting students withgetting internships, grants, fellowships, and jobs! These information sessions provide a greatoverview of some of the key departments at Northwestern that benefit students the most. Theseinformation sessions not only include UCS, but also University Health Services, University Police,Food Services, Department of Student Affairs, CAPS, amongst many others.
Q: THE MOVING IN PROCESS WAS SO HECTIC! IT’S ALREADY TIME FOR ME TO LEAVE ANDI FEEL LIKE I HAVEN’T SPENT ANY TIME WITH MY DAUGHTER/SON ON NORTHWESTERN’SCAMPUS!
A: Moving in and the first couple of days of orientation are always crazy, but just because you didn’thave time to wander campus with your student then, doesn’t mean you shouldn’t come back andvisit again! Make sure to come back for Family Weekend 2011! It’s an entire weekend in Novemberdedicated to showing the students’ families what Northwestern is all about! It starts Friday morning,November 11th, and ends Sunday afternoon, the 13th. It is a weekend packed with lots of events,talks, entertainment, and of course, time with your student. You can go to a football game with yourstudent and cheer on the Wildcats, see one of Northwestern’s many a cappella groups perform, orhave a nice dinner in Evanston. It’s definitely a great opportunity to visit campus and your studentand have a lot of
Q: WHAT IF I WANT TO SEND MYSTUDENT A CARE PACKAGE DURINGEXAM WEEK SO THEY'RE NOT SOSTRESSED?
A: Information about care packageservices and other local businesses canbe found at the back of your ParentGuide, which you will receive in Mid-July along with a NU calendar.
(847) 491-5613
(847) 491-8100
(847) 491-4522
(847) 491-2151
(847) 491-CATS (2287)
(847) 491-3610
(847) 491-7560
(312) 503-1910
(847) 491-7219
(847) 491-3574
(847) 491-7214
(847) 491-3790
(847) 491-7379
(847) 491-5261
(847) 491-5195
(847) 491-3818
(847) 491-3586
UNDERGRADATE SCHOOLS AND PROGRAMSWeinberg College of Arts and Sciences
Dual-Degree Programs
Integrated Science Program
School of Communication
School of Education and Social Policy
McCormick School of Engineering and Applied Science
Math Placement Advising
Medill Office of Student Life
BSM Office of Student Affairs
African American Student Affairs
Athletics/Ticket Office
WCAS Office of Undergraduate Studies and Advising
Honors Program in Medical Education
Mathematical Methods in the Social Sciences
SoC Student Resource Center
SESP Office of Student Affairs
MEAS Office of Undergraduate Engineering
Medill School of Journalism
Bienen School of Music
UNIVERSITY, ACADEMIC AND STUDENT LIFE SERVICES
Associated Student Government
Bursar/Business Office (Cashiering)
Fitness and Recreation
Health Insurance
Information Technology (NUIT)
LGBTQ Resource Center
Counseling and Psychological Services
Fraternity and Sorority Life
Health Service
International Office
(847) 491-5343
(847) 491-4303
(847) 491-2133
(847) 491-HELP (4357)
(847) 491-1205
CLICK ON THE PURPLE BOX TO GO TO THEWEBSITE OF THE RESPECTIVE DEPARTMENT!
(847) 491-7360
(847) 491-NUID (6843)
(847) 491-3741
(847) 491-5234
(847) 491-3900
(847) 491-7400
(847) 491-5284
(847) 491-3125
(847) 491-4582
(847) 491-3745
(847) 491-1362
(847) 491-2301
(847) 491-3319
(847) 491-3610
(847) 491-3610
(847) 491-8413
Multicultural Student Affairs
Norris University Center
Norris Center Bookstore
Religious Life/University Chaplain
Services for Students with Disabilities
Student Affairs/Dean of Students
Student Financial Services (including 9PAY)
Parking (other than move-in day)
Residential Colleges Program
Sexual Harassment Prevention Office
Student Conduct and Conflict Resolution
Orientation and Parent Programs
Student Loans
Transportation/Shuttles
Study Abroad
Undergraduate Housing
University Career Services
University Food Service
University Police (Nonemergency)
Undergraduate Financial Aid
University Academic Advising Center
University Directory/Switchboard
University Library
Undergraduate Admission
University President
University Registrar
University Provost
Writing Place
Work-Study Program
WildCARD Office
Women's Center
University Residential Life (Move-in day)
(847) 491-3456
(847) 491-5117
(847) 491-3541
(847) 491-2791
(847) 491-7574
(847) 491-3990
(847) 491-8430
(847) 491-7256
(847) 491-5532
(847) 491-8430
(847) 491-5224
(847) 491-6400
(847) 491-7271
(847) 491-7564
(847) 491-3700
(847) 491-2020
CLICK ON THE PURPLE BOX TO GO TO THEWEBSITE OF THE RESPECTIVE DEPARTMENT!
New Student Move in
March through the Arch, Campus tour andENU I
New Student Convocations, AcademicAdvising Sessions and ENU II
Academic Advising Sessions and ENU III
REGISTRATION
Football viewing party and Six Flags Trip
Wildcat Welcome Service Day
President's Convocation
