Some of the most common and often asked questions from new parents are “How much money should I give my student?” “Should I give them money weekly or monthly?” “How do I teach them to budget?” “Should my student get a job?” These questions are very personal to each family and their financial circumstances. However, all students should be taught or given some guidelines on how to budget their money. Once given their budget the key is having them stick to it.  Having three kids budgeting is very different for each one.

With my first college student, there was no real budget. I thought we would give him money as needed, however that soon turned in to a free for all because he never had enough. Let’s just say his first-semester cost a ridiculous amount of money and I quickly learned that Chick-Fil-A, Starbucks, and Einstein’s were needed every day. After his first semester, we sat down and discussed exactly how much money he would need from his summer job and we made a spreadsheet of his expenses for the following year. I believe that since he knew he was predominantly on his own, he learned very quickly just how valuable a dollar was. This isn’t to say that we still didn’t give him a specific allotted reasonable amount of money; we learned just as much as he did his first year about budgeting. My son has since graduated, has a job, and successfully budgets, and saves his money.

Student son number two was a finance major and was only given money for rent for his apartment by his dad. He had a job at school, worked over summer break, and received financial aid. This system worked fairly well in the fact that my son was careful with his money and truly lived like a college student. Because of his budgeting and money-saving skills, he has gone on several trips that he has paid for 100% by himself!

So, now I come to my third student – my girl. Let’s just say it is not easy teaching her to budget when she had to realize that so many “extras” like manicures, new makeup, frozen yogurt, that really cute new pair of shoes at the DSW right near UNF’s campus, cannot be part of her weekly budget. Granted once and awhile is ok, but not every night! So, now I have my chance to make a difference for my last college student. She gets her weekly money on Fridays and, although some Thursday nights she checks her bank balance and it is pretty close to zero, she is figuring it out. She does occasionally call and ask me for a few extra dollars but the money is never for something that she doesn’t truly need.

I felt very strongly about my children working while he was at school. Their freshman year should be spent getting acclimated to courses, being away from home, and being on their own. So all three of my kids got a part-time job on campus during their second year of school. Another great lesson in budgeting is to consider having your students get their own credit cards. It is a great way for them to start learning how to budget themselves while building their credit for when they are out on their own. View some of our credit card recommendations.

Going back to the questions in the first paragraph, how much money should your child get? While this is your choice, I recommend anywhere from $50-$100 per week. Should you give it to them weekly or monthly? Recommend weekly to start and see how it goes. Should they get a job? That really depends on the course load and if they can manage both. Should I teach them to budget? Absolutely!

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.

The post Budget 101, Money Talks appeared first on HaveUHeard.com.

Leaving for college comes with so many new things, but handling their own money can be one of the scariest. We have all kinds of suggestions regarding Working While in College, Teaching Them to Budget; even the Best Credit Cards for College Students, but this blog is all about banking. Before your child leaves for college, a conversation that every parent needs to have is on Budgeting their money.  How will they spend it, on what and how will they get their money?

These days a lot of students use Venmo, Zelle, or other money transfer apps. However, if they use any of these apps or if they just need to have a local bank account, the following information will be useful while looking for the best Bank for your family. It is not necessary to open a bank account that is on campus. If your child receives financial aid, any bank can be linked with their UNF myWings account. However, the Community First Credit Union will be on campus during orientation and the beginning of school with certain promotions enticing parents to open an account with their office.

Banks On campus:

• Bank of America – ATM only
• Wells Fargo – ATM only

Banks Near Campus

• BB&T
• Chase Bank
• Deutsche Bank
• Fidelity Bank
• SunTrust
• Wells Fargo

Credit Unions

• Community First Credit Union – This is the only credit union that is actually on campus.
• Navy Federal Credit Union

In general, our interns are big fans of Venmo. They don’t recommend getting the Venmo card but find it convenient for just about everything. Roommates send each other their portion of the rent or electric bill, or their share of last night’s Uber, right through the app. Some parents prefer this method of sending money. There are no fees if you link it to your bank account instead of a credit card.

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.

The post Banks and Credit Unions UNF appeared first on HaveUHeard.com.

Ugh, nothing is more annoying than when your cell phone stops working or when your computer suddenly shuts down. For students, this minor catastrophe turns into a major problem. I do however highly recommend a backup system. I presently use Mozy for myself and my students’ computers. It simply backs up their computer daily (or however they deem necessary) so if they ever run into a jam, they don’t have to panic that all their work has been lost. As for the phone, encourage them to plug it into their computer (or some use iCloud) once in a while to be sure all their contacts and photos are backed-up.

I also highly recommend a good phone case. They can find some fun cases on Casetify so perhaps they won’t complain as much about having a case on their phone.  Casetify even offers a 15% student discount with a verified student status registration or link through for other special offers.

Luckily there are repair places on and near UNF including an Apple store.

• UNF ITS Help Desk – The ITS Help Desk is located on the 1st floor of the Thomas G. Carpenter Library and provides a number of services for UNF students. While they do not repair hardware, the Help Desk will help fix all other aspects of your students’ computer, laptop, tablet, or phone. They will install software, and in most cases teach them how to use various programs.
• Apple St.John’sTown Center  – St. John’s Town Center, the Apple store is open Monday – Saturday from 10-9 and Sunday from 11-6. The Apple store only repairs Apple products and with most Apple stores, having an appointment is best.
• CPR – Cell Phone Repair – With two locations, CPR is a local shop for smartphones & other small electronics, plus refurbished phones for sale & trade. They repair iPhones, smartphones, iPads, tablets, Mac’s, and laptops.  Two locations – 3267 Hodges Blvd Suite 5, Jacksonville, and – 7035 Philips Hwy #9, Jacksonville. Both locations are about the same distance from UNF. They recommend scheduling an appointment.
• Geek Squad – Geek Squad in Jacksonville is located in Best Buy.  The closest Best Buy is 4906 Town Center Pkwy which is in St. John’s Town Center shops.  Geek Squad repairs any electronic devices including phones, screens, laptops, and more. Your student can bring in their device without an appointment and most times will have to return at a later time or day to pick it up.
• Lifeline Repair – LifeLine Repairs, located at 4131 Southside Blvd, Unit 103 Jacksonville, is a full-service repair shop for phones, electronics, and computers. You can schedule an appointment, mail in your device, or just walk right. Repairs are typically done the same day.
• The iPhone 911 – Locally owned and operated, The iPhone 911 store fixes all Apple products. Repairs come with a 90-day warranty. The iPhone 911 also sells Apple products. Located very close to campus at 11757 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville.
• uBreakiFix – Conveniently located off of Southside at 9823 Tapestry Park Circle, Unit 3, uBreak can assist with any electronic repairs.  From smartphones and tablets to laptops and gaming consoles, most repairs are completed the same day. They offer a price match guarantee and a 90 days nationwide warranty.

None of the locations above listed anything about a student discount, but it can never hurt to ask.

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.

The post Cell Phone and Computer Repair appeared first on HaveUHeard.com.

Everyone has their favorite place, here are the places we love to frequent, which one is your favorite restaurant?

Restaurants Within 2 Miles of UNF Campus

Angie’s Subs – Highly recommended by myself, my daughter (who frequents at least once a week) and many of the UNF students, this sub place is anything but ordinary.  More on the casual side, you order at the counter and have your sub brought to your table.  Serving everything from tuna sub to vegetarian, they also have a cheeseburger sub.  Sounds like this is a definite must stop! Open from 10:00 am-9:00 pm every day and Sunday from 11:00 am-4:00 pm.

Bahama Breeze Island Grill – Caribbean-inspired food with a vibrant island atmosphere.  Music plays a major part in our restaurant’s fun island-vibe. Conveniently located 5 minutes from the UNF campus near E Beltway 295 and St Johns Town Center Mall.  Hours are 11:00 am-11:00 pm Monday – Thursday and open until midnight Friday and Saturday.

California Pizza Kitchen – Specializing in pizzas and salad, CPK has something for everyone.  From soups, salads, flatbread, and pizzas this is the perfect place to bring the whole family.  Open daily from 11:00 am-10:00 pm (Sunday’s closing at 8) CPK offers lunch and dinner.

J.Alexander’s – Restaurant chain serving wood-fired American fare in a contemporary space with a bar.  The menu features a wide selection of American classics including prime rib of beef, steaks, fresh seafood, sandwiches and entrée salads.  The restaurant has a full-service bare. Hours are 11:00 am-10:00 pm closing at 11:00 pm on Friday and Saturday and 9:00 pm on Sunday.

Maggiano’s Italian Restaurant – Semi-upscale chain for classic Italian fare served family-style in a relaxed, polished space.  Maggiano’s is the perfect place to take a large group of your student’s friends or family. With fair prices and good food, Maggiano’s is always a good choice.

Prati Italia (Moxie’s Kitchen and Cocktails) – Industrial-chic scene with a glam vibe plating carefully-sourced American fare & stylish drinks.  Moxie’s has something for everyone with a very eclectic menu. This locally owned and locally grown restaurant just opened its second location a year ago.  Open every day from 11:00-10:00, weekend hours are extended. Reservations are not required but suggested.

Seasons 52 – Calorie-conscious diners will have a field day at Seasons 52.  Delicious meals cooked with fresh ingredients and delivered to your table in a casually sophisticated atmosphere.  When looking for variety and something different Seasons 52 will put a check in all of your boxes. Open for lunch and dinner and brunch on Sundays.  The hours are Sunday 10:00 am-9:00 pm, Monday-Thursday 11:00 am-10:00 pm and Friday and Saturday 11:00 am-11:00 pm.

The Capital Grille – Although this may be on the expensive side, the food at The Capital Grille is well worth it.  The upscale restaurant offers the finest of everything from delicious appetizers to soups and salads for lunch and the dinner menu incorporates steak, lamb, chicken, and fish.  And don’t forget the incredible side dishes! Hours vary at the Jacksonville location and a reservation is highly recommended.

The House of Leaf and Bean – This organic restaurant is a little bit further away from UNF but it is well worth the drive. The menu is a healthy mix of Asian and Western foods.  They offer vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free and low carb options while serving meat as well. They have smoothies, coffee, and even alcoholic beverages. Closed on Mondays they offer lunch and dinner options.

Topgolf – We know what you are thinking..a good restaurant in an interactive golfing top spot? YES, this restaurant is delicious!  Granted you can order food while you golf, however, if you want to take some time while you wait for your golfing range then consider Topgolf restaurant.  The menu has pages and pages of different choices. Brunch is also offered weekdays until noon and weekends until 2:00 pm. The restaurant is open 9:00 am-12:00 am every day with Friday and Saturday closing at 2:00 am.

Downtown Restaurants

Burrito Gallery – With 3 locations there will never be a shortage of burritos! From burritos to salads, tacos and “dillas” there is something for everyone on this menu.  One location is downtown, one location is at Jax beach and one location is called Burrito Gallery Brooklyn. All 3 menus are very similar. Hours vary with each location.

Bellwether – Dine In or take out, Bellwether is great for lunch, dinner or happy hour.  Bellwether has a very eclectic southern-inspired menu with some Korean flare as well.  The menu is quite varied so make sure you review it before headed out. Bellwether is open for lunch and dinner and closed on Sundays.  Reservations are only available for parties of 6 or more.

Casa Dora – Very casual Italian eatery.  Specializing in pizza Casa Dora serves pasta, main dishes, and subs.  Perfect spot if you want to bring in dinner!

Chart House – If you want a truly incredible dining experience with an amazing view of the St Johns river than Chart House is for you.  Chart House has a vast menu with a large assortment of items to choose from. From shrimp cocktail to oysters, seafood and a limited amount of “land” items to choose from the Chart House is not to be missed.  Open from 4:30 pm-9:30 pm daily (10 on Friday and Saturday.)

Murray Hill Restaurants

13 Gypsies – With a heritage rooted in Spain, 13 Gypsies strives and succeeds in bringing a taste of True Mediterranean flavors.  Homemade bread, spices, sausage, cheese, and pickled vegetables 13 Gypsies is a treat for any palette. Closed on the weekends 13 Gypsies is open 11:00 am-2:00 pm and 5:00 pm-10:00 pm reservations are highly recommended.

Biscottis – This lively bistro serves small plates, sandwiches, salads & brunch in a historic, brick-lined space. Biscottis has a wide and interesting menu along with an enticing brunch menu.  Hours vary daily.

Black Sheep– Casual eatery serving lunch and dinner.  Bar food at its finest, you can’t go wrong at this Jax favorite.  Closed on Mondays hours vary daily and open for brunch on Saturday and Sunday.

Bread & Board – Think of the Bread & Boar as equal parts fun-loving sandwich shop and fine dining kitchen. The Bread & Board is an independently owned, fast-casual restaurant.  The Bread and Board serve classic deli sandwiches and use premium, house-made ingredients to make your meal an experience you won’t forget. Reservations are not accepted. Open daily from 11:00am-10:00pm.

Carmine’s Pie House – Chicago deep-dish & NYC-style pies are on offer at this vibrant local pizza pub with pasta & subs.  Open for lunch and dinner every day from 11:00 am – 10:30 pm.

Casbah Café – Festive spot with a lively bar, Middle Eastern fare, hookahs & belly dancing. From lamb kabobs to falafel this is a must go to when in the area.  Open from 11:00am – 2:00am daily.

European Street Café – With 3 locations, check out this casual German-inspired restaurant with a patio offering a huge selection of beer, pub grub & sweets. Open every day from 10:00am-9:00pm.

Hovan Mediterranean Gourmet – Mediterranean fare such as falafel, kebabs & lavash wraps at a bright counter serve with a patio. Closed on Sundays and open every other day from 10:00 am-9:30 pm.

Mossfire Grill – Spice, Fresh Fun!  Mossfire is not your typical “everything made from scratch” restaurant.  Rustic mainstay featuring Tex-Mex comfort food downstairs & a tequila bar upstairs. Closed on Mondays open every day from 11:00 am-10:00 pm.

Orsay – A bit on the pricier side, this might just be the perfect place for graduation dinner.  Seasonal French food & creative cocktails meet in this dining room with plush seats & exposed beams. Hours vary and reservations are requested.

Sake House – 3 locations in the Jacksonville area this Japanese eatery offers sushi & hibachi fare in a laid-back atmosphere with reasonable prices.  Hours vary by location.

San Marco Restaurants

Green Erth Bistro – No we didn’t make a mistake in the spelling of this health-focused café. Enjoy  Middle Eastern kebabs, wraps & spreads, plus vegan options, in this warm inviting location.  Open from 11:00am-2:30pm and 5:30pm-9:00pm and closed on Sundays.

Matthew’s Restaurant – Matthew’s is set in the heart of San Marco and hosts a variety of fine dining options with a vast wine list.  Open only for dinner from 5:00 pm-10:00 pm Monday – Saturday. Reservations are recommended.

Taverna San Marco – Trendy wine bar serving brick-oven pizzas & seasonal Italian & Spanish food.  Warm and cozy décor makes this a must go to. Walk-ins are welcome but reservations are recommended. Open daily from 11:00 am-10:00 pm.

Town Hall – This new American style restaurant is the talk of the town.  With an artisan-inspired menu, this farm-fresh place is not to be missed.  Open for dinner nightly and brunch on Sundays.

The Wine Cellar – Since 1974 The Wine Cellar has been a favorite amongst Jax locals.  Experience the old-world charm of a French countryside as you dine beneath the shade of a majestic oak tree in their brick-paved garden. From scallops to chicken and pretty much in between you will soon see why this is so popular.  Open from 10:30am-10:00pm, reservations are requested.

V Pizza – With 3 locations in Jacksonville, this wood oven cooks up pizza in no time.  Serving wings, salad and a small assortment of other menu items. V Pizza’s locations are basically open every day from 11:00 am-10:00 pm.  Please check your desired location to check the closing time as hours vary slightly.

Jacksonville Beach – A little further from campus, but worth the drive.

Beach Road Chicken Dinner – Some down-home fried chicken dinners, hearty sides, and Southern cooking since 1939.  Don’t waste your time looking for a website because you won’t find one. Located almost directly on St. John’s River.  Open daily at 11:30 am, closed on Monday.

Eleven South – Destination for elegant dining delivers sophisticated New American fare & an extensive wine list. Another good restaurant perfect for graduation.  Eleven South’s food philosophy is simple – a taste for every palate and a palette for every season. Don’t miss this special dining spot. Reservations recommended.  Open Tuesday – Friday 11:00 am-11:00 pm and Saturday – Monday 5:00 pm-11:00 pm

MOJO Kitchen BBQ – This casual branch of a local barbecue chain serves up smoked meats & showcases blues musicians.  Deep dish bowls filled with baked beans, coleslaw, and ribs, don’t miss this flavorful location.

TacoLu Baja Mexicana – A favorite with the locals and UNF students.  This Mexican restaurant offers a wide variety of Mexicana food including delicious queso and incredible tacos.  If you really want to experience heaven try their Carne Royale taco with a tasty Margarita! Closed on Mondays, you can expect a wait any night of the week.

The Blind Rabbit – Hip bar & eatery serving gourmet burgers, upscale comfort food & whiskey in a sleek setting.  The menu is filled with so many different types of burgers from a Whiskey Burger to a Mushroom Bacon Cheese Melt.  Open 11:30am-2:00am daily.

Atlantic/Neptune Beach – Just a bit north and east of campus – a cute little beachside town with great restaurants! Oh and make sure you make a stop at Whit’s for dessert..!

Coop 303  – Really cool vibe in this contemporary restaurant. Open for brunch, lunch, and dinner.  Reservations are recommended especially during season and football season.

North Beach Fish Camp – Lively, “beachy” vibe, amazing food!  All words to describe North Beach Fish Camp.  This past parent’s weekend we made a stop at NBFC and we weren’t disappointed.  Grilled octopus, shrimp and grits and pasta with seafood – all so delicious!

The Local – You cannot miss this place when you drive up to the beach!  The sign is completely lit up! From brunch, lunch, and dinner – from starters to dessert The Local shouldn’t be missed.

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.

The post Dinner, It’s Time Check out these Restaurants appeared first on HaveUHeard.com.

Congratulations if your daughter has joined a sorority!  Joining a sorority was one of the best decisions I made while being in college.  I made amazing friends and connections. I am still friends with many sorority sisters; in fact, the owners of the website of these blogs are two of my sorority sisters. At UNF, every sorority is a little different as it relates to academic requirements, philanthropic requirements, and social requirements. Your daughter will be expected to attend chapter meetings and participate in their sorority’s events. They are paired up with fraternities for socials which may be mandatory. Some sororities require you to dress up for chapter meetings; others do not care if you come straight from the gym. Obviously, with social distancing being in place many of these events may be via zoom.

Be prepared for an entire wardrobe change as they can often be seen wearing frat tanks (some girls sell their collection for as little as $5 a shirt), sorority shirts, sweatshirts, jewelry and more, proudly wearing their sorority’s letters or name ( Some new members are not allowed to wear the letters until after initiation). And get ready for some major arts & crafting as your daughter prepares to get her little sister for the first time. Between Big/Little, Orientation, and Bid Day, they have accumulated jewelry, water bottles, stationery, wall signs and so much more. And while I know eventually after they graduate college and move into an apartment their decorating tastes switch, seeing them enjoying this bond with so many young women and the impact the sorority makes during their college years is well worth having all of the sorority items they collect.

Being in a sorority is not just about the social aspect, although that is a big part of joining. Many of the sororities require their members to participate in the philanthropy aspect teaching them about helping those less fortunate. They are expected to keep up their grades as well.  They can be found holding positions for Homecoming, Student Government, Food Drives, and many other events. This opens the door for new members to have the opportunity to get involved on campus through compassion, camaraderie, and community. Browse through the UNF PanHellenic Council Facebook page for some of the interesting events they recently planned here.

Should you decide to get them a congratulatory gift, we have some suggestions here from:

Desert Cactus Greek, Brit and Bee, Alexandra and Company, Go Greek Chic, Cotton Sisters, Sorority Shop, Signature Tumblers, Greek Gear, Greek Creations, All that Jas, BaubleBar and Gild the Lily. Even Bed, Bath & Beyond carries Greek merchandise including tumblers, pillows, poufs and more!

Some sororities not only have Family Weekends every year, some in the fall and some in the spring, they also have Mother-Daughter and Father-Daughter Weekends. Not every sorority at UNF is required to participate in these events so check with your daughter to see if her sorority has one planned. Most colleges are extremely strict today when it comes to drinking and hazing. I am not going to cherry coat this; it does happen. UNF is no different. Sororities have been put on probation for alcohol consumption and not been allowed to have any socials. Your daughter should never feel pressured to do something that makes her feel uncomfortable.

Without a doubt joining a sorority was the greatest experience during my college years and I hope it will be for your daughters as well.

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.

The post Sorority Girl – The Inside Scoop appeared first on HaveUHeard.com.

Congratulations Class of 2024… Swoop and Welcome to The Nest!! You can now take that sigh of relief that a decision has been made and they have been accepted. Then take a look at our list of what to do next. First, this may sound silly, but check your admissions letter for accuracy regarding their name, entrance term, address and major. If any changes need to be made it needs to happen in writing or online at myUNF.

UNF does not require a tuition deposit, so the only way to lock in your seat in the freshman class is to register for orientation. Orientation is mandatory for all first-time-in-college students. You can read our blog on Orientation so you know what to expect after being accepted.

Next step is setting up your official UNF email account. UNF will only correspond with you via your official UNF email account. It is essential that you set up your account and check it frequently for important messages. UNF suggests checking the email on a regular basis starting as an accepted incoming freshman. You can access your UNF email account through myWings. If you have never signed in to myWing before, click the “Login Help” link below the sign-in fields and follow the instructions. Once you are in the myWings portal, click the email icon in the top right corner to access your inbox.  It is fairly easy once your student has accessed their account.

Before registration, there are several holds that must be cleared on your student account. It is your responsibility to check myWings for these holds and take the necessary steps to clear them. Be sure to check your holds well in advance of your orientation date as well; some such as Campus Clarity may take up to 2 – 3 business days to clear. Campus Clarity is a tool that helps students understand, identify and comply with Title IX regulations on sexual harassment and sexual misconduct, and makes our campus a safer place to study, work and play.

If you are a first time in college freshman, you will meet with your academic advisor during orientation to plan your program of study and register for the appropriate classes. Another crucial part of preregistration is completing immunization forms.  Registration cannot happen without this. You can download the form here. By the way, while you are on the health services page, take note of all the amazing services they offer students. At UNF, every student is required to show proof of having health insurance.

After Being Accepted:

Be sure to confirm the following:

• Your residency status for tuition purposes. Read more information about residency on the One Stop Student Services webpage.
• That your student has signed up for Bright Futures.
• Arrange for any final transcripts and scores (AP, IB, AICE, CLEP, and transfer credits) to be sent to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions.
• Your Florida Prepaid program if you have one (You will need to be familiar with what you paid for with Florida Prepaid as it may only cover certain fees or dorms – although it does not preclude your student from living in certain dorms; they may just have to pay any overage fees.)

To be eligible for financial aid, UNF recommends that you submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) asap. If you were admitted to the Summer or Spring terms, there may be additional documentation required. Read more information about the financial aid process on the UNF financial aid’s One Stop Student Services page.

In order to get the most of your UNF experience, all students are encouraged to live and dine on campus during their first year. We recommend applying for housing early in order to secure your first choice of the residence hall. Check out the housing information. Freshmen are also invited to participate in unique Living Learning Communities (LLCs) where students with like interests are grouped together in the same residence hall and are enrolled in a special topic course. Recent LLCs have been offered in conjunction with Honors, Brooks College of Health, Coggin College of Business and UNF’s Pre-Med Program.

After your child has registered for orientation you will receive some information from UNF.  This is mandatory for your students and yourself.

Check out our blogs on Housing, Meal Plans, and Orientation for many more helpful details.

Pass on these great tips, tell your friends and like us on Facebook, Instagram,  Twitter, and Pinterest. Sign up for other great tips at haveuheard.com. Are you new to HaveUHeard? Here is how to best use the site.

The post They’ve Been Accepted appeared first on HaveUHeard.com.

Most students cannot wait to move into rentals or apartments after their freshman year for very good reasons.  They will get a room to themselves, in most cases a bathroom to themselves and have a kitchen to cook (and clean.) There are many different factors that go into choosing apartments or rentals for your students. Our list of favorite rentals can help. Location, for one thing, is important to my daughter because she will not have a car next year.  So she either has to live close to campus, on-campus or make sure there is a bus that can take her to and from UNF.  Money is another factor. Typically speaking, the closer to campus that an apartment is, the more money it is and, the nicer it is, the more money it is.  This isn’t to say that apartments that aren’t as expensive will be terrible; it is typically just a matter of what works better for your student. Another factor is bedroom size. Having roommates isn’t for everyone so a one-bedroom may be best for your student.  Listed below are some apartment rentals for UNF students.

Jacksonville has an abundance of beautiful complexes, especially in the Town Center area.

Cabana Club – Offers 1,2 & 3 bedroom apartments.  Washer and dryer in apartment.  Pool and gym on property.  Pets allowed!

Cape House Apartments – Cape House Apartments is fairly close to UNF and offers 1,2 and 3 bedroom apartments.  Apartments offer washer and dryer connections and a detached garage. The community has pickleball courts, tennis courts, basketball courts, and a fitness center.

Courtney Meadows – This is a little further away from campus but still in a beautiful area.  1,2 and 3 bedroom apartments, Courtney Meadows offers beautiful spacious apartments in Deerwood, Jacksonville.  New appliances, including washer and dryers, are in every apartment. Pets allowed.

Hacienda Club – This complex is located right down the road from Courtney Meadows. It is an absolutely beautiful complex and comes in a little cheaper than Courtney Meadows. It has a gorgeous pool and common area, as well as valet trash and the apartments even come with a storage unit!

Lux at Sorrel –  A beautiful complex, offers valet trash which is a cool amenity.  About 10-12 minutes from campus.

North Beach on Kernan – Minutes from the shores of Jax Beach and the best shopping, lies North Beach on Kernan, a gated community offering the perfect mixture of sophistication and convenience.  North Beach on Kernan offers 1,2 and 3 bedroom apartments with a beautiful clubhouse that has a 24-hour health club, spa pool, gated access, private garages and is pet-friendly.

Ravella – Across the street from Town Center, Ravella offers 1, 2 and 3 bedroom floor plans and a 7 story parking garage.  This beautiful new apartment complex offers many amenities and is also pet-friendly.

The Beach House– A little further away from campus.  The Beach House offers twenty-one distinctive apartment homes in one, two, and three-bedroom floor plans.

The District on Kernan –  it may not be the nicest, but it is pretty popular with students. Again not the nicest, but I felt it is good to include because it is one of the only complexes, if not the only one that offers “by the bed” pricing, meaning each roommate has their own lease for their room, instead of splitting one lease. It can be convenient for people who prefer this student living style. Also is one of the closest complexes to campus, only 5 minutes down Kernan Blvd.  The District also has a shuttle that goes to school! Definitely an important factor for those who don’t have cars.

The Flats at UNF – The Flats at UNF was purchased by the University in October 2014 adding true apartment-style living as an option for upper-class UNF students.  The Flats at UNF is comprised of eight, three-floor buildings and provides housing for approximately 473 students. The Flats at UNF have 2 and 3 bedroom floor plans with an 11.5 months contract.  Although you have to be a student at UNF to live in the Flats, the contract is NOT tied to enrollment status. If you withdraw, transfer, graduate or move out prior to the move out date, you are still responsible for the contract.

The Retreat At Saint Johns – Features 1,2 and 3 bedroom upscale apartments. All apartments feature open floor plans with nine-foot ceilings with crown moldings.  Built-in computer desks and bookshelves offer a designated place to study. They have a 24-hour gym, clubhouse, area and huge pool. The Retreat at St. Johns is located within minutes of UNF and Saint Johns Town Center.  Pet-friendly.

The Point at Tamaya is a very nice complex, right across from North Beach on Kernan, with prices in the $600-700 range (2 beds beginning in the $1400s, 3 beds in the $1700s).

Uptown at Saint Johns – This upscale, new development offers one and two-bedroom floor plans and is within minutes of the UNF campus.  Uptown at Saint John’s has many amenities including an enclosed area for bicycles, saltwater pool, game room, fitness center with spin classes, massage room, pet park and so much more.  Uptown is located directly across from Saint Johns Town Center which is home to a ton of restaurants and a beautiful shopping area.

Check out our blog on Off-Campus Living to learn about what questions to ask.

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.

The post Our Favorite Apartment Rentals For Real! appeared first on HaveUHeard.com.

When you decide to have kids, your first thought is not how am I going to pay for college, but it might be your second. When my kids were little their dad and I opened up the 529 Savings Plan also known as a Qualified Tuition Plan (QTP).  Some families chose Florida PrePaid but we felt the 529 Savings Plan was better for our family.  Since 1996, 529 Savings Plans are a way of saving for college for your student. If you chose to open a qualified tuition plan or a relative set one up for you, then you and your student are now eligible to access the funds.  The funds from your 529 Savings Plan can be used not only to pay for higher education (starting in 2018 for elementary or secondary school tuition up to $10,000) but for room and board as well.  These funds are available to use up until the age of 30.

The SECURE Act signed into law on December 20,2019 expanded the benefits of 529 plan including adding student loan repayments and the costs of apprenticeship programs as qualified expenses for distributions made after December 31, 2018.

If you received refunds from your students education institution, you should contact your plans administrator as failure to re-contribute the refunds may result in taxable income if not returned within 60 days of receiving the refund.

Tuition and Equipment

Tuition and fees, books, supplies, and equipment. Expenses for special needs services needed by a special needs beneficiary must be incurred in connection with enrollment or attendance at an eligible post secondary school.

The purchase of a computer or peripheral equipment, computer software, or Internet access and related services if it’s to be used primarily by the beneficiary during any of the years the beneficiary is enrolled at an eligible post secondary school. (this doesn’t include expenses for computer software for sports, games, or hobbies unless the software is predominantly educational in nature).

Room and Board

There are special rules that apply to room and board. Expenses for room and board must be incurred by students who are enrolled at least half-time.

The allowance for room and board, as determined by the school, was included in the cost of attendance (for federal financial aid purposes) during a particular academic period and living arrangement of the student. The actual amount charged if the student is residing in housing owned or operated by the school.

You may need to contact the eligible educational institution for qualified room and board costs. A student who lives off-campus can include in qualified higher education expenses the reasonable room and board costs as determined by the QTP, up to the federal financial aid allowance (as per above).

If your student is living at home, then your student should make actual room and board payments to their parents. Receipts should be well documented and you need to spend the money in the same calendar year as the withdrawal, not the school academic calendar year but the actual 12 month calendar year.

In addition, you should check with your financial advisor as there should be coordination with college tax credits. If you pay for tuition and required books with the 529  funds, they will disqualify those expenses from the tax credit. Read our Tax Time blog here.

Any change in the designated beneficiary of an interest in a QTP isn’t treated as a distribution if the new beneficiary is a member of the family of the old beneficiary. The change in beneficiary rule gives parents, or other donor’s, flexibility to use the funds for any family member who needs them most. For example, if a designated beneficiary decides not to attend college, or receives a full scholarship, another child can be named as long as the new child is a member of the family. Or if funds remain in the QTP after a child has finished school, a younger family member can be named to use the balance. For more information, you should contact the custodian of your 529 plan.

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.

The post The ABC’s of 529 Savings Plans UNF appeared first on HaveUHeard.com.

Here are the guidelines you should consider when dropping a class. “I need to drop my Business Calculus class.” Not the best words that a parent wants to hear; however, sometimes circumstances present themselves that your student will need to do just this. UNF, as well as other colleges, differentiate between dropping and withdrawing from a class.

Dropping a class

Students may drop courses through the registration period preceding the term and during the “Add/Drop” period. The Add/Drop period occurs during the first five days of courses for a given semester. Courses scheduled to meet for the first time after add/drop ends may be dropped the next business day only in One-Stop Student Services. Tuition and fee payment is still due on the regular deadline for all classes. If a student drops a course on or before the last day to drop courses, the student will not be assessed a fee for that course. If the student has already paid fees and then drops a course, the student will receive a full refund for the dropped course.

Withdrawing from a class

Students who wish to cease attending a course after the Add/Drop period has ended must withdraw from the course. The withdrawal period begins after the Administrative Drop for Non-Payment and continues through the first 13 weeks of courses (during semesters that are 16 weeks long).  The Academic Calendar will have posted withdrawal deadlines.

Withdrawal deadlines vary for courses that occur during shorter semesters and for courses with a non-traditional beginning and ending dates. A “W” will appear on the transcript in place of a grade for all courses from which a student withdraws. A “W” does not impact the student’s GPA negatively or positively. Although students will not receive credit for courses from which they withdraw, the credit hours that would have been accumulated upon completion of the course are added to the student’s total of “attempted hours.”

Students may drop and withdraw online via myWings or in person at One-Stop Student Services with photo id.  Requests to drop and withdraw cannot be accepted via telephone or email. In certain cases, authorization from another department on campus may be required before the withdrawal request can be processed.

There are financial repercussions as well when your student drops a class. Your student will still be fee liable for dropped courses, and it is your responsibility to know the requirements of any scholarships you have, including Bright Futures. Most course drops require repayment to Bright Futures and may require repayment to other programs. Should you have any questions about the impact of dropping a class as it relates to Bright Futures, you can download the interactive tool – BFCreditHourTool (8).  Please check with Financial Aid if you have concerns. Your academic advisor may be able to assist you with some financial issues, but Financial Aid is generally between you and Student Financial Affairs.

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.

The post Dropping a Class appeared first on HaveUHeard.com.

Fix it and repair shops are one of the necessities of life, and when our kids are away at school, we want to make sure that they are receiving quality service at reputable prices. It can happen to anyone, stuff just breaks down, so whether it’s a bike or car there is always a way to get it fixed right. Although UNF is a smaller campus compared to other Florida universities, students still prefer skateboards and bicycles as the main mode of transportation on campus, but they also have break-down issues. Cars are still the main transportation for students off-campus, and as we know cars breakdown or little accidents happen. Keeping your students mobilized is important. Listed below are the repair shops for bicycles, skateboards, and autos that we have found near UNF:

Bicycle Repair Shops

• These lists are in order from closest to farthest away from the UNF campus.
• Bikes Direct Bike Shop, 4624 Town Crossings Drive, Jacksonville, 904-928-2453
• Bird Legs Bicycle, 1313 Beach Blvd., Jacksonville, 904-246-4433

Skateboard Repair Shops

• All Wet, 8550 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville, 904-646-9887
• Sunrise Surf Shop, 834 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville, 904-241-0822

Automotive Repair Shops

While there were quite a few recommendations, this recommended list is just the ones close to campus.

• Bryan’s Garage, 33 Aderhold Avenue, Jacksonville, 904-725-6785
• JJ Auto Care, 11630 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville, 904-721-6646
• Beach Plaza Auto Care, 1120 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville, 904-246-3211
• Mike’s Automotive Repair Shop Brakes Jacksonville, 3144 Leon Road, Jacksonville, 904-565-9340

So get it fixed and don’t worry!

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.

The post Fix It! Fix it good! appeared first on HaveUHeard.com.