INTRODUCING YOU TO LIFE AS A LUMBERJACK! - 2019-20 Lumberjack Orientation Guide - Stephen F. Austin ...
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INTRODUCING YOU TO
LIFE AS A LUMBERJACK!
(WITH ADVICE FROM CURRENT STUDENTS AND 15 JACK FACTS)
2019-20 Lumberjack Orientation Guide
Y OU WILL
MAKE A GREAT
LUMBERJACK!
Welcome to the land of academics and axe handles. Although you’ve
already received lots of information about SFA, you still might not know
JACK. Don’t worry, that’s what Lumberjack Orientation is for!
This guide contains the details you need to know about SFA (like where
to get help deciding on a major) and includes the stuff you want to know
(for instance, on-campus dining choices). It’s also chock-full of helpful
information on how to make the adjustment to college life and get
acquainted with your soon-to-be alma mater.
So, sit back, relax, and enjoy the journey.
SFA ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Successful Lumberjacks are
E Facebook - sfasu always aware of important
Q Instagram - SFA_jacks dates and events. Be
C LinkedIn - sfasu sure to reference the
A Pinterest - SFAlumberjacks University Calendar in the
0 Snapchat - sfa_jacks Undergraduate Bulletin, which
D Twitter - @SFASU can be found online at
M YouTube - Stephen F. Austin State University catalog.sfasu.edu.
Look for the Jack Facts icon for
interesting tidbits about SFA.
2 2019-20 Lumberjack Orientation Guide / Stephen F. Austin State University
Welcome to SFA!
On behalf of the Orientation Programs’ staff members, I’d like to welcome
you to Stephen F. Austin State University and congratulate you on starting
your Lumberjack experience. Lumberjack Orientation is one of the first
steps in your transition to campus. Whether you are a first-generation
college student or a Lumberjack legacy, our goal is to make your
transition to university life as smooth as possible.
As an incoming SFA student, you have accepted a new set of responsibilities and will be faced
with many important decisions throughout your time here. Embarking on this exciting and
challenging journey will provide you with new opportunities for growth, both academically and
personally, as you discover the many faculty and staff members eager to assist and coach you.
Lumberjack Orientation will introduce you to campus resources and services, provide
you with the tools needed for success during your first year at SFA, and provide insight
regarding various student engagement opportunities. From being part of renowned
academic programs to finding your place in a student organization, the opportunities to
write your story are endless. We hope this booklet, the Lumberjack Orientation Guide,
serves as a quick resource during and after Orientation.
Studies have shown that students who get involved feel more connected to the university.
Involved students also are more likely to remain at SFA and persist to graduation. Our hope
is that SFA becomes your home away from home and that you begin to cultivate lasting
relationships during Orientation. Use this time at SFA to lay the foundation for the rest of your
life, focus on your goals, develop your strengths, and utilize the resources and people on
campus who are here to help you succeed.
Great opportunities are about to start opening up for you. We are here to make certain you are
prepared for these opportunities and to help answer any questions you may have along the way.
Congratulations on your decision to be a Lumberjack. We are excited to have you here!
Axe ‘em, Jacks!
Jamal Smith
Director of Orientation Programs
Class of ’11 & ‘13
2019-20 Lumberjack Orientation Guide / Stephen F. Austin State University 3
CONTENTS
LUMBERJACK ORIENTATION STAFF MEMBERS AND Disability Services..........................................................19
LEADERS........................................................................6 Every Incoming Freshman Should Enroll
in SFA 101.....................................................................19
OUR UNIVERSITY’S HISTORY Veterans Resource Center..............................................19
Q: What Does SFA Stand For?........................................8 Ralph W. Steen Library...................................................19
Stephen F. Austin Facts...................................................8 Center for Career and Professional Development........20
Q: Why is the SFA Mascot a Lumberjack?.......................9 Academic Assistance and Resource Center...................20
Nacogdoches is Difficult to Spell....................................9
Bright-Eyed and Bushy-Tailed.........................................9 POLICIES: THE ABRIDGED VERSION........................21
LUMBERJACK ACADEMICS LUMBERJACK COMMUNITY
Did You Know?..............................................................11 Honor the Code!...........................................................23
At the Top of Your Class?...............................................11 On Guard.......................................................................23
Undecided on a Major?.................................................11 Parking Tickets are No Fun...........................................23
Favorite Study Locations...............................................11 The Doc is In.................................................................24
Academic Terminology..................................................12 All Aboard!....................................................................24
Majors, Minors, Areas of Study Read All About It...........................................................24
and Concentrations.......................................................14 Purchase Books and SFA Gear......................................24
Did You Know SFA has Its Own Post Office?.................24
RESOURCES I’m Hungry.....................................................................25
Financial Assistance.......................................................17 Living on Campus..........................................................26
Paying for College.........................................................17 A Few Benefits of Residing on Campus........................27
SFA Scholarships...........................................................17 Get to Know Your Residence Hall Association..............27
Additional Information About Financial Aid..................17
Business Office..............................................................17 FUN AND LEISURE
Financial Literacy...........................................................18 NCAA Division I Athletics..............................................28
Counseling Services......................................................18 Baker Pattillo Student Center........................................29
Campus Technology......................................................18 Music, Theatre and Art Events.......................................29
iCare Early Alerts...........................................................18 Student Recreation Center = Amazing!........................29
4 2019-20 Lumberjack Orientation Guide / Stephen F. Austin State University
Explore the Miles and Miles of Beautiful Trails.............29 Battle of the Piney Woods.............................................38
Lumberjacks’ Clubs and Organizations.........................30 Springfest......................................................................38
Student Organizations Resource Center........................30 Jack Camp.....................................................................38
Student Affairs Programs...............................................31 What’s Better Than Watermelon?..................................38
Weeks of Welcome.................................................31 What is Surfin’ Steve?....................................................39
Multicultural Affairs.................................................31
Spirit Teams - A Winning Tradition..........................31 Important SFA Phone Numbers and Websites..........40
Student Government Association...........................31
Student Engagement Programs....................................32 Welcome Home, Class of 2023!...................................41
Freshman Leadership Academy..............................32
Involvement Center.................................................32 Lumberjacks Care Training: For Students...................43
Leadership and Service...........................................32
Greek Life................................................................32 Four-Year Career Development Guide........................52
Student Activities Association.................................32
Axe ‘em, Jacks!..............................................................33 The Ultimate Lumberjack Bucket List.........................55
TRADITIONALLY SPEAKING Lumberjacks Care: For Family Members....................59
Top 10 SFA Traditions....................................................34
Chief Caddo..................................................................34 Jack Camp Registration Form.....................................62
Why is My Hand Purple?...............................................34
The Axe Handle.............................................................35
SAVE A LUMBERJACK.
Homecoming is Coming!...............................................35
Traditions Council..........................................................35
School Song..................................................................35
Do Not Wear Orange!...................................................35 USE PUNCTUATION.
The Stars at Night are Big and ... Purple?.....................36 Axe ’em Jacks! = axing Lumberjacks (no!)
Purple Haze Association................................................37
Boom!............................................................................37
Axe ’em, Jacks! = AXING OUR OPPONENT (YES!)
Jacks Charge.................................................................37
2019-20 Lumberjack Orientation Guide / Stephen F. Austin State University 5
LUMBERJACK ORIENTATION
STAFF MEMBERS AND LEADERS
THOSE HIGHLIGHTED IN PURPLE SERVE IN LEADERSHIP ROLES.
Reece Albert DeAsia Douglas
Jamal Smith Dallas Houston
Director of Orientation Programs Sophomore Senior
Sports Business Accounting
James Anderson-
Rhylie Gachot Rachel Duffina
Johnson Georgetown
Assistant Director of Orientation Missouri City Sophomore
Programs Junior Social Work
Marketing
Janie Poskey Daniel Campos Sandie Durham
Lufkin Palestine
Orientation Programs
Junior Senior
Administrative Assistant Engineering Physics Engineering Physics
Zoe Smiley
Ana Carrillo Andrea Flores
Orientation Graduate Assistant Nacogdoches
Kingwood Mission
Junior
Graduate Student Sophomore
Human Development and
Student Affairs and Higher Social Work
Family Studies
Education
Kristine Cross
Javier Castaneda II Tyler Fuller
Orientation Student Coordinator Angleton Sealy
Houston
Junior Junior
Graduate Student
Chemistry Sports Business
Food, Nutrition and Dietetics
Kev Madden
Jacob Crail-Delgado Juan Garcia
Orientation Student Coordinator Dallas Center
Longview
Junior Junior
Junior
Psychology Graphic Design
Finance
Logan Ray
Xavier Day Trent Gitchuway
Orientation Student Coordinator San Antonio Tyler
Lubbock
Senior Senior
Senior
Special Education Marketing
Music Education
Destinee Williams
Randi Dodson Bryan Gray
Orientation Student Coordinator Houston Plano
Hutto
Junior Junior
Senior
English Psychology
Health Science
6 2019-20 Lumberjack Orientation Guide / Stephen F. Austin State University
Lumberjack Orientation leaders assist incoming freshmen, transfer students and their
families in the student’s transition to SFA. They play a vital role in the Orientation
Program and work closely with new students and their families on a wide variety of
topics, including academics, student involvement, housing options and more.
Dillon Hendricks Larrian Menifee Sierra Smith
Timpson Galveston McKinney
Junior Junior Junior
Kinesiology Music Education Hospitality Administration
Christina Hinds Benjamin Nguyen Bobby Swien
Katy Longview Woodville
Sophomore Sophomore Senior
Nursing Marketing Geology
Trace Horger Casey Pederson Sarah Thee
Winnie Emory Lubbock
Sophomore Junior Sophomore
Information Technology Kinesiology Music Education
Andres R. Jaimes Maggie Polichino Megan Vance
Caracas, Venezuela
Katy Atascocita
Junior
Junior Junior
Advertising and Public
Speech Pathology Hospitality Administration
Relations
Sergio Jaimes Frankcheskia Pyrtle Maiya Williams
Dallas Conroe Hutto
Junior Sophomore Sophomore
Finance Nursing Music Education
Scarleth Lopez Christian Rodgers
Dayton Longview
Sophomore Sophomore
Psychology Sports Business
Collin Maxwell Rahaf Shawakfeh
Pineland
Dallas
Junior
Sophomore
Communication Sciences
Mass Communication
and Disorders
2019-20 Lumberjack Orientation Guide / Stephen F. Austin State University 7
Q: WHAT DOES SFA
STAND FOR?
A: Stephen Fuller Austin, the
university’s namesake and Father of
Texas. He’s most remembered for
his colonization efforts in Texas in
the early 1800s. Texas’ capital also is
named in his honor.
STEPHEN F. AUSTIN FACTS
• Born Nov. 3, 1793, in Virginia;
died Dec. 27, 1836
• Graduated from Transylvania
University in Kentucky
• Created informal armed groups,
which later became known as
the Texas Rangers
• Appointed as the Republic of
Texas’ first secretary of state in
October 1836
• A 67-foot statue of Austin stands
in Angleton, Texas.
• The National Statuary Hall
Collection permits each state to
select just two statues for display
at the Capitol in Washington,
D.C. Stephen F. Austin was
selected as one of Texas’
statues.
• In 1959, Stephen F. Austin was
posthumously inducted into the
Hall of Great Westerners.
The live oak trees
surrounding the Stone Fort
Museum are offspring from
trees at Stephen F. Austin’s
original burial site.
Stephen F. Austin statue inside the Texas Capitol
8 2019-20 Lumberjack Orientation Guide / Stephen F. Austin State University
The first Lumberjack Day was A campus ghost named Chester
Nov. 8, 1947. The Sylvans, a student is said to occupy the Griffith Fine
forestry club, began participating Arts Building. He first appeared in
in Lumberjack Day in 1969 and still a photograph with the cast of “Tiny
host the annual event. Alice” in 1967.
OUR UNIVERSITY’S HISTORY
Q: WHY IS THE SFA MASCOT NACOGDOCHES IS BRIGHT-EYED AND
A LUMBERJACK? DIFFICULT TO SPELL. BUSHY-TAILED
A: Because the name Pine Cones It’s a Caddo Indian word. Legend SFA is famous for the squirrels on
was rejected. That’s right. In 1932, has it that a Caddo chief ordered its campus. They love and depend
SFA students and faculty met to his two grown sons to report to him on trees — just like Lumberjacks.
decide on a mascot. Several names precisely at sunrise. He told one son
were considered, including Pine to walk east and the other west until
Cones. By vote, the assembly chose sunset. The sons were to establish
Lumberjacks (thank goodness)! villages at the places they reached.
The westward-bound son stopped
in a grove of persimmon trees and
named his village Nacogdoches, “Check the weather
meaning persimmon. The eastbound
“Stay focused, don’t son reached a grove of papaw trees every day. Keep an
sweat the small stuff, and named his village Natchitoches, umbrella in your
meaning papaw.
and buy lots and lots purse, backpack and
of PURPLE!” car, just in case.”
SFA's main campus comprises 422 acres.
2019-20 Lumberjack Orientation Guide / Stephen F. Austin State University 9
“Find all your
classes before
the first day.
Don’t be the
student who is
late the first
day (or ever).”
10 2019-20 Lumberjack Orientation Guide / Stephen F. Austin State UniversityLUMBERJACK ACADEMICS
DID YOU KNOW?
Within SFA’s • Class sizes at SFA are small (averaging 25 students),
six colleges: so you get lots of attention from faculty members
• Nelson who know your name and act as mentors (student-to-
faculty ratio: 18:1).
Rusche
College of • Approximately 90 percent of SFA’s professors hold the
highest degree in their field.
Business
• Lumberjack Landing, SFA’s newest four-story residence
• James I. hall, is reserved for first-year students. Complete with
Perkins wireless internet, study lounges on each floor, and the
UNDECIDED ON
College of Ed and Gwen Cole Student Success Center (a tutoring
facility), residents live and learn while making friends. A MAJOR?
Education
You’re not alone! Many
• College of first-year college students
Fine Arts AT THE TOP OF YOUR CLASS? have not yet selected
a major. Don’t worry.
• Arthur SCHOOL OF HONORS – Student benefits include
Academic advising can
Temple exclusive scholarships, financial support for undergraduate
help. Advisors in the
research, study abroad trips, early registration and a
College of Academic Advising Center,
designated computer lab with free printing.
Forestry and located on the second
Honor students also have the opportunity to live in floor of Steen Library, will
Agriculture
the Lumberjack Landing Honors Wing or Wisely Hall. help you explore majors
• College of Lumberjack Landing is an all-freshman hall with modern and select courses until you
Liberal and facilities that promote an academically focused atmosphere. declare yours.
Applied Arts Wisely Hall houses freshmen through seniors in a quiet,
coed living environment that challenges academically
• College of talented students through engagement and networking.
Sciences and
Mathematics
Nancy Dickey, a 1972
Lumberjacks
SFA graduate, served as
choose from
There are two the first female president
about 80
charging stations for for both the American
undergraduate Medical Association and
majors and
electronic devices located
in the Baker Pattillo the Texas A&M Health
more than 120 Science Center.
Student Center. Each
areas of study
station can hold up to 10
(see Pages
devices. All you need is
14-15). your electronic device and
student ID card.
FAVORITE STUDY LOCATIONS:
Anywhere with Starbucks Baker Pattillo Fourth floor Picnic table
a plug Student Center of the Steen at the Mast
patio area Library Arboretum
2019-20 Lumberjack Orientation Guide / Stephen F. Austin State University 11ACADEMIC TERMINOLOGY
Below are a few words, titles, addition to the courses required while remaining enrolled in
descriptions and phrases commonly in the student’s major. other courses.
used in academia. Co-requisite: A class that must be Extended Probation, Academic:
Academic Advisor: A professional taken with another class. Probation undergraduate
staff or faculty member who Dean: A person with significant students whose semester GPA is
helps students select courses authority over a specific academic 2.0 or higher but their cumulative
and plan for the future. unit, area of concern or both. GPA fails to meet the minimum
Academic Year: Starts on the first day standard 2.0.
Dean’s List: Students who earn a
of fall classes and ends in mid- 3.5 GPA in a semester with at Full-time Students: Students
August after summer final exams. least 12 quality hours. Courses enrolled in 12 or more class
Brightspace: This classroom excluded from grade-point hours for a fall or spring
management platform is SFA’s computation also are excluded semester. Also, students enrolled
supported online course delivery from quality hours and may not in six or more class hours during
software. It is an integrated set be used to determine honor Maymester, summer I and
of web course tools used for roll status. summer II terms (undergraduate
delivery of online courses as well students). For Title IV purposes,
Degree Plan: The document any student registered for 12
as providing enhanced online provided by academic
instruction and communication semester hours or more during
departments and colleges that the fall, spring or summer terms
tools for traditional classroom- specifies the courses required to
based courses. is considered a full-time student.
earn a certain degree.
Class Hour: One hour of time spent Grade-point Average: Calculated as
Development Course: A foundation the total number of grade points
in class per week; most classes course designed to allow
are three class hours, meaning received over a given period
students to develop mastery of divided by the total number of
they meet for approximately the necessary skills required for
three hours per week. credits awarded. GPA for short.
college success.
Core Curriculum: The general Hold: A block put on a student’s
Dropping Courses: The process of account that may prevent the
educational requirements needed removing one specific course
to obtain a degree. These are in student from registering or
from a semester schedule
12 122019-20 Lumberjack Orientation Guide / Stephen F. Austin State Universityreceiving a transcript. A hold is approximately 18 hours of any course repeated at SFA, the
placed on an account before the specified coursework. Not all grade earned during the most
student has been to academic majors require a minor. recent enrollment will be used
advising prior to class registration mySFA: Part of the SFA website to calculate the GPA. Credit
and if a student fails to pay where students can access their hours for courses taken at other
parking tickets or library fines. email, update their personal institutions to replace credit
Independent Study: Individual information, register for and hours earned at SFA may be
work on a special topic that drop classes, check their grades, used to meet graduation credit-
is supervised by a faculty view holds on accounts, and pay hour requirements but may not
member. The student’s academic their tuition and fees. be used for GPA calculation.
department must approve the Prerequisite: A course that must be Suspension, Academic: A student is
project in advance, and a faculty satisfactorily completed in order placed on academic suspension
member must agree to oversee to enroll in a subsequent course. after a regular semester that
the work. immediately follows a semester
President’s Honor Roll: Students of probation if the student’s
Internship: On-the-job field who earn a 4.0 GPA in a
experience for which a student cumulative GPA falls below 2.0.
semester with at least 12 quality
may receive academic credit. Some hours. Courses excluded from Syllabus: Course outline, usually
internships are paid, though most grade-point computation also distributed the first day of
are not. The Center for Career and are excluded from quality class, with a brief description
Professional Development can help hours and may not be used to of the course. The syllabus
students find internships in their determine honor roll status. generally includes assignments,
chosen career field. exam dates, grading system,
Probation, Academic: A student is attendance policy and the faculty
Lab: Laboratory work provides placed on academic probation
students with the opportunity member’s contact information.
following the first regular semester
to apply principles learned in in which the cumulative GPA fails Transcript: Official record of a
lecture classes. to meet the minimum academic student’s academic work. It is
Lecture: A class where the primary standard 2.0. maintained and updated each
method of instruction is lecturing. semester.
Registrar: The office where students’
There may be relatively little records are maintained. The Withdrawal from the University:
interaction between the professor registrar’s office maintains Students who choose to
and students during class, which is student academic transcripts and withdraw from the university
why it is important for students to coordinates course registration. will have a W recorded on their
utilize the professor’s office hours. transcript if the withdrawal
Repeating Courses: Students who is prior to five days after
Major: Upper-division study in make an F in a course can get
an academic department. midsemester or midsession, as
credit only by repeating the applicable. Students must initiate
Approximately 30 to 36 class course. Undergraduate students
hours in a specific field of study. the withdrawal process in the
who want to repeat courses to Office of the Registrar.
Minor: Course concentration in a improve their GPA at SFA must
field outside a major; requires repeat those courses at SFA. For
SFA is one of only four
Texas public independent
institutions, meaning it’s
not affiliated with one of
the six university systems.
2019-20 Lumberjack Orientation Guide / Stephen F. Austin State University 13MAJORS, MINORS, AREAS OF STUDY
AND CONCENTRATIONS
Visit sfasu.edu/academics for more information about SFA’s six colleges
and academic offerings, which are subject to change.
Nelson Rusche James I. Perkins College of Fine Arts
College of Business College of Education Art
Studio Art
Accounting Athletic Coaching
Ceramics
Professional Accountancy Communication Sciences and Disorders
Digital Media
Banking Dance
Drawing
Business Communication and Performance and Choreography
Filmmaking/Cinematography
Corporate Education Dietetics and Nutritional Sciences
Graphic Design
Business Communication Family and Consumer Sciences
Jewelry
Corporate Communication Food and Nutrition
Painting
Business Economics Nutrition and Healthcare
Photography
Business Regulation Health Science
Printmaking
Economics Community Health
Sculpture
Entrepreneurship Hospitality Administration
Art Education
Finance Culinary Arts
Art History
Banking and Financial Services Lodging
Music
Financial Planning Meeting and Planning
Accompanying
Investment Management Restaurant
Composition
General Business Travel and Tourism
Sound Recording Technology
Business Teaching Human Sciences
Music Education
Legal Studies Human Services
Music Performance and Pedagogy
Technology Applications Interior Design
Choral
Human Resource Management Kinesiology
Keyboard
International Business Fitness and Human Performance
Opera
Electronic Business Studies
Orchestral Instrument
Management Merchandising
Piano
Marketing Rehabilitation Services
Voice
Sales Addiction Studies
Theatre
Sports Business Deaf Services
Design and Technology
Athletic Administration Orientation and Mobility
Performance
Hospitality Administration Special Education
Stage Management
Mass Communication Teacher Education
Theatre Education
Outdoor Recreation Dance Education
Sales and Management Deaf and Hard of Hearing
Educational Interpreting
Interdisciplinary Studies
Elementary “In college, there’s no such
Early Childhood
Special Education
thing as late work.”
Early Intervention
Middle Grades
Physical Education – All Level
Secondary Education
14 2019-20 Lumberjack Orientation Guide / Stephen F. Austin State UniversityArthur Temple College of Liberal College of Sciences
College of Forestry and Applied Arts and Mathematics
and Agriculture Anthropology Applied Statistics
Applied Arts and Sciences Astronomy
Agribusiness
Classical Literary Studies Biochemistry
Agriculture Development Production
Communication Studies Biochemical/Pre-Medical Studies
Agriculture Engineering Technology
Secondary Teaching Biology
Animal Science
Criminal Justice Botany
Equine Science
English Cellular and Molecular
Pre-Veterinarian
Secondary Teaching Ecology and Evolutionary
Environmental Science
Film Studies Chemistry
Land, Air and Water Resources
Geography Combined Sciences
Forestry
Gerontology Computer Information Systems
Agroforestry
History Computer Science
Fire Management
Secondary Teaching Data Analytics
Forest Management
Social Studies Secondary Teaching Engineering
Forest Wildlife Management
International and Intercultural Electrical
Human Dimensions in Natural
Communication Mechanical
Resources
Latin American Studies Engineering Physics
Urban Forestry
Leadership Geology
Horticulture
Liberal Studies Environmental
Turfgrass Management
Linguistics Human Health Perspectives
Poultry Science
Literature Information Technology
Spatial Science
Children’s Literature Mathematics
Cultural Resources
Mass Communication Actuarial Sciences
Natural Resources
Advertising and Public Relations Data Sciences
Surveying
Journalism Nursing
Radio/TV Physics
Military Science Pre-Dentistry
Modern Languages Pre-Engineering
French Pre-Medicine
German Pre-Occupational Therapy
“When people ask, Portuguese
Secondary Teaching
Pre-Optometry
Pre-Pharmacy
‘what’s your major?’ Spanish Pre-Physical Therapy
Multidisciplinary Studies Pre-Physician Assistant
it’s just a starting point Philosophy Pre-Veterinary
for conversation. Political Science
Pre-Law
Secondary Teaching
Don’t freak out if Psychology
Public Administration
you’re undecided.” Religious Studies
Social Media
Social Welfare There are 50 countries
Social Work represented by
Sociology international SFA
Sustainable Community Development
Writing
students.
Creative
Technical and Professional
Women’s and Gender Studies
2019-20 Lumberjack Orientation Guide / Stephen F. Austin State University 1516 2019-20 Lumberjack Orientation Guide / Stephen F. Austin State University
RESOURCES
SERVICES AND PROGRAMS THAT PROMOTE SUCCESS
Literally, no matter where you’re standing on the SFA campus, the
resources you need to be a successful student are close by.
FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
Located on the first floor of the Austin Building, the staff members in the
Office of Student Financial Assistance can help you find the best way to pay
for your SFA education. All students who apply for financial assistance must fill
out a Free Application for Federal Student Aid at fafsa.ed.gov.
PAYING FOR COLLEGE ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT
The financial aid office can provide you with the necessary FINANCIAL AID
information to apply for financial assistance — whether SFA offers a number of services through its financial aid
that be scholarships, grants and/or loans. office, including short-term loans, summer aid and study
In order to be considered for financial assistance, you’ll be abroad assistance. A net price calculator also is available
required to complete the FAFSA. Here’s what to do: and is intended to provide students with useful consumer
information regarding college costs after financial aid is
• Apply as early as possible by logging on to
taken into consideration. For more information regarding
fafsa.ed.gov.
financial aid and the services SFA provides,
• You and/or your parent must electronically sign the visit sfasu.edu/faid.
FAFSA. Missing signatures will delay processing.
• Verify all responses for accuracy. BUSINESS OFFICE
• Print yourself a copy. The Business Office, located on the second floor of
the Austin Building, is where you’ll pay for tuition and
• If selected for the verification process, be prepared to
post other payments to your account. Additionally,
contact the IRS for a copy of your tax transcripts.
your student ID is validated here, and checks may be
Remember — if you received a scholarship from your high cashed up to $50. This also is the location to initiate
school or other organization, SFA must be notified to help refunds and cash advances through BankMobile®. If you
determine an accurate financial aid award for you. You have questions about an eBill or other payment-related
can complete the electronic resources request to notify inquiries, call the Business Office at (936) 468-6960.
us of pending scholarship amounts and the entity the
scholarship is from.
SFA SCHOLARSHIPS
“College is not like high school.
SFA offers hundreds of scholarships each year to
both new and returning students. To be considered, There is more freedom.
you must fill out the general scholarship application
through mySFA, the university’s intranet web portal. The Going to class and working hard
application is available starting Sept. 1 each year, and the will get you an A,
deadline for submission is Feb. 1. Scholarships are offered
on such criteria as academic major, co-curricular activities but it also is very easy to fail
and talent. For more information on scholarships, log on
to sfasu.edu/faid/scholarships.asp. if you don’t put in the effort.”
2019-20 Lumberjack Orientation Guide / Stephen F. Austin State University 17FINANCIAL LITERACY
SFA has partnered with the National Endowment
for Financial Education to provide students with the
necessary knowledge and skills to make important
decisions relating to personal finance matters. The Office
of Student Affairs Programs has partnered with NEFE’s
Cash Course to offer many useful tools for students. Visit
sfasu.edu/studentaffairs/660.asp for more information.
The Student Financial Advisors are available to help
you with your finances. Located in the McGee Business
Building, Room 169, the advisors are a free resource
dedicated to the promotion of financial literacy and smart
money management.
COUNSELING SERVICES
Counseling Services is staffed with licensed professional
counselors and offers individual and group counseling to
help students overcome personal and academic obstacles
and make healthy, productive decisions.
CAMPUS TECHNOLOGY
More than 20 computer labs and approximately 800
workstations are available for student use. One of the
technology tools you’ll use
throughout your SFA career is
mySFA. Through this intranet
portal, you’ll manage your
SFA email account, register
for courses, view your grades
and transcripts, and more.
Students can access fast
and easy printing using the
new Wēpa wireless printing
stations located throughout
campus, as well as free
charging stations for smart
devices in the Baker Pattillo
Student Center.
iCARE EARLY ALERTS
The iCare Early Alert program is a unique, integrative
approach to academic and behavior intervention on
campus. The program, administered through the Office
of Student Rights and Responsibilities, is a collaborative
response between academics and student affairs to target
resources to help improve students’ ability to succeed.
The three early intervention tracks consist of behavioral/
medical, attendance issues and academic performance.
Faculty members can submit early alerts through the
advising system that is linked to their classes.
18 2019-20 Lumberjack Orientation Guide / Stephen F. Austin State UniversityDISABILITY SERVICES
The university is committed to providing equal opportunities in higher education to students with disabilities.
Disability Services works collaboratively with the student to facilitate specialized support services that meet
individual disability-related needs.
EVERY INCOMING FRESHMAN Lumberjacks participating in SFA 101 and the Academic
SHOULD ENROLL IN SFA 101. Assistance and Resource Center have higher overall GPAs.
SFA 101, Freshman Success Seminar, is a
specially designed course that is proven
to raise your GPA and increase your
chances of making it to graduation.
“SFA savvy” instructors teach you the
ropes and discuss important topics,
such as academic integrity, learning
strategies, SFA history and other
essential information.
Specialized sections are offered that
concentrate on leadership and areas of
study. This class gives you a head start
and explores the many resources SFA
provides to help you inside and outside
the classroom.
STEEN LIBRARY
All the information you need to make the grade can be found within
SFA’s library. The four-story facility houses books, periodicals, maps,
databases, computer labs and more. In addition, each of SFA’s six
VETERANS RESOURCE CENTER
colleges has its own librarian who is especially knowledgeable in the
The VRC, located in the student center, is college’s subject areas and is at your service.
open to all veterans and their dependents
and serves as a place to gather, socialize
and form supportive relationships.
The Lumberjack Marching Band will march in the 2021 New
In addition, this facility is a hub for
veterans’ programming efforts, including Year’s Day parade in Rome, Italy. In the past, the band has
helping connect veterans and their participated in the 2013 London New Year’s Day Parade, the
dependents with university resources and 2015 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York and the
outside agencies. 2018 St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Dublin, Ireland.
2019-20 Lumberjack Orientation Guide / Stephen F. Austin State University 19CENTER FOR CAREER
AND PROFESSIONAL
DEVELOPMENT
The Center for Career and
Professional Development encourages
students to be proactive in
developing their professional brand to
enhance employability.
Students achieve this through
assistance with résumé writing,
interview skills, a career closet,
internships, job-search strategies,
career coaching, workshops and
presentations, and career fairs.
More information is available at
sfasu.edu/ccpd, or you may visit
the center on the third floor of the
Rusk Building.
“Don’t wait until your
final semester to begin
your job hunt. Start early
by participating in mock
CCPD offers students the opportunity to borrow professional
interviews, and begin to
clothing (ranging from business casual to suits) for free to prepare your résumé.”
wear to presentations, interviews or career expos.
ACADEMIC ASSISTANCE
AND RESOURCE
CENTER
Peer tutoring at the AARC
makes it easy for you to get
the help you need through
learning teams, on-call tutors
at walk-in tables, supplemental
instruction and an online
writing lab. Visit sfasu.edu/aarc
to learn more.
“Keep calm! It’s all
very new and possibly
scary, but if you keep
calm, you’ll do great
in all your classes. And
don’t forget to use
the AARC!”
20 2019-20 Lumberjack Orientation Guide / Stephen F. Austin State UniversityPOLICIES: The Abridged Version
Starting your journey at SFA will be an exciting time, 10.4 Student Code of Conduct
and you will find several policies have been adopted to 13.9 Firearms, Explosives and Ammunition
help you succeed and remain in good standing with the
university. The following policies include the university’s 13.11 Illicit Drugs and Alcohol Abuse
illicit drug and alcohol policy, the student conduct code, 13.13 Missing Student Notification
and the university’s policy on hazing. An online manual
13.21 Smoking, Vaping and Use of Tobacco Products
can be accessed for a complete list of current policies by
visiting sfasu.edu/policies.
In addition, other policies of interest for all students include:
2.11 Discrimination Complaints 2.2 Accessibility for Persons with Disabilities
2.13 Sexual Misconduct 6.1 Academic Accommodation for Students with Disabilities
4.1 Student Academic Dishonesty 6.3 Final Course Grade Appeals by Students
6.7 Class Attendance 6.4 Academic Probation, Suspension and Reinstatement
for Undergraduates
6.16 Satisfactory Academic Progress for Financial Aid
Recipients 6.22 Withdrawal Without Financial Clearance
9.3 Digital Millennium Copyright 10.9 Student Organization Formation and Recognition
10.3 Hazing 10.10 Student Organization Risk Management Training
2019-20 Lumberjack Orientation Guide / Stephen F. Austin State University 21“Don’t blow all your Dining Dollars early
because you’re going to need coffee money during finals!”
22 222019-20 Lumberjack Orientation Guide / Stephen F. Austin State UniversityLUMBERJACK COMMUNITY
HONOR THE CODE!
Your family just got a lot bigger!
Lumberjacks believe in doing things “The SFA Way,” and we strive for
Along with more than 13,000 other
personal excellence in everything we undertake. The five root principles
currently enrolled Lumberjacks,
(Respect, Caring, Responsibility, Unity and Integrity) serve as the
about 1,700 SFA faculty and staff,
Lumberjack standard.
and thousands of alumni, you now
have the purple and white as part
of your DNA, too!
ON GUARD
The University Police Department
patrols the campus 24/7 by automobile,
foot and bicycle to protect and serve.
Jack Alert, SFA’s emergency notification
system, sends text message, voice,
email, Facebook, Twitter and website
alerts concerning emergencies that
may affect the SFA community. Sign up
for Jack Alert on mySFA. Additionally,
emergency call stations are located
throughout the campus – just look for
the blue lights.
“Those parking signs
are not a joke.”
PARKING TICKETS
ARE NO FUN.
Everyone who brings a vehicle to
campus must pay to park (even faculty
and staff). Depending on what type of
student you are (on-campus resident
or commuter) and what kind of vehicle
you drive (automobile or motorcycle),
the type of permit and cost will differ.
The type of permit you purchase
also will determine in which parking
lot(s) and garage(s) you may park. To
view the parking and traffic rules and
regulations, parking maps and the 68%: The number of SFA on-campus students involved in
day/evening shuttle bus route, visit
co-curricular programs and student organizations in 2018.
sfasu.edu/parking.
2019-20 Lumberjack Orientation Guide / Stephen F. Austin State University 23THE DOC IS IN.
Health Services, at the corner of East College and
Raguet streets, is an outpatient medical facility offering
preventative care and many of the same services provided
by a family practitioner to currently enrolled students.
HOURS OF OPERATION:
8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday
For emergencies after hours, dial 911.
PURCHASE BOOKS AND SFA GEAR.
The Barnes & Noble Bookstore, located in the Baker
Pattillo Student Center, sells new and used textbooks
and supplies you’ll need for class. In addition, you can
shop for licensed SFA clothing and other items.
ALL ABOARD! DID YOU KNOW SFA HAS ITS OWN
If you don’t have your own automobile, no worries. POST OFFICE?
You’ll still be able to easily move around campus. SFA Located in the basement of the Baker Pattillo Student
operates the Jack Track shuttle service. It’s free for all Center, the post office provides full U.S. postal services
currently enrolled SFA students. When classes are in to all members of the Lumberjack community. With
session during the fall and spring semesters, shuttle more than 10,000 boxes, box rental is required for
buses travel around the campus and stop at high-traffic students who live on campus and is available for
areas. Look for the bus stops! students residing off campus.
JACK TRACK SCHEDULE:
Daytime: 7:30 a.m. to 5:15 p.m.
Monday through Friday
Evening: 5 p.m. to 1 a.m.
Sunday through Thursday
For more information about Jack Track,
visit sfasu.edu/jacktrack.
READ ALL ABOUT IT.
Published weekly during the fall and spring semesters,
The Pine Log is SFA’s student newspaper. Pick up Twiggy, a local celebrity featured on KETK
a copy at newsstands located throughout campus. in Tyler, lives his best life on campus
The publication also is online at thepinelog.com. eating sunflower seeds near the Ferguson
Additionally, the Stone Fort is SFA’s yearbook. Copies Building. Follow @SFA_Twiggy on
may be purchased during Lumberjack Orientation. Instagram and Twitter.
24 2019-20 Lumberjack Orientation Guide / Stephen F. Austin State UniversityI’M HUNGRY. SFA’s Dining Services offers meals to please everyone’s taste buds. From all- you-care-to-eat dining locations in the Baker Pattillo Student Center and East College Dining Hall to the fantastic tastes of Chick- fil-A, Which Wich, Panda Express and other retail outlets, you’ll have tons of choices to calm your stomach’s growl. SFA Dining also has a registered dietitian on staff to help you plan meals and maintain a healthy lifestyle. 2019-20 Lumberjack Orientation Guide / Stephen F. Austin State University 25
LIVING ON CAMPUS. 1. Hall 14
SFA has 14 residence halls with approximately 5,000 2. Hall 16
Lumberjacks living on campus. All single students 3. Kerr Hall
younger than 21 with fewer than 60 credit hours must 4. Lumberjack Landing
live on campus. First-year students reside in the First- 5. Lumberjack Lodge
Year Commons, which include: 6. Steen Hall
HALL 14: HALL 16:
Female / Shared Room / Community Bathroom Coed / Shared Room / Community Bathroom
KERR HALL: LUMBERJACK LANDING:
Female / Shared Room / Community Bathroom Coed / Shared Room / Suite Bathroom
LUMBERJACK LODGE: STEEN HALL:
Coed / Private Room / Suite Bathroom Coed / Shared Room / Suite Bathroom
26 2019-20 Lumberjack Orientation Guide / Stephen F. Austin State UniversityA FEW BENEFITS OF RESIDING ON CAMPUS:
1 2 3 4 5 6
Caring staff Within walking Recreational Fantastic food Safety and Time
members distance opportunities security management,
provide an to almost everywhere note-taking,
instant support everything study skills and
system on campus other programs
support your
success
GET TO KNOW YOUR
RESIDENCE HALL ASSOCIATION.
Dedicated to providing all students living on campus with
a positive experience, the RHA encourages residents to
make positive contributions and become leaders within
each of the residence hall communities.
Through its hall council and executive board, residents
have a voice in suggesting programs and improvements.
Residents are encouraged to join committees and
provide input on food service, community service,
sustainability, sports and recreation, policies and
procedures, and fundraising.
RHA also hosts many campus-wide programs like
Casino Night, Fall Fest and Holiday Extravaganza.
These programs bring students together for fun
and networking.
“Don’t go home for at least the first month.
When I moved to Nac, I was very homesick and
went home the second week. Then, I didn’t go
home for more than three months, and I loved
being at SFA.”
The DeWitt
School of
Nursing boasts
an outstanding
92% first-
time pass rate
for students
“You won’t make any memories that you’ll cherish completing
sitting in your room all day watching TV.” their nursing
license exam.
2019-20 Lumberjack Orientation Guide / Stephen F. Austin State University 27NCAA DIVISION I ATHLETICS
SFA is a NCAA Division I program competing in the Southland Conference. SFA " @SFA_Athletics
sponsors 18 intercollegiate sports, including football, basketball, baseball, cross-
country, indoor-outdoor track and field, and golf for men. ! SFA Athletics
Women’s sports include soccer, volleyball, beach volleyball, cross-country, $ SFA_Athletics
basketball, indoor-outdoor track and field, softball, golf, tennis and bowling. For
schedules, rosters and the latest sports news, visit sfajacks.com. * WatchESPN app
28 2019-20 Lumberjack Orientation Guide / Stephen F. Austin State UniversityFUN AND LEISURE
BAKER PATTILLO
STUDENT CENTER
There’s so much to do here! Take in
a movie at the 383-seat multilevel
theater, grab a cup of coffee at
Starbucks, sit down for pizza, sushi,
ice cream and more at the food
court, or just visit with friends in one
of the many lounges.
STUDENT RECREATION CENTER = AMAZING!
This facility is HUGE! It offers SFA students a place to get physically fit
and enjoy downtime. There’s a climbing wall, giant pool with a lazy river,
sand volleyball, basketball and racquetball courts, an indoor jogging
track, and thousands of square feet devoted to cardio and exercise
equipment. Additionally, students can select from a variety of group
MUSIC, THEATRE AND fitness classes, outdoor pursuits, intramurals and sport clubs.
ART EVENTS
SFA’s College of Fine Arts showcases
the talents of SFA students
and faculty members in various
“Stress can be a killer,
productions, exhibits, performances, especially if you don’t take time for yourself
concerts and shows year-round. Find
out about upcoming performances at and maintain some level of fitness.”
finearts.sfasu.edu.
EXPLORE THE MILES
AND MILES OF
BEAUTIFUL TRAILS.
Nacogdoches is the
Garden Capital of Texas.
On the university’s
campus, there are several
world-class landscapes
that provide breathtaking
opportunities to enjoy the
seasons. SFA’s recreational
trails include 68 acres of
hiking and bicycle trails
that wind through Texas’
oldest town.
2019-20 Lumberjack Orientation Guide / Stephen F. Austin State University 29LUMBERJACKS’ CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS
One of the best ways to make friends and connect with SFA is to join a club or organization. SFA offers more
than 200! Whether you desire to unite in the brotherhood or sisterhood of a fraternity or sorority or become part
of a club designed to help community members, there’s a group just for you!
Getting involved also is proven to help raise your GPA and increase your chances of graduating on time.
SFA’S CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS STUDENT
FOCUS ON THE FOLLOWING AREAS: ORGANIZATIONS
• Academic/professional RESOURCE CENTER
• Cultural Jack SORC serves as a “Join something.
resource center for clubs and
• Greek
organizations by providing Volunteer for
• Religious lockers and supplies to help
promote events. It also something.
• Service
offers free computer use and
• Special interests/hobbies printing to active student Find your niche.”
For a complete listing of SFA’s student organizations. It’s located on
organizations and information about each one, the third floor of the Baker
visit sfasu.edu/studentaffairs. Pattillo Student Center.
“You must
study to
make good
grades, but
you will never
accomplish this
if you don’t
relax and have
fun, too!”
30 2019-20 Lumberjack Orientation Guide / Stephen F. Austin State UniversityWEEKS OF
STUDENT WELCOME
AFFAIRS Starting the first two
weeks of the fall and
PROGRAMS spring semesters, Weeks
SFA’s Office of of Welcome, one of
Orientation Programs’
Student Affairs
initiatives, is your
Programs is opportunity to involve
dedicated to yourself on campus and
providing programs meet other Lumberjacks.
that enrich student From the massive group
class photo to barbecues
involvement,
and pool parties, Weeks of
leadership, Welcome is nothing but fun!
engagement
and fun. From
leadership and
volunteerism MULTICULTURAL
to the annual AFFAIRS
Homecoming The Office of Multicultural
bonfire and Affairs strives to create a
welcoming and inclusive
concert, there’s an
environment for all
avenue for every students. They assist many
Lumberjack to campus organizations in
enjoy. Some of the promoting social justice and
areas housed within cultural and racial diversity
student affairs through lectures, special
events and observances.
programs include:
• Orientation
Programs
SPIRIT TEAMS -
• Multicultural
Affairs
A WINNING TRADITION
The SFA cheerleading and dance teams
• Spirit Teams
work to increase the overall spirit of
• Student the campus community by performing
Engagement and cheering at SFA sporting and other
Programs events and serving as ambassadors
and role models. Together, the teams
• Student
have won an amazing 30 national
Government
championships since 1993.
Association
• Purple Haze
Association (see
Page 37) STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION
For more The SGA is the voice of the students and is administered
entirely by SFA students. Its purpose is threefold: to be the
information about
voice of the student body, to serve as a model government (with
student affairs its executive, legislative and judicial branches) and to foster
and the programs leadership development.
offered, visit sfasu. The association introduces legislation on behalf of students, and
edu/studentaffairs. while it does not pass legislation that is binding to university
policy, it does have a significant influence.
2019-20 Lumberjack Orientation Guide / Stephen F. Austin State University 31STUDENT ENGAGEMENT PROGRAMS
GREEK LIFE STUDENT
Student engagement programs also are housed within the Office With more than 30 ACTIVITIES
of Student Affairs Programs. Some of these offerings include: different chapters ASSOCIATION
• Freshman Leadership Academy at SFA, fraternities SAA is your source
and sororities for free or low-
• Involvement Center provide students cost on-campus
• Leadership and Service with opportunities entertainment. It
• Greek Life to build friendships, provides a wide
serve the community variety of weekly
• Student Activities Association and challenge activities for
• Traditions Council (see Page 35) themselves in students throughout
a supportive the year. SAA
• Jack Camp (see Page 38)
environment. hosts events like
Through their the movie series,
FRESHMAN INVOLVEMENT LEADERSHIP involvement, concerts, comedians
students can and game shows.
LEADERSHIP CENTER AND SERVICE learn new skills
ACADEMY Get a complete Leadership and and prepare for The association also
A special section overview of all Service offers their future. Every coordinates SFA’s
of the SFA the clubs and students many fraternity and on-campus cinema
101 freshman organizations SFA opportunities to sorority member program. Movies are
seminar course, offers by visiting the enhance leadership strives to live The shown in the student
the Freshman Involvement Center, skills and give SFA Way. center theater on
Leadership Academy located in both back to the local Thursdays, Fridays
helps prepare the Baker Pattillo community and and Sundays.
participants for Student Center and beyond. Leadership “Enjoy the time Students involved
success at SFA and the lobby of Steen and Service offers in SAA have the
to become future Hall. Peer advisors alternative spring you spend opportunity to learn
student leaders of are available to break, service at SFA. about event planning
the university. Four help you select day events, the and working with
specialized sections the organizations Certified Student It goes by a team.
are offered with that best fit your Leader program and so fast!”
service-learning interests. Hunger Jacks.
opportunities.
32 2019-20 Lumberjack Orientation Guide / Stephen F. Austin State UniversityAxe ’em, Jacks!
Recognizing a lag in school spirit,
the 1979-80 SFA cheerleaders set
out to establish a hand symbol
like other universities in hopes
of unifying the students and
creating enthusiasm on campus.
And so, “the axe” was born. The
collaborative brainchild of several
cheerleaders, the symbol initially
started with two fingers forming
an axe. The thumb was added
to not only make the symbol
more unique, but also to form
an “L” and a “J” when held side
by side. The symbol also has
been interpreted as the shape of
Texas with two fingers pointing
to Nacogdoches, but most of
the originators of the hand
symbol say it’s simply an axe.
The “Axe ’em, Jacks” symbol
was introduced at the first pep
rally in the fall of 1979 and was
instantly embraced by students.
Since then, it has become the
definitive symbol of SFA pride to
generations of Lumberjacks.
2019-20 Lumberjack Orientation Guide / Stephen F. Austin State University 33TRADITIONALLY SPEAKING
TOP 10 SFA TRADITIONS:
BATTLE
DECORATING HOMECOMING JACKS
FOR CHIEF THE BIG DIP
AXE HANDLES BONFIRE CHARGE
CADDO
BATTLE
MR. AND OF THE WATERMELON JACK
SPRINGFEST
MISS SFA PINEY BASH CAMP
WOODS
CHIEF CADDO SFA’s mascot, the Lumberjack,
This 7-foot 6-inch, 320-pound was named one of the top 10
statue is the largest trophy passed mascots in college basketball in
between NCAA universities. Chief 2014 by ESPN.
Caddo is awarded annually to the
winner of the SFA vs. Northwestern
State University football game.
WHY IS MY HAND PURPLE?
You’ve just participated in the Big
Dip ring ceremony. The tradition is
one of the final steps to becoming
an SFA graduate. Students get their
hands dipped in purple dye before
receiving their official SFA Ring.
34 2019-20 Lumberjack Orientation Guide / Stephen F. Austin State UniversityYou can also read
