OFFICE OF ACADEMIC ENHANCEMENT
Although this year has presented many challenges, there is much to be excited about. Students are persevering through college and you are experiencing first-hand their resilience as they navigate college life during these unprecedented times. Earlier this month, the University celebrated our first-generation students, faculty and staff for National First-Generation College Celebration Day. Being the first in the family to attend and graduate from college is a momentous achievement, and the University is delighted to be part of that special experience.
Students need to hear and feel your support and encouragement, perhaps now more than ever, in order to be successful. Here’s how you can help:
- Ask how they are feeling about all that is happening in their world.
- Encourage them to practice self-care daily and to take breaks by doing something they enjoy.
- Tell them how proud of you are of their dedication to their academic and co-curricular involvements.
Empower Me First, an academic support and diversity and inclusion initiative in the Office of Academic Enhancement, supports first-generation students in their transition to college. Students are offered general advising, interactive programs, and connections with departments and opportunities.
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VICE PRESIDENT FOR STUDENT AFFAIRS
As we enter the final weeks of in-person instruction, I would like to share my appreciation for your partnership. Your support to our students has been so critical in ensuring that we have been thus far successful in delivering instruction both on campus and remotely. We continue to remain vigilant and rigorous in our commitment to the health, safety, and well-being of students as we wrap up the fall semester. Resources, such as tutoring, the Learning Commons, group exercise classes, and mental health support will continue to be available in virtual formats as students may be returning home into the holiday season and finals time.
When students are home with you, they will also have the opportunity to register for their Spring semester courses, and, if they so choose, sign up for remote learning. We hope our students return in person come spring but understand personal health or travel restrictions may limit what is possible for some. Your student will be able to meet with their academic advisor before Thanksgiving to develop a plan that best suits their personal needs as well as academic requirements. Advisors will continue supporting students through the course registration process.
While this year has presented varying degrees of obstacles and challenges for each of us, we hope that the end of the month brings an opportunity for reflection and a time to come together with those you love. If you or your student ever need anything, please do not hesitate to reach out to me at vpsa@miami.edu.
Dr. Patricia A. Whitely has been the Vice President for Student Affairs since 1997 and is an adjunct faculty member in the School of Education and Human Development. Dr. Whitely is responsible for oversight of residential life, leadership development, diversity and inclusion initiatives, service learning, orientation, student organizations, student activities, student facilities, student counseling and student health centers, Greek life, the Dean of Students Office, and the Camner Center for Academic Resources.
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HOUSING AND RESIDENTIAL LIFE
Housing and Residential Life is pleased that, so far, it has accomplished one of its primary goals this semester to remain open for in-person learning and student engagement. Now, as the end of the fall semester quickly approaches, it is important that your student closely monitors their University email for important information about closing policies and procedures. In an effort to assist your student, below are some important dates to be aware of:
- Nov. 20: Deadline to apply for Wintersession A housing (Nov. 24-Dec. 11) without the added $100 late fee
- Nov. 24: Housing closes for the Fall 2020 semester at 5 p.m.
- Dec. 1: Deadline to cancel Spring 2021 housing with only a $500 cancellation penalty
- Cancellations received on or after Dec. 2 will be charged the full room rate
- Dec. 3: Deadline to apply for Wintersession B housing (Dec. 11-Jan. 19) without the added $100 late fee
- Note: Wintersession B housing costs $1,150, except to those living in University Village or Lakeside Village
- Jan. 21-23: Housing will re-open for continuing students to move into their Spring 2021 housing assignment based on assigned move-in dates which will be announced shortly
Contact Housing and Residential Life at housing@miami.edu or 305-284-4505 with any questions or concerns.
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STUDENT HEALTH SERVICE
As you plan for the safe return of your student, Student Health Service offers the following considerations to help protect your student and your family from COVID-19:
- Review the CDC’s COVID-19 travel information to learn the safest way to travel via a variety of methods. As the CDC recommends, check if your student’s destination has any requirements or restrictions for travelers prior to their trip.
- Create a plan for your student’s arrival. Even if your student feels well and does not have symptoms, they may have been exposed to COVID-19 during their travels. Regardless of where they traveled or what they did during their trip, your student should practice physical distancing, wear a face covering, and wash their hands often. If someone in your home is at an increased risk for severe illness from COVID-19, take additional precautions.
- Discuss how you will celebrate the holidays safely. The CDC’s website has great tips for reducing the risk of COVID-19 spread at holiday gatherings. Lower your risk by having a small dinner with the people you live with or celebrating virtually. If celebrating with people outside your home, lower your risk by gathering outdoors, maintaining physical distance, and avoiding buffet-style meals.
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ORIENTATION AND COMMUTER STUDENT INVOLVEMENT
It may be hard to believe, but we are currently at the home stretch of the Fall semester! October was a huge success with a jammed packed schedule for National Transfer Student Week and ’Canes Spirit Week. Students were able to showcase their Hurricanes spirit and traditions and come together as one U.
We are approaching an exciting point in the semester as we begin to prepare for the Spring semester. Starting this month, students will begin meeting with their advisors in preparation for course registration opening on Dec. 7. My recommendation is to encourage your student to look over the Academic Bulletin, create a plan of study, and explore courses to take that captures their attention. The University offers a plethora of interesting courses that relate not only to their major, but also courses for students looking to step out of their comfort zone. While selecting my courses, I read over the course titles and descriptions that capture my attention.
As we wrap up the Fall semester, I encourage both students and their families to take this time to reflect on all the experiences and loved ones around you that have kept you motivated during the semester. Even in these challenging times, we have much to be thankful for. I wish you the happiest of holiday seasons ahead!
Nathalia Torres is a junior majoring in Sociology and Criminology, and minoring in Health Management and Policy & Public Health. She is a transfer student from Miami Dade College, and currently serves as a Remote Assistant. Nathalia is an active member of the President's 100, Category 5, Homecoming Executive Committee, HP Concerts, and the Pre-Physician Assistant Club.
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UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI
The University of Miami is proactively responding to the COVID-19 pandemic. Find the latest information here.
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STUDENT AFFAIRS
Members of the Homecoming Executive Committee share how they pivoted this year to plan a ’Canes Spirit Week that continues to generate excitement and honor tradition.
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WHAT MATTERS TO U
In a moderated discussion as part of Student Government’s "What Matters to U" speaker series, Sybrina Fulton, mother of the late Trayvon Martin and political advocate, shared words of encouragement about overcoming adversity and tackling social justice on Thursday evening.
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WHAT MATTERS TO U
Lauryn Williams, track and field and bobsled medalist, addressed the University community during Wednesday night’s "What Matters to U" virtual event.
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CAMNER CENTER
As we look ahead to midterms and finals, tutoring services offered through the Camner Center for Academic Resources provide a unique opportunity for students to mentor their peers and develop a caring community of their own.
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TOPPEL CAREER CENTER
The Toppel Career Center is offering an alternative to faculty members if they have to reschedule a class. Let one of the center’s advisors provide a virtual presentation highlighting career resources during that time period.
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UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI
The University of Miami is serving as a pilot study site for a new, rapid coronavirus test that examines air droplets from a person’s breath.
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