STUDENT ORIENTATION Spring 2025

[Virtual Presenter] As we start this new academic year, we are excited to welcome you to the Student Orientation Program for Spring 2025. We acknowledge the enthusiasm and eagerness that comes with beginning a new chapter in your academic journey. We are committed to providing you with the necessary resources and support to help you succeed during your time here. Now, let's get started!.

[Audio] Every step counts as we embark on a path that shapes our future..

STUDENT LIFE. [image] A logo with a lion and a shield Description automatically generated.

[Audio] BU Life provides various connection points for students to interact with one another, share their stories, and form lasting bonds. These connections can foster personal growth, academic achievement, and a sense of belonging within our university community. Students can connect with like-minded individuals through student organizations, clubs, or volunteer opportunities, which offer numerous ways to explore shared interests and passions. By utilizing these connection points, students can enhance their college experience, acquire new skills, and create unforgettable memories..

BU CLUBS. STUDENT AFFAIRS. [image] A logo with a lion and a shield Description automatically generated.

[Audio] BU Sports offers a wide range of opportunities for students to engage in physical activity and team sports. As part of our commitment to student life, we have a dedicated Director of Athletics, Coach Leo, who oversees all athletic programs on campus. Whether you're looking to join a recreational league, compete at the varsity level, or simply stay active through fitness classes, there's something for everyone at BU Sports. Our facilities are state-of-the-art, and our coaches are experienced and passionate about helping you achieve your goals. So why not get involved and see what BU Sports has to offer?.

[Audio] Financial aid is available to support students in their academic pursuits. The university offers various forms of financial assistance, including scholarships, grants, and loans. These resources can help alleviate some of the financial burdens associated with pursuing higher education. Students should explore these options carefully to determine which ones they may be eligible for and how they can best utilize them to achieve their academic goals..

[Audio] The Office of Financial Aid recommends completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, also known as FAFSA, by visiting the website https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/FAFSA. Our school code is 032663. After submitting the application, students will receive notification if they are selected for verification. It is essential to submit any required documentation as soon as possible to finalize their eligibility. Students should complete the verification process promptly to adjust their awards accordingly..

[Audio] Your username will be assigned and provided. You can access the portal by going to https://bethesda.campusivy.com/apps/core/account/login. If you need assistance with logging in, click on the "Forgot Your Password" link to create a new one. For any questions about logging in, contact the Office of Financial Aid..

[Audio] We will discuss different types of financial aid available to students. Grants are one type of financial aid. There are several types of grants, including Pell Grants, FSEOG, and Cal Grants. Pell Grants are awarded only to undergraduate students who display exceptional financial need and have not earned a bachelor's degree. The eligibility for Pell Grants is based on the Student Aid Index. FSEOG Awards are given to students with the most financial need. Students must maintain enrollment as an undergraduate student and must not have previously earned a bachelor's degree. Cal Grants eligibility is based on the student's FAFSA or California Dream Act application responses. Federal Work Study provides part-time jobs for undergraduate and graduate students with financial need, allowing them to earn money to help pay education expenses..

[Audio] Students who have financial need are eligible for direct subsidized loans as undergraduates. These loans do not require interest payments while they are enrolled in school or during a six-month grace period. On the other hand, graduate and professional students are qualified for unsubsidized loans, which start charging interest from the moment the loan is disbursed..

[Audio] Before completing any direct subsidized and/or unsubsidized loan funds can be disbursed to your student account, you must first complete a Master Promissory Note and Entrance Counseling. To fulfill this requirement, visit the Federal Student Aid website, using your FSA ID to log in. Following completion of these tasks, we will be informed within two to three business days. Subsequently, you will not receive any disbursements of your federal direct student loan until you have met these requirements..

[Audio] When leaving school or dropping below half-time enrollment, borrowers must participate in exit counseling. This process aims to educate them about their loan responsibilities and prepare them for repayment. Our office will inform students when it's time to complete this step. To access exit counseling, visit HTTPS://STUDENTAID.GOV/EXIT-COUNSELING/..

[Audio] As a transfer student, we need to review your classes to show you what classes transfer over. We use this information to determine your education level for financial aid funding. Please fill out the transfer credit request form found on Populi to ensure accurate assessment of your eligibility for financial aid. Note that full-time enrollment for undergraduate students requires taking at least 12 credit hours, as your enrollment status or the number of units you take significantly determines your eligibility for financial aid. Your Pell Grant award will be determined based on your enrollment intensity, which refers to the percentage of units you're taking..

[Audio] If a student starts attending at least one class but doesn't start attending all the classes they were supposed to take, regardless of whether they withdrew from school, we'll review their eligibility for Pell Grant and campus-based financial aid based on their updated enrollment status and tuition costs. When a student withdraws, they might no longer qualify for the entire amount of Title IV funding they initially received..

[Audio] When clicking on the provided link, one can access a comprehensive view of their original award letter, which includes all costs, cost of attendance, academic year dates, disbursement dates, full eligibility, and any adjusted amounts chosen. To confirm the funding estimate, students must respond to the text message with their unique code..

[Audio] The Academic Office is located where it can assist students with various requests such as add/drop, independent study, transfer credit, major change, and graduation. They also help with academic questions, transcripts, satisfactory academic progress appeal, and leave of absence. Additionally, they provide tips and tricks for students to stay organized and communicate effectively with professors. Students can find more information about deadlines and break periods through the academic calendars. For any further inquiries, students can contact Mr. Michael Kocharian at [email protected] or 714-683-1204..

HOW TO GRADUATE!.

[Audio] We must have all your official transcripts to guarantee accurate information about your previous academic work. Come see Mary as soon as possible to provide these documents. Fill out the Transfer Credit Request Form, which can be found on Populi, and do not omit this crucial step. Verify that your transfer units are precise when completing the form. If there's any inconsistency, notify us. We will examine your classes and demonstrate which ones will transfer over..

[Audio] Know that it is essential to follow a specific progress chart. Do not enroll in courses outside of this chart unless you are certain about the required classes or cannot locate them on your chart. In such cases, consult with your academic advisor for guidance. If you remain unclear, schedule a meeting with me..

[Audio] Do not repeat or take the same classes, especially if you are a transfer student. Failing your classes can have serious consequences, including impacting your F1 status and financial aid. If you are struggling with your classes, come see your advisor and reach out to me to set up tutoring. Communicate with your professors always and ensure you complete your assignments every week, two a week. If you need help with how to succeed as a student, set up some time to talk to me. Life happens, and we understand it; however, failing classes can have severe consequences. We encourage you to seek help from us or pastoral counseling if needed..

[Audio] Register early for your classes, especially online ones, which tend to fill up quickly. Make sure to register on time to avoid any inconvenience. Seeing your advisor once every semester is crucial to ensure you're on track with your academic goals. Commit to your classes and dedicate approximately three hours a week to each one. Create a schedule every week to focus solely on your school work. Taking classes with friends and teammates can help keep you accountable for assignments. Having a graduation plan, which I can provide, has been shown to increase the likelihood of actually following it..

[Audio] Michael Kocharian will lead our new student orientation this spring. He has valuable information about being an F-1 student here at BU Life. We'll learn more about our responsibilities, rights, and benefits as international students..

[Audio] The concept of status in the context of F-1 students refers to their current situation. There are three possible statuses: active, canceled, and terminated. An active status means compliance with necessary rules and regulations. A canceled status occurs when the student does not enter the United States or uses another Form I-20. A terminated status indicates breaking the terms of the F-1 visa. We will explore each of these statuses further..

[Audio] Registration and regulations are essential aspects of being a student here at the university. It is crucial that students understand what they need to do to remain in active status. This includes registering for classes, meeting academic requirements, and complying with university policies. We will cover all these aspects in this session, so please pay close attention. By doing so, students will be able to navigate the university system smoothly and avoid any potential issues..

[Audio] During the fall and spring semesters, undergraduate students must take a minimum of 12 units, graduate students must take a minimum of 9 units, and D.Min. students must take a minimum of 8 units. In contrast, during the winter and summer sessions, F-1 students do not need to attempt any units but can take up to 12 units..

[Audio] On-campus and off-campus students have different requirements. According to the table, students pursuing a Bachelor's program or a Certificate must take at least 9 units on campus. For Master's programs and Doctoral degrees, the minimum requirement is 6 units. These on-campus units are compulsory, so it is crucial to fulfill them before selecting online classes. After satisfying these requirements, one will have the freedom to choose online courses. It is vital to review these requirements meticulously to guarantee meeting the necessary standards..

[Audio] Attendance is crucial for academic success. An attendance rate of 80% or higher is required for course credit, even if absences are excused. It's essential to note that withdrawals and warnings can result from lack of attendance. Dropping out of classes will impact your status. The Academic and International Student Offices will closely monitor students' attendance..

ACADEMIC REQUIREMENTS. [image] HOW TO BOOST YOUR GRADES College 101 Tips Tricks.

[Audio] Students who fail to maintain a 2.0 grade-point average will be placed on academic probation. If their grade-point average drops below 2.0, they must submit a SAP appeal form to register for the next semester. Without this form, registration is not possible. Moreover, failure to achieve a 2.0 GPA after two consecutive semesters will lead to dismissal and termination of the I-20..

[Audio] The Academic Office can assist with various academic-related issues, including course selection, major changes, graduation requirements, and transfer credits. They are available to help students navigate any challenges they may encounter during their studies..

[Audio] International students are required to have health insurance prior to the start of the semester. F-1 students must submit proof of health insurance to their designated school official. Furthermore, when traveling during scheduled vacation periods, such as summer or winter break, one needs to obtain an authorized signature from the program director/school official before departing..

[Audio] International students who fail to provide proof of health insurance by the end of new student orientation or registration, whichever occurs later, will automatically be enrolled in the lowest-costing health insurance plan..

[Audio] Students who need to stay in the US longer than the time stated on their I-20 must apply for a program extension before the end date listed on their I-20. The extension is only given if there are academic or major medical reasons. To get this extension, students must fill out the "F-1 Extension Form" on JotForm..

[Audio] When transferring to a different school, it's necessary to submit a transfer-out form and an acceptance letter from your new school to our office. Then, fill out Bethesda's transfer processing form. After that, our office releases your SEVIS record from Bethesda to the new school. Finally, the new school issues you an I-20 form using this information..

[Audio] After completing your program, you have several options available. You can transfer to another school, apply for optional practical training, change your status, such as permanent residency or R1 visa, depart from the United States within 60 days, or apply for a new program at Bethesda University..

[Audio] When you need assistance with changes to your legal name or U.S. address, questions about changing your field of study or level of education when nearing expected program completion, reporting lost or stolen I-20 forms, or requesting a travel signature, contact your Designated School Official (DSO). We are also available if you have concerns about your country of citizenship or immigration status..

[Audio] To access necessary forms, please visit Bethesda's website at www.buc.edu. Click on the "Populi" logo located at the bottom of the page and log in. Then, click on "Links" to access the required forms..

[Audio] Mr. Michael Kocharian from Admissions/DSO can be reached through email at [email protected] or by phone at 714-683-1204. His office hours are Monday to Friday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm..

[Audio] As students living on campus, it's essential to understand the general regulations set forth by Bethesda University, which apply to both resident and international students alike. All students are expected to maintain a clean and respectful living environment within their dormitories, including keeping common areas tidy and disposing of trash properly. Quiet hours are also mandatory, typically between 10 PM and 8 AM, to ensure a peaceful living experience for everyone. Smoking is strictly prohibited within 20 feet of any building, including residence halls. Students are responsible for reporting any damage or issues with their rooms to the university administration promptly. By understanding and complying with these regulations, we can create a safe and enjoyable living environment for all students..

[Audio] It is crucial to look through the academic calendars to stay on top of deadlines and break periods. Reading the student handbook is also vital, as knowledge is power and understanding the rules and expectations can help you avoid potential issues. Moreover, keeping open lines of communication with your professors is essential, as they are there to support and guide you throughout your academic journey. By doing so, you can ask questions, clarify doubts, and seek help when needed..

[Audio] Registration and tuition guidelines are crucial steps in one's academic journey. Tuition must be paid in full by the deadline, making it essential to plan accordingly. After registering through Populi, an estimate is available, and payment can be made through the Accounting Office by check or card. Note that a late fee of $100 will be assessed if registration is not completed on time. It is vital to prioritize timely registration to avoid any additional costs..

[Audio] We are committed to making your college experience affordable by offering a tuition payment plan if needed. The duration of this plan is four months. For more information, please contact the Accounting Office at [email protected]..

[Audio] Failure to pay tuition fees will result in different consequences depending on one's situation. At the very least, a lock will be placed on your Populi account, preventing you from submitting homework and connecting to your classes, thereby leaving you behind on coursework. Additionally, you may be dropped from classes and your registration cancelled for international students, putting their I-20 and F-1 status at risk..

[Audio] Attendance matters for grades because a minimum of 80% attendance is required for course credit. Four or more absences will automatically result in an 'F' grade for your courses, while three consecutive absences will lead to an automatic 'WD' from your courses. Excused absences can be discussed with the registrar and your professor..

[Audio] Grades are meant to indicate students' understanding and attainment of the course objectives. Bethesda University uses a standard 4.0 scale to assess students' performance throughout their academic journey. A grade point average is calculated based on the grades earned in each course, which is then used to determine the overall academic standing of the student..

[Audio] Latin honors are awarded to students who achieve a certain level of academic excellence. The three levels of Latin honors are Summa Cum Laude, Magna Cum Laude, and Cum Laude. To qualify for Summa Cum Laude, a student's GPA must be between 3.8 and 4.0, which is considered the highest honor and is often referred to as being with the highest honors. Students with a GPA between 3.65 and 3.79 qualify for Magna Cum Laude, which means they have achieved great honors. Finally, students with a GPA between 3.5 and 3.64 qualify for Cum Laude, which means they have achieved honors. These honors are typically recognized during graduation ceremonies..

[Audio] The academic calendar for Fall 2024 new student orientation has been released. This information guides you through the upcoming semester. Take note of the key dates and deadlines, including registration, add/drop periods, and final exams. Plan accordingly to ensure a smooth transition into your academic journey..

[Audio] We are here to assist with various academic matters such as obtaining an ID card, having questions about your academic program, requiring transcripts or other official documents, or needing guidance on satisfactory academic progress or leave of absence..

[Audio] We are here to assist you with any academic matters whether you need to add or drop a course request independent study transfer credits from previous institutions change your major or double major or prepare for graduation our Academic Office is dedicated to supporting your academic journey..