News

Finals Week – May 2-6

Final exam week is just around the corner check in with your student to make sure they are aware of their finals schedule. A complete listing of the dates and times for final exams can be found online.

End of Spring Semester Move-Out

Be sure to visit the Department of Residentwebsiteregarding move-out procedures for your student. Non-graduating students must check-out before 12:00 noon on Saturday, May 7th. Graduating students must check-out before 6:00 pm on Saturday, May 7th. Please plan accordingly.

Graduation is in May

If your student is graduating this May, congratulations! (Also - You can probably disregard the previous item on registering for next semester…)If you will be attending commencement, be sure to check out the link to get all the important details on all the activities. If your family and friends are unable to attend they can livestream the graduation! There is also a list of helpful tips for parents, family, and friends attending commencement to keep in mind. Additionally, you can find a mobile friendly version by clicking on “quick links”!

In addition to the University Commencement there are also a number of Convocations and Receptions:

  • College Convocations & Receptions will take place on Thursday, Friday and Saturday.
  • The Office of Multicultural Student Affairs will be hosting their graduation reception on Sunday, May 1 from 3:00-4:00 pm in the Great Hall of the Memorial Union.
  • The People of Nia Celebration will be held on Wednesday, May 4th from 6:00-8:00 pm in the South Ballroom of the Memorial Union. The purpose of the People of Nia Celebration is to recognize graduating students of African descent who have completed their undergraduate or graduate education at Iowa State University. At the end of the fall and spring semesters, we gather at the People of Nia Celebration to honor Black culture, pay tribute to those that have come before us and celebrate tomorrow’s leaders with today's successes.
  • The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Student Services Office will be hosting their Lavendar Graduation on Thursday, May 5th 2016 from 3:00-5:00pm in the historic East State Gymnasium.
  • The Latinx Student Initiatives is hosting the 4th Annual Latinx Graduation Celebration 2016 on Saturday, May 7th at 6:00 pm in Room 220-240 of the Scheman Building.

Summer Housing Options

Does your student plan on staying in Ames this summer to attend classes at ISU and need a place to stay? Suggest for your student to check out the Department of Residence’s summer housing options! Not only are the housing options close to campus, but it is also conveniently billed to your student’s U-Bill account. To learn more about eligibility, rates, contracts, and more, visit the summer housing pagetoday!

Care Packages

It is that time of year when students are finishing papers, studying for finals, and wrapping up the semester. This time can be a stressful time of year and care packagesfrom home are always welcome! Note: if you ever sent your student a care package during exams in the past, she or he may expect one this time. For college students, “traditions” are any good things that happened at least once.

Financial Aid

The Office of Financial Aid has provided some helpful information and videos regarding your FAFSA and accepting your aid package be sure to visit their website for more information.Is your student looking for some additional scholarships for the upcoming academic year? There are still a number of privately funded scholarships available. Deadlines for submission begin on May 1st.

The Student Perspective – April

  • Time management skills are tested, as opportunities for activities grow but academic demands continue.
  • It might be tricky packing up mountains of stuff accumulated over the last 10 months.
  • As the end of the year approaches, many students are wrapping up projects and papers for classes. This can be a stressful time of year trying to balance all of their academic responsibilities.

Parent Tips

  • Even if this semester has been challenging, students should keep a positive attitude as they dive into finals. Remind students that perfection is not expected and that you approve if they do their best.
  • Make plans to assist student with summer move-out. Rent a trailer or truck early to ensure availability during move out.
  • If your student is feeling stressed out or overwhelmed, suggest for your student to seek out resources that can help them navigate this time more smoothly. Services such as Biofeedback,Academic Success Center, or the Student Assistance and Outreach can all serve as helpful resources for your student to navigate the end of the year responsibilities effectively.

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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