Campus News

By Sara Myers-Hogshead, Digital Media & Communications Specialist   

First day of classes at Rockford University start Wednesday, Aug. 23. To help make sure new first-year students are prepared, we gathered some quick tips and advice to ensure you start the new school year right.

Big thanks to staff from Admissions, Housing and Student Life. If we have missed anything, please comment below! 

Katie Wolfgram, RU Assistant Director of Admissions:  

#1. Send your final high school transcript to admissions.  

• Make sure your high school transcript is sent directly to the Admissions Office (anytime during the fall semester is acceptable, but late transcripts will affect your financial aid so don’t delay!)

#2. Chat with Student Administrative Services ASAP.  

• Make time to chat with Student Administrative Services (SAS) as early as possible. They can address financial aid questions and determine if you need to fill out any forms.

#3. Sign up for the Spring semester in October!  

• October may seem early to plan for spring, but that’s when class registration opens up. Before you can register you will need to make sure your transcripts are submitted to SAS by the first half of the Fall semester. You can check the Portal for updates. 

Director of Student Life Alex Johnson Recommends Upcoming Events 

Orientation was the first opportunity to learn more about Rockford University. If you attended, you were able to meet your entire first-year class and get to know your first-year advisor.

Throughout your time at Rockford University, you will have other opportunities to get involved and meet people.

“There are a lot of things happening in August,” said Alex Johnson, Director of Student Life. 

“You may be nervous about just attending college and not knowing anyone. These events are a perfect time for anyone to attend to get connected to all the students on campus. If I had to emphasize two things it would be the fall kickoff and the activities fair to attend.”  

Make sure to check announcements and social media for updates on events. Here is a list of upcoming Student Life Events:

Fall Kick Off  

• When: Friday, Aug. 25  
• Time: 5 to 8 p.m.  
• Where: Burpee Commons  

• What: Enjoy inflatables, games, make-and-take items, and great food. This event is open to Rockford University Students, Staff, Faculty, and their families. Make sure you stay till 8 p.m. when we end the night with fireworks!  

Caffeine Cart  

• When: Monday, Aug. 28  
• Time: 9 to 11:30 a.m.  
• Where: Around campus  

• What: Join the Commuter Council as they help you wake up. Make sure you flag down the purple golf cart on your way to class to snag a caffeinated beverage!  

Activities Fair  

• When: Wednesday, Aug. 30  
• Time: 2 to 4 p.m.  
• Where: Library Patio  

• What: Want to get involved on campus? Stop by the activities fair and meet all the clubs that Rockford University has to offer.  

Water Festival  

• When: Thursday, Aug. 31  
• Time: Tentatively 3-6 pm  
• What: Burpee Commons  

• Info: Join CAB as they throw the first-ever water festival. Join us for tons of water-inspired games including slide-and-slide kickball, a water balloon fight, and more!  

College Success from Scott Mitchell, Assistant Dean and Director of Residence Life:  

#1. Sit in the “T” zone one class. The front rows and down the center aisles are important to maintain contact with faculty and be notified to participate in class discussions.  

 #2. Although new to campus, set up a routine for hours of sleep and study. Maintain a schedule for success. It is easy to get distracted and setting a routine right away helps maintain focus on academic goals.  

We wish everyone a safe and happy semester! Students can find major university news here at rockford.edu.