gearing up for family 09/19/12 11:00 am - 09/19/12 01:00 ... · pdf fileprogram's family...

Balancing the College Life &

Gearing up for Family

Weekend

09/19/12 11:00 AM - 09/19/12 01:00 PM

Username Message Timestamp

familychatadministrator

familychatadministrator(UF NSFP Jasmine): Hello and welcome to New Student and Family

Program's Family Chat! Today's chat will be focused around balancing the college life and

gearing up for Family Weekend! Of course, we are happy to answer and other questions

you may have :)

9/19/2012 10:56


familychatadministrator(UF NSFP Jasmine): My name is Jasmine Scott and I am a 4th year

telecommunication major from Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. I am a student assistant in the

office and I have been highly involved in new student programs.

9/19/2012 10:56

familychatadministratorfamilychatadministrator(UF NSFP Jasmine): Welcome avstrgator, amh1987, kmdreil, and

KarenKlotz!9/19/2012 10:57

RobinS RobinS: good morning 9/19/2012 10:57

familychatmoderator

familychatmoderator(UF NSFP Sarah): My name is Sarah Pila and I am a fourth-year

Psychology major from Tampa, FL. I am also a student assistant in the New Student and

Family Programs with Jasmine. Welcome!

9/19/2012 10:57

familychatadministrator familychatadministrator(UF NSFP Jasmine): Good morning Robin! 9/19/2012 10:58

familychatadministrator familychatadministrator(UF NSFP Jasmine): welcome marytaylor1 and willmom 9/19/2012 10:58

maryataylor1 maryataylor1: Thanks. I am glad to be here. 9/19/2012 10:59


familychatadministrator(UF NSFP Mariah): Hi everyone! My name is Mariah Curry and I am

a third-year Public Relations major from Clearwater, FL. I am also a student assistant in New

Student and Family Programs with Jasmine and Sarah. Welcome!

9/19/2012 11:00

Willmom Willmom: Thank you 9/19/2012 11:00

familychatadministratorfamilychatadministrator(UF NSFP Jasmine): So...how are you all feeling about your

student's transition to UF so far?9/19/2012 11:00

av8trgatorav8trgator: Our daughter continues to struggle with adjusting to college life at UF and

homesickness. Academically, she's off to a great start, but not so much otherwise. Any tips?9/19/2012 11:00

familychatadministratorfamilychatadministrator(UF NSFP Jasmine): av8trgator: It's great to hear that she is starting

off well academically! What are you all doing to stay in contact?9/19/2012 11:02

familychatmoderator

familychatmoderator(UF NSFP Kevin): Hey everyone! My name's Kevin Griffin and I'm a 4th

year Anthropology major also studying English and Spanish from Fort Lauderdale, FL. I also

work as a student assistant in New Student and Family Programs with the other 3! I hope

you're all having a great day so far!

9/19/2012 11:02

familychatadministratorfamilychatadministrator(UF NSFP Jasmine): Welcome smithc, kpotts, mimimendia, and

gdelmonache!9/19/2012 11:02

av8trgator av8trgator: Text, email, voice, and actual visits to the campus. 9/19/2012 11:03

kpotts kpotts: Thank you! 9/19/2012 11:03

kpotts kpotts: To av8trgator: 9/19/2012 11:03


familychatadministrator(UF NSFP Joe): Hi everyone, my name is Joe Wolff and I'm a 4th

year English major from Deland, FL. I'm a student assistant in New Student and Family

Programs....looking forward to chatting!

9/19/2012 11:04

kpottskpotts: Our son has gotten involved in several clubs already. The small groups have been a

good way for him to connect with other students.9/19/2012 11:04


familychatadministrator(UF NSFP Jasmine): Well it sounds like you have been in constant

communication which is good. Have you thought about doing care packages, etc.

Something my mom does periodically is send me cards in the mail. I usually don't expect

them so they are a nice surprise!

9/19/2012 11:04

[email protected]@airborn.com: My biggest questions about the new student is how much to

comment about choices they are making?9/19/2012 11:04

familychatadministrator familychatadministrator(UF NSFP Jasmine): Hi Joe! 9/19/2012 11:05

[email protected] [email protected]: And what is the most effective way to make those comments? 9/19/2012 11:05

maryataylor1

maryataylor1: My son just started the Chemical engineering program and is miserable

(except for his girlfriend being there). He has already dropped from Calc to pre-calc (with

mine and his father's blessing, of course) but still talks about having NO TIME for anything

"fun". He is by nature very introverted and has a tendency to isolate himself. We tried to

coax him in to visiting the wellness center but he will not hear of it.

9/19/2012 11:05


familychatadministrator(UF NSFP Mariah): Kpotts and av8trgator: That is a great way for

your students to start to find their home away from home on the UF campus. Encourage

them to branch out and make friends in their residence halls and classes as well. Finding

study buddies is also a great way to meet people and study for classes.

9/19/2012 11:06

mimimendia mimimendia: I have the same concerns as smithc 9/19/2012 11:06

av8trgatorav8trgator: We're also doing care packages, as are her grandparents. She's an out of state

student (Alabama) and has a boyfrined back in Alabama.9/19/2012 11:07


familychatadministrator(UF NSFP Jasmine): maryataylor: Has he considered getting

involved in any student organizations. Although they take time, I've found that getting

involved has actually helped balance my time so that I have more room for "fun"

9/19/2012 11:07

[email protected]@airborn.com: Does their advisor make any suggestions about how well the student

is finding balance? Or do they only focus on the academic aspects?9/19/2012 11:08

maryataylor1

maryataylor1: My husband recently discovered that their is a Chemistry "club". Our son is

very "anti-frat" so we thought this might be a way to connect with other kids in his major.

Where exactly do the students get info on these clubs and organizations? ti-

9/19/2012 11:08

gdelmonache

gdelmonache: My son has had many of the same adjustment issues as maryataylor1 and

av8trgator. Things are slowly getting better but he hasn't made much time for fun and feels

like it's not easy to meet people. He lives off campus too, which makes it a little harder.

9/19/2012 11:09


familychatadministrator(UF NSFP Mariah): [email protected]: For the most part advisors

only focus on academics but they are also there to give themguidancein other aspects of UF

i.e. clubs and organizations that would be good to get involved with.

9/19/2012 11:09

[email protected]@airborn.com: Are they assigned an advisor that they go back to? Or is it a different

advisor each time they go to the office?9/19/2012 11:10

WillmomWillmom: My sonwas in thesame situation but nowhe is getting involved and doing so

much better9/19/2012 11:10

kmdreil

kmdreil: My son is also struggling with "having a life" but has Chemistry and Calculus which

is very difficult and time consuming. He is looking at dropping down to Intro to Chem but

worried it will count against his drops that he is allowed. Do you know if it does?

9/19/2012 11:10


familychatadministrator(UF NSFP Jasmine): maryataylor1: One great way to find out more

about clubs and organizations is to get an individual involvement consultation from IDEAL -

the ambassadors for student involvement. They have walk in office hours from 10am-5pm

monday to friday. They will get sit down one on one and go through different involvement

opportunities catered to him.

9/19/2012 11:11

maryataylor1

maryataylor1: @ gdelmonache: my son is in lakeside apts., which is on campus but away

from most of the "action". I think this may have been a mistake, but he really didn't want to

live in a dorm or share a room.

9/19/2012 11:11

familychatadministratorfamilychatadministrator(UF NSFP Jasmine): More info can be found on

www.studentinvolvement.ufl.edu9/19/2012 11:11


familychatadministrator(UF NSFP Mariah): [email protected]: You are not

assignedadvisorsuntil you are an upperclass man in all of the colleges. However, your

student can make advising appointments with the same advisor if they find one they prefer.

9/19/2012 11:11

av8trgator

av8trgator: We are encouraging her to branch out, join a club(s), make friends in the dorm

or in classes, and study in common areas (vice just her room). She's making some progress,

but the homesick phone calls replete with crying are worrisome.

9/19/2012 11:12

familychatadministratorfamilychatadministrator(UF NSFP Jasmine): Welcome ngolden1, airforce, vickster,

gmom112, ssimmons2, sixsigmagal, and gatorgayle!9/19/2012 11:12

sixsigmagalsixsigmagal: Thank you. Is this only a "balance" discussion at the moment? Or also for

Parents Weekend?9/19/2012 11:12

maryataylor1 maryataylor1: Where exactly is "IDEAL" located? 9/19/2012 11:13


familychatadministrator(UF NSFP Jasmine): six: You may also ask questions about Family

Weekend. If you have a specific question regarding your reservation please call our office at

3523921261

9/19/2012 11:13

vickster vickster: Hi 9/19/2012 11:13

familychatadministrator familychatadministrator(UF NSFP Jasmine): mary: Room 330A of the Reitz Union 9/19/2012 11:13

gdelmonache

gdelmonache: maryattaylor1 - my son is in a house off campus with a very close friend but

of course they have very different schedules during the day. The two of them signed up for

rec baseball but at this point, my son is not sure he'll be able to make time for it.

9/19/2012 11:13

maryataylor1 maryataylor1: Thanks, Jasmine! 9/19/2012 11:13

sixsigmagal

sixsigmagal: Parents Weekend: (Or for other UF events) I am a single parent, and would like

to connect with other Single Moms who might want to share a room for UF events. Is there

a blog or community in which to do so?

9/19/2012 11:14

RobinSRobinS: UF Joe - this may be off topic but my daughter is also an English major. Since you

are in your 4th year what will you do when you graduate? Do you have a minor?9/19/2012 11:14


familychatadministrator(UF NSFP Joe): mimimendia, there is nothing wrong with

communicating with your student about their decisions as long as you give them ample

time to be independent and grow from their experiences at the university!

9/19/2012 11:14

[email protected]@airborn.com: Can anyone give the % of students whose families actually come up

for the Family Weekend?9/19/2012 11:14


familychatadministrator(UF NSFP Joe): RobinS, I do not have a minor, but my hope is to join

an organization called Teach for America. Either way, I would like to teach high school

English.

9/19/2012 11:15

sixsigmagalsixsigmagal: I guess my question might even be more general, sincea communityin which to

connect with other parentswould be useful for rides to/from school as well.9/19/2012 11:15

mimimendiamimimendia: Thanks Joe, it just seems like my daughter never wants to hear my opinion;

however she seems to be adjusting wonderfully. Can't help but worry.9/19/2012 11:16

familychatadministratorfamilychatadministrator(UF NSFP Mariah): [email protected]: We don't have an exact

percentage, but we have just over 2000 people attend family weekend events9/19/2012 11:16

amh1987

amh1987: Our son has had similar stuggles as marataylor1 and kmdreil. He visited one

advisor and made some changes to his course load, then found out the next day from a 2nd

advisor that the changes he had made did necessitate not only a change in his major, but

will now also require summer school.

9/19/2012 11:16

RobinS RobinS: Thanks Joe and good luck to you!!!! 9/19/2012 11:16

[email protected]@airborn.com: Is there a facebook group page for UF Parents - maybe new student

parents? Or could someone set one up?9/19/2012 11:16

familychatadministrator familychatadministrator(UF NSFP Joe): Thanks RobinS! 9/19/2012 11:16

sixsigmagal sixsigmagal: smithc, I think we are asking a similar question... :') 9/19/2012 11:17

RobinS RobinS: I think a UF Parents facebook page is a great idea!! 9/19/2012 11:17


familychatadministrator(UF NSFP Mariah): [email protected]: there is a Facebook group

called Gator Parent and Family Association (

http://www.facebook.com/GatorParentFamily) that is a family organization here at UF.

9/19/2012 11:18

maryataylor1

maryataylor1: amh1967: that is exactly the kind of thing that has my son worried. We

thought by only signing him up for 12 credits that he would have time to enjoy college life a

bit, but he is so ***** himself and frets if he gets a B on a quiz. How did he find the

advisor?

9/19/2012 11:18

KarenKlotz KarenKlotz: There is a FB page for parents. [email protected] 9/19/2012 11:18

dcstevendcsteven: so most of the rooms are taken in Gainsville- any other options? I will be coming

up fromFort Myers on Saturday am- Where do I go exactly for the saturaday am events9/19/2012 11:19


familychatadministrator(UF NSFP Jasmine): amh: Even though your student may have to

take summer courses, he sounds like he is happier than he was before. All UF students have

to complete a semester in the summer anyway as part of their degree requirements.

9/19/2012 11:19


familychatadministrator(UF NSFP Joe): mimimendia, sometimes it takes a little more time

than usual for your student to express how much your opinion truly does matter. I know

from experience that I did not let my parents know that enough during my freshman year,

but looking back, I can recall multiple times where insight from them helped! They gave me

the independence that UF offered me, but were always there as a support system.

9/19/2012 11:19

GMom12

GMom12: I would be interested in sharing a room for UF events as well since I just got laid

off and unsure how long it will take to get re-employed. Also is family week-end primarily

for incoming freshmen or do you have families from all grades represented?

9/19/2012 11:19

mimimendia mimimendia: Thanks Joe 9/19/2012 11:20

familychatadministrator familychatadministrator(UF NSFP Joe): You're welcome mimimendia! 9/19/2012 11:21

mimimendia

mimimendia: to dcsteven: If you are saying all rooms are booked in Gainesville- I had

booked an extra room at the Residence Inn that I will be canceling, in case you are looking

for a room

9/19/2012 11:21

maryataylor1 maryataylor1: amh1967: meant to say "***** himself". 9/19/2012 11:22


familychatadministrator(UF NSFP Jasmine): mary: I would encourage you to talk to your son

about realistic expectations. Students are typically used to getting A's in all of their courses

so they expect to do the same in college. College courses are more challenging than

courses that they've taken at the high school level. While they should still strive to get A's in

all of their courses they will have to work harder if they want that grade. At the same time,

getting a B on a quiz is not the end of their college career. They can go to their professor's

office hours and talk about why they earned that grade. Learning in college happens in and

outside of the classroom.

9/19/2012 11:22

familychatadministratorfamilychatadministrator(UF NSFP Jasmine): His advisor depends on his major...what major

is your son?9/19/2012 11:22

lenoraslenoras: My family and I are excited about Family Weekend. Where do we go on Friday

when we arrive?9/19/2012 11:23

sixsigmagalsixsigmagal: Family Weekend: Looking for a female "roommate" to share Room at Hilton

Gardens. [email protected]/19/2012 11:23

familychatadministratorfamilychatadministrator(UF NSFP Jasmine): lenoras: 2nd floor grand ballroom in the Reitz

Union!9/19/2012 11:23

familychatadministratorfamilychatadministrator(UF NSFP Jasmine): Welcome dcstevens, pamsrebrenik and

cleverblossom!9/19/2012 11:23


familychatadministrator(UF NSFP Mariah): GMom12: Unfortunately we don't have an

official university way to pair family members up for staying together during Family

Weekend. We mostly have first-year families attend Family Weekend, however the event is

open to all years.

9/19/2012 11:24

maryataylor1

maryataylor1: He claims he has had conversations with all his professors and /or TA's and

still he doesn't do as well as he hoped. Both my husband and I have stressed that we just

want him to be happy and do his best.........he is just so tough on himself.

9/19/2012 11:24

lenoras lenoras: Thank you Jasmine. 9/19/2012 11:24

maryataylor1maryataylor1: he is a Chemical engineering major.... but probably not for long. He hates it

already.9/19/2012 11:25

sixsigmagal sixsigmagal: GMom12: Write me at [email protected] 9/19/2012 11:25

GMom12GMom12: sixsigmagal - I may be interested. Have you registered yet? I haven't and not sure

whether I still can. I can look into it and email you if ok.9/19/2012 11:25

sixsigmagal sixsigmagal: Yes...talk offline? 9/19/2012 11:25

sixsigmagal sixsigmagal: Sure...or call (813) 786-8910 9/19/2012 11:26


familychatadministrator(UF NSFP Jasmine): mary: Honestly it is just an adjustment that all

students need to make. Keep encouraging to do his best and it should get better. If he

dislikes his major, maybe he should consider changing it.

9/19/2012 11:26

familychatadministratorfamilychatadministrator(UF NSFP Jasmine): Information on engineering advising can be

found here: http://www.eng.ufl.edu/students/students/current-students/9/19/2012 11:26

dcsteven

dcsteven: My son is in Lakeside as well- He tells me that the busses do not run at all on

holiday's- He had to walk like three miles to get food- he averages about1 hour travel time

to eat- andhas no transportation to get to a publix- Is there a car pool group ?? I asked him

to check with his RA- she told him that she was new and had no idea or support

9/19/2012 11:27

amh1987

amh1987: Jasmine - I think that the changes our son made will have a positive impact

overall; however, I would strongly encourage anyone who is contemplating similar changes

be sure that they fully understand all the ramifications. Dropping a class or demoding

themselves to a lower level is devastating to these students and they often forget to ask

the necessary questions.

9/19/2012 11:28

GMom12 GMom12: sixsigmagal - sounds good I will email you or call you shortly... 9/19/2012 11:28

maryataylor1

maryataylor1: I know you're right. It's just so tough seeing him so miserable....and he's

really isolating himself from everyone but his girlfriend. I think he will end up changing his

major. Is that hard to do during winter break?

9/19/2012 11:28

[email protected]

[email protected]: I checked out the facebook page you linked, and it is a generic gator

family page - looks liike it's mostly for sending out updates and announcements from your

UF New Students Dept? Is there a group for First Yr. students - maybe even for specific

fields? Looks like other Engineering parents are having similar discussions that I'm having

with my student - can New Student office set up a group FB page for New Students?

9/19/2012 11:29


familychatadministrator(UF NSFP Jasmine): mary: not at all. Sometimes a break like the one

for winter is a great time for students to decompress and figure out what they really want

to pursue as far as a major goes. Once he knows what he wants to change it to, he can visit

his advisor in the spring and then he/she can make that switch.

9/19/2012 11:29

familychatadministratorfamilychatadministrator(UF NSFP Jasmine): Your student can switch their major at any time

during the school year, they just need to visit the advisor.9/19/2012 11:29

maryataylor1maryataylor1: dcsteven: Thanks God my son at least has a car, because he refused the food

plan and therefore needs to buy groceries frequently.9/19/2012 11:30

[email protected]

[email protected]: I am a little concerned to see so much discussion about changing

majors so early in the game. I've had the same comment from my student - there are basic

core classes that have to be gotten through - there is no escape, right? Does the Advisor

discourage making changes so early in the game?

9/19/2012 11:30

maryataylor1maryataylor1: That's a big relief. I'm almost sure he will switch to something slightly less

stringent.9/19/2012 11:31


familychatadministrator(UF NSFP Jasmine): smith: Yes all students need to take general

education courses as part of their curriculum. I would say that if a major isn't a good fit, it

isn't a good fit. Some majors start their specfic coursework earlier on so students have a

better understanding if they like it or not.

9/19/2012 11:31


familychatadministrator(UF NSFP Mariah): Dcsteven:Unfortunately the RTS bus doesn't

always run on holidays but there is a bus that goes by Lakeside everyday besides that (there

is an RTS app and bus tracker that I encourage him to look into), we also have a Zip Car

service which allows students to "rent" a car for a set amount of hours to go to places like

Publix, Walmart, etc.

9/19/2012 11:32

dcsteven dcsteven: thank you mimimendia: on the room cancellation- just let me know when you do- 9/19/2012 11:32

KarenKlotz KarenKlotz: Gator Parent and Family Association at www.ufsa.ufl.edu/parents/ 9/19/2012 11:32

dcsteven dcsteven: [email protected] 9/19/2012 11:32

dcstevendcsteven: thanks- perhaps its time to allow him to use the zip car feature- He is using the

app for the busing- loves it9/19/2012 11:33

dcsteven dcsteven: Where is the nearesr bus station in Gainsville??? 9/19/2012 11:34

amh1987amh1987: smithc - unfortunately, our son's experience was that a major change was the

1st comment, even prior to discussion about time management, tutoring options etc.9/19/2012 11:34

familychatmoderatorfamilychatmoderator(UF NSFP Sarah): dcsteven, are you speaking of the greyhound bus

station?9/19/2012 11:34

familychatadministrator familychatadministrator(UF NSFP Mariah): dcsteven: http://www.zipcar.com/ufl/ 9/19/2012 11:34

familychatmoderatorfamilychatmoderator(UF NSFP Sarah): Information about the Greyhound bus system can be

found here: http://www.greyhound.com/en/locations/terminal.aspx?city=4705589/19/2012 11:34

maryataylor1

maryataylor1: My son seems to think that most clubs are only available to students whose

majors apply to that type of group - is this true, or could a, say, liberal arts major join a

chemistry club, or vice versa?

9/19/2012 11:36

mimimendiamimimendia: dcsteven: just cancelled and they do have rooms available there as well as at

the courtyard so you may want to go book now9/19/2012 11:37


familychatadministrator(UF NSFP Mariah): marytaylor1: Any student can join any club or

organization they choose if your student feels like they need to be a particular major to

partake, I would encourage him to contact someone within the organization to make sure.

9/19/2012 11:37

familychatmoderator

familychatmoderator(UF NSFP Sarah): There are also some bus companies that have stops

on the University of Florida campus. They typically run from South Florida. You can find

information about them here: http://www.redcoachusa.com/,

www.miamibusservice.com/, http://gmgtrans.com/

9/19/2012 11:39

maryataylor1 maryataylor1: Thanks, Mariah. 9/19/2012 11:40

dcsteven dcsteven: thanks Sarah- You da girl 9/19/2012 11:41

chuckjr

chuckjr: We've decided to cut our family weekend short (to Saturday after lunch) because

of all of the class work that our son needs toget accomplished. Why is it family weekend

scheduled from Friday evening to Sunday afternoon?

9/19/2012 11:41

dcsteven

dcsteven: Mary Taylor- My son joined a club- where it does help with his actual major-

where they can shadow physicians, etc.. The chem club is awesome too- Everyone should

join that one

9/19/2012 11:42


familychatadministrator(UF NSFP Mariah): chuckjr: Yes the Family Weekend schedule is

from Friday to Sunday. However, if you purchase the basic package you can leave when you

want but still attend events that you are in town for.

9/19/2012 11:42

dcsteven

dcsteven: Hey chuck- I am getting the same feedback from my son- He has so much to

prepare for and cannot waste all the time sitting and doing the events- We will come up

Saturday- and leave Sunday after Lunch

9/19/2012 11:43

maryataylor1maryataylor1: What exactly is the job of an RA? And good question, Chuckjr. dcsteven: i will

definitely recommend the chemistry club, thanks.9/19/2012 11:44

familychatadministratorfamilychatadministrator(UF NSFP Joe): Great chatting with you all today! I have to head to

class, but best of luck to your students as they continue their fall semester!9/19/2012 11:44

familychatadministrator familychatadministrator(UF NSFP Mariah): Thanks Joe! 9/19/2012 11:44

GMom12

GMom12: Families who live in West Palm Beach and further south there is a bus provided

by GMG Transports that caters specifically to students and staff. Picks up the kids from

campus andmakes stops on the Turnpike at the rest stops. I live in Boca and my daughter

took the bus home over the summer. Roundtrip fare is $40 or $45 which you can't beat and

costs less than what you will pay for gas and tolls. Company is extremely customer friendly,

courteous etc. I highly recommend them.

9/19/2012 11:44

familychatadministrator familychatadministrator(UF NSFP Mariah): Thanks Gmom12 9/19/2012 11:46

mimimendia mimimendia: Thanks Joe 9/19/2012 11:47

familychatmoderator

familychatmoderator(UF NSFP Sarah): maryataylor1: Resident Assistants are employed by

the Housing Residence and Education department here at UF. Some of the job description

is different depending on the Residence Hall that the RA is assigned, but generally they are

there to plan events for the floor they supervise, oversee the students who live on their

floor, work in the front desk of the Hall they help supervise, and act as a support system/

confidant to their residents

9/19/2012 11:47

familychatadministrator familychatadministrator(UF NSFP Mariah): That is great information! 9/19/2012 11:47

maryataylor1 maryataylor1: Thank you, Sarah. 9/19/2012 11:47

chuckjrchuckjr: Just found out about the GMG transports...can't beat the price + it's not that much

longer than driving.9/19/2012 11:47

GMom12 GMom12: True and kids can get homework/reading etcdone on the trip. 9/19/2012 11:48

vickster vickster: A lot of good info .. thank-u guys 9/19/2012 11:49

familychatmoderatorfamilychatmoderator(UF NSFP Sarah): Some buses also have wifi on board so they can

certainly get a lot more done on the trip than they would driving themselves!9/19/2012 11:49

maryataylor1 maryataylor1: Have to sign off now... thanks everybody for your insights. 9/19/2012 11:50

familychatmoderator familychatmoderator(UF NSFP Sarah): Bye maryataylor 1, have a great day! 9/19/2012 11:51

vickster vickster: Do all RA get pay same amount or depends on the Residence Hall ??? 9/19/2012 11:51

dcsteven

dcsteven: How can I find out the exact mailing address for my son's Lakside Hall?? He gave

me some address- kinda funny looking- just wanted to make sure- Does Federal Express

deliver to the halls???

9/19/2012 11:51

familychatmoderatorfamilychatmoderator(UF NSFP Sarah): Vickster, payment also depends on the Residence

Hall and even the floor they are assigned.9/19/2012 11:51

vickster vickster: Thanx 9/19/2012 11:52

partyquick partyquick: Good morning all 9/19/2012 11:52

[email protected]@airborn.com: Are one of you, who are surely more techie than me, going to set up

a group FB page for new student parents?9/19/2012 11:55

vickster vickster: Hi 9/19/2012 11:55

familychatmoderator

familychatmoderator(UF NSFP Sarah): dcsteven, yes Fed-Ex will deliver there. I lived in

Lakeside my sophmore year and had no problems receiving packages. The address looks

funky because it is more like a p.o box. Any package that is larger than the mailbox will be

delivered to the common area in that Residence Hall and is located right next to the

mailboxes. The front desk will process the package and send an email to your student's UF

email address that it is available. Once they receive the email, they have about 5 days to

pick up the package from the front desk common area.

9/19/2012 11:55

lenoraslenoras: The FedEx/UPS system works great to the dorms. I have used it twice already and

my son gets the email notification rather promptly.9/19/2012 11:55


familychatadministrator(UF NSFP Mariah): [email protected]: here is the link to the

Gator Parent and Families Association Facebook page:

http://www.facebook.com/GatorParentFamily

9/19/2012 11:57

VinnyVinny: Sarah, if the package requires a signature, is that a problem or can the front desk

sign for it?9/19/2012 11:57

familychatmoderatorfamilychatmoderator(UF NSFP Sarah): Welcome partyquick, GatorTina, Vinny, suekier27,

chuckjr, ppendas!9/19/2012 11:57

lenoras lenoras: *email notification from the Residence Hall front desk... 9/19/2012 11:57

familychatmoderator familychatmoderator(UF NSFP Sarah): Vinny, the front desk will sign for it if that is the case. 9/19/2012 11:58

Vinny Vinny: Thanks Sarah. That's helpful! 9/19/2012 11:58

av8trgator av8trgator: Thanks all and Go Gators! 9/19/2012 11:58

dcsteven dcsteven: Thanks Sarah & Lenoras- good to know 9/19/2012 11:59

familychatmoderator familychatmoderator(UF NSFP Sarah): av8rgator - have a great day! 9/19/2012 11:59

familychatmoderatorfamilychatmoderator(UF NSFP Sarah): Does anyone have questions about their student's

adjustment to the University or about Family Weekend?9/19/2012 11:59

RobinSRobinS: On the topic of mail delivery....I sent my daughter a package via USPS and they

delivered it to the wrong dorm. She lives in Jennings and they delivered it to Graham.9/19/2012 12:02

dcsteven dcsteven: Will let you know either way mimimendia 9/19/2012 12:02

dcsteven dcsteven: See you all up there!!! 9/19/2012 12:03

familychatmoderator

familychatmoderator(UF NSFP Sarah): Oh no! I am sorry that happened to you. Were you

able to recover the package? For others, it might be helpful to track your packages via the

mail delivery company's website to avoid or notice that issue

9/19/2012 12:03

RobinS RobinS: She has to go to Graham to get it. 9/19/2012 12:04

dcstevendcsteven: Anyone that wants to look me up- while up there for family weekend just email

me [email protected] we can share information perhaps9/19/2012 12:05

chuckjr chuckjr: Are family chats archived? 9/19/2012 12:06

GatorTina

GatorTina: I know it's kind of early. But, I know the Spring 2013 courses will coming on ISIS

on Oct. When you suggest my son should have an appointment with his department's

advisor to plan for his Spring 2013 courses.

9/19/2012 12:06

dcsteven dcsteven: Chuck great question- I am cutting and pasting 9/19/2012 12:07

RobinSRobinS: I'm confused why the person at the dest at Graham didn't inform the letter carrier

that it is the wrong address.9/19/2012 12:07

dcstevendcsteven: Gator tina- great question- I am hopingthe students get notified via email to get

instructions on next term classes9/19/2012 12:07

familychatmoderator

familychatmoderator(UF NSFP Sarah): chuckjr, yes all family chats are archived. You may

find past chat transcripts at our webpage here:

http://www.dso.ufl.edu/nsfp/parents/familyonline/. At the bottom of the page you find

those that have been released

9/19/2012 12:08


familychatadministrator(UF NSFP Mariah): GatorTina: The sooner the better. Advisors get

swamped with appointments at the very end andbeginningof the semesters. Encourage

him go take a look at his requirements and the classes offered and go see his advisor after

the schedule comes out. This will allow him to beat the crowd and know exactly what he

needs to sign up for when classes become available.

9/19/2012 12:08

familychatmoderator familychatmoderator(UF NSFP Sarah): Welcome yaradecarvalho! 9/19/2012 12:09

GatorTina GatorTina: you have an idea when the schedule will comes up? 9/19/2012 12:10

familychatadministratorfamilychatadministrator(UF NSFP Mariah): GatorTina: The 2013 spring schedule will

become available October 5th9/19/2012 12:10

familychatmoderatorfamilychatmoderator(UF NSFP Sarah): GatorTina, Your student can access it from this

webpage: http://www.registrar.ufl.edu/soc/9/19/2012 12:11

chuckjrchuckjr: Great advice Mariah, I'll definitely pass that along about meeting with his advisor

early.9/19/2012 12:11

familychatmoderator

familychatmoderator(UF NSFP Sarah): I find that when I take a look at my degree audit, the

schedule of courses offered, and make a plan, my advising appointment goes a lot

smoother

9/19/2012 12:12

amh1987 amh1987: What is a degree audit? 9/19/2012 12:14

GatorTina

GatorTina: Thank you. Also, when you looked the schedule of courses offered, are you able

to find out who the instructor is? My son's this semester's Calculus 3 professor is very

unorganized. If he able to do a teacher's rating research, he maybe can avoided that

professor in the beginning. Now he is stuck.

9/19/2012 12:15


familychatadministrator(UF NSFP Mariah): amh1987: The degree audit is a complete listing

of all the classes you need for your major in order to graduate. When looking at your

complete degree audit you will see a red X next to classes you haven't complete and a

green check next to classes you have completed. It is located on the left hand side of the

ISIS home page.

9/19/2012 12:17

VinnyVinny: What is Excess Hours Surcharge and does the student receive notice if they are in

that situation?9/19/2012 12:17

GatorTina GatorTina: Vinny, that's exact the question I want to ask. Thank you. 9/19/2012 12:17

amh1987 amh1987: TY Mariah 9/19/2012 12:18

vickstervickster: If students already living in the dorms do they have to re-apply for Spring 2013 or

Fall 2013 and if yes by when ??9/19/2012 12:18

RobinS RobinS: When will the students receive the email informing them of their registration time? 9/19/2012 12:18

Vinny Vinny: Tina, I saw that somewhere and it just seemed troubling.... 9/19/2012 12:19


familychatadministrator(UF NSFP Mariah): GatorTina: Yes you are able to see who the

professor is. You need to know the section number of the class you are interested in signing

up for and compare it to the schedule of courses. There you will see the professor, other

classes they teach, the times they teach, where the class is being taught, etc. I highly

recommend using this tool, I use it ever semester.

9/19/2012 12:19

GatorTina GatorTina: Mariah, can you tell me what tool you are refer? 9/19/2012 12:20


familychatadministrator(UF NSFP Mariah): Vickster: If your student is living in the residence

hall for Fall 2012 you do not have to re apply for Spring 2013, you signed a 1 year contract

obligating your to stay in the hall for both semesters.

9/19/2012 12:20

billwgcp

billwgcp: Any advice on getting your student to set the correct priorities unrelated to

school work? Like, it's more important to replace that lost mace or take that self-defense

classthan uploading pictures to facebook or sleeping everyday until noon.

9/19/2012 12:20


familychatadministrator(UF NSFP Mariah): RobinS: Your student won't receive an email,

however your student will need to do registration prep and when they sign on to the

registration page a date and time will be listed.

9/19/2012 12:21

familychatmoderator

familychatmoderator(UF NSFP Sarah): Vinny and GatorTina, the Excess Hours Surcharge is

new to students this year. Your student can see their exact information as it relates to any

potential charges they may incur. They can see this information on Isis:

https://www.isis.ufl.edu/index.html. On the left hand side under degree audit, the third

hyperlink is Excess Hours Surcharge. It will tell them how many hours they can take before

they may incur an additional charge.

9/19/2012 12:22

familychatmoderator

familychatmoderator(UF NSFP Sarah): I was worried that I would incur a charge due my

additional AP and IB credits, but those are not included. Many students are not affected by

this additional charge, but some can be.

9/19/2012 12:23

VinnyVinny: Thanks Sarah. Do you know if the limit is increased for specific majors, double

majors, minors or other circumstances or is it a hard #?9/19/2012 12:24

familychatmoderator

familychatmoderator(UF NSFP Albert): Billwgcp: It can be frustrating because you want the

best for your student and want them to be prepared in all cases. How about having a

conversation with them about the difference between priorities and necessities. Safety is

one of the most important things to keep in mind here and it is the expectation of all

students to be best prepared. Perhaps putting things into that perspective may help your

student start to think about what is really important at the end of the day.

9/19/2012 12:24

familychatmoderator

familychatmoderator(UF NSFP Sarah): Vinny, it could potentially be increased for some

majors (like engineering) that require more than 120 credits to graduate. Your student

should take a look at the number they are allotted before charges are incurred and talk to

the Bursar's office and their advisor to make sure they can stay under those credits or have

special circumstances considered

9/19/2012 12:25

Vinny Vinny: Will do. Thanks Sarah! 9/19/2012 12:26

familychatmoderator familychatmoderator(UF NSFP Sarah): Welcome 0404hammer! 9/19/2012 12:28

GatorTinaGatorTina: Sarah: I thing the ISIS's Excess Hours Summary is not ready for freshman. I just

took a look, all the number show '0'. I not quite sure what it means.9/19/2012 12:28

familychatmoderator

familychatmoderator(UF NSFP Sarah): GatorTina, it is possible that students need to

complete their first semester before that information becomes available. That is because

even though they are registered for a certain number of credits, they have not yet

completed them. Try to check back in December after final grades are in.

9/19/2012 12:31

familychatmoderatorfamilychatmoderator(UF NSFP Sarah): GatorTina, the tool for course listings can be found

here: http://www.registrar.ufl.edu/soc/, but will not become available until Oct. 59/19/2012 12:33

GatorTina GatorTina: ok, thank you. I'lllet my son check it out then. 9/19/2012 12:34

billwgcpbillwgcp: Thank you Albert. It can be frustrating and not just about safety issues, but also

other day-to-day things that come up or need to be taken care of.9/19/2012 12:35

0404hammer

0404hammer: if a student has earned bright futures scholarship toward tuition, is the

payment that was made toward their account for fall only with a separate payment to be

made in the spring semester, or is the amount awarded now the total for both semesters?

9/19/2012 12:35

partyquickpartyquick: I've had technical errors. For parents weekend, is a bike the best way to get

around campus? Is traffic crazy busy?9/19/2012 12:35

familychatmoderator

familychatmoderator(UF NSFP Sarah): 0404hammer, Bright Futures will be paid out for the

semester the student is currently in. Bright Futures also depends on the number of credits

your student is enrolled in after the drop/add period is over. So yes, a new amount will be

awarded in the Spring.

9/19/2012 12:36


familychatadministrator(UF NSFP Mariah): Partyquick: Family Weekend is a non-game day,

so traffic should be fine. you will be able to park anywhere that is not 24/7 on Saturday and

Sunday.

9/19/2012 12:37

0404hammer 0404hammer: Great, thanks! 9/19/2012 12:37

familychatadministratorfamilychatadministrator(UF NSFP Mariah): Alright everyone it was great chatting with you,

but I have to head to class! Have a great day and go Gators!9/19/2012 12:37

partyquick partyquick: Go Gators 9/19/2012 12:38

billwgcp

billwgcp: Our student is coming home for the first time family weekend, does anyone think

we'll have a problem with her having to deal with house rules rather than nearly complete

freedom?

9/19/2012 12:38

GatorTina

GatorTina: I and my husband debate about whether let my son coming home for the home

coming weekend. Is that weekend has a lot activites happen on school. Should we wait

until Thanksgiving?

9/19/2012 12:38

familychatmoderator

familychatmoderator(UF NSFP Albert): Billwgcp: Yes, I understand, and most of those things

will come with experience living on your own. Sometimes you even make a few mistakes

and learn for next time, but they are skills that they will eventually come to realize are

important to be a responsible individual in the real world.

9/19/2012 12:39

RobinSRobinS: billwgcp: Our daughter is coming home for family weekend too for the first time.

I'm a little nervous!!9/19/2012 12:39

partyquickpartyquick: My son came home last weekend. He had fun while home, but was happy to

get back to campus.9/19/2012 12:40

RobinSRobinS: One thing I'm sure about is that when she brings home her laundry she'll be doing

it. : )9/19/2012 12:41

partyquick partyquick: Our neighbors son comes home almost every weekend. That's a bit much 9/19/2012 12:42

RobinS RobinS: How far from campus are you? 9/19/2012 12:42

partyquick partyquick: I'm 2 hours 9/19/2012 12:42

RobinS RobinS: I'm a little over 1 1/2 hours. 9/19/2012 12:43

partyquick partyquick: It's an easy drive. 9/19/2012 12:43

RobinS RobinS: Where are you? 9/19/2012 12:43

billwgcpbillwgcp: Good luck to us all, lol. We're over 5 hours away. I'd like to go visit, but it's too

much driving.9/19/2012 12:44

familychatmoderator

familychatmoderator(UF NSFP Albert): Billwgcp: It seems that it has been several weeks

since move-in so they have probably gotten a bit accustomed to life in Gainesville. Most of

the time, students see the weekends as a time to finally relax and usually spend it with

family, anyways. They may want to hang out with their friends, as well, but usually family

time is inevitable, specifically on Sunday mornings before the drive back :)

9/19/2012 12:44

partyquick partyquick: 5 hours is far. My drive goes fast 9/19/2012 12:44

VinnyVinny: 1100 miles....she won't be home til Thanksgiving. We are visiting for UFL/LSU game

tho9/19/2012 12:45

partyquickpartyquick: Lunch break is over so I need to run. Thanks all. Go Gators and see you family

weekend.9/19/2012 12:46

familychatmoderatorfamilychatmoderator(UF NSFP Albert): Bill, are you in Miami? I'm from there and after the

drive, all I wanted to do was relax at home.9/19/2012 12:46

familychatmoderator familychatmoderator(UF NSFP Albert): Go Gators! 9/19/2012 12:46

familychatmoderator

familychatmoderator(UF NSFP Sarah): GatorTina, there are several events that happen on

Homecoming weekend here. It is certainly an experience. I did not stay my first year as I

had a family wedding to attend, but was able to do so in other years. I think that

experiencing Homecoming here at least one year is beneficial, but it does not necessarily

need to be the first if that helps.

9/19/2012 12:46

billwgcpbillwgcp: We wanted her to go to another school, which shall remain nameless, for several

reasons, but she wanted to be a Gator. So, we all are now, except for our son.9/19/2012 12:46

familychatmoderator familychatmoderator(UF NSFP Sarah): Thanks for joining us and Go Gators! 9/19/2012 12:47

billwgcpbillwgcp: We're in Sunrise and I work in Miami. I drive 35 miles each way to work, but those

long distances kill me, I hate it. I'd rather paint the house.9/19/2012 12:47

RobinS RobinS: Thanks everybody!!! 9/19/2012 12:48

0404hammer

0404hammer: My daughter came home last weekend on short notice, hitched a ride with a

friend, we are 5 hours. It was great, she appreciated all the food, and bathroom. Got to see

her friends and reconnect. Those of you who are concerned, I think you will enjoy the time

they are home.

9/19/2012 12:49

familychatmoderator familychatmoderator(UF NSFP Sarah): Thank you 0404hammer, that is really helpful. 9/19/2012 12:49

yaradecarvalho yaradecarvalho: tks! 9/19/2012 12:50

familychatmoderator

familychatmoderator(UF NSFP Sarah): I certainly love going home, but only go once a

month or so. I enjoy getting out of Gainesville for the weekend and tend to see some

extended family as well.

9/19/2012 12:50

chuckjrchuckjr: I have been pleased that my son is doing fine withouthis car.Living on campus,

meal plan,bus to walmart seems to be working out.Not to mention the insurance savings!9/19/2012 12:52

billwgcp

billwgcp: One thing that I think is great is all of the students, like yourselves, that get

involved with the school and help us and the students. I think that was some of the best

parts of Preview.

9/19/2012 12:53

dcsteven

dcsteven: I will be seeing my son for the first time since July- We are excited to visit and

catch up!! First time he has ever been away from home- He seems to be doing fantastic- we

text alot- Hard to do the skype - connectivity issues I guess

9/19/2012 12:53

familychatmoderator

familychatmoderator(UF NSFP Sarah): We are going to wrap up this chat now. Thank you

for joining, asking questions, and contributing to the discussion. We enjoyed getting to hear

from you. If you have any last questions, please let us know. Of course, if you have any

other questions you are always welcome to email our office [email protected]

or call us at 352.392.8396 and we can answer any questions you may have.

9/19/2012 12:54

chuckjr chuckjr: Thank you guys...its been great 9/19/2012 12:54

familychatmoderatorfamilychatmoderator(UF NSFP Albert): It's great to hear all of your experiences, we are

more than happy to help in any way we can!9/19/2012 12:54

vickster vickster: Thanx....... 9/19/2012 12:54

amh1987 amh1987: Thank You! 9/19/2012 12:55

billwgcp billwgcp: get to class or back to work ;), thanks 9/19/2012 12:55

familychatmoderator familychatmoderator(UF NSFP Sarah): Thank you again and Go Gators! 9/19/2012 12:55

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