HANDBOOK FOR PARENTS AND FAMILIES 2018.pdf · HANDBOOK FOR PARENTS AND FAMILIES PAGE 1 New students...

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HANDBOOK FOR PARENTS AND FAMILIESof New Students Joining the UWI Community

HANDBOOK FOR PARENTS AND FAMILIES

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INTRODUCTION...................................................................1

TRANSITIONING TO THE UWI........................................................2

Dealing with Homesickness...............................................................................3

Accommodation Options.....................................................................................3

Managing Self..........................................................................................................4

MAKING THE ACADEMIC TRANSITION.............................................5

Getting Academic Guidance...............................................................................5

Coping with Academic Demands......................................................................5

Managing the Workload.......................................................................................6

Time Management.................................................................................................6

Preparing for Assignments and Examinations..............................................6

Know your Library...................................................................................................6

Computer Access and Information Technology Assistance.....................6

BALANCING LIFE AT UNIVERSITY....................................................7

MY.UWI.EDU ONLINE VOCABULARY...............................................11

IMPORTANT FACES.........................................................................13

EMERGENCY NUMBERS..................................................................14

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Welcome to The University of the West Indies (UWI), St. Augustine Campus community. As supporters, The UWI appreciates your presence and involvement in our students’ university experience and invite you to be a part of their academic journey. We believe that transitioning to university life may present specific challenges for new students so your support is critical at this time.

This handbook is designed to support parents, families and spouses of new students entering university for the first time. It will address some of your concerns about the significant changes new students undergo as they become involved in campus life.

It covers issues pertaining to transitioning, homesickness and culture shock, accommodation options, and presents a guide to useful resources and information at the UWI, St. Augustine Campus.

Please feel free to use this handbook as a resource as you explore the many support services available to students on campus. You may also find it useful throughout this academic year as a guide to important campus dates and events that will be beneficial to you and our new students.

We acknowledge that we may not have addressed all your concerns in this document. If you have any questions, comments or feedback, please feel free

to contact:

Office of the Director Division of Student Services and DevelopmentThe Lloyd BraithwaiteStudent Adminstration BuildingLewis AvenueThe University of the West IndiesSt Augustine, Trinidad WI1 (868) 662 2002 Exts: 82096/[email protected]

INTRODUCTION


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New students who enter the University community experience a process of transition and undergo a tremendous and intense amount of change. During their first week, new students are likely to feel alone, anxious and clueless largely because they may not know anyone and may be unfamiliar with the campus. Each student will cope differently with the changes associated with university life, but all new students will need support during their transition period.

• Some students may have lifelong dreams of pursuing certain

career goals but upon entry into the University many find and

develop new career interests. Do not be worried about these

impulses to change their programme of study, to transfer to

a different faculty or to adopt a different specialisation. Your

main role as a support person is to ask questions about these

changes and to support the student as he or she explores new

and changing academic interests and potential career paths.

• As students progress through their university years they will

develop new relationships. You may also notice a growing

sense of independence, and the closeness you once shared

may change. Supporters may be concerned about this change,

but it is inevitable as students interact with new people as part

of their university experience.

• The University’s environment is very dynamic and vibrant,

and this will expose students to activities and events that are

outside of their comfort zones. Their interests will grow and

worldview may change. This may in turn influence the ways

that students begin to interact with their families and, in some

cases cause tension, especially if their changing views are

conflicting. Supporters should remain open to these changes

as they become part of the student’s holistic growth and

development.

• Supporters should be observant, understand the student’s

development and provide them with the necessary guidance.

While students will probably experience the best years of their

lives at The UWI, they will inevitably have some challenging

times.

Additionally, here are some more specific issues that you andthe new student may deal with as part of his or her transition to The UWI.

TRANSITIONING TO THE UWI

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Dealing with Homesickness

Some new students will miss the comforts of their home. If you believe that the student is showing signs of homesickness, here are some remedies to help him/her overcome it:

• Keep in touch. A familiar voice always works to cheer up and

rejuvenate a homesick soul. Thanks to technology, it is much

easier to stay in touch. If you are unable to call, try instant

messaging, emailing or making video calls so that the student

can interact with you. Remember to keep conversations light,

positive and motivational so that you can help ease the stress

of missing home.

• Keep students up-to-date with developments at home.

This helps to keep them in touch with family and friends but

also creates awareness of substantial changes that may be

occurring while they are away from home.

• Encourage meaningful involvement in campus activities.

Sometimes involvement in activities can help new students to

get over homesickness. They eventually make new friends

and become so occupied with classes, assignments and other

things that there is no time to be homesick.

• Encourage students to go out and explore. Trinidad and

Tobago offers exciting activities. A night out with friends, a trip

to the mall, or an adventure trip around the island are some

remedies for homesickness, so encourage students to venture

out and have fun away from the hectic campus environment.

• Provide reassurance; be there for the student. Build a

relationship where the student can come to you for advice

and encouragement. University life can sometimes become

stressful, so students may need some encouragement

especially when assignments are due and examinations are

around the corner.


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Accommodation Options

On Campus Accommodations

There are five halls of residence at the St. Augustine Campus.

These include:

• Freedom Hall (Male/Female)

• Canada Hall (Male/Female)

• Trinity Hall (Female only)

• Sir Arthur Lewis Hall (Male/Female)

• The Joyce Gibson Inniss Hall (Medical Sciences students only)

Living on one of the halls affords students an opportunity to live

independently, in a safe environment among their peers. Students

get to live and learn in a dynamic environment that exposes them

to different cultures and nationalities as hall residents are from

different parts of the world. Students interested in residing in

hall for the first time should apply by mid-March prior to the new

academic year.

Off-Campus Accommodations

Students may also opt to live off-campus. There are many off-

campus housing options available to students within walking

distance of the University. As a means of helping students

with decisions and procedures surrounding living off-campus,

the Office of Student Advisory Services provides a listing of

available off-campus accommodations ranging from TT$1200

to TT$6000 per month. The University strongly recommends

that students seek advice about off-campus accommodation

options. Students interested in accessing this listing can visit the

Office of Student Advisory Services or the online database at

sta.uwi.edu/oasis

For further information, contact the Student Accommodation

Office, DSSD at 662-2001 extensions 82387/ 82251

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Managing Self

University life can become stressful for many students. If you notice

signs of undue stress please feel free to remind the student that the

Counselling and Psychological Services (CAPS, DSSD is available on

campus, offers a range of services, including crisis intervention,

diagnostic assessment, and therapy for individuals, couples and

families. These services are managed by skilled professionals

who are ready and willing to assist students in need of help. All

registered students are eligible for services offered by CAPS. These

services are free and confidential.

The Health Services Unit (HSU) opens all year round from Mondays

to Fridays (except public holidays). Opening hours are from 8:30am

to 8pm. Please contact the Health Services Unit at 662-2002,

extension 82491 for appointments.

MAKING THEACADEMIC TRANSITIONNew students at The UWI are about to embark on an exciting

journey of academic success, self discovery, friendships and much

more. As students grow they continue to rely on their support

persons for continued guidance and motivation. Given the nature

of the transition to university life, it is important that supporters

understand that each student adapts and learns in unique and

different ways. Your support is important.

The first-year of university is a crucial time in the personal and

academic development of our students that will also affect

supporters. For some supporters, it will be an exciting experience

to observe the student beginning university life. Be assured that

the University will do its part to support the student and we urge

you to partner with us as students begin to broaden their horizons

and plan their futures.

New students will face many challenges in their first-year including

making decisions about academic issues, making friends,

maintaining a good Grade Point Average (GPA) and creating an


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effective co-curricular balance. The following pages are intended

to help you and the new university student with this transition

• Getting Academic Guidance University students are expected to choose courses from a

wide range of possibilities. This can be a daunting task for the

newcomer. Students should use the academic guides and

regulations available online at the respective faculty websites.

These documents are useful and outline in detail programme

requirements, and how courses should be selected. Start at

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• Coping with Academic Demands The workload for courses in each programme varies and

changes during the semester. Assignments for one course

may clash with class projects for another, and perhaps with co-

curricular activities. In addition, students may be overwhelmed

by new teaching styles, along with new subjects and courses.

In order to stay on top of things, students are free to access

academic support services across campus. These include

informative sessions at the library, department resources,

and a number of programmes and services. For example, the

Student Life and Development Department (SLDD) offers

support to students at all levels of their academic careers,

including tutoring, time management, workload management

and academic workshops. They also ensure equal access

(academic/ infrastructure) to all students that enter The UWI

with a disability.

Students who require special aids or devices, special

accommodation on campus for classes and exams, or special

arrangements for parking should contact the Student Life and

Development Department (SLDD) at 662-2002 extensions

83866, 83921, 83923 and 84254.

• Time Management Students will be faced with decisions about how to spend

their time. Our campus has a vibrant social community with

activities and events all year round. The key for new students

is to manage their time wisely. Strike a balance between

academic and non-academic activities but do not get

distracted.

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• Preparing for Assignments and Examinations Many programmes at the University require students to

complete coursework assignments and projects in addition to

their usual end of semester examinations. Students will know

by the beginning of the semester if they have to meet such

requirements when course outlines are distributed. They

should remember to pay attention to the instructions about

how, when and where assignments should be submitted. Here

are some useful tips for assignments and examinations:

• Develop a systematic approach to studies by creating a study schedule.

• Prepare for assignments in a timely manner.• Find a comfortable place to study.• Use free time wisely.

• Know Your Library New students are especially encouraged to become familiar

with the network of campus libraries as they are an invaluable

resource that will make their UWI experience fruitful. At the

St. Augustine Campus there are ten libraries spanning all

disciplines. Each is equipped to cater to the needs of our

students. They are generally open every day during the

semester and from Monday to Saturday during breaks.

• Computer Access and Information Technology Assistance There are many computer labs available to students. New

students may not have their personal laptops when they

begin classes so completing assignments can be tedious for

them. Students have free access to computer labs around the

campus, including those within the libraries. Some of these labs

are also equipped with printing and copying facilities.

Using their UWI ID, students can log on to the internet, check

email and browse online using hotspots available on campus.

Additional wireless zones are offered by some food outlets

on campus. Campus IT Services can also help students meet

computing needs by facilitating the purchase of Dell personal

computers and laptops at reduced prices.

For more information contact CAMPUS I.T. SERVICES via their Service Desk at [email protected], or 662-2002 extension 84357.


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BALANCING LIFE@ THE UWIThere are many programmes and services available to all students

at The UWI, St. Augustine Campus. Below you will find dates for

the First Year Experience (FYE) programme, which is managed

by The Office of the Director, Division of Student Services and

Development (DSSD). First Year Experience is The UWI’s official

student orientation and transition programme, which targets all

incoming undergraduate and postgraduate students. It includes

workshops, tours, discussions and seminars designed to enable

a smooth transition to campus life. New students should be

encouraged to attend as many sessions as possible.

DATE FYE EVENT

Aug 20 – 27 Meet & Greet: Airport greeting for all regional and international students

Aug 24 – 30 Campus Tours: Faculty tours for all new first year students

Aug 23, 27-28, 30 UWI Clicks: An introduction to the UWI website and student portal

Aug 25 – 26 Check-In: Weekend orientation activities for regional and international students

Aug 26 Welcome Home: Orientation events for students residing on Halls

Aug 27 – Sept 06 Know Your Faculty: Orientation events for faculties

Sept 03 - 07 UWI Guild Fest: The Guild of Students Orientation activities

Aug 29 UWI Life Support: UWI administration forum for parents and families

sta.uwi.edu/fye

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DATE FYE EVENT

Sept 21 The Postgraduate Experience:Postgraduate Orientation workshops

Oct 04 & 18, Feb 07

Career Advice Programme (CAP): Guide to career planning and development

Oct 11, Feb 21 Study Skills: Workshops ondeveloping practical study habits

Nov 20Co-curricular Awareness Day: Introduction to co-curricular activities and courses

Jan 25 Exchange Orientation: Orientation for exchange students

DATE FYE EVENT

Aug 29 UWI Life Student: UWI administration orientation

Sept 03 - Sept 22 Know Your Library: Library Orientation sessions

Sept 06 MY SAC: Forum to expose commuters to services available to them

Sept 13Orientation for Students with Disabilities: Introduction to the services at ASDLU

Sept 15Community Engagement Activity: A community service initiative for first-year students that fosters the spirt of volunteerism on the campus

Sept 27, Oct 25- 26,Nov 15, Feb 7 - 8, Feb 25 - 28

Health & Well Being: Health Services Unit workshops

Sept 20Matriculation: Formal recognition and induction of new students as members of the University’s academic community


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MY.UWI.EDUONLINE VOCABULARYStudents will begin using new terms relating to various things on

campus. Below are some popular terms that you should become

familiar with.

ACADEMIC ADVISING: This refers to the process where the faculty dean or his nominee

provides information on courses and assists, where necessary, in the

selection of courses for which students must register. The purpose of

academic advising is to help students, particularly new students, in

planning, monitoring and successfully managing their chosen field

of study, in relation to clear career objectives. Students are guided to

accept responsibility for their learning, to be informed of the services

provided for them, to access information and to be managers of their

time.

ADD/DROP: This is the period during which students may add or drop a course

without penalty.

ACCEPTANCE PACKAGE:Once students are accepted, they will be notified via email of

their acceptance. This email will direct them to download all

acceptance/offer/registration material online from our website at

sta.uwi.edu/admissions/track

CRN (COURSE REFERENCE NUMBER):This is the number assigned to designate a specific class and the

specific time/format in which it will be offered.

CO-REQUISITE: A course which must be taken along with another specified course

in order to ensure the attainment of complementary and/or

interdependent competencies.

CORE/REQUIRED COURSE(S): Courses that students are required to complete in order to be awarded

a major or a minor.

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COURSE LOAD:The number of credit hours carried each semester.

CREDIT/CREDIT HOUR: A unit which represents the number of hours a student spends in

a class each week over the course of the semester. E.g. A student

enrolled in MGMT 2003 (3 credits) will spend approximately 3 hours

per week in class, for approximately 13 weeks.

DEGREE AUDIT: A computerised summary of progress toward completion of degree

requirements to be used with academic advising and registration.

DEPARTMENTS:Units that make up a faculty and have a specific specialisation under

the broader area represented by the faculty. For example, Food

Production is a department in the Faculty of Food & Agriculture;

Management Studies is a department in the Faculty of Social Sciences;

Modern Languages & Linguistics is a department in the Faculty of

Humanities & Education.

ELECTIVE(S): Any course not required as part of a major. Courses which students

may choose from are provided by each department/faculty, and are

listed in respective faculty regulations and syllabuses booklets.

FACULTY: Departments are grouped into divisions called faculties. For

example, the Faculty of Social Sciences consists of the Departments

of Management Studies, Economics and Behavioural Sciences;

the Faculty of Food & Agriculture consists of the Departments of

Agricultural Economics and Extension, Food Production, and the

Geography and Business Development Unit. Lecturers are known as

faculty members.

FEE INVOICE: A printout of the courses for which students have registered that

lists each specific course. The amount of tuition and fees due for all

courses registered and the payment deadline date is also indicated

on the printout.


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FINANCIAL CLEARANCE: This refers to the approval given by bursary officials when the student

has paid all the fees for which he/she is liable.

GATE FORM: An official document provided by the Government of Trinidad and

Tobago for all citizens that provides government funding for tertiary

education expenses. The GATE programme is ONLY applicable to

citizens of Trinidad and Tobago.

HOLD: A hold is a block placed on a student’s record for failure to comply

with obligations to the University. Examples of holds are: transcript

holds, advising holds, immunisation holds, accounts receivable holds

etc.

TRANSCRIPT: An official record of coursework and grades housed at the Office of

the Campus Registrar.

PRE-REQUISITE: A course that needs to be taken before a student can register for

another course or a more advanced course. my.uwi.edu: The UWI

Student Web Portal serving students on all four campuses. The portal

provides access to online registration as well as information on student

accounts, final grades, degree audits and personal information.

UWI STUDENT ID CARD: The University’s identification card. The UWI Student ID card has many

functions aside from identification; it serves as a library card and an

access card to other buildings on campus.

UWI STUDENT REGISTRATION NUMBER: A 9-digit or 8-digit identification number in the format YYMMDD. This

number, which can be found on the offer letter, is used to gain access

to the St. Augustine on-line system, and to identify students while at

The UWI.

(Adapted from the “How To” Guide & University Regulations)

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CAMPUS PRINCIPALProfessor Brian Copeland

DEAN, FACULTY OFENGINEERINGProfessor Edwin Ekwue

SENIOR ASSISTANTREGISTRARADMISSIONMs. Patricia Brown

TRINITY AND CANADA HALLSDr. Jacqueline Bridge

CAMPUS BURSARMs. Andrea Taylor-Hanna

DEAN, FACULTY OFHUMANITIES & EDUCATIONDr. Heather Cateau

SENIOR ASSISTANTREGISTRAREXAMINATIONSMs. Jessie-Ann George

THE JOYCE GIBSON INNISS HALLDr. Farid Youssef

DEPUTY PRINCIPALProfessor Indar Ramnarine

DEAN, FACULTY OFFOOD & AGRICULTUREDr. Wayne Ganpat

DIRECTORDIVISION OF STUDENTSERVICES & DEVELOPMENTDr. Deirdre Charles

FREEDOM HALLDr. Michael Sutherland

CAMPUS LIBRARIANMr. Frank Soodeen

DEAN, FACULTY OF LAWProfessor Rose-MarieBelle Antoine

DIRECTOR, OFFICE OFINSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT AND INTERNATIONALISATIONMr. Sharan Singh

MANAGER STUDENT ACCOMMODATION ON & OFF CAMPUSMr. Kevin Snaggs

DEAN, FACULTY OFSCIENCE & TECHNOLOGYDr. Brian Cockburn

MEDICAL OFFICERDr. Neil Singh

CAMPUS REGISTRAR (Ag.)Mr. David Moses

DEAN, FACULTY OFMEDICAL SCIENCESProfessor Terence Seemungal

MANAGERSTUDENT LIFE &DEVELOPMENTDr. Jacqueline Huggins

DEAN, FACULTY OFSOCIAL SCIENCESProfessor Ann Marie Bissessar

ACCOUNTANTSTUDENTS & RECEIVABLESMr. Kevin Kalloo

SPORT & PHYSICALEDUCATION CENTRE (SPEC)Ms. Grace Jackson

FACES TO NOTE

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THE UWI PBX NUMBER - 662-2002This preceeds any extensions listed below

UWI STUDENT COUNSELLOR

Ext. 82151

OFFICE OF THE DIRECTOR, DSSD

Exts. 82096 | 82097 | 82360 | 84187 | 82098 | 82325

HALL SUPERVISORSJoyce Gibson-Inniss Hall, 645-3471 | Ext 85319(Mount Hope)

Trinity Hall Ext. 82608

Freedom Hall Exts. 82479 | 82247

Sir Aurthur Lewis Hall 663-0075

Canada Hall Exts. 82469 | 82497

STUDENT LIFE AND DEVELOPMENT

Exts. 83866 | 83921 | 83923 | 84254

SPORT & PHYSICAL EDUCATION CENTRE (SPEC)Director 82307

Facility Supervisor 83555

Sports Coordinator 84381 | 83810

HEALTH SERVICES UNIT

Exts. 82149 | 82153 | 83584 | 82149 | 82152

OFFICE OF THE EVENING UNIVERSITYExt. 84331


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NOTES

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NOTES


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HANDBOOK FOR PARENTS AND FAMILIES 2018.pdf · HANDBOOK FOR PARENTS AND FAMILIES PAGE 1 New students...

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