The important contact info you need to have. Over the years there have been only a few times that I, as a parent, have felt the need to call the campus to resolve an issue. Generally, I try to get my kids to handle it themselves. However, knowing where to call for whatever the issue can be daunting. For instance, trying to decipher how rush works or even having financial aid issues.  Be aware though that, unless your student has given you permission to call or is sitting with you, some departments won’t speak to you, the parent.

Check out our blog What You Should Do Before Leaving For FAU to download different legal documents.  These documents give parents’ permission in different medical and legal scenarios.

President of FAU: John W. Kelly, Ph.D.  His office is located at Florida Atlantic University
Administration Bldg., Room 339, 777 Glades Road, Boca Raton, FL 33431. 561-297-3450.
Email president@fau.edu or jkelly@fau.edu

We realize that finding the right place to call isn’t always so simple so we have listed several of the offices and what they are used for to make your navigation simpler. Many of our blogs address issues that you may be looking for guidance about too so we have linked those too.

FAU Police Department

If a student sees and wants to report suspicious persons, incidents, and unsafe conditions, they can report it to (561)297-3500. If an emergency occurs, dial 911. Sean Brammer Chief of Police, Florida Atlantic University Police Department Phone: (561) 297-1377. sbrammer@fau.edu

Department of Emergency Management

This is the department that coordinates FAU’s emergency preparedness, response, recovery, and mitigation activities to protect the students, faculty, staff, resources, and infrastructure.

Director: Jaeson Eber, 561-297-4587, em@fau.edu

Student Health Services

Located in Bldg. 8W, Room 240, 6424, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton, FL 33431, the offices of student health services are an easy and dependable resource for students since many do not have their own doctor. Their hours are Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. They can also be reached via phone (561) 297-3512, or email the Director of Student Health Services, LeAnn Gutierrez, Ph.D., MBA Director Student Health Services, at lgutierrez@health.fau.edu.

The office asks that if you need to contact student health services for a medical need or question to please call the clinic. Email-only with non-medical concerns such as billing or immunizations, and to please not email staff with any medical questions or concerns because they are not actively monitored for medical issues. Other than routine appointments, they offer after-hours nurse advice and health information. Students can call the FAU SHS number to be connected to the after-hours nurse line.

The FAU After-Hours Nurse Line is staffed by registered nurses who can assess a student’s symptoms and help them determine how to get the most appropriate care. The nurse may recommend a variety of care options, including home treatment, follow-up with a physician or immediate visit to the closest Emergency Room or Urgent Care Clinic.  Note: If your student has not filled out forms prior to your call; they will not release any information about your student. Make sure your student has signed these forms.

See our blog Sick at School for more information.

Dean of Students

Dr. Larry Faerman is the Associate VP & Dean of Students, lfaerman@fau.edu. Susan Fulks is the Associate Dean of Students – Email sfulks@fau.edu. Student Services Building (SS #8), Room 226, 777 Glades Road, Boca Raton, FL 33431-0991, 561-297-3542.  The Office of the Dean of Students works collaboratively with other offices on campus to enhance the quality of a student’s life and members of the FAU community.

Financial Aid Office – One Stop Student Services.

The office is located at 777 Glades Road, Bldg SU80 Rm 233 Boca Raton, FL 33431 Tel: (561) 297-3530 Office Hours: Monday – Thursday – 8:00am – 6:00pm Friday – 8:00am – 5:00pm.  Tracy Boulukos Assistant Vice President for Financial Aid & New Student Initiatives, tbouloko@fau.edu 561- 297-3531.

FAU Office of Information Technology

For students who are having technical difficulties with their FAUNet account and its surrounding technologies, this is the place to get in touch with. Here is our blog on Technology Services at UNF and one on Computer and Phone Repair.

Help Desk support is available in person (check their hours here) and 24/7 via phone (561) 297-3999 and submit a ticket.

FAU Housing

Phone: (561) 297-2880

The Housing Office is open Monday-Friday from 8 am to 6 pm. If your student is having problems, they should contact their  Resident Assistant or Area Desks. Information regarding residence halls and staff can be found here. The Executive Director of Housing and Residential Education is Raymond Gordon. You may email him at raymondgordon@fau.edu.

If your student is having issues with laundry, pest control, cleaning issues, plumbing leaks, doors, locks, air conditioning, Cable, Internet, Furniture, they can contact the FAU Maintenance Department and submit a request.

Student Accessibility Services –  For students that have any type of disability that requires special accommodations, campus accessibility, sponsored courses, course substitutions, this is the office you will want to be familiar with. The Director of the staff is Michelle Shaw. Email mshaw@health.fau.edu  (561) 297-3880.

Here is our blog on Student Accessibility Resources.

FAU Parking and Transportation Services –  The Director is George Androuin, gandroui@unf.edu

If your vehicle gets towed from FAU’s property, then the student will want to contact the Transportation office at (561) 297-2771. Tickets can be paid any time online.  Click here for online payment information.  If students need to go to FAU’s parking services here is their address: 777 Glades Rd., Building 80 (Student Services), Boca Raton, FL 33431.

Students may appeal their citations here. If you wish to appeal the citation it must be completed and submitted online. Appeal requests must be submitted online within 14 calendar days from the date of the citation. An individual charged with an infraction must either pay the prescribed fee or appeal the citation within 14 calendar days of issuance of the citation. If payment of the fine is not received in the Parking and Transportation Services Office within fourteen (14) days, a $25.00 late fee will be imposed. Any student with an unpaid parking or other citation will not be permitted to register for classes nor receive a transcript of academic achievement, grades or a diploma until all fines and fees are paid in full.

If you are a guest at FAU, an email will be sent to the email address reflected on your original appeal with the date and time of the scheduled hearing. Parking citations issued by Parking and Transportation Services can be appealed if you feel that the citation was issued in error or that there were extenuating circumstances associated with the citation. The appeal for the citation must be submitted within fourteen (14) calendar days of the issue date of the citation. Appeals for citations are submitted online through your Parking and Transportation account. Tow fees and Boot fees are not eligible for appeal. To pay or appeal a citation, click here. If your first appeal is denied then you have the opportunity to file a second appeal. The second appeal is filed the same way you filed for your first appeal. By filing a second appeal you will have the chance to meet with the appeals board on an appointed date to have your appeal reviewed again. Second appeals are scheduled in advance and you will be notified via email of your scheduled hearing time and location. Your attendance at the Second Appeal Hearing is encouraged by not required. Please note that the decision of the Board is final; no further appeals are permitted.

Department of Human Resources

Perhaps you have a student that works at FAU. The Department of Human Resources is the first point of contact for questions regarding employment, benefits, compensation, payroll, employee/labor relations, and classification. The office may be reached at (561) 297-3057. The office is located at building 4 (directly across from Chick-Fil-A) first floor
777 Glades Rd., P.O. Box 3091, Boca Raton, FL 33431-0991

Assistant VP of Human Resources is David Tomanio – tomaniod@fau.edu (561) 297-3076

Senior Associate Director for Human Resources – Marie Mascaro mmascaro@fau.edu (561) 297-3074

Asst. Director for Human Resources (Classification & Compensation, Benefits & Retirement is Michael Davis  mdavi145@fau.edu (561) 297-3026

Other HR staff can be found here.

Because dealing with stress can sometimes require a little extra help:

FAU  Counseling and Psychological Services– FAU is on top of it, offering various programs, workshops, training, and suggestions; most of which are free to our Owls. Attached is our blog on stress at college at FAU.  At the FAU Counseling Center, your student has access to free wellness programs addressing stress management, relaxation strategies, sleep habits, study skills, eating habits and exercise.  They also have an online community to help discover ways to move well, eat well and be well. The Counseling Center is located at the Student Services Building

SS-8 Room 222, (Second Floor above the Breezeway Food Court). The Interim Director is Dr. Courtney Weaver. (561) 297-1048, cweave15@halth.fau.edu

For emergencies regarding your student, all 911. Urgent services are available 24/7 to students who need immediate attention. If a student is having an urgent mental health need, they are welcome to walk into the Counseling Center Monday – Thursday from 8-6, Fridays 8-5 If the urgent need is happening after-hours or during weekends, support is available via phone at 561-297-0500

Other resources for helping a friend include:

Victim Services 561-297-0500 (24 Hours)

Equal Opportunity Programs 561-297-3004

Dean of Students 561-297-3542

FAU Police Department 561-297-3500

Counseling and Psychological Services 561-297-3540

Owls Care Health Promotion 561-297-1048

Sexual Health Education 561-297-1048

Health Services 561-297-3512

Student Night Owls Escort Service 561-297-6695

Student Accessibility Services 561-297-3880

Military and Veteran Affairs 561-297-3547

Victim Services

If students or someone they care about that has been a victim of a crime, confidential support is available and they can talk with someone about their options. There are several options if students are a victim of crime beginning with the FAU Police Department’s Victim Advocate. The Victim Advocate is available Monday through Friday between 8:00 am and 5:00 pm, is on-call for emergencies 365 days a year and responds as needed on evenings, nights and weekends. All services are free of charge and available 24 hours a day. 561-297-3500

The Victim Advocacy Center is currently located in the library on the Boca Raton Campus. (S.E> Wimberly Library, Room 156), 561-297-4841. Dr. Larry Faerman Associate Vice President & Dean of Students lfaerman@fau.edu, Associate Vice President & Dean of Students Affairs Office Student Services Building (SS #8), Room 226 777 Glades Road Boca Raton, FL 33431-0991 Phone: 561-297-3542

For anonymous or online incident reporting, click here.

Student Accessibility Services– Students must register for support services using their FAU NetID to complete the online application. Call for living/learning accommodations, extra time on exams, etc. The Director of the staff is Michelle Shaw. mshaw@health.fau.edu (561) 29-3880. SU 133 777 Glades Road Boca Raton, FL 33431

Safety Escort: The NightOwls Program is a student ran evening escort service. FAU students who need a ride to or from class, the library, residence halls, parking lots, or any other location on the Boca Raton Campus can call the NightOwls for a free ride. Call (561) 297-6695 for a ride. FAU Police officers are full-service, certified, sworn state law enforcement officers. They patrol the campus in a number of ways (car, bicycle, on foot, etc.) 365 days a year 24 hours a day.

FAU Dining Services: From meal plans to on-campus restaurants, students have many options. The Resident District Manager is Chris Valdes, Phone: 561-297-2562 Email: chris.valdes@compass-usa.com, Director of Operations is Ridwan Himawan, 561-297-3296 fau.rhimawan@fau.edu, the Sr. Director of Resident Dining is Carlos Dias, fau_cdias@fau.edu, 561-350-7728

Sorority and Fraternity Affairs – Both Panhellenic (PC), Interfraternity Council (IFC) and Multicultural Greek Council (MGC) fall under the Division of Student Affairs. Sorority and Fraternity Affairs is the office of professional staff that provides guidance, education, and support to the Florida Greek community. To contact SFA, call (561) 297-4924 or email fslife@fau.edu. They are located at FAU Student Union – (UN Room 204), 777 Glades Road, Boca Raton.

For basic questions, we have listed the emails below. Should you need to speak with someone in administration, you can contact the following:

Rafael Zapata, Director, Sorority & Fraternity Affairs, zapatar@fau.edu

Elaine Jahnsen, Associate Director, ejahnse1@fau.edu, 561-297-3269

Panhellenic:  For our sorority rushing blog, click here.

Questions regarding the Panhellenic Council at large: Kristine Coleman, President, panhelfaupresident@gmail.com

Questions regarding recruitment: Carmella Keim, VP of Recruitment, panhelfaupr@gmail.com

Questions regarding Panhellenic activities:

Questions regarding the Judicial Board and/or conduct:

Interfraternity Council:  For our fraternity rushing blog,  click here.

Questions regarding the Interfraternity Council: Camilo Restrepo, President, fauifcpresident@gmail.com

Questions regarding recruitment: Steven Herndon, VP of Recruitment, ifc.vpr.fau@gmail.com

Multicultural Greek Council – The Multicultural Greek Council (MGC) is the governing body for the culturally-based fraternity and sorority chapters at FAU.  The MGC currently consists of three organizations, one fraternity, and two sororities, that are culturally-based and diverse in nature. The primary purpose of the MGC is to unite its member organizations in order to share ideas and provide a support network for students. Members of the MGC experience Greek life in a unique way, as our chapters relatively small (10-25 undergraduate members) in size, which fosters strong, lifelong bonds between members and alumni.

FAU Individual Colleges – It is always good for your student to follow the chain of command if they are having an issue within their college. But, should following that chain not work, here is the contact information for each individual college.

Dorothy F. Schmidt College of Arts and Letters

Dean: Michael J. Horswell, Ph.D. (561) 297-3863, horswell@fau.edu
Florida Atlantic University
777 Glades Road
Boca Raton, FL 33431

College of Business

Dean: Dean M. Gropper, Ph.D. (561) 561-297-3635 dgropper@fau.edu
Florida Atlantic University
777 Glades Road
Boca Raton, FL 33431

College for Design and Social Inquiry

Interim Dean:  Naelys Luna, MSW, Ph.D. (561-297-4169) ndiaz10@fau.edu
Florida Atlantic University
777 Glades Road
Boca Raton, FL 33431

College of Education

Dean: Dr. Valerie J. Bristor, (561) 297-3357 bristor@fau.edu
Florida Atlantic University
777 Glades Road
Boca Raton, FL 33431

College of Engineering and Computer Science

Dean: Stella Batalama, Ph.D. sbatalama@fau.edu, 561-297-3400
Florida Atlantic University
777 Glades Road EE 308
Boca Raton, FL 33431-0991

Harriet L. Wilkes Honors College

Interim Dean: Dr. Tim Steigenga, tsteigen@fau.edu, 561-799-8610
Wilkes Honors College
Florida Atlantic University
5353 Parkside Drive
Jupiter, FL 33458

Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine

Dean: Phillip M. Boiselle, M.D., pboiselle@health.fau.edu, 561-297-4828
Florida Atlantic University
777 Glades Road
Boca Raton, FL 33431

Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing

Dean and Professor: Safiya George, Ph.D., APRN-BC,  FAANP, sgeorge@health.fau.edu, 561-297-3206
Florida Atlantic University
777 Glades Road
Boca Raton, FL 33431

Charles E. Schmidt College of Science

Dean: Ata Sarajedini, asarajedini@fau.edu, 561-297-3035
Florida Atlantic University
Science Building (SE-43), Room 256
777 Glades Road
Boca Raton, FL 33431

Finally, to read the 2019-20 Student Handbook and Planner, click here.

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Have you ever heard someone on campus yelling about controversial issues or spewing out their religious beliefs and urging that you should follow? Although many people believe that this should not be allowed on campus, it is important that people are allowed to express their freedom of speech. Lively debate is very much promoted on the FAU campus and we must learn to respect each other’s right to have different opinions.

Any offensive language or personal attacks, however, is not allowed on the FAU campus. Some students and parents have had issues in particular with certain protestors on the FAU campus. I personally have witnessed this firsthand.

FAU, like all Florida public universities, applies something called the Campus Free Expression Act. This act is a law for public universities and colleges in Florida that allows these universities to allow visitors to freely speak in outside areas around campus. FAU has been a campus that has always promoted free speech by every person: an employee, a student, invited and uninvited speakers. As long as these visitors do not materially disrupt any scheduled or reserved activities on campus. This means they are not allowed to ruin another person’s expressive rights. The fact that this act prohibits visitors from materially disrupting other activities adds a bit of protection for FAU’s students and faculty.

Unfortunately, the worst part of this act is that people can engage in what some students and their parents deem to be hate speech on campus. Hate speech is seen as “speech expressing generalized hatred of a particular group on the basis of attributes such as race, religion, ethnic origin, sexual orientation, sexual expression, sex, age, or disability.” As long as these protesters are not harming students, they are allowed to express their opinion no matter how disturbing it may be. My advice is to just walk by it and do not speak to the protestors if you don’t want to engage in what they are preaching about.

An example of what someone might consider “hate speech” is the anti-LGBT and anti-feminist preachers. Every now and then you might see them preaching about their religious and social views. Sometimes, students become aggressive towards these people. In one incident, a student threw a stone at a preacher while another was run over by a golf cart. Just this year, the Boca Raton House of Representatives passed a resolution with a vote of 25-5 to have FAU’s administration notify students of abortion protesters’ presence on campus. The resolution will help students be aware of the demonstration on campus via email or a similar system. This will still need to be approved by the administration.

College has traditionally been an institution that exposes its students to different viewpoints. The belief is that this exposure teaches students to understand, evaluate and repudiate bad and sometimes hateful ideas. So, is free speech controversial? We are here to get an education and although some of the protestors and speakers are a nuisance to some people on campus, remember that they have a right to voice their opinion. So, next time you see a protestor preaching about something you do not agree with, just walk away!

Madeline Gilligan, FAU Intern

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It’s that season again – and I don’t mean hurricanes. Flu season is generally from October through May; peaking in December. Given that the flu is easily spread by coughing, sneezing, and close contact, and what gets closer than dorm life and classrooms, your student may want to consider getting vaccinated. FAU makes it incredibly easy and it is free too.

FAU Student Health Services in Boca Raton keep changing, check for the current hours. Students can walk in for a flu shot or make an appointment by contacting the center at 561-297-3512 or FAU’s Student Health Services Student. Bring a valid student ID.

Another option to get a flu shot is at:

• CVS Minute Clinic – if you go on the CVS Minute Clinic website you can find the one closest to you as well as the wait time so you don’t have to sit around for too long. The vaccine can cost between $50 and $70, but chances are insurance will cover it.  Check first.
• Walgreens – there are quite a few near campuses. Walgreens website will help find the one closest and many are open 24 hours. There is no cost with most insurance. Appointments are not needed, but we recommend calling beforehand to find out what the wait time is.
• Publix Pharmacy – There are at least 2 that are not far from campus. Students will get a $10 gift card when they get their flu shot at any Publix Pharmacy.
• Walmart – Students can visit their local Walmart for flu shots. No out-of-pocket cost for flu shots with most insurance plans.

Wherever students go for a flu vaccine they should stay around about 15 minutes afterward to be sure they do not have any adverse reactions.

I generally am not one to rush right out and get the flu shot, but then again, I wash my hands constantly, don’t stay up way too late most nights, and don’t sit side-by-side in a classroom each day.  I have suggested to my kids over the years that they consider getting vaccinated, but generally, as most college students do, they choose not to. Some, like two of my three kids, just hate shots. Good news; some pharmacies carry FluMist, a nasal spray that works like a vaccine. In the end, they are college students, so there is not much we can say beyond that, but I assure you, if they got the flu, we are their first call.

Of course, there was the year that my daughter called crying because she felt like crap. She felt so sick, I even asked her if she needed me to drive up there, something out of character for me to do. There is little worse than being hours away from your students and not being able to take care of them. Here is our blog on being Sick at School.

Typical symptoms students can watch for at the onset of the flu as early detection can be beneficial are:

• Sudden onset of high fever
• Headache, muscle aches, and joint pain
• Dry cough
• Chills
• Sore throat
• Nasal congestion and runny nose
• Fatigue – which may last for a few weeks after the flu

If students do get the flu they should know that they can get a doctor’s note so they don’t feel compelled to drag themselves out of bed and trudge to classes. Professors not only appreciate the heads up but also are grateful that students don’t come and share their germs. The flu is highly contagious. Every school has different policies on this, but generally, students are covered with that doctor’s note.

As parents, we can hope they never get sick, but if they do, the next best thing might be to send a care package to help them feel better. Check out our blog on Care Packages.

Wishing all our Owls a healthy semester.

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College can be challenging for all students, therefore finding ways to make connections with others who identify similarly can make a big difference. The American College Health Association estimate that at least 10% of college students identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual, trans, asexual, pansexual, or questioning. Although LGBTQ PRIDE is becoming more prevalent, the LGBTQ community often face additional pressures or concerns. FAU and its surrounding community offer resources and information to both help LGBTQ students navigate the college environment and make connections in a group setting.

Students may want to start by visiting the FAU LGBT+ Resource Center. There they will find resources and a supportive campus environment. Students may also want to get involved in Peer Mentoring. Mentors aim to support mentees through many facets of LGBTQ identity development through frank, informal, one-on-one conversations, wherein support and information are provided.

Lambda United, LGBTQIA Student Organization at 777 Glades Road, serves the needs of the LGBTQIA+ community at FAU. For more information, follow them on Instagram or Facebook or email ambdaoffau@gmail.com.

Refer to this page for listings and a map of gender-neutral restrooms throughout campus. If you are looking for a safe space to explore and talk with others about the joys and challenges of the LGBTQ community, you may want to join the LGBTQ Support Group every Wednesday at 3 pm.

Off-campus groups and organizations near FAU:

• Compass, Inc. (Lake Worth) – ay & Lesbian Community Center of the Palm Beaches
• The Pride Center at Equality Park (Ft. Lauderdale)
  Gay & Lesbian Community Center of South Florida
  Palm Beach Human Rights Council
• PFLAG – Parents, Families, and Friends of Lesbians and Gays
• Equality Florida

FAU also celebrates the achievements and contributions of graduating members of their LGBTQ community with Lavender Graduation held in addition to the traditional commencement services.

HaveUHeard that on a scale of 1 – 5, FAU scores a 4.5 on the Pride Index? Students that identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning, or queer should not only feel secure that they have a safe environment where they can thrive as a student, but they should also feel confident that there is a community that will welcome them to a place they can make connections. FAU works hard to be sure that happens for all its students by promoting advocacy and education as well as creating opportunities for socialization and support.

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As colleges are doing their best to come up with ideas as to how to keep our students safe and healthy as they reopen campuses, we can only hope that our students will adhere to those rules when they leave their classrooms. Let’s face it; it is not easy to enforce social distancing among a population that has a tendency to want to gather. Isn’t one of the best parts of college, the socializing?

We realize we can’t replace a good frat party or tailgate, but there are alternatives to fun near campus and since outdoor fun appears to be the safest alternative these days, we have come up with open-air ideas. Given that we are living under such unprecedented circumstances; we always recommend double-checking on hours, etc. before heading out as activities may be modified or limit the number of persons in each party.

Parks & Beaches

• Beaches: We wouldn’t be talking about Boca Raton if we didn’t mention the beach; some of which are only 5 minutes away. Palmetto Beach and Spanish River Park are popular among students but we also really like these…
• Deerfield Beach – about 20 minutes from FAU, and take a nice walk along the beachfront pier. Fishermen can partake in fishing off the pier; fishing rods and bait are available for rent.
• Red Reef Park – Boardwalk, Ocean, Snorkeling
• South Inlet Park Beach – beach, fishing, picnic areas with grills, (no balloons allowed in the park)

For something a little different, check out:

• Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens – lush Japanese gardens
• Yamato Scrub – hiking and nature trails

Restaurants that have outdoor space for dining.

• Casa D’Angelo Ristorante
• City Fish Market
• Dubliner Irish Pub
• Duffy’s Sports Grill
• Farmer’s Table
• Gary Rack’s Farmhouse Kitchen
• Lion and Eagle English Pub
• Max’s Grill
• Rocco’s Tacos & Tequila Bar
• Tanzy
• The Rebel House
• The Tin Muffin Cafe
• Tomasso’s Pizza & Subs
• Tucci’s Fire & Coal Pizza
• Tucker Duke’s
• Yard House

Of course, if you notice that your student is experiencing any type of stress or anxiety from the new rules on campus, there are resources available. Learn more in our blog The Stress Happens to All.

Here’s to a safe and healthy school year for all. Pass on these great tips, tell your friends and like us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest. Find out more about how to use HaveUHeard as a great resource. Sign up for other great tips at haveuheard.com.

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The start of freshman year of college can be exciting and nerve-wracking all at the same time. As my time in college is nearing the end, there are definitely a few things I learned along the way that I wished I knew freshman year. Take this advice as someone who has been through it all and can look back and see a better path! Think of me as your future self, it’s not like your parents are telling you this, a fellow student. So listen up.

• Strive for straight A’s
• Join a club
• Go to as many football games as possible
• Make at least two friends in each class you are taking
• Introduce yourself to your professor and TA’s to establish a personal relationship
• Make sure to get along with your roommate, even if you have your differences
• Stay close with your parents and home friends by Facetiming and calling them when possible
• Don’t be afraid to ask for help and use the resources that the school provides you, whether it be tutoring or getting sick at school
• Turn your phone/computer off and pay attention during lectures, take notes the old fashioned way by hand
• Give yourself time to adjust, being a freshman is not easy especially being in a big new environment
• Don’t just stay in your dorm room watching Netflix! Get out there and experience all that college has to offer
• Try not to procrastinate. It may seem easy to put off studying or a homework assignment but this can cause unnecessary stress later on. Plan ahead!
• Allow yourself to make mistakes and learn from them
• College is a fun and amazing experience and it’s even better when you attend college in the paradise of Boca Raton
• Be sure to check out our Bucket List and check it off one by one

Attending FAU will be a forever event in your life, make the most of it.

Go Owls!

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It’s bound to happen.  At some point, the phone will ring and your mature, independent college student will cry “Mom, I’m sick!” Hopefully, their illness will be a result of their new-found independence that includes lack of sleep, exercise, stress, an unhealthy diet, and hygiene habits that don’t embrace enough hand-washing and can be cured quickly and easily.

I sent my daughters to school with a “things you may need that Mom thought of just in case” box. Inside was a thermometer; vitamins, the medicines that they used at home for symptoms of a cold; sinus infection; stomach ache, or other common ‘sick’ ailments. In my experience, my kids and I have had great results taking Source Naturals Wellness Formula. It has been a strong herbal defense supplement in fighting an illness that was recommended to me by a local natural health food store. Two a day for prevention but when you feel yourself coming down with something, you take 6 in the morning and 6 in the evening for two days. It has worked amazingly well for most everyone I have recommended it to.

Sometimes they need care beyond your box. Student Health Services is comprehensive providing both primary and some specialty care, including dentistry. If it is not a medical emergency or life-threatening circumstance, it is recommended that they go online to request an appointment. If it is a medical concern that needs attention that day, students can walk into the clinic anytime between 8 am and 6 pm. FAU also offers free flu shots to all students. If Student Health Services gives your student a prescription, they can fill it at the FAU Pharmacy, located in the Student Union. The Pharmacy also has a selection of over-the-counter products.

FAU has a hospital about five minutes away, Boca Raton Regional Hospital. There is also another hospital and 4 urgent care centers in the vicinity. Have your students fill out and drop off an Authorization to Release form when they begin college. It is up to them as to how much access they want to allow you. There is nothing worse than calling to find out how your sick or injured student is and being told the doctor is not authorized to talk with you.

If the health center on campus is inconvenient due to the hours or long wait times, there are alternatives. FAU recommends several off-campus walk-in clinics and emergency service locations. CVS has three Minute Clinics for minor illnesses. Have a discussion before dropping them off at college with an emergency plan. This should include having your student’s roommate or friend’s phone number, especially if they are accompanying them to the ER. I had my daughter add a phone contact titled ICE (In Case of Emergency) in the event she was unable to communicate. You can add that info whether you have an iPhone or Android. Have them enter their Medical ID information. This information allows medical personnel to access even on a locked phone and includes allergies, emergency contact information, and other crucial information.

Also, we recommend having your student get a flu shot. This past year, my daughter got really sick twice; once with the bad flu and once for a bad virus. It was difficult to get an appointment during flu season (it seems that most students and teachers all got hit with the flu). I would recommend your student getting the flu shot this year. Here are locations to get a flu shot.

Consider asking your family doctor for a recommendation of a general practitioner doctor in Boca. Yes, your fees pay for the student health center but her now having a Boca doctor will make getting an appointment a little easier. They are going to be at college for four years so establishing a relationship early may be worth it when the time comes that your student needs to be seen (although all bets are off when the flu season hits its peak). Be sure your student has a copy of their insurance card.

If you want to send something to make your student feel better, there are many options from chicken soup your student can pick up or have delivered. Check out our Care Package blog for local and national recommendations.

Remind your students to notify their professor if they will be legitimately missing class and unable to complete coursework. Including a doctor’s note is encouraged. FAU students who are seen by a doctor at the Student Health Services and who will not be able to attend class or take an exam, will not be able to get an excuse note. If a doctor’s note is required to have an absence excused, your student will have to go to an outside clinic. And finally, please make sure your student has filled out the legal forms should an emergency arise and you need to know what is going on.

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Unprecedented doesn’t even begin to describe what the past few months have been like during this COVID pandemic. We may have had to change our daily way of life these past few months, but one thing we know for certain, classes are in session! Classes may look a little different this year however the fall semester will begin before we know it and it is important that we stay up to date on the latest plans and procedures at FAU.

At present, FAU will remain online throughout the rest of the summer while administrators are communicating with government officials about necessary safety measures and health protocols for the return to campus. Updates change, well, frankly, like the wind, but here are some important parts. On-campus COVID-19 testing is available and encouraged. Students can sign up for COVID testing and their results online. For those students that test positive or have been in contact with an individual who tests positive, students will be provided housing for a 14-day quarantine. Off-campus students will isolate themselves in their apartments/houses. The following numbers may be useful:

• General COVID questions can be sent to FAUCOVID19@fau.edu.
• Department of Health COVID Call Center: 866-404-6300, available 8 am to 5 pm
• Florida Department of Health COVID-19 Call Center: 866-779-6121
• Additional community resources.

Let’s talk facemasks…. just wear it. FAU is requiring all students, faculty, staff, and visitors to wear face masks while on campus. This is required at all FAU campus locations. You can find more information on facemask requirements and proper sanitation on Page 10 of the COVID-19 Reopening plan. Some have even turned their facemasks into a fashion statement. It might feel more comfortable to wear something fashionable, so get something fun and machine washable.

There is no doubt that the fall semester will look different starting with the new safety measures FAU has put in place. Students will still be able to participate in organizations, clubs, events, and activities –most virtually and others in-person, and probably outdoors, using proper social distancing. Indoor fitness will be limited in capacity, but there will be virtual fitness options offered as well. As for football and tailgating…. well, it isn’t looking very good, but no decisions have been made yet.

Housing has reduced occupancy at 96%, implemented space and amenity restrictions, and increased cleaning and disinfecting. At the Boca Raton Campus, there will be 112 beds reserved for self- isolation, if needed. Fall courses are a mix of in-classroom, hybrid and online; select courses and labs, and experiential courses will be face-to-face; however, no face-to-face classes will take place after Thanksgiving. Any classes that do take place in classrooms will only have 25% capacity to limit the number of students, faculty, and assistants at any given time. Entry to buildings will be regulated and monitored. Academic advising and support services for students will be available both face-to-face and remotely; intercollegiate athletics, including practices and competitions, will continue and follow NCAA and ACC requirements; and services such as parking, student recreation, student health, and student activities will be available.

Fraternity and sorority life will be quite different, but it will still exist. Recruitment will still happen, with some parts done virtually and others with the option to be in person.

You may want to check out some of our other blogs to help get you through these unprecedented times.

• How to Succeed in Online and Virtual Classes
• Online Test Taking
• Should my Student Go Back to School This Fall?
• Want to Get Back the Security Deposit
• Dealing With Uncertainty
• Creating Work and Study Home Space

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Florida Atlantic University does not require students to have Health Insurance (unless they are international students); however, it does help to keep costs down during visits to Student Health Services. Deciding on which health insurance plan your student should be on may require a degree in economics. There are so many variables to consider when choosing:

• Is the monthly premium you pay for your child pre-tax or after-tax?
• Is it marketplace insurance or subsidized and again, does it meet the university’s minimum requirements?
• Does your current insurance cover your student at an out of state college?

If your student is coming to FAU from out of state, you will need to check with your current health insurance coverage to see if it covers their costs while attending school and living out of state. At Florida Atlantic University, Student Health Insurance Plans are available for students to enroll in. The FAU student insurance plans are underwritten by Aetna.

The Florida Atlantic University plan’s rates for a single student are approximately $388 per month (average) for the calendar year. There are also plans that cover students for only two semesters or just the summer semester. Your Student can enroll in quarterly or annual payment plans. If your student is already covered by your own plan, you should consider what your cost is to keep them on your plan. Suffice to say, if this is a Cafeteria Plan using pre-tax dollars, it may be more reasonable to keep them on your insurance plan.  In addition, if you are going to be studying abroad, you may want to consider your options on which plan to go with. The Deadline to submit waivers for the Fall 2020 semester is August 17, 2020. More information on pricing and coverage options with FAU’s student insurance plans.

To be eligible for this coverage, students must be considered Full-time, or enrolled in at least 12 credit hours and attend the first 31 days of courses. For more information, a Representative from Insurance for students is available to speak with on Thursdays from 1-4 pm in the Student Health Services Clinic. Students can also call (561) 297-1135.

Student Health Services accepts Aetna, Florida Blue, Cigna, and United Healthcare. Be sure to pack an insurance card for your students to hold onto while at college for on-campus visits or emergencies. Students without health insurance can also visit Student Health Services and pay out of pocket. If you are unsure of which plan makes the most sense for your family and you have a financial planner or a certified public accountant, they can run the numbers for you. For information about FAU’s Aetna Student Health Insurance options, or information in regards to coverage and costs at Student Health Services.

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Campus diversity amongst students has grown considerably over the years and most colleges acknowledge the need to honor various minority groups. Colleges also propose to create campuses that maintain an inclusive atmosphere; allowing all its students to gain exposure, perceptions, global awareness, and a willingness to collaborate peacefully and freely. College campuses strive to support their black organizations and students.

Students are supported through varying resources at each school. While there are quite a few national associations, often colleges have localized branches that provide a more personalized experience. While each groups’ overall goal may differ somewhat, the overall goal of all the on-campus organizations is to encourage a welcoming space for black students to make connections. Some organizations for students of color are sponsored by professional societies, while others focus on diversity, mentoring, networking, college achievement, and other types of support.

There are many multicultural groups available for both undergraduate and graduate students at Florida Atlantic University. They range from academic groups to cultural and social groups to spiritual groups and more. I encourage you to explore all the options to see what is available to you. Among the organizations, clubs, and groups on campus; students may also be interested in joining one of the sororities or fraternities that are part of the nine African American National Pan-Hellenic Council. These social organizations provide students with the opportunity to network, volunteer in local communities, receive leadership training, access member-exclusive career boards, and participate in professional training. Not all of the national Greek organizations have chapters at Florida Atlantic University, but many do. Their missions and membership requirements vary, but what they stand for is clearly stated and you’ll be sure to find something of interest to you. That does not preclude joining any of the Greek organizations on campus.

One thing is for sure, and that’s that it is easy to get involved. The University encourages Black Student Involvement to support and create community. They advocate for the educational, social, and cultural needs of students. Whether serving as a forum for communication amongst diverse students and faculty, to help minority students build strong social networks, serve as an official voice for the black community, searching for scholarships, or simply in pursuit of a welcoming space amongst other students of color; your college undoubtedly has a place where you will find your connections. Florida Atlantic University is proud to be one of the most ethnically diverse universities in the state of Florida.

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