WELCOME CLASS OF 2021 - FIRST-YEAR STUDENT GUIDE - Fairfield University
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WELCOME
CLASS OF 2021
F I R S T-Y E A R S T U D E N T G U I D E
FA I R F I E L D U N I V E R S IT Y
i
WELCOME TO FAIRFIELD UNIVERSITY
WELCOME!
Welcome, and congratulations once again on your acceptance and enrollment at Fairfield University.
This First-Year Student Guide has been designed to simplify the next steps in the process and to answer
questions you may have about what to expect as a first-year student.
For more information, contact the
Office of Student Engagement at:
e-mail: orientation@fairfield.edu
phone: 203-254-4053
fax: 203-254-5565
website: fairfield.edu/orientation
FIRST YEAR GUIDE SECTIONS
Action Items Student Life & Resources
Important Action Items for first-year Learn about campus life and important
students to complete resources available to students
Getting Started Financial Planning
Describes the first-year student transitional See important deadlines, payment plans,
experience at Fairfield University and resources
Academic Planning Just for Families
Details information students need to Specifies parent/guardian(s) Orientation
consider when selecting classes information, pre-college conversation topics,
and other resources
www.fairfield.edu
FA I R F I E L D U N I V E R S I T Y iii
Action Items
FIRST-YEAR STUDENT CHECKLIST ACTION ITEMS
To ensure your successful transition to Fairfield University, please visit the First-Year Student Checklist at First-year students are required to complete several tutorials and/or tests that assist in the transition to college.
fairfield.edu/orientation as soon as possible. Here you will have access to all the assignments and forms you Please log in to the First-Year Student Checklist at fairfield.edu/orientation as soon as possible. Here, students
need to complete before June Orientation and Fall Welcome. To facilitate a smooth transition, please complete will have access to all the assignments and forms they need to complete before June Orientation and Fall
each task and adhere to the deadlines. Welcome. It is essential that students complete each task and adhere to the deadlines.
CHECKLIST ITEMS DEADLINE ■■ CLAIM NETID DUE ASAP
■■ Claim NetID ASAP You will need to claim your NetID in order to access online resources. You will receive an email notifying
you that your netID is ready to be claimed. To claim your NetID, go to fairfield.edu/netid and make sure you
■■ Complete StagAlert Information (Emergency Notification System) ASAP have your Fairfield issued ID number. Once claimed, you can log into my.Fairfield.edu to access your Student
■■ Register for Student Orientation (attendance is essential) May 19 Gmail account. Your NetID Login (which is generally your "firstname.lastname") information is also required
to use the First-Year Student Checklist.
■■ Register for Parent/Guardian Orientation (attendance is optional) May 19
■■ Academic Interests Questionnaire May 19 ■■ STAGALERT INFORMATION UPDATE DUE ASAP
Students must add their cell phone number to StagAlert, which is the University’s emergency notification
■■ First-Year Housing Application May 19 system used in the event of an emergency. To add or change a cell phone number, log into my.Fairfield.edu,
■■ Parent/Guardian Information Form May 19 click on Self Service Links, then Update Cell Phone Number. Follow the on-screen instructions.
■■ Students with Disabilities or Temporary Impairments: After May 1 ■■ REGISTER FOR STUDENT ORIENTATION DUE MAY 19
Complete a Student Intake Form and Provide Documentation to Accessibility Students must register for June Orientation. Please note that if a student is unable to attend Orientation,
they must still complete the registration process, stating the reason for not attending.
■■ Honor Code Signing May 19
How to complete: Via the First-Year Student Checklist
■■ Language Placement Exam May 19
■■ Proxy Access for Financial Aid and Bursar Information (optional) June 1 ■■ REGISTER FOR PARENT/GUARDIAN ORIENTATION DUE MAY 19
Parents/Guardians also register for June Orientation. Attendance is optional and highly encouraged.
■■ Immunization/Student Medical Report Form June 6
There is an $100 fee per parent/guardian.
■■ Awarding of Advanced Placement, IB, or College Credit July 10 How to complete: Via the First-Year Student Checklist or Parent/Guardian Checklist located at
■■ Financing College Expenses: Payment Plan Fall Semester Enrollment (optional) August 1 fairfield.edu/orientation.
■■ Verification Documents Due August 1 ■■ ACADEMIC INTERESTS QUESTIONNAIRE DUE MAY 19
■■ Health Insurance Waiver August 2 The Academic Interests Questionnaire is essential for preparing students for their academic life on
campus and specifically, their fall semester course schedule. The information received guides placement in
■■ CIRP Freshman Survey August 25 mathematics and in languages for which an online exam is not available. Please complete all sections of the
■■ Student Handbook Acceptance August 25 Academic Interests Questionnaire. Students can e-mail questions to acdc@fairfield.edu.
■■ Code of Conduct Quiz
How to complete: Via the First-Year Student Checklist
August 25
■■ Register Your Computer August 25 ■■ FIRST-YEAR HOUSING APPLICATION DUE MAY 19
Assignment Process
■■ Login & Explore Orgsync August 25
The process for assigning rooms and roommates, including the assignment of varsity athletes, is overseen
■■ Everfi Wellness Program: AlcoholEdu & Haven August 28 by the Office of Residence Life. Placement is based upon the student's completed First-Year Housing
■■ Class of 2021 Common Read and Webinar Sign-Up Prior to First-Year Academic Gathering Application which includes their housing lifestyle preferences. Fairfield University houses students by their
self-identified gender.
Room assignment and roommate(s) information will be e-mailed to students’ University G-Mail Accounts in
The First-Year Student Checklist and forms are to be completed online at fairfield.edu/orientation.
mid-July. Residence Life utilizes Adirondack’s The Housing Director to assist with the Housing Assignment
Process.
For more information, contact:
For more information regarding housing please contact the Office of Residence Life at
Office of Student Engagement residencelife@fairfield.edu
E-mail: orientation@fairfield.edu
How to complete: Via the First-Year Student Checklist
Phone: 203-254-4053
Fax: 203-254-4107 Note: Deadlines relating to financial aid and billing are
Website: fairfield.edu/orientation located in the Financial Planning section of the Guide.
First-Year Student Guide www.fairfield.edu
FA I R F I E L D U N I V E R S I T Y v
Action Items
Action Items
ACTION ITEMS ACTION ITEMS
■■ PARENT/GUARDIAN INFORMATION FORM DUE MAY 19 Italian Test
Parents/Guardians are asked to provide their contact information for print and electronic communications. • Go to the website fairfield.edu/blackboard
The University mails Fairfield University Magazine and invitations to regional and campus events and e-mails • Log in with your Fairfield University NetID user name and password.
urgent information as necessary, as well as news.fairfield.edu, the University’s weekly e-newsletter, a key
• Click ‘2017 Language Placement’ - Italian' link located in `My Organizations & Communities' on the
source of campus news and student information. Parents/guardians can visit fairfield.edu/parents to learn
Blackboard homepage
how to get involved with Fairfield University.
• Answer the preliminary questions and language questions (50) and submit the test
How to complete: Via the First-Year Student Checklist or Parent/Guardian Checklist located at
• The time limit is 45 minutes
fairfield.edu/orientation.
Chinese, French, German, Russian, or Spanish (Not Italian)
■■ ACCESSIBILITY: NEW STUDENT INTAKE FORM (OPTIONAL) DUE MAY 19 OR ASAP • Go to the website webcape.byuhtrsc.org
Fairfield University is committed to providing qualified students with disabilities an equal opportunity to access • Select ‘Fairfield University’ from the drop-down menu
the benefits, rights and privileges of its services, programs and activities in an accessible setting. In compliance
• Enter the password ‘stags21’ (no quotation marks) and click on the ‘login’ button
with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act and Connecticut state laws, we
• Select the placement test language from the drop-down menu
provide accommodations to qualified students with disabilities to reduce the impact of disabilities on academic
functioning or upon other major life activities. Fairfield University also recognizes the need for accommodations • Enter last name, first name, and 8-digit Fairfield ID number at the top of the profile screen that appears
when a student is suffering from a temporary impairment and will work to provide accommodations to the • Answer the preliminary questions about language experience. For the question ‘How have you learned
student should the temporary impairment impact academics or other major life activities. [name of language] other than in school,’ students can select up to two choices. The choice ‘Exchange
Student’ means the student was studying abroad as an exchange student living in a country speaking the
A student with a disability or temporary impairment who wishes to be considered for academic or campus
language in which he or she is being tested.
life accommodations at Fairfield University must identify him/herself to Accessibility in the Academic and
Career Development Center and complete the registration process for accommodations. • Click ‘Continue’ at the bottom of the screen
• The BYU test is an untimed, adaptive test
How to complete: After May 1st, please access the Student Intake form via fairfield.edu/accessibility/
prospective-students-and-parents. The form along with supporting documentation, must be e-mailed to • Students should expect to complete the test in 20 to 45 minutes
acdc@fairfield.edu or sent to the: Academic & Career Development Center Fairfield University (Kelley Center • The test will indicate to students when the exam is complete
West) 1073 North Benson Road Fairfield, CT 06824-5195. Questions
• If students experience difficulty getting into any of the language tests, or have any questions about
■■ HONOR CODE SIGNING DUE MAY 19
language placement, they can e-mail languageplacement@fairfield.edu.
Fairfield University’s primary purpose is the pursuit of academic excellence. This is possible only in an
atmosphere where discovery and communication of knowledge are marked by scrupulous, unqualified honesty. • If students wish to continue to study in a language for which an online placement exam is not available,
Therefore, it is expected that all students taking classes at the University adhere to the following Honor Code: they should indicate that on the Academic Interests Questionnaire and meet with a language advisor during
Orientation.
“I understand that any violation of academic integrity wounds the entire community and undermines
the trust upon which the discovery and communication of knowledge depends. Therefore, as ■■ PROXY ACCESS FOR FINANCIAL AID AND BURSAR INFORMATION (OPTIONAL) JUNE 1
a member of the Fairfield University community, I hereby pledge to uphold and maintain these Students often rely on the support of parent(s)/guardian(s) and others to assist them with financing their
standards of academic honesty and integrity.” education at Fairfield University. In order to ensure that financial aid and billing information is discussed
All students must sign the University Honor Code, especially before taking the online Language Placement Exam. with approved persons per FERPA regulations, students will need to give permission to the Financial Aid
and Bursar Offices to speak with designated persons. This permission is granted through the Proxy Access
How to complete: Via the First-Year Student Checklist
process.
■■ LANGUAGE PLACEMENT EXAM DUE MAY 19 How to complete: Via the First-Year Student Checklist
The Language Placement Exam is only for students who have previously studied, or have otherwise acquired
some fluency in Chinese, French, German, Italian, Russian, or Spanish. ■■ IMMUNIZATION/STUDENT MEDICAL REPORT FORM DUE JUNE 6
Students are required to submit a confidential health history and to document proof of immunizations which
How to complete: Fairfield University uses an online Language Placement exam to assess students’ skills
are required by Connecticut State law. Mandated immunization requirements are strictly enforced. Students
in Chinese, French, German, Italian, Russian, and Spanish. Students who have previously studied, or have
may not move into a residence hall or begin classes until all immunization requirements are met.
otherwise acquired some fluency in, one or more of those languages are required to take the exam for one
of the languages they are familiar with, even if they do not intend to take college courses in any of them. The The Student Health Center strongly recommends a pre-college physical exam. However, the Student Health
placement exam must be completed by May 19 so faculty can review the results before Orientation. Because Center requests that all students submit their health history and proof of immunizations (documented on the
students may take the exam in a particular language only once, they are encouraged to review prior to Student Medical Report Form) by June 6. Students may mail in their physical exam documentation at a later
testing and to test at a time when they will be able to do their best. date if necessary.
If you are starting a new language (a language you have no academic or life experience in) at Fairfield,
you do not need to take the Language Placement Exam in that new language. For additional information
concerning language placement, please visit fairfield.edu/languageplacement
First-Year Student Guide www.fairfield.edu
FA I R F I E L D U N I V E R S I T Y vii
Action Items
Action Items
ACTION ITEMS ACTION ITEMS
How to complete: • High school profile outlining all high school graduation requirements
1. Go to the website fairfield.edu/immunization All documents should be sent to the Academic & Career Development Center. It is the discretion of college/
2. Carefully review the list of required immunizations (Connecticut requirements may be different than school officials to determine if AP, IB, or transfer credit may be used to determine if such credits may be used
requirements in your home state) to exempt students from specific University courses or requirements.
3. Download and print the “Undergraduate Medical Report Form”
■■ FINANCING COLLEGE EXPENSES: PAYMENT PLAN FALL SEMESTER ENROLLMENT (OPTIONAL)
4. Students should complete the health history part and the tuberculosis screening questions (Part I)
DUE AUGUST 1
5. Present this form to your physician. Ask your physician to document your immunization history on this The University makes available a monthly payment plan. The deadline for Fall Semester enrollment is August 1.
form. Additionally, your physician needs to review your TB screening questions. Students at high risk for For additional information, visit fairfield.edu/bursar.
tuberculosis will need to be tested (as outlined in the form).
6. Upload, mail or fax your completed form to the Student HealthCenter by June 6 ■■ VERIFICATION DOCUMENTS DUE AUGUST 1
(Go to fairfield.edu/immunization for more information on returning your form). Students should contact the Office of Financial Aid at finaid@fairfield.edu to verify that their financial aid file
is complete.
Food Allergies
■■ HEALTH INSURANCE WAIVER DUE AUGUST 2
For more information on how Fairfield University addresses Food Allergies visit fairfield.edu/healthcenter
Domestic (Non-International) Undergraduate Students: Fairfield University requires that all full-time
domestic undergraduate students maintain or purchase a health insurance policy. Under Fairfield University's
■■ AWARDING OF ADVANCED PLACEMENT, IB, OR COLLEGE CREDIT DUE JULY 10 "hard waiver" program, full-time undergraduate domestic students are automatically enrolled (and billed),
Students entering Fairfield University may be eligible to receive college credits for work previously completed in each July, in its sponsored health insurance policy for the upcoming academic year. However, if the domestic
several ways: through Advanced Placement exams, through High-Level International Baccalaureate courses, or student has access to comparable or better health insurance through other means (e.g. parents' coverage),
through college courses completed while in high school. First-year students should make sure that official results and does not wish to be enrolled in the University sponsored plan, the domestic student must complete an
or transcripts are sent to the Academic & Career Development Center as soon as possible in order to have more on-line waiver to provide proof of coverage.
options in course planning.
Once the online waiver is completed and processed by the University Bursar’s Office, students will receive a
Advanced Placement: full credit on their bill. To view the policy details, go to gallagherstudent.com/fairfield, which will be made
Fairfield University will award 3 or 4 credit hours for each AP course taken by a student, provided that the student available in May. Domestic students coming from other geographic areas that carry HMO or network-based
has taken the Advanced Placement Test prepared by the CEEB program and obtained a test score of 4 or 5. coverage are strongly encouraged to purchase the Fairfield University sponsored plan.
Higher Level International Baccalaureate Courses: How to complete: Domestic Students Only: The waiver will be made available online in early June. To waive
Fairfield University recognizes the advanced nature of Higher Level International Baccalaureate courses and insurance coverage for the 2017-18 academic year, log into the student portal, my.Fairfield.edu, (student Net ID
will award 3 or 4 credit hours provided a grade of 6 or 7 is achieved. and password required) search for the word ‘health,’ click on the 'Student Health Insurance Waiver' icon to
complete the form. Please be sure to click on the "submit" button on the bottom of the screen.
Courses Taken for College Credit while in High School:
*International (VISA holding students) are enrolled on a mandatory basis and cannot waive coverage.
For students who pursue college courses while in high school, upon receipt of an official college transcript,
the course work will be evaluated by the appropriate dean/director in consultation with the appropriate
■■ CIRP FRESHMAN SURVEY DUE AUGUST 25
curriculum area, provided the following criteria are met:
The CIRP Freshman Survey is to be completed online during the summer. Students will participate in a
• The course(s) must have been completed in a college environment and must have been taught by a national study of incoming college students designed by the Higher Education Research Institute at UCLA.
college professor This is an opportunity for students to report activities, opinions, and goals as they begin college. This
• The course(s)/credits were not used to satisfy high school graduation requirements questionnaire will help assess the impact of a Fairfield education. If students do not complete CIRP, they may
• A final grade of “C” or better was earned. fail FYE, resulting in a “Q”, or unsatisfactory, grade on their transcript.
That dean/director will determine the appropriateness of the transfer credit for the student’s program and How to complete: An e-mail from student-surveys@fairfield.edu will be sent to each student’s Fairfield
decide whether it has met Fairfield’s curriculum standards. A maximum of 15 credits of approved coursework University Gmail account over the summer, following Orientation. For questions, students can contact the
will be awarded transfer credit. The grades will not be transferred. Institutional Research Office at IR@fairfield.edu.
How to complete: Official score reports for AP or IB should be sent directly to the Academic & Career ■■ STUDENT HANDBOOK ACCEPTANCE DUE AUGUST 25
Development Center at Fairfield University. The Student Handbook must be read, understood, and fully agreed to by incoming students before arriving
College level courses will be evaluated upon receipt of the following: on campus.
• An official letter from the high school principal or school counselor stating that the course was taught How to complete: Via the First-Year Student Checklist
on the college/university campus, by a member of the college/university faculty, and with regularly
matriculated undergraduates at that college/university
• An official transcript from the college/university
• A course description and/or course syllabus
First-Year Student Guide www.fairfield.edu
FA I R F I E L D U N I V E R S I T Y 1
Action Items
ACTION ITEMS GETTING STARTED
■■ CODE OF CONDUCT QUIZ DUE AUGUST 25 During the first year, our goal is to connect students with each other, faculty, staff, and the University; to inspire
The Office of the Dean of Students is concerned primarily with students’ needs and well-being outside of excellence; and for students to thrive holistically at Fairfield University. Therefore, each member of the Class of
the traditional classroom, in addition to administering the student conduct system. In keeping with the 2021 participates in:
Jesuit ideals of “cura personalis” — the education of the whole person — and the development of the mind, • The Orientation Program and Fall Welcome • The First Year Experience Program • The Cornerstone Program
Getting Started
body, and spirit — the Office of the Dean of Students calls students to be accountable for their actions in
First-year students also have the option of selecting a First Year Living & Learning Residential Community.
accordance with the Student Conduct Code.
How to complete: Via the First-Year Student Checklist
■■ REGISTER YOUR COMPUTER DUE AUGUST 25
Network Registration is required for full access to the University network. To successfully register a computer
to the student network, Fairfield requires that all Apple and Windows-based computers have the latest
operating system/security updates and an antivirus application installed. Machines will fail the registration test
if the computer is not properly protected and updated. Detailed instructions can be found at fairfield.edu/
wireless. All commercially available antivirus applications (e.g. McAfree, Norton) are acceptable. Fairfield
ITS4U Help Desk suggests using free antivirus applications like Microsoft Security Essential (Win7)/Windows
Defender (Win 8 & 10) and Avast Antivirus for Apple computers at avast.com. Antivirus software should
be up-to-date and have the most current virus definitions. This will be checked during the student network
registration process. Visit the Information Technology Services Help Desk knowledge base at wiki.fairfield.edu
for all solutions to many common technical issues/questions you may have once on campus.
■■ LOGIN & EXPLORE ORGSYNC DUE AUGUST 25 MAKE YOUR LIFE EASIER NOW
Why you need
OrgSync is Fairfield University’s online community where you can find out KNOW what’s happening on campus
events, athletics, arts and more
about upcoming events, search for and join clubs and organizations, take EXPLORE your interests
80 clubs and student orgs
surveys, apply for leadership positions and scholarships, sign up for a service MANAGE your involvement
filter your preferences
opportunities, track your involvement, and get personalized news updates. DOWNLOAD THE FREE APP
You can access OrgSync via my.fairfield.edu. Full site access available through my.fairfield.edu
■■ EVERFI WELLNESS PROGRAM: ALCOHOLEDU & HAVEN PART 1 BEFORE AUGUST 28
Fairfield University requires each member of the first-year class to complete AlcoholEdu for College, an online,
non-opinionated alcohol prevention program as well as Haven, an online learning platform that addresses the
critical issues of sexual assault, relationship violence, and stalking. The course has two sections, both of which YOU ARE NOT ALONE — WE ARE WITH YOU ALONG THE WAY…
must be completed to fulfill this requirement. New Student Leader (NSL) — A student who Resident Assistant (RA)/Commuter Peer Assistant
mentors you throughout your entire first year. They (CPA) — A student who oversees your on-campus
Detailed instructions about completing Parts 1 and 2 will be e-mailed to Fairfield Gmail accounts during the
lead you through Orientation, facilitate the First residential floor/commuter community. They are
summer. Completing the AlcoholEdu & Haven course is a required component of the First Year Experience (FYE)
Year Experience program, and serve as your peer a mentor and resource and help ensure a safe,
program. If students do not complete AlcoholEdu & Haven, they may fail FYE resulting in a “Q”, or unsatisfactory,
academic advisor. enriching, and fun experience in the residence halls
grade on their transcript.
and on campus.
How to complete: An e-mail from orientation@fairfield.edu will be sent to each student’s Fairfield University Community Associate (CA) — A faculty/staff member
Gmail account during the first week of August with specific instructions, including login information. who co-facilitates the First Year Experience seminar. Area Coordinator (AC) — A live-in professional staff
They bring professional experience, wisdom, and member who oversees your entire residence hall
■■ CLASS OF 2021 COMMON READ & WEBINAR DUE PRIOR TO FIRST-YEAR guidance to the group. community. They bring a wealth of expertise to the
ACADEMIC GATHERING development of college students.
One of the key aims of Jesuit education is to form women and men for others, to foster awareness of Cornerstone Course Faculty — A faculty member
injustice and the knowledge and willingness to act for the common good. We invite you to examine the who has a special interest in working with first-year Faculty Advisor — Advisors are available to meet
common readings and engage in the summer webinar. The webinar is designed for students to engage with students offers you enhanced academic activities regularly with you throughout the academic year,
one another on these topics and meet your new classmates. The common read is required and the webinar is (e.g., group study sessions or movie nights) and monitor your progress, advise you at registration
strongly encouraged for students. teaches your Cornerstone course. time, and discuss courses and programs of study.
CONNECT. INSPIRE. THRIVE.
First-Year Student Guide www.fairfield.edu
FA I R F I E L D U N I V E R S I T Y 3
GETTING STARTED GETTING STARTED
ORIENTATION Advising Beyond Orientation
Students may choose to attend one of two Orientation Orientation is an introduction to the opportunities
sessions. The first session will take place June 20 & 21 students have to engage with faculty, and the
and the second session will take place June 26 & 27. resources for academic planning and advising at
Getting Started
Getting Started
Students are expected to attend Orientation (unless Fairfield.
there are extenuating circumstances). Once students arrive on campus in the fall, those who
have a declared major are assigned a faculty advisor
What to Expect
in that academic discipline. Undeclared students
The Orientation program provides an opportunity for
are also assigned a faculty advisor. When these
students to get acquainted with Fairfield University.
students declare a major, they will be reassigned to
Students who participate in Orientation will: an advisor in the academic discipline chosen. Faculty
• Meet New Student Leader(s), who will be mentor(s) serve as primary academic advisors for students FIRST YEAR EXPERIENCE PROGRAM promoting active and collaborative learning with
throughout Orientation and first year in collaboration with academic administrators and “The entire FYE experience made peers and greater interaction with faculty in the first
professional staff across campus. Advisors are the transition easier while allowing me to grow as semester of college.
• Have fun meeting new friends a person. My NSL's enthusiasm and dedication
available to meet regularly with students, monitor Cornerstone faculty, who have a special interest in
• Register for fall semester academic classes was inspiring and life changing.”
progress, advise students at registration time, and — Erica Osowiski ’17 working with first-year students, offer them academic
• Make connections with faculty, staff, administrators,
discuss courses and programs of study. enhancements, such as movie nights and group study
and other students As part of Fairfield’s First Year Experience (FYE)
sessions to help students integrate their intellectual
• Learn strategies for balancing academic and FALL WELCOME & MOVE-IN program, all new undergraduate students enroll in a
and social lives.
co-curricular responsibilities Fall Welcome allows first-year students to reconnect non-credited FYE seminar for their fall semester.
Co-facilitated by a faculty or staff member and a Students will be registered prior to Orientation in
Class Registration with each other and the Fairfield community
student mentor, the seminar teaches Fairfield’s core a Cornerstone course that meets a major or Core
before classes begin. First-year students move in
At Orientation, students will register for their fall Jesuit values and discusses topics — such as campus requirement. If their academic plans have changed
on Sunday, September 3. Commuter students will
semester classes, after they attend academic planning life and resources — to help first-year students since they applied to Fairfield University, students
begin attending Fall Welcome sessions starting at 1
sessions that will be run by faculty and professional acclimate to college. Passing the FYE program is may be permitted to select a different Cornerstone
p.m. on Sunday, September 3. For more information
staff facilitators. Prior to Orientation, students a University requirement. course after consulting with a faculty facilitator
about Fall Welcome & Move-In visit fairfield.edu/
should review the Academic Planning section of at Orientation.
fallwelcome. Several sections of FYE will be geared toward
this Guide, which explains the basics of the course Each first-year student takes one Cornerstone
common interests such as service learning, gender
selection process so that, together with facilitators at course, which includes academic enhancements and
For What to Bring to Campus in the fall, see the end (all-women’s and all-men’s groups), Magis Scholars,
Orientation, students can make informed decisions residential-based programming. This will support
of this Guide. and social justice. Students will receive more
about the first classes they will take at Fairfield. and facilitate first-year transition and engagement.
Note: See the Just for Families section of this Guide information about those options via the Orientation
for the Orientation Parent/Guardian schedule. Registration Form. Commuter students will have access to first-year
residential halls and are strongly encouraged
• New Student Leaders (NSLs): A NSL is selected
O R I E N TAT IO N IN FO RMATIO N Schedule to participate in all programming tied to their
Please visit fairfield.edu/orientation. after an intensive hiring process to serve the role
Please complete online registration via the online Cornerstone course.
First-Year Student Checklist by May 19. An Orientation of mentor, advisor, acquaintance, facilitator, and
Accommodations
fee that appears on the fall semester tuition bill covers resource for incoming students. The NSL co-
All students, including commuter students, attending FA I RF I E L D C HA L L E NGE
the student cost for Orientation in June and Fall facilitates the FYE seminar with a Community
Orientation will stay overnight in the residence halls Attention: First Year Students! Can't wait for your
Welcome in September. Associate. The NSL is a trained Peer Academic
with a roommate. Meals will be provided throughout Fairfield experience to begin? Come BEFORE Move-
Arrival the duration of the program. Advisor. In Day for 3 days of fun, friends, service & spirit, from
Check-In will begin at 7:30a.m. and ends by 8:45 a.m.. You • Community Associates (CAs): A Community Associate August 31-September 2, 2017.
What to Bring
will receive a precise check-in time based on the letter
• Casual, comfortable clothes and shoes is a faculty or staff member who co-facilitates the • Move into your residence hall 3 days early, on August
of your last name in June. We recommend that students
• Toiletries (including a towel) FYE seminar. The CA will serve as a mentor and 31.
arrive early. Anticipate 15-20 minutes for the check-
• Pillow, sheets and blanket, or sleeping bag • Navigate a ropes course and zip lines at The
in process. The program will begin promptly at 9 a.m. resource to first-year students as well as an advocate
• Small fan Adventure Park at The Discovery Museum.
• First-Year Student Guide for establishing a sense of community amongst their
Orientation Groups • Volunteer for 2 days of service with local community
A significant portion of Orientation is spent in groups made Departure group. organizations.
up of approximately 10-20 first-year students facilitated The student program concludes by 3 p.m. on the second • Make new friends, explore the transition to college,
by a New Student Leader(s). When students register for day of Orientation. Students should not leave earlier unless CORNERSTONE COURSES and much more.
Orientation, they will have an opportunity to select the type arrangements were made with the Orientation office.
The Cornerstone program is designed to increase
• Cost is $100
of group they’d like to be part of based on their interests • Spaces are limited. Register on OrgSync after May 1.
(i.e., leadership, service learning, social justice, spiritual, etc). academic engagement for first-year students by
First-Year Student Guide www.fairfield.edu
FA I R F I E L D U N I V E R S I T Y 5
GETTING STARTED GETTING STARTED
FIRST-YEAR LIVING AND LEARNING COMMUNITIES CURA PERSONALIS A dedicated commuter lounge equipped with
First-year students have the option to select a First-Year Living and Learning Community (LLCs), which are MENTORING PROGRAM a television, tables for studying, lockers, and
designated floors in the residence halls. These floors provide students with specialized support and attention, The Cura Personalis Mentoring Program (CPMP), comfortable couches is conveniently located in
as well as the opportunity to collaborate and interface with faculty and administration on a daily basis. There is sponsored by the Office of Student Diversity & the Barone Campus Center.
Getting Started
Getting Started
also unique programming and activities for students to enjoy. Multicultural Affairs, is a voluntary program that The Office of Residence Life also has a limited
provides first-year students with a peer and faculty/ number of rooms available on short notice for
Leadership Through Service — Campion Hall WiSTEM* — Gonzaga Hall staff mentor. These mentors guide students through students in case of poor weather or unexpected
the transition from high school to college. CPMP transportation issues. Commuter students are
focuses on serving students of color and/or first- encouraged to participate in all programs such as
generation college students, but is open to all clubs and organizations, sophomore residential
first-year students. Cura Personalis is a Jesuit value colleges, service learning, and study abroad.
meaning “care of the whole person” and the mentors
embrace this value by discussing not only academics, MY.FAIRFIELD.EDU
but health and wellness, social life, and spirituality Fairfield University's portal can be reached at
issues, too. my.Fairfield.edu. The portal provides access to:
For more information, stop by the Barone Campus • View grades and unofficial transcripts
This community is intended to bring together first- This program is specifically designed to support women Center Suite 100 or call 203-254-4000, ext. 3501. • View current course schedule
year students who aspire to continue to make a in fields traditionally underrepresented by women
difference through practical leadership principles. (biology, chemistry, physics, math, and engineering). • Accept financial aid
COMMUTER STUDENTS
First-year students will be able to build upon their They can pursue the fields of science, technology, • Register for courses
leadership potential through diverse activities using engineering, and mathematics while building The Office of Residence Life works closely with
• Access tuition bills
self discovery, identity exploration, and experiential community beyond traditional academic boundaries. commuter students to help them take full advantage
trips. Students will also be encouraged to actively seek * Women in Science, Technology, Engineering, of the many opportunities that the University • Add a cell phone number to the StagAlert system
opportunities to both serve and lead others within and Mathematics provides. • Other online resources (i.e. Email, BlackBoard,
their community .
Orgsync, etc.)
HOW TO SELECT A LIVING AND LEARNING COMMUNITY (LLC):
When you complete the First-Year Housing Application, select the LLC of interest to you!
Honors and Health and Wellness — Jogues Hall Man 2 Man and Sisters Inspire Sisters — Regis Hall ACADEMIC CALENDAR 2017-2018: The calendar is on the University web site
at fairfield.edu/academics/academiccalendar
Honors Man 2 Man assists first-year male students with their
The Honors Community is an exclusive opportunity for transition to college. This is accomplished through
first-year honors students. The program is designed to biweekly events, involving upper class mentors and
complement and enhance the honors experience with male faculty and staff, to build brotherhood and
peer mentorship from Resident Assistants who have community. This program is intended for committed
participated in the honors program, access to faculty male residents searching for a sense of brotherhood.
and specific honors programs and study spaces.
Sisters Inspire Sisters (S.I.S) assists first-year female
Health and Wellness students to set realistic expectations for their
The Health and Wellness LLC is a community that upcoming college experience. Students will have the
fosters an environment of Cura Personalis. This opportunity to develop social companionship through
program promotes the development of the mind, mentoring and empowerment activities. Students will
body and spirit through creative programming and get to know one another, express themselves, learn
community engagement. about others before and after they arrive to campus.
First-Year Student Guide www.fairfield.edu
FA I R F I E L D U N I V E R S I T Y 7
GETTING STARTED ACADEMIC SUPPORT AND RESOURCES
STAGCARD ACADEMIC & CAREER DEVELOPMENT Project Excel
The StagCard is Fairfield University’s official CENTER Project Excel is a TRiO Student Support Services
identification card. Students can have their picture The Academic & Career Development Center offers (SSS) Program funded by the US Department of
taken during June Orientation or when they arrive comprehensive programs, services, and resources Education. The program's overall objectives are to
Getting Started
on campus in the fall. Students will receive their to support student development, academic success, increase and support the retention of participants,
StagCard in the fall, and are expected to carry the and career readiness. The Center provides services ensure that participants are in good academic
card at all times. tailored to address the diverse developmental stages standing at the University and to have participants
of a student's academic career. The distinctiveness graduate in a timely way. Project Excel works to
The StagCard is an all-in-one card. First-year
of this holistic approach is grounded in our Catholic, accomplish its objectives by providing an array of
students will use it for the following services:
Jesuit mission and supports a transformative learning support services for eligible students. For additional
• Building access to the residence halls, the information on eligibility requirements, please contact
experience. The Academic & Career Development
DiMenna-Nyselius Library, computer labs, and Project Excel at 203-254-4064.
Center is located in the Kelley Center. For additional
the Quick Recreation Complex.
information, please contact the Academic & Career Career, Leadership & Professional Development
• Document printing: Fairfield uses WEPA (Wireless Development Center at 203-254-4081 or acdc@
It is never too soon to start thinking about life after
Academic Planning
Everywhere, Print Anywhere) to manage its public- fairfield.edu.
Fairfield! That includes evaluating careers, graduate
access printers. Users send print jobs to the Cloud,
Academic Support school, and service opportunities. This is the time
and then release them from one of 12 kiosks around
Academic Support provides individual and group for students to identify interests, skills, abilities,
campus, and from any WEPA kiosk nationwide. All
services aimed at facilitating student transition and and personality traits. The Center provides access
students receive $25 in complimentary StagPrint
increasing student engagement and success. The to assessment inventories, career counseling, and
value each semester, or $5 per registered course,
Center supports and monitors students’ academic assistance with developing resumes. Many students
whichever is greater.
progress, offers tutorial programs and learning find that asking questions about future work is closely
• Laundry: All campus residents receive 80
support resources, and coordinates with faculty tied to decisions they will make about majors, minors,
complimentary laundry cycles (one wash or
The StagBucks account will also kick in when students advisors, deans’ offices, and campus resources to and other areas of engagement. Thinking about a
one dry) each semester.
run out of dining dollars, StagPrint, or laundry cycles. assist students in achieving academic success. Using future career helps students to truly value their time
• Meal Plan: All residence hall residents are at Fairfield, enhancing the college experience.
For an updated list of off-campus merchants accepting a holistic advising model, the Center helps students
automatically enrolled in a meal plan; commuting
the StagCard, visit fairfield.edu/stagcard. meet their academic, personal, and professional goals For more information, visit fairfield.edu/acdc.
students are eligible to purchase one. The StagCard
through comprehensive and integrated academic
is required in the Main Dining Room. There are five convenient ways to add money to the LIBRARY
support services and resources.
• Debit: When students add money to their StagBucks account: As students begin their academic journey, they are
The following services are available to undergraduate
StagBucks account, the StagCard becomes a 1. Online at stagcardonline.com. MasterCard, encouraged to visit the DiMenna-Nyselius Library. The
students:
debit card. American Express and Visa accepted. library offers many resources and services to support
2. In person at the StagCard Office. Cash, check, • Peer Tutoring Program students:
The money in the StagBucks account can be used
Master Card, and Visa accepted. • Academic Support Workshop Series • More than 200 outstanding electronic databases for
at a variety of locations on campus, including the
3. At a Value Transfer Station (VTS) located in the • The Math Center research from anywhere 24/7
Fairfield Spirit Shop, the University Bookstore
(downtown), the mailroom, vending machines, Barone Campus Center next to the ATM and in the • The Writing Center • Equipment including computers, laptops, iPads,
Einstein Bros Bagels, the Stag Snack Bar, Starbucks in Weil Café of the DiMenna-Nyselius Library. Only Accessibility printers, scanners, and device chargers
the library cafe, and more. cash is accepted. Accessibility is a confidential service available for • Over 330,000 books, 750,000 ebooks, 12,300
4. By mail to the StagCard Office. Make checks students with disabilities and temporary impairments, videos and CDs, 120,000 streaming videos and
payable to Fairfield University, indicate the both undergraduate and graduate, attending Fairfield audio files, 72,000 print and e-journals
student’s name and Fairfield ID number in the University. Accessibility works with students each • Numerous spaces to study, including 11 group study
memo area, and send to: semester to collaboratively create academic and/ rooms, and 10 collaborative work areas
StagCard Office or campus life accessibility plans. Services include • 24/7 research assistance via instant messaging,
Fairfield University one-on-one sessions focused on time management, e-mail, chat, telephone, or in person at the
1073 North Benson Road organization and planning, study skills improvement, Reference Desk, or by personal appointment
Fairfield, CT 06824 effective note taking and communications skills. To • 24/7 computer lab and café
request accommodations or to learn more about the
• ITS4U Help Desk for computer assistance
comprehensive services, please call 203-254-4081, or
visit fairfield.edu/accessibility. • The Writing Center for writing assistance
Visit fairfield.edu/library.
First-Year Student Guide www.fairfield.edu
FA I R F I E L D U N I V E R S I T Y 9
ACADEMIC PLANNING ACADEMIC PLANNING
ACADEMIC ADVISING Faculty Advisors
Through academic advising, students learn to Once they arrive on campus, students who have a
become members of Fairfield University’s community, declared major are assigned a faculty advisor in that
to think critically about their roles and responsibilities academic discipline. Undeclared students are also
as students, and to develop an educational plan that assigned a faculty advisor. When these students
allows for exploration, reflection, and discernment. declare a major, they will be reassigned to an advisor
A network of faculty advisors, professional advising in the academic discipline chosen. Supplemental
staff, and peer mentors supports students in all advising support is available to all students through
areas of academic planning and at each stage of the the Academic & Career Development Center,
decision-making process. Students receive assistance assistant/associate deans, and department chairs.
with selecting courses, deciding on majors (and Advisors are available to meet regularly with students,
possibly minors), and incorporating co-curricular monitor progress, advise students at registration time,
involvement and high-impact learning opportunities and discuss courses and programs of study.
such as study abroad, capstones, and internships.
Academic Planning
Academic Planning
Together, Fairfield’s faculty, staff, and peers promote Peer Advising
a holistic approach to academic advising that Through the First Year Experience seminar, students
encourages students to be actively engaged and to connect with a New Student Leader (NSL) — a
make thoughtful choices regarding their current and sophomore, junior, or senior who was chosen and
future plans. trained to address some of the concerns many students
At Orientation, students will meet with faculty and have when they start college. With knowledge of
professional staff facilitators to select their fall basic academic advising, the NSL is a good source to
courses and will then register for courses online. answer questions about Core requirements, registration
The two-day Orientation session is an introduction procedures, planning for meetings with a faculty
to the numerous opportunities students have to advisor, and other advising resources on campus. NSLs
engage with faculty and the numerous resources for work closely with the Peer Academic Advisors in ACDC.
Additionally, the Core includes a diversity requirement • 10 courses, required from particular disciplinary
academic support and advising. For more information about academic support and (both U.S. Diversity and World Diversity) that will help areas, that give each student the opportunity to
related resources, visit fairfield.edu/acdc. students develop a critical consciousness of themselves choose a unique experience, by exploring his or her
and society. own interests and passions and becoming exposed
THE CORE CURRICULUM to new ideas and ways of thinking
Fairfield University’s 20 liberal arts Core courses Learn more about these areas of Core study and
Students are encouraged to make the Core personally
give students the knowledge and skills to better requirements at fairfield.edu/core.
meaningful by following six paths to self-discovery —
understand the world and their place in it. Core To learn more about the diversity requirement and six ways of making connections among various
courses are offered in a variety of disciplines, but to see a selection of courses to choose from, visit areas of study. To learn more about what these
together they have two goals: enabling students fairfield.edu/usworlddiversity. Core Pathways are and how they can assist students
to become thinking and caring global citizens, and in exploring the Core, visit fairfield.edu/core.
providing a general educational background that PLANNING STUDY IN THE CORE Interdisciplinary courses and majors, courses that
serves to put into perspective the more in-depth
Most Core courses are taken within the first two involve service learning, and those that have students
intellectual or technical mastery students gain in their
years at Fairfield University. However, precisely when conduct their own research are especially conducive
major program.
students should take various Core courses depends, to helping students find connections among the
The Core Curriculum includes five general areas in part, upon their major. Facilitators at Orientation many academic offerings at Fairfield. Finally, because
of study: — and faculty advisors throughout the four years at many Core courses can also be counted toward major
Fairfield — will assist students in selecting a schedule and minor programs, students can still pursue more
1. Mathematics and Natural Sciences
that meets Core requirements. than one intellectual interest in greater depth even
2. History and the Social and Behavioral Sciences
Core courses are organized, in general, into two groups: as they meet the Core requirements. For a list of all
3. Philosophy, Religious Studies, and Applied Ethics
interdisciplinary minors, as well as all majors, visit
4. English and Visual and Performing Arts • courses that form a common experience for
fairfield.edu/majors-and-minors.
most students
5. Modern and Classical Languages
First-Year Student Guide www.fairfield.eduFA I R F I E L D U N I V E R S I T Y 11
ACADEMIC PLANNING ACADEMIC PLANNING
COURSE SELECTION FOR mathematics, since many courses in these disciplines Assessment of Students’ Language Skills
FIRST-YEAR STUDENTS must be taken in sequence and are required for upper We require all students who have acquired some
Class Registration level courses. fluency in Chinese, French, German, Italian, Russian,
At Orientation, academic planning sessions will Students are placed in the appropriate level of and/or Spanish whether through study in high school,
be run by faculty and academic administrators with mathematics based on courses taken and grades at home, or through living abroad — take the Language
an interest and special training in working with received during high school and, to a lesser extent, Placement Exam in one of these languages, even if
incoming students. With that advice, students will on math SAT scores, if submitted. they do not intend to continue the studies in any of
register for their fall semester classes before the end them. The Action Items section of this Guide contains
A student’s academic goals and major requirements
of Orientation. more information about taking the online Language
are also considered. The Academic Interests
Placement Exam.
Questionnaire, which students must complete
Typical Course Loads and Schedules
by May 19, provides the information needed If students choose to continue study in one of those
Students normally enroll in five, 3 or 4-credit hour
for mathematics faculty to determine students’ languages, the score on the placement exam will
courses each semester at Fairfield University.
placement. determine the beginning level of study at Fairfield.
However, a student will be considered full-time
Students who place into the intermediate level
Academic Planning
Academic Planning
while taking a minimum of four courses or 12 credits. Guidelines for the Language Requirement
will need to complete two semesters of language
The section entitled Sample Schedules outlines the Reasons for the Language Requirement
study, while those who place at the elementary
recommended courses to be taken by first-year In an increasingly interdependent world, the ability level will need four semesters. Currently, there isn't
students during the fall semester. For many students to understand and communicate across ethnic, a Language Placement Exam in Arabic, Japanese,
those courses will include EN 11, a math course, cultural, ideological, and national boundaries is Hebrew, Portuguese, Greek, or Latin. Students who
and a language course. Also, all first-year students essential. Since language is the primary vehicle for
studied, or have otherwise acquired some fluency in, plan to start a new language need not and should not
take a Cornerstone course that meets a major or communication, one goal of the Core Curriculum
one or more of those languages are required to take take the placement exam in this new language. All
Core requirement and an FYE seminar. For more is to ensure that Fairfield graduates acquire facility
the Exam for one of the languages they are familiar students should indicate their language preference on
information about Cornerstones and FYE, refer to with at least one language other than English. Hence,
with. The assessment results will enable students, along the Academic Interests Questionnaire found online on
the Getting Started section of this Guide. most students are required to complete the study
with their faculty advisors, to make informed decisions the First-Year Student Checklist.
Guidelines for First-Year Mathematics Placement of a modern language or a classical language at the
about language courses at Fairfield.
intermediate level. Guidelines for Pre-Health/Pre-Med Planning
Students should enroll in the highest numbered
Students with a high school background in a Fairfield offers a challenging, competitive, and
mathematics course that their high school If a student elects to study a language not studied in
particular language may want to continue their highly successful pre-medical/pre-dental/pre-health
preparation in mathematics allows. This will permit high school, typically four (4) semesters of a Modern
studies to improve their proficiency. Other students professional program called the Health Professions
students to build upon the foundation that was Language or three (3) semesters of Greek or Latin are
prefer to use college as an opportunity to learn a Program, or HPP. Students in this program pursue
established in high school and will provide greater required to complete the intermediate level.
completely different language, one that they do not studies in a field or major of their personal interest while
flexibility when choosing a major or changing majors.
Because of specialized programs of study, students know or that was not offered at their high school. taking those courses necessary for admission to medical
This is especially true if students are considering a
in the School of Engineering do not have to fulfill the and dental schools, as well as any of the professional
major in the School of Engineering, Dolan School For these students, Arabic, Chinese, Japanese,
Foreign Language requirement; students in the Dolan schools for allied health careers, such as optometry,
of Business, the sciences, computer science, or Portuguese, or Russian-languages that the U.S.
School of Business must complete two semesters physical and occupational therapy, podiatry and more.
Government has designated as Critical National
of a modern language or classical language at any
Security languages in which the need for specialists Students who are considering the health professions
level; and students in the School of Nursing have to
is growing-could be choices to consider. All students as a career should identify themselves and meet
meet either the Foreign Language requirement or the
are encouraged to consider starting one of these with the Health Professions Advisor, Dr. Geoffrey
Visual and Performing Arts requirement.
critical languages. Students considering studying Church, as early as possible in the fall semester
Students whose placement score allows them to abroad as part of their college experience may (gchurch@fairfield.edu, ext. 2485, 207 Bannow).
place out of the language requirement may choose want to begin — or continue — learning the primary A great deal of careful planning over three to four
to either continue with the study of their chosen language of the country in years must be done in order to prepare a strong
language in order to work toward a minor or major or which they are planning to do coursework. application for advanced study. Therefore, an early
start a new language. meeting allows students to make sure they are on
Many students include a foreign language course
track with program requirements while there is still
Deciding which Language to Study in their first semester of college, especially if they
time to add or drop courses as appropriate.
are building on skills learned in high school. Faculty
As the section below describes, Fairfield uses a
members from the Department of Modern Languages To apply to health professions schools, students need
Language Placement Exam to assess students’ skills
will be available during Orientation to help incoming to have foundational knowledge in science. Many pre-
in Chinese, French, German, Italian, Russian, and
students explore all their options for language study. health students elect to pursue a degree in one of the
Spanish. All incoming students who have previously
First-Year Student Guide www.fairfield.eduYou can also read
