Welcome Back Students!

We hope your student is as excited about the spring semester as we are! With a fresh start to the semester the possibilities are endless. Now is the perfect time for students to check out the Academic Success Center to request tutors, begin supplemental instruction, etc. For activities outside the classroom, the ISU Event Calendar is a great resource to learn about upcoming events happening around campus (many of which are free or low-cost!).

News

ClubFest II

A new semester brings new opportunities! If your student wants to become involved and meet new people, encourage them to check outClubFest II on Wednesday, January 21, 2015. There are over 800 clubs and organizations at ISU and a large sample of them will be at ClubFest II. Have your student check it out to get involved, meet new people, and make new friends!

Study Abroad Fair

Iowa State’s Study Abroad Fair is Thursday, January 22, 2015. Students who include a study abroad experience in their education will get a fresh look at their major, improve their language skills, and impress future employers.

Financial Aid Deadlines

It is that time of year again for students to start thinking about the FAFSA, tax documents, and scholarships! Remind your student to be aware of upcoming deadlines to reduce last minute stresses.

  • Iowa State University’s FAFSApriority deadline is March 1st
  • 2014 tax documents can now be accessed by your student online through AccessPlus
  • Scholarships can be found on ISU’s Financial Aid website

Career Fairs

The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Business, and Human Sciences will host a large variety of employers at two career fairs on Wednesday, February 11, 2015. Business, Industry & Technology Career Fair will be from Noon-6:00 pm in Hilton Coliseum and the People to People Career Fair (Social Services, Government, Health/Wellness, Education, and Hospitality)will be from 1:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m.This is an excellent opportunity for students to explore career opportunities, obtain employer information, and locate internships, co-ops, and full-time positions. Freshmen through seniors are encouraged to attend.

Featured Article for Parents and Families

College for many students’ can be the first real opportunity to live independently from the family the student grew up in. Part of the college experience is through learning how to take more responsibility for their schedule, grades, and life. What happens if parents or family maintains the same level of involvement after their student goes to college? Check out this article from the ISU Daily which shares some insight on what this may look like and how it can affect students’ lives.

Winter Weather Policies

When winter winds bring their worst, announcements about class cancellations or university closings will be made at the university homepage ( and through local radio and TV news. Iowa State often remains open when area public schools are closed because many of our students live in Ames (roughly 85 percent). Students should contact their instructors and employee supervisors about weather-related absences. Learn more about Iowa State’s winter weather policies.

University Closed

All Iowa State University offices will be closed January 19, 2015 in observance of the university holiday for Martin Luther King Jr.

The Student Perspective - January

Challenges

•After winter break, transitioning back to college life may be difficult. Students could be affected by last semester’s grades or events that occurred over break.

•Students may be reassessing aspects of their identity and values after reflecting on their experiences last semester.

•The winter season is here: which means adjusting to the cold weather, and the cold and flu season. For some students, this time of year can also bring seasonal affective disorder.

•For many students, the prospect of finding an internship can be particularly stressful.

Opportunities

•If your student has a question about resources on campus, but does not know how to find it, encourage them to contact Student Assistance and Outreach. This is an excellent resource on campus and they will be able to make referrals to other resources on campus as needed.

•The Iowa State University Bookstorehas ISU gear such as hats, gloves, and scarves for those who either forgot items at home or have not yet purchased any ISU winter gear.

•If your student finds themselves feeling depressed, anxious, or just stressed out, encourage your student to visit Student Counseling Services where they offer services such as biofeedback to quick start workshops to individual or group counseling and more to meet the needs of students.

•Whether planning for internships, getting help with a resume, or just exploring career options, Iowa State has a variety of Career Services for your student.

We welcome your feedback

Relatively Speaking is published by the Iowa State University Parents’ Association and the Dean of Students Office. We welcome your suggestions to improve this publication. If you have a question you need answered or suggestions for content in future monthly editions, please contact us at any time at .

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