Aggie Connection - New Aggie

Aggie Connection
For Families of students entering Texas A&M Fall 2015
New Student Conferences
New Student Conferences (NSCs), Texas A&M’s mandatory orientation program, provide an opportunity for you and your student
to experience activities and programs, and receive valuable information to assist in the transition to Texas A&M. While the New
Student Conference is mandatory only for students, we invite family members to attend and participate in a variety of programs and
services specifically designed for you. By participating, you will become informed about the university’s academic programs, policies,
facilities, and services. While all family members are welcome to attend, conference activities are not designed for the enjoyment of
younger children. If possible, alternate arrangements are encouraged.
We encourage you to arrive and take care of important conference “to-dos” on the Pre-Conference Day. You will have the opportunity
to check-in early to the conference, your student can take care of required testing (newaggie.tamu.edu/nsc/testing), and utilize
the Student Recreation Center. In the afternoon there are interest sessions offered for students interested in joining the Corps of
Cadets or Greek Life. In addition, you and your student will be able to attend an evening social hosted by the Aggie Orientation
Leader Program at the Clayton W. Williams, Jr. Alumni Center, home of The Association of Former Students. At The Association, you’ll
learn more about Texas A&M traditions through interactive exhibits, socialize with fellow Aggies and staff, and have the opportunity
to have your photo taken at the Haynes Aggie Ring statue.
If you are not able to make it to campus for the Pre-Conference events, the first required program you and your student will attend
is Check-In the morning of Day 1. Once you arrive, you will find separate areas for Student Check-in as well as Family and Guest
Check-In where you will receive specific information for family members including a schedule of events, calendar, and much more.
The Aggie Orientation Leader Program will also be selling T-shirts with the students’ class year and Aggie Family T-shirts.
Several conference programs are designed specifically for family members, and as a result, there will be times during the
conference that you and your student attend separate meetings. In order to make the most of your student’s conference, it is highly
encouraged that you attend all family member programs and that your student attends all student programs. Information about
the NSC schedule can be found on page three of this publication, including a link to both Freshman & Transfer Sample Schedules.
We hope you will take full advantage of your Aggie Connection - an outstanding staff of professionals working to serve the
needs of your students, first and foremost, and you, parents and families, as partners in success. We look forward to seeing you this
summer!
For more information on the New Student Conference please visit: newaggie.tamu.edu/family-and-guests/.
Family and Guest Registration
We are ready to welcome you and your student to the Aggie Family and are excited about their decision to attend Texas A&M University.
The below information details how you can register to attend the New Student Conference with your student.
Registering as a Family Member or Guest:
NSC Registration for Family Members & Guests (parents, guardians, spouses, siblings, etc.) is required and can be done at newaggie.tamu.
edu/family-and-guests. Before registering, have your student’s UIN and scheduled conference date along with payment readily available.
Please ensure you complete the form thoroughly and accurately before submitting.
Registration Deadlines & Costs:
The Conference Registration Charge covers materials for the conference, one meal, facilities costs, and staffing during the conference. There
is no charge for children under 5 years old. The registration charge does not include parking or overnight accommodations and these
arrangements must be made separately.
Freshmen Conferences
Regular Registration
(May 2 - Four Business Days Prior to Conference)
Late Registration
(Four Business Days Prior to Conference - On-site)
$30 per Family Member 18+ $10 per Family Member age 5-17
$35 per Family Member 18+ $10 per Family Member age 5-17
Transfer Conferences
Early Bird Registration
(Up to Four Business Days Prior to Conference)
Late Registration
(Four Business Days Prior to Conference - On-site)
$25 per Family Member 18+ $10 per Family Member age 5-17
$35 per Family Member 18+ $10 per Family Member age 5-17
Payment Options and Refund Policy:
Conference charges can be paid with a credit or debit card. If your student has qualified for and used a fee deferral with the Office of
Admissions for New Student Conference fees, complete the online family registration form and select the conference charge waiver button
during payment. Then contact New Student & Family Programs. A past due payment will be listed on your account until you contact us by
phone. One adult family member per student will have their charge waived; any additional family members will incur the conference charges
as listed.
If you need to cancel your registration and request a refund you must contact us by phone at 979.845.5826. A 50% refund will be provided
up to 5 business days prior to your scheduled conference Day 1. No refunds will be given for cancellations within 4 business days prior to
Date Changes:
Please note, if your student changes their conference date via the Applicant Information System (AIS) you will need to separately change
your family and guest registration. In order to change your conference date, please call New Student & Family Programs at 979.845.5826.
The two systems operate independently, so we must manually change your date. In the event of a conference date change, you and your
student will also need to change your parking and housing accommodations for the correct conference date. If you have any questions,
please call or e-mail us at aggiefamilies@tamu.edu.
Aggie Connection Spring 2015 2
Family and Guest Programs
NSC Programs for Family Members and Guests
Family members and guests will check-in for the conference in the Zone
Club at Kyle Field at the same time as their student. Family Members and
Guests will have the opportunity to attend several programs with their
student, as well as programs specifically for our family members and
guests which are highlighted below:
Freshman & Hybrid New Student Conferences
The following family and guest programs take place during Freshman and Hybrid
(combined freshmen and transfer) New Student Conferences. The cost of each of
these programs is included in the registration charge.
Family On-Campus Housing Learn about on-campus living arrangements and find out more information about housing related support
Session
services including guidelines for move-in day.
Partners in Success
Ask an Aggie
Representatives from the Offices of the Dean of Student Life and Student Counseling will discuss ways the
university partners with families to support and encourage students throughout their career at Texas A&M.
A panel of current students will be available for Q&A session to address any questions or concerns.
Join other family members, staff from the Office of New Student & Family Programs, and Orientation Leaders
Dinner and Being an Aggie for dinner. Enjoy an opporuntity to engage in discussion with other Aggie Families regarding your student’s
Family Member
transition to Texas A&M. Representatives from the Federation of Aggie Moms will speak about getting
involved in your local Aggie Moms’ Club.
To view a sample Freshman NSC schedule visit: https://u.tamu.edu/NSCFRSchedule15
Transfer New Student Conferences
The transfer New Student Conferences follow a slightly different schedule. The below family and guest program takes place during Transfer
New Student Conferences. The cost of each of these programs is included in the registration charge.
Family Lunch & Partners
in Success
Meet other Aggie families, hear from Aggie Moms, participate in Yell Practice and learn about how you can
support your student! The cost of this lunch is included in the family member registration charge.
To view a sample Transfer NSC schedule visit: https://u.tamu.edu/NSCTRSchedule15
NSCs en Español
Through the generosity of The Association of Former Students, Spanish translation is available free of charge to those who desire to have
information translated. Participants will be able to check-in and ask questions to our Spanish-speaking staff, receive printed materials in
Spanish, and hear live program translation. Please request translation at the time of online registration. For further questions regarding NSCs
en Español please e-mail us at Aggiefamilies@tamu.edu.
Aggie Connection Spring 2015 3
Campus Services
Student Fee Services
These services are automatically applied to your student’s fees. These services can be utilized without any extra cost.
The Academic Success Center’s mission is to help all Aggies enhance their academic performance. The Academic Success Center is
a collaboration between Academic Affairs and Student Affairs. Their holistic approach helps students identify roadblocks to academic
success and ensures that all students have access to comprehensive resources. successcenter.tamu.edu
The Aggie Card will be your student’s official ID at Texas A&M University, and it has many functions. Some ways students use their card
include utilizing dining plans, accessing residence halls, checking out books at the library, entering the Recreation Center, and sporting
events. Your student will have the opportunity to obtain their Aggie Card during the NSC. aggiecard.tamu.edu
Transportation Services include shuttle service free to all students, faculty, staff, and visitors to Texas A&M. On-Campus service consists
of routes which move passengers from point to point around campus, while Off-Campus service covers routes in Bryan and College
Station. For more information about this service and detailed route maps, visit transport.tamu.edu/transit
The Student Recreation Center is available to students taking one or more semester hours. Facilities include a climbing wall, 14,000
square foot weight & fitness room, indoor walking/running track, indoor basketball/volleyball/soccer courts, handball/racquetball courts,
natatorium, and multiple outdoor activities including sand volleyball courts, basketball courts, and a pool. A full list of these features and
hours of operation is available at recsports.tamu.edu
The Writing Center is available to every student. Students can come in once a day, if an appointment is available, and get personalized
help with any aspect of writing or oral communication (school-related or not). writingcenter.tamu.edu
Student Counseling Service is available to students currently enrolled at Texas A&M University. Students are eligible for an initial
consultation appointment; the determination of appropriate, additional services will be made at that time which can include individual
counseling, group counseling, couples counseling, and workshops. scs.tamu.edu
Optional Services
Optional campus services are services your student can add to their account for an extra charge. On the morning of
Day 1 of the New Student Conference, you and your student will attend a mandatory Campus Services session which
will detail all of the optional services.
Student Parking is for all vehicles parked on the Texas A&M University Campus. Students are required to have a parking permit, unless
they are parked in a pay visitor area. Once your student has accepted his or her offer of admission and registered for a New Student
Conference, they will be able to purchase a parking permit. If they would like to purchase a permit, they will need to log in to their account
on the Transportation Services web site at transport.tamu.edu/account and click Purchase Permit. The costs of the permits vary and are
designated on a lot specific basis. Priority registration is available now and closes on July 7th.
University Dining on campus is an essential part of the Aggie experience – whether your student lives on or off campus. All U1 freshmen
living in on-campus residence halls are required to purchase a Resident Dining Plan, and all members of the Corps of Cadets are required to
purchase a Dining Plan that meets the March-In Meal requirements. Students that are not required to purchase a Dining Plan may choose
a Resident Dining Plan or an Optional Dining Plan. For more information regarding University Dining or to register for a dining plan, please
call 979.845.3005 or visit dining.tamu.edu.
12th Man Pass is your student’s gateway to Texas A&M athletic events including football, baseball, basketball, soccer and much more.
Options include: 12th Man Pass with Football ($290), or the Four Game 12th Man Pass ($150). Incoming and new students may register
for sports options on May 28th. Due to high demand, students are encouraged to purchase the 12th Man Pass early as there is a limited
number. For more information about these options as well as ordering information, visit www.12thmanfoundation.com/students
Aggie Connection Spring 2015 4
To Do Before The NSC
Register as a family member or guest (required) for your student’s conference at newaggie.tamu.edu/family-and-guests.
Ensure your student has submitted their documentation regarding the Bacterial Meningitis vaccination (see below).
Take care of NSC logistics such as parking and lodging (newaggie.tamu.edu/family-and-guests/prepare-for-your-students-nsc).
Visit http://newaggie.tamu.edu for updates and information concerning New Student Conferences!
Join the Family Member Newsletter: parents.tamu.edu. Click “Family Newsletter” on the side column.
Contact the Office of New Student & Family Programs if you have any questions, comments or
concerns at 979.845.5826 or by email at nsfp@tamu.edu.
Sign Up for Extended Orientation!
Bacterial Meningitis Vaccinations for ALL
Students
TEC 51.9192 requires all students under age
22 entering an institution of higher education
to provide current proof of vaccination
against bacterial meningitis (an immunization
given within 5 years of the date of intended
enrollment) or meet certain requirements for
declining such a vaccination. Newly admitted
students who have not provided documentation
of vaccination have a meningitis deficiency
hold placed on their account. The hold will be
removed once the appropriate immunization
documentation has been provided to Texas
A&M. The meningitis deficiency hold will
prevent students from checking in to the New
Student Conference and registering for classes,
so it is imperative to fulfill this requirement prior
to arriving at the NSC. For more information,
please visit: http://admissions.tamu.edu/
meningitis. To determine if your student
has satisfied the evidence of vaccination
requirement for bacterial meningitis, have them
go to the Applicant Information System website,
applicant.tamu.edu, and ensure that a check
mark is present on the Bacterial Meningitis
checklist item found under the “Additional
credentials required prior to Enrollment/
Registration” section.
Questions?:
Admissions Processing
Phone: (979) 845-1060
E-mail: admissions@tamu.edu
Fish Camp
What: A four-day extended orientation program where freshmen learn about A&M traditions
and resources, while also creating new and lasting friendships. Cost: $225
When: Seven sessions running between July 31st-August 21st
Where: Lakeview Methodist Conference Center in Palestine, TX
Why: To share, learn, and develop relationships with fellow Aggies.
For more information, visit fishcamp.tamu.edu or call the office at 979.845.1627.
Freshman registration opens May 26th at 3:00 pm CST at fishcamponline.tamu.edu. Registration
will close on June 30th at 5:00 pm CST or when sessions are full. Please be patient as there are
thousands of students trying to register on the first day.
T-Camp
What: A three-day extended orientation program where transfer students form lifelong friendships
while learning all about Texas A&M University. T-Camp provides an opportunity for incoming students to
learn all facets of collegiate life in Aggieland including traditions, resources, and opportunities available
at Texas A&M. Cost: $180
When: Session I is August 10-12; Session II is August 14-16
Where: Trinity Pines in Trinity, Texas
Why: To share, learn, and develop relationships with fellow Aggies.
For more information and to register (opens late June) visit atc.tamu.edu or call 979.862.1785.
Venture Camp
What: Venture: Base Camp, the thrilling premiere program held in conjunction with Outdoor
Adventures in Recreational Sports. Venture: Base Camp provides students with fun and exciting
experiences including camping, hiking, canoeing, rock climbing, and cycling. No prior outdoor
recreation experience is required, but a willingness to be an active participant and team player are very
important. Cost: $400
When: July 19-25
Where: Texas A&M campus and in the Texas Hill Country
Why: These camp experiences are designed to welcome both freshmen and transfer students
to the Aggie Family through sharing in new and unique experiences offered to students at
Texas A&M.
For more information and to register on or after May 26th, visit venturecamp.tamu.edu
Aggie Connection Spring 2015 5
HOWDY!
We would like to congratulate you on your student’s acceptance to Texas A&M University! The Office
of New Student & Family Programs is here to support you and your student’s success through their
first year at A&M. We strive to be your Aggie Connection to campus resources and services, serving
as a central place for you to ask questions and express your concerns. With a mission to enrich
your student’s experience, we value the opportunity to observe and be a part of your student’s
growth and development. This process begins during the New Student Conferences and continues
throughout the year. We encourage you to use this Aggie Connection as a way to learn about the
Aggie Family and prepare for the next steps of your student’s enrollment!
Visit parents.tamu.edu to learn more about resources for family members and to sign up for our email newsletter for family members!
Be sure to follow the Office of New Student & Family Programs on social media!
@NSFPtamu
New Student & Family Programs
Offices of the Dean of Student Life
Texas A&M University
College Station, TX 77843-1257
/AggieParentsandFamily
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