Parent & Family Guide 2021-2022 - Cal U
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2021-2022 Parent & Family Guide
From the President
WELCOME TO CALIFORNIA UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA
I am pleased that your family
has chosen to join our Cal U
community.
The transition from high school
to college can be exciting — and
a bit confusing, too. Like your
child, you may have questions
about University procedures
and campus life. This guide will
introduce you to a variety of
helpful resources, so you can
continue to be a dependable
source of information and support for your new Cal U student.
California University is committed to helping students achieve
success, and I encourage you to remain an active partner in this
endeavor. Your support and encouragement will play an important
role in your child’s higher education.
I wish your family the very best,
Robert J. Thorn
Interim University President
California University of Pennsylvania
2
Table of Contents
Resources for Academic Success...................................................................... 4
Enhanced Academic Opportunities.................................................................... 6
Career Resources................................................................................................... 7
Money Matters........................................................................................................ 8
Privacy Information and FERPA.......................................................................... 9
Health and Safety.................................................................................................10
Parking and Transportation................................................................................12
University Housing/Dining Services..................................................................13
Commuter and Non-Traditional Students.......................................................14
Office of Military and Veterans Affairs.............................................................14
Student Activities and Leadership.....................................................................15
New Student Events.............................................................................................15
University Technology Services.........................................................................16
Parent/Family Engagement...............................................................................17
Stay in Touch With Your Student......................................................................19
Area Hotels............................................................................................................19
Important Phone Numbers.................................................................................20
Academic Calendar..............................................................................................21
Campus Map.........................................................................................................22
3
Resources for Academic Success
OFFICE OF ACADEMIC SUCCESS SCHEDULING CENTER
The Office of Academic Success provides Academic counselors in the Scheduling
students with the learning resources they Center assist students with course
need to achieve personal and academic scheduling and provide information
goals. The friendly staff offers academic on academic policies and procedures,
consultation for undecided majors; general education and major
coordinates the Four-Year Graduation requirements.
Plan and Peer Mentoring programs;
serves those in need of improving Scheduling Center
academic skills; provides scheduling Contact information: 724-938-1608 or
and placement testing assistance; and schedulingcenter@calu.edu
offers other programs to help all students 211 Noss Hall
achieve success.
PLACEMENT TESTING CENTER
Office of Academic Success Appropriate course placement is
Contact information: 724-938-1523 or important to student success. Depending
academicsuccess@calu.edu on SAT/ACT scores or transfer credits,
103 Noss Hall freshmen and transfer students may
take placement tests in math and
THE FOUR-YEAR GRADUATION PLAN writing. Students who do not achieve
Cal U’s Four-Year Graduation Plan is a predetermined scores must enroll in
commitment to help students stay on applicable developmental courses.
track and reach their degree in four years. Placement testing for new students and
The no-cost program provides eligible retesting for current students is offered
students with a combination of advising, throughout the year. The center also
priority course scheduling and individual offers tests for students who wish to
attention, which helps students stay on obtain college credits in English, business,
the path to success. Eligible students math, social sciences and natural
enrolled in a four-year program and who sciences. Information for CLEP and DSST
begin in the fall are automatically enrolled. Programs is available by searching “prior
The Four-Year Graduation Plan reinforces learning assessment” at calu.edu.
Cal U’s commitment to student success.
Placement Testing Center
Four-Year Graduation Plan Contact information: 724-938-5779 or
Contact information: 724-938-5217 or pizer@calu.edu
fygp@calu.edu 215 Noss Hall
103 Noss Hall
4
PEER MENTORING PROGRAM VULCAN LEARNING COMMONS
Peer mentors are current students who The Vulcan Learning Commons (VLC) is
volunteer to assist new students with a one-stop academic hub where students
the adjustment to college by offering can access free academic resources and
guidance, encouragement and friendship. receive academic tutorial support. Peer
Peer mentors know a great deal about tutors assist with writing, reading and
academic and campus life, such as course-specific tutoring. The VLC has
campus resources, student organizations, two centers: The Foundry Writing Center
great study spots and the best places to and the Learning Assistance Center. The
eat or shop. Having a peer mentor gives VLC services include individual tutoring,
new students an edge. Over the past 10 supplemental instruction (SI) and study
years, Cal U freshmen with a peer mentor groups in a face-to-face or online format.
have returned for their sophomore
year at a 10% to 13% higher rate than Vulcan Learning Commons
freshmen without peer mentors. The Contact information: vlc@calu.edu
peer mentoring program is also open to
transfer students during their first year Foundry Writing Center
at Cal U. Any student who is interested in 724-938-4336
receiving a peer mentor should contact 110 Noss Hall
the mentoring office for application Learning Assistance Center
information. 724-938-5893
115 Noss Hall
Peer Mentoring Program
To self-schedule: calu.mywconline.com
Contact information: 724-938-1682 or
mentoring@calu.edu
120 Noss Hall OFFICE FOR STUDENTS WITH
DISABILITIES (OSD)
SUCCESS CENTER California University of Pennsylvania
The Success Center is a centralized welcomes otherwise qualified students
academic resource for all students. with disabilities. The University
We offer students the opportunity to recognizes its responsibility to these
become engaged and competent learners students as guided by Section 504
by providing a path to develop and of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973,
strengthen important academic skills as amended, and the Americans
for success. We proudly provide a wide with Disabilities Act, as amended.
range of student support services, one- Reasonable accommodations that
on-one training, workshops and academic maintain fundamental university
resources that can be tailored to meet standards are available to ensure
individual student needs. Students can access and participation. Requests for
make an appointment or walk-in during accommodations should be submitted to
posted office hours. OSD and must adhere to established OSD
accommodation procedures.
The Success Center
Contact information: 724-938-4320 or Office for Students with Disabilities
successcenter@calu.edu Contact information: 724-938-5781 or
202 Noss Hall osdmail@calu.edu
G-35 Carter Hall
5
Enhanced Academic Opportunities
UNIVERSITY HONORS PROGRAM STUDY ABROAD
Built on a foundation of research, Cal U offers students various
opportunity and community, the University opportunities to add study abroad
Honors Program offers students the experience as part of their college
chance to challenge themselves, discover education. Cal U students have
and excel. Honors students live, study participated in faculty-led study abroad
and socialize together in Smith Residence opportunities as well as programs offered
Hall. They take a group of core small- by study abroad organizations with high-
enrollment general education courses quality, accredited academic services.
led by Cal U’s finest faculty. Working Options include spending one to two
with faculty mentors, honors students weeks, several weeks over the summer
also conduct independent research and or a full semester abroad. Students can
creative projects. Honors students travel earn credit toward general education
to share their research at conferences or major requirements with approval of
and pursue experiential learning programs their academic advisor. Cal U works with
in locations such as New York, Oxford, students to find the right study abroad
Ireland and Spain. Upon completing program in terms of academics, budget
the Honors Program, students earn a and personal interests. To learn more,
medallion to be worn at Commencement visit calu.edu/academics/study-abroad
and a notation on their transcript and or contact admissions@calu.edu.
diploma. Connect with the “Cal U Honors
Program” on Facebook and @CalUHonors INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
on Instagram and Twitter. The University welcomes international
University Honors Program students from many countries each
Contact information: 724-938-4535 or academic year. International students
honors@calu.edu provide cultural diversity and bring a new
171 Smith Hall perspective to the institution and the
surrounding community. As a university
community, we are committed to working
International together to meet the needs of enrolled
international students and to provide each
Programming with a sense of belonging. International
students are provided the opportunities
and Study Away to experience not only American culture,
but other cultures represented on campus
NATIONAL STUDENT EXCHANGE as well. The International Club also plays
National Student Exchange (NSE) a key role in promoting an exchange
inspires academic enrichment, personal of cultural and global perspectives to
exploration and student development enhance each student’s experience in the
by facilitating collegiate study away United States.
among over 170 member colleges and
Principal Designated School Official (PDSO)
universities throughout the United States,
– Kevin Eggleston 724-938-4478
Canada and U.S. Territories. Students
pay the same or less as they earn credit
Designated School Official – Tracey Sheetz
toward general education or major
Room 219B Dixon Hall
requirements. To learn more, visit nse.org
or contact admissions@calu.edu.
6
Career Resources THE INTERNSHIP CENTER
An internship can help a student decide
on a career path and also improves their
CAREER AND chances of landing a full-time job after
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT graduation. Internship opportunities
It is never too early for your student to allow students to test-drive careers, hone
begin gaining a Career Advantage. professional skills, build resumes, network
and gain an edge in the job market.
Caring staff at the Career and Professional
Development Center help students: The Internship Center assists students
• Explore majors and career options. with finding an internship that fits their
major and interests and is the central
• Gain hands-on experience through
resource for students to learn about
cooperative education, paid career-
the internship process. Cal U students
related experience and internships. participate in internships locally, across
• Prepare for a job search or graduate the country and around the world.
school application, including resume Sponsor organizations have included
and LinkedIn profile development, the Pittsburgh Steelers, UPMC, Walt
interviewing skills and learning how to Disney World, PNC Bank, Ocean City
conduct a successful job or grad Police Department, Fort Necessity
school search. National Battlefield and the United States
• Connect with employers and Cal U Department of State, among thousands
graduates through job fairs, online job of others.
postings and networking events.
• Transition from college to work after California University of Pennsylvania also
graduation through our career services partners with The Washington Center for
for alumni. Internships and Academic Seminars in
Washington, D.C., which places interns
Every student has a career coach, who will in agencies such as Interpol, the Drug
help them gain a Career Advantage. Enforcement Administration and the
Environmental Protection Agency.
Career and Professional
Development Center Internship Center
Contact information: 724-938-4413 or Contact information: 724-938-1578 or
career@calu.edu internctr@calu.edu
138 Natali Student Center 138 Natali Student Center
calu.edu/careers
7
Money Matters
OFFICE OF STUDENT ACCOUNTS will be able to fulfill the dream of a
The Student Accounts Office handles college education. For Cal U Financial
billing for tuition, housing and fees and Aid application steps and additional
allows students and parents to stay on information, please visit calu.edu/finaid.
top of billing matters. Student accounts Financial Aid Office
are billed each semester, and payments Contact information: 724-938-4415 or
are due approximately two weeks after finaid@calu.edu
the initial bill is issued. All statements are 105 Dixon Hall
issued electronically and may be viewed
online at calu.edu/paymybill. A paper
CALCARD OFFICE
bill is mailed once per semester to the
student’s permanent address. Your student’s CalCard is much more
than just a campus ID card. The CalCard
Students may designate another individual provides an easy payment method for a
as an “authorized user” by visiting calu.edu/ host of campus offerings. Students can use
paymybill. Once an authorized user has the CalCard for access to campus events;
been set up, that individual must complete purchases at on-campus dining locations,
the registration in order to have online vending machines, residence hall laundry
access to the student’s billing statements. facilities and the University Bookstore; and
even complimentary rides on Mid Mon
Students and authorized users may make Valley Transit Authority bus routes.
payments online using a credit card or
electronic check. All tuition balances are The CalCard Office is located at the
due in full by the due date unless the Information Desk, on the lower level of the
student enrolls in an authorized payment Natali Student Center. Students can access
plan. Accounts that are not paid in full by their CalCard eAccount, and parents/
the due date, or not enrolled in a payment guests can use the guest deposit feature at
plan, will be subject to a $50 late payment calcard.transactcampus.com.
fee assessment for each missed due
date. Cal U requires direct deposit for any BANKING/FINANCIAL SERVICES
credit balances on a student account. To
On-campus financial services are offered
set up direct deposit, students must visit
to students and their families through
“Direct Deposit Refunds” in VIP.
the Pennsylvania State Employees Credit
Office of Student Accounts Union (PSECU). In addition to a debit
Contact information: 724-938-4431 or card, a student can elect to have their
studentaccounts@calu.edu CalCard activated for use as an ATM card
118 Dixon Hall associated with their PSECU account.
ATMs are located at Natali Student Center,
FINANCIAL AID OFFICE the Convocation Center and Dixon Hall.
The PSECU Financial Education Center
Your student’s education is one of the
is located on the first floor of the Natali
most important investments your family
Student Center, Room 136. A PSECU
will ever make, but paying for college
account is here for you and your student
can seem overwhelming. The Financial
during college, after graduation and for life!
Aid Office is here to help. Financial
aid is designed to supplement your Additional information can be found at
family’s resources so that your student www.psecu.com/students.
8
Privacy Information and FERPA
FAMILY EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS AND PARENT/GUEST PORTAL
PRIVACY ACT (FERPA) The Parent/Guest Portal is the exclusive
The FERPA is a federal law that protects means by which a student can establish
college students’ privacy and grants them FERPA proxy access to give parents or
the exclusive right to view and share guests direct access to their financial,
their education records, such as grades, billing or academic records. The portal
transcripts, financial aid, billing information offers parents and other trusted individuals
and class schedules. Under the federal law, a secure and convenient means for viewing
colleges and universities may not disclose student information. Registration for the
education records to anyone other than Parent/Guest Portal must be initiated
the student without consent. California by a student. Visit calu.edu and search
University has created the Cal U Parent/ “parent/guest portal” for details on setting
Guest Portal, a secure online solution up an account and accessing the Parent/
that enables students to make choices Guest Portal. Parents and guests with
regarding access to such information. FERPA proxy access should be mindful
Students will receive instructions for of their “passphrase,” a special word or
creating a parent/guest account. Once phrase chosen by the student for parents
an account has been created, parents or and trusted individuals to use for identity
guests will receive further instructions verification when contacting the University
for accessing the Parent/Guest Portal. with questions about student records.
Because students’ rights are protected
under FERPA, a student may restrict the Note: Parents and guests may make
information that a parent or guest is able student account payments through
to access, and the student may revoke Touchnet, a separate platform for bill-
access at any time. pay. Registration for Touchnet is done
separately from the Parent/Guest Portal.
For more information about FERPA and
California University’s disclosure policies, For assistance, please contact
please visit: calu.edu and search “FERPA”. 724-938-4361 or family@calu.edu.
9
Health and Safety
HEALTH AND WELLNESS
EDUCATION CENTER
The Health and Wellness Education
Center provides students a space with
information on current health topics and
resources about healthy living that they
may use for programming, educational
purposes or personal use. Free materials
are available for students of all years that
cover a wide variety of topics, ranging
from mental health to healthy-eating
habits. The center is also the meeting
place for Cal U’s Health and Education
Awareness Resource Team (HEART),
an organization dedicated to promoting
health and wellness information and
inspiring their peers to maintain healthy
lifestyles through individual consultations
and interactive events. The Student
Wellness Support Center also houses the
Alcohol and Other Drug (AOD) Education
Center, the Prevention Awareness
STUDENT WELLNESS CENTER Recovery Center (PARC), and the BASICS
The Student Wellness Center is staffed by and CASICS alcohol and marijuana
a medical director, a certified registered education programs. Together these
nurse practitioner and registered nurses. programs form a comprehensive strategy
Services are free of charge to all to improve well-being; reduce underage
students and include medical treatments, drinking and other drug abuse among
referrals and healthy lifestyle education. students; and promote the ideals of
Telemedicine or face-to-face visits are safety and wellness to all Cal U students.
available by appointment. Required
Health and Wellness Education and Drug
services outside the capabilities of the
and Alcohol Contact information:
Health Center are billed and processed
724-938-4775 or michaels_r@calu.edu
through the student’s private health
G-45 Carter Hall
insurance by the healthcare facility
visited. Students must call 724-938-4232
before visiting the Health Center. IN CASE
OF EMERGENCY, CALL 9-1-1 or Public
Safety at 724-938-4299. COVID-19 testing
is available on-site by appointment, or
referral to an outside agency may be
necessary for testing. The Health Center
is open 24 hours per day Monday through
Friday and is closed on weekends.
Wellness Center Contact information:
724-938-4232
G-53 Carter Hall
10COUNSELING CENTER on any campus phone or using one of the
The Counseling Center provides free call boxes located throughout campus.
psychological services to students. (You can identify call boxes by the bright
Services include brief individual blue light on top.)
counseling, crisis intervention and
referrals. Hours are 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., If serious issues affecting public safety
Monday through Friday, when school should arise, known facts will be
is in session. Crisis support outside communicated immediately. Information
the center’s normal business hours is will be released through a variety of
available through Campus Police channels, such as the Cal U website,
(724-938-4357). If off campus, please campus email, Cal U Text Alerts and the
call 9-1-1 or your local emergency number. University hotline.
For the National Crisis Text Line, text
HOME to 741741. The Counseling Center CAL U TEXT ALERTS
helps students handle personal issues and Cal U Text Alerts is a cellphone text-
stressful situations, such as relationship message system that provides notification
distress, academic difficulties, anxiety, of emergency situations that may affect
depression and substance abuse. the campus community. Students can
register for Cal U Text Alerts by accessing
Counseling Center Contact information: the “Text Alerts” link at calu.edu/students.
724-938-4056 Once a student has registered for Cal U
G-53 Carter Hall Text Alerts, they may choose to add a
second cell phone number. Accounts are
To set up a regular non-emergency active for two year. Students will receive
appointment, students can also email notification when it’s time to re-register.
Rachel Michaels at michaels_r@calu.edu.
Cal U Text Alert hours:
SAFETY 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
California University is committed to calu.edu/text-alert
the safety and security of all students,
staff, faculty and visitors. Campus police FOR EMERGENCIES:
officers conduct foot and vehicle patrols 724-938-H-E-L-P (4357) or 911
on a 24-hour basis, providing around-the- California University Police Department:
clock assistance. Students can make 724-938-4299
reports by dialing H-E-L-P (4357) or 9-1-1 Pollock Maintenance Building
11Parking and Transportation
PARKING PERMITS Students who fail to renew the parking
The University has a managed parking permit will need to return the expired
system that requires anyone who will permit and place themselves back on a
have a vehicle on campus to register it waiting list for future permit availability.
and purchase a parking permit. Individuals
who are on campus for only a few hours BUS AND SHUTTLE SERVICE
each week may elect to pay hourly with The Vulcan Flyer shuttle transports
the pay-by-license meters in Lot 11 behind students between main campus and
Gallagher Hall or Lot 17 behind Natali Roadman Park/Vulcan Village and
Student Center. Brownsville Walmart. Students use their
CalCard to ride for FREE, and all Vulcan
New students who have registered for Flyer shuttles are handicap accessible.
classes and received their Cal U email Students can also use their CalCard to
login and password may access parking hop onto the Local 2 or the Shoppers
account information via the “Parking” link Shuttle and head to the Walmart in West
at calu.edu/inside/parking. Brownsville or ride the Mid Mon Valley
Transit Authority (MMVTA) bus from
When purchasing a permit, new students campus to Pittsburgh. All schedules and
may place their name on a waiting list for route maps can be found at MMVTA’s
a specific lot, and an award letter will be website, www.MMTVA.com.
emailed via their University email. Award
letters are sent out one to two weeks prior Vulcan shuttles have a GPS vehicle location,
to the start of the semester. At that time, and students are encouraged to sign up
a student may access their online parking for Rider Alerts, which provides information
account and purchase a permit. Permits about delays or weather-related concerns.
are mailed in advance of the semester.
During this period, students may also During holiday breaks or when the University
place their name on a waiting list for other is closed, the Student Association Business
lots, in case any spaces become available. Office offers (for a small fee) shuttle service
Students who do not get an award email from main campus to the Pittsburgh
may contact the Parking Department to International Airport, the Greyhound bus
see which lots are available. Students and Amtrak train stations, and the Megabus
who have not received an award email will pickup at the David L. Lawrence Convention
not be able to purchase a permit online; it Center. Reservations are needed.
must be done in-office or over the phone.
For more information about the shuttle
service during breaks, call 724-938-4303
Permits are renewable and should be
or email sai@calu.edu
renewed prior to the permit expiration date.
12University Housing/Dining Services
HOUSING nutritious meals at a reasonable cost.
Campus living provides students with Dining locations provide an important
enhanced opportunities to engage with environment for student interaction
other students, develop new friendships and socialization. Students living in a
and enjoy a strong sense of community. residence hall, as well as commuters,
Incoming freshmen are required to may choose from a variety of meal plans.
reside in University Housing for the first All students who live in a university
four semesters at Cal U (unless they residence hall must participate in the
are commuting from their permanent meal plan program.
home address within a 50-mile radius of
campus). Cal U offers living arrangements More information on meal plans can be
based on individual lifestyle preferences, found at: calu.edu/dining.
including a variety of room configurations
for one to four roommates. However,
the majority are two-person standard Cal U Cupboard
rooms. There are five main-campus
residence halls. Each hall is equipped with The Cal U Cupboard assists our students
a computer lab, community room, large- by providing food, academic supplies and
screen TV and DVD player, full kitchen, personal hygiene items, so they can continue
game area and vending machines. on the path toward graduation. Operated
by Cal U’s Center for Volunteer Programs
and Service Learning and supported by
University Housing Contact information: our generous donors, the campus-based
724-938-4444 or housing@calu.edu food pantry helps to meet students’ basic
117 Residence Hall B needs with compassion and discretion. We
recognize that even ambitious, hard-working
DINING SERVICES college students sometimes need a helping
The goal of University Dining Services hand. Visit the Cupboard website at
is to provide a quality, cost-effective, bitly.com/calucupboard to request items,
innovative dining program for students donate or learn more.
living on and off campus. The University
encourages student involvement and
awareness to help provide quality,
13Commuter and
Non-Traditional
Students
Traveling back and forth to campus
can add unique challenges as well as
opportunities to a commuting student’s
collegiate experience. The Office of
Commuter and Non-Traditional Student
Services helps connect all commuting
students with campus departments
and services, and provides resources,
programs and information to meet
their needs.
The Energy Zone, located on the first
level of the Natali Student Center, is
where the Office of Commuter and
Non-Traditional Student Services
(CNTSS) is located and where students
will find amenities such as lockers, a
refrigeration unit and a kitchenette.
Throughout campus, there are also
small commuter-friendly break areas
with vending options. Commuter Break
Pods in Coover Hall, Keystone Hall and
Military and
Manderino Library have hard and soft
seating as well as printing and other
Veterans Affairs
resources for students. Additionally, The Office of Military and Veterans
the Commuter Council is the student Affairs assists military-affiliated students
organization that offers commuters with navigating the GI Bill®, obtaining
and other interested students tuition assistance and transitioning from
opportunities to support the needs military life to higher education. They also
of commuter students. help students understand the different
services and opportunities that Cal U has
Office of Commuter and to offer. This office works in conjunction
Non-Traditional Student Services with the Department of Veterans Affairs
Contact information: 724-938-4021 or to provide eligible military-affiliated
commuterservices@calu.edu students with referrals to the VA, as
Room 123 Natali Student Center needed. Additionally, the Veterans Club at
Cal U helps to build a sense of community
among veterans attending the University.
Office of Military and Veterans Affairs
Contact information: 724-938-4076 or
veterans@calu.edu
Building E Short Wing
14Student Activities New Student
and Leadership Events
CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS NEW STUDENT MOVE-IN DAY
Cal U students are encouraged to get We look forward to welcoming our new
involved and put their leadership skills students and their families to campus a
into practice. The University offers more few days before classes start as we kick
than 100 clubs and organizations devoted off Welcome Weekend. Refer to calu.edu
to academic interests, the arts, campus for updates.
communities, communications, faith and
religion, politics, volunteering, sports and WELCOME WEEKEND
recreation, and more. Welcome Weekend provides first-year
students the opportunity to meet new
Leadership training is available to every friends and explore campus before
student. Organizations such as Cal U classes begin. Stay tuned for more
Student Government and the Student information about Welcome Weekend
Activities Board give students real-life events.
leadership opportunities.
FAMILY DAY 2021
EMERGING LEADERS PROGRAM
Visit calu.edu for up-to-date information
Students can apply to the competitive about Family Day.
Emerging Leaders program in the spring.
The program equips potential student
leaders with skills in public speaking,
team building, goal setting and conflict
resolution. It is designed to foster
ethical leadership and problem-solving
skills necessary for real-life leadership
situations and cross-cultural issues. For
more information, email dunn@calu.edu.
15University Technology Services
UTECH HELP DESK and also in the Instructional Computer
The Help Desk is ready to assist your Facility (ICF) on the second floor of Noss
student with campus computing Hall. Students have access to any of the
concerns, help reset a password or network services on campus. Printers and
answer questions about the Vulcan scanners are also available.
Information Portal (VIP).
PRINTING
Contact Information: 724-938-5911 or Cal U has partnered with Wēpa, a provider
utechrequests@calu.edu of cloud-based printing services, to allow
219 Noss Hall students and guests to print from any
device – computer, smart phone, tablet,
UTECH SERVICES DESK or USB flash drive. Students do not need
The Services Desk provides students to visit a campus computer lab to print
with network registration assistance, documents; however, students may print
anti-virus installation and updates, basic from a lab to any of Cal U’s Wēpa kiosks.
computer virus removal, campus account Wēpa kiosks are located across campus
username retrieval and password resets. in Eberly, Keystone, Manderino Library,
Technicians also can help with mobile Natali Student Center, Noss and Vulcan
email setup. Village.
Contact Information: 724-938-5911 or All students will receive an allotted
utechrequests@calu.edu amount of print credits at the start of the
219 Noss Hall fall semester. Printing may also be paid
for using a CalCard, credit/debit card,
PayPal, Venmo or Wēpa account.
COMPUTING LABS
Even students who bring a computer For more information about
to campus should know where the Cal U’s print services, visit
computer labs are located. There are www.calu.edu/inside/utech/printing.
computer labs in every residence hall
16Parent/Family Engagement
In some ways, when children go off to CAL U COMPASS E-NEWSLETTER
college, their parents and families do, The Office of Parent and Family
too. Cal U gives families the resources Engagement sends an electronic
they need to stay involved with their newsletter, called the Cal U Compass,
student’s education, while recognizing on a weekly to monthly basis. The
their growing independence. Whether information in the newsletter is shared
you live 10 minutes from campus or with students and families alike, and
10 hours away, staying “in the know” is can serve as a point of connection
easy. We encourage you to take part in between students and families. The Cal
the Cal U experience. U Compass is delivered to any preferred
email address by family@calu.edu via
UNIVERSITY WEBSITE MailChimp. Those interested in signing up
Cal U has special pages of the University for the e-newsletter may do so online at
website dedicated solely to the needs calu.edu/parents/newsletter.aspx
of families. Parents and families will
find timely information, key dates and PARENT/GUEST PORTAL
deadlines, campus resources and The portal offers parents a secure online
events, and answers to frequently asked and convenient means for viewing
questions. To access the parent/family approved student information, including
pages, visit calu.edu/parents grades, financial aid and student
account/ billing details. It also provides
CAL U PARENTS & a vehicle for enhanced communication
FAMILIES ON FACEBOOK between parents and students.
We invite you to join us on Facebook – Registration for the Parent/Guest Portal
ask questions, get quick answers and must be initiated by your student.
engage with other Cal U parents. Enjoy
See page 9 for more information.
all the benefits of the Cal U Parents and
Families online community at:
facebook.com/caluparentsandfamilies.
17OFFICE OF PARENT AND Membership Benefits:
FAMILY ENGAGEMENT • Exclusive emails and mailings
• Volunteer and service opportunities*
Do you need to speak directly with
• Discounts to the Cal U Bookstore, local
someone on campus? Begin by
hotels and more (when advertised)
contacting the Office of Parent and
• Free Cal U gear
Family Engagement. You’ll receive
*Volunteers may need to complete and
answers to your questions, guidance and
submit clearances, depending on the
informed support, and helpful referrals to
nature and duration of the event.
offices across campus.
Vulcan Family Association
Office of Parent and Family Engagement
Contact Information: 724-938-4617 or
Contact Information: 724-938-4361 or
family@calu.edu
family@calu.edu
105 Noss Hall
LEGACY FOR LIFE
VULCAN FAMILY ASSOCIATION The University has a proud history of
The mission of Vulcan Family Association families who have shared the Cal U
(VFA) is to enrich the student experience experience through the generations.
by actively engaging families in the Students from “legacy families” have a
University community and serving as parent, brother or sister, grandparent,
a communication link between the uncle or aunt who graduated from Cal U.
University and the families of future We invite you to take part in our
and current undergraduate students. Homecoming events, family weekends
It enables family members to actively and alumni events on campus and in
participate and demonstrate Cal U pride, your region.
support, and inspiration during the
college career of their Cal U student. VFA University Development
members will also interact with and lend Contact information: 724-938-4248 or
support to other Cal U family members. minerva@calu.edu
Kara Alumni House
18Stay in Touch With Your Student
STUDENT EMAIL
The format for a Cal U student email
address is abc1234@calu.edu — typically,
the first three letters of the student’s last
name, plus four random numerals.
SEND MAIL
To ensure a speedy on-campus delivery, AREA HOTELS
please address postal deliveries to your
student like this: Belle Vernon (I-70 Exit 43)
Hampton Inn: 724-929-8100
Student’s Proper Name (no nicknames) Holiday Inn Express: 724-930-0100
Building and Room Number or Box
Number Bentleyville (I-70 Exit 32B)
California University of Pennsylvania Best Western Garden Inn: 724-239-4321
250 University Ave.
Holiday Inn Express: 724-239-7700
California, PA 15419
For students living in Vulcan Village: California (I-70 Exit 37A)
Student’s Proper Name (no nicknames) Hampton Inn and Suites:* 724-330-5820
Apartment Number
255 California Road New Stanton (PA Turnpike Exit 75,
Brownsville, PA 15417 I-70 Exit 57)
Econo Lodge: 724-925-6755
TIPS FOR MAILING Super 8:* 724-856-0362
1. When they receive a package,
residence hall students get a Uniontown (Route 40)
“package slip.” They’ll need it and their
Quality Inn and Suites: 724-434-1800
campus ID to collect their package.
Hampton Inn: 724-430-1000
2. If you’re tracking via USPS, delivery
confirmation occurs when mail Park Inn by Radisson:* 724-437-2816
reaches the California Borough Post
Office, not Cal U’s mailroom. Washington, PA (I-70)
3. Care packages from OCM need to be Racetrack Road Hotel:* 724-223-5555
picked up by your student as soon as Comfort Inn and Suites: 724-884-0299
possible. Spring Hill Suites: 724-223-7800
4. Food and medicine packages that Hampton Inn: 724-228-4100
require refrigeration need to be picked
up the same day they are delivered.
*Special rates for California University visitors
5. Please do not send cash in the mail.
WHAT’S HAPPENING ON CAMPUS?
Visit calu.edu and click “News and Media”
at the bottom of the homepage to view
University news, our Events Calendar, the
Cal U Journal and more.
19Important Phone Numbers
Academic Records End Violence Center Parking and Transportation
122 Dixon Hall 117 Natali Student Center 123 Manderino Library
724-938-4434 724-938-5707 724-938-4677
Alumni Relations Financial Aid Peer Mentoring
Kara Alumni House 105 Dixon Hall 120 Noss Hall
724-938-5775 724-938-4415 724-938-1682
Academic Success Honors Program Public Safety/
103 Noss Hall 171 Smith Hall University Police
724-938-1523 724-938-4535 Pollock Maintenance
Building
Admissions Housing and Residence Life 724-938-4299
201 Dixon Hall 117 Residence Hall B 724-938-4357 (HELP)
724-938-4404 724-938-4444 (Emergency Aid)
Articulation and Transfer International Programming Placement Testing Center
312 Dixon Hall 219B Dixon Hall 215 Noss Hall
724-938-5939 724-938-4404 724-938-5779
Athletics Internship Center Scheduling Center
245 Hamer Hall 138 Natali Student Center 211 Noss Hall
724-938-4351 724-938-1578 724-938-1608
Bookstore Mailroom Student Accounts
Natali Student Center 132 Dixon Hall 118 Dixon Hall
724-938-4324 724-938-4445 724-938-4431
CalCard Office Military and Veterans Student Affairs
006 Natali Student Center Affairs 311 Natali Student Center
724-938-4300 Building E 724-938-4439
724-938-4076
Career and Professional Students With
Development Center Multicultural Center Disabilities (OSD)
138 Natali Student Center G-25 Carter Hall G-35 Carter Hall
724-938-4413 724-938-5758 724-938-5781
Commuter and Natali Student Center Success Center
Non-Traditional Information Desk 202 Noss Hall
Student Services 004 Natali Student Center 724-938-4320
123 Natali Student Center 724-938-4300
724-938-4021 UTech Help Desk
Parent and Family 219 Noss Hall
Counseling Center Engagement 724-938-5911
G-53 Carter Hall 105 Noss Hall
724-938-4056 724-938-4361 Wellness Center
and Health Services
G-53 Carter Hall
724-938-4232
20Academic Calendar
FALL 2021
Classes Begin.................................................................................................................. August 23
Add/Drop Period ends (with no financial or academic penalty)........................... August 30
Labor Day (No classes).............................................................................................September 6
Last Day to Apply for December 2021 Graduation........................................... September 24
Mid-Semester Break.......................................................................................................October 8
Midterm Grades Due.....................................................................................................October 12
Early Registration for Winter 2021.............................................................................October 18
Last Day to Withdraw from a Full-Term Course or the University.......................October 29
Registration for Spring 2022.................................................................................November 1-5
Thanksgiving Break............................................................................................ November 24-28
Classes End..................................................................................................................December 3
Exam Week.............................................................................................................December 6-10
Graduate School Commencement....................................................................... December 10
Undergraduate Commencement.......................................................................... December 11
Grades Due from Faculty ....................................................................................... December 14
*STUDENTS MAY NOT WITHDRAW AFTER 67% OF COURSE HAS ELAPSED.*
WINTER 2021
Winter Session Begins............................................................................................. December 13
Add/Drop Period (with no financial or academic penalty)............................... December 16
Last Day to Apply for January 2022 Graduation................................................ December 22
Last Day to Withdraw from a Course or the University..................................... December 30
Winter Courses End..................................................................................................... January 12
Grades Due from Faculty ........................................................................................... January 14
*STUDENTS MAY NOT WITHDRAW AFTER 67% OF COURSE HAS ELAPSED.*
SPRING 2022
Classes Begin for Full Term....................................................................................... January 18
Classes Begin for 1st 8-Week Term......................................................................... January 18
Add/Drop Period Ends (with no financial or academic penalty)......................... January 24
Last Day to Apply for May 2022 Graduation.......................................................... February 11
Spring Break..................................................................................................................March 7-11
Classes End for 1st 8-Week Term.................................................................................March 18
Midterm Grades Due........................................................................................................March 18
Classes Begin for 2nd 8-Week Term............................................................................March 21
Last Day to Withdraw from a Full-Term Course or the University............................... April 1
Registration for Fall 2022............................................................................................ April 11-15
Full-Term Classes End (4 p.m.)...........................................................................................May 2
Exam Week................................................................................................................. May 3-May 6
Graduate Commencement (7 p.m.)................................................................ May 6 (tentative)
Undergraduate Commencement (10 a.m.)................................................... May 7 (tentative)
Grades Due from Faculty .................................................................................................. May 10
*STUDENTS MAY NOT WITHDRAW AFTER 67% OF COURSE HAS ELAPSED.*
Dates are subject to change without notice. For the most recent Academic Calendar,
visit calu.edu.
21DRIVE
RIVERVIEW
O
H
R
I
BEAZELL STREET
B
C
K P S
SECOND STREET VISITOR PARKING
D
J
L
E
A
M Q
UNIVERSITY AVENUE
T
F
N
Z U
G
THIRD STREET
HICKORY STREET
FF
CC
EAS
AA
T ST
REE
BB
T
DD
HH
WELCOM
CENTER
GG
EE
A Kara Alumni House I New Science Hall Q Noss Hall
B Eberly Hall J Vulcan Hall R Pollock Building
C Frich Hall K Maintenance Annex C S Helsel Hall
D Old Main L Ceramics Lab T Keystone Hall
E South Hall M The Quad U Emeriti Fountain
F Dixon Hall N Herron Hall V Steele Hall
G Ascent of Humanity O Heating Plant W Basketball / Tennis Courts
H Watkins Hall P Coover Hall
22Cal U
campus
X
map
V
Y
W
LIMITED ACCESS -THIRD STREET
II
KK
MM
LL
ME
R
JJ
X Hamer Hall DD Carter Hall HH Natali Student Center
(Pool & Gymnasium) - Health & Wellness and Welcome Center
Y Convocation Center Center II Residence Hall E
Z Booker Towers - Multicultural Center JJ Guesman Hall
AA Duda Hall EE Smith Honors Hall KK Gallagher Hall
BB Manderino Library FF Johnson Hall LL Morgan Hall
CC Azorsky Hall GG Residence Hall B MM Maintenance Annex A
& University Housing
Offices
23CALIFORNIA UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA 250 University Ave., California, PA 15419 | calu.edu
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