Discover how spring classes will be taught
The newest course schedule is now available for students to start picking their spring classes. Courses will be offered similarly to fall classes, with some fully online and others as hybrid classes. For more information about the different types of classes, see www.wichita.edu/codes.
Instructors have been asked to submit information about how they plan to teach their courses. You can see their details for instruction, testing, and what to do on the first day of class. See www.wichita.edu/spring2021. If you have additional questions, faculty contact information is provided or you can reach out to an advisor at www.wichita.edu/advising.
Spring Calendar and Academic Changes
Are you career ready?
Sure, you have the academic knowledge for your job after you graduate, but what other skills do you have that employers are looking for? Do you know what employers expect from their new employees?
Take a look through the career ready competencies to become the best job candidate you can. Looking for a job? Create a profile and search our online career database, called Handshake, from the Shocker Career Accelerator website.
You can also look at cooperative education and internship opportunities available to help you gain professional work experience as you work toward your degree.
What should I do if I have a concern about my class?
Learning in the middle of a pandemic is full of challenges. When students have a concern about their classroom experience, the first step they should take is to have a conversation with their instructor.
Tips for speaking with your professor
If you are not able to resolve your concern with your instructor, contact the department chairperson for the department where the course is offered to share your concerns.
These steps should help address classroom concerns.
A guide to avoid late fees
Shockers, do you have a late fee on your account? Here's a guide to making sure you have a plan to pay it off and avoid future fees.
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Make a spending plan checklist. Understand what your monthly expenses are to work towards paying off your tuition and fees. - Are you able to work part-time and earn extra income? Some student jobs are flexible and pay up to $10 per hour!
- There are tons of scholarships out there waiting for applicants like you! Always make a habit to apply!
- Join our Financial Wellness & Money Management Blackboard course to build your knowledge of finances and make better money choices. Self-enroll instructions
- Schedule an appointment with our Peer Financial Coaches. We can help you make a plan and keep you accountable!
If you have any questions or want to schedule an appointment, please email us at osmm@wichita.edu.
The Shocker Support Locker is open for the academic year
The Shocker Support Locker is open to all Wichita State University students, faculty and staff and offers anyone who needs it access to food, clothing, toiletries, and baby/family products. The Shocker Support Locker is coordinated and managed by the Student Government Association.
To limit the spread of COVID-19, all students, faculty or staff are asked to complete the Shocker Support Locker Order Form to request items from the Shocker Support Locker until further notice. Locker staff will contact the user to coordinate a pick-up time between 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday for the fall semester.
Questions? Please contact sga.supportlocker@wichita.edu.
Wichita State researchers address health disparities, obesity
A team of researchers at Wichita State University is working to promote health equity among vulnerable populations. The all-woman, cross-disciplinary team is focusing its initial efforts on issues related to obesity among underrepresented groups.
This project is one of four awardees of Wichita State University’s Convergence Sciences Initiative, which is an effort to bring together the intellectual curiosity and strengths of faculty and students from a range of disciplines and give them the support to develop research programs that drive the diversity and growth of the Kansas economy while addressing global challenges. Winners of the Convergence Sciences awards will be given $300,000 over three years.
Pictured above: Dr. Nikki Keene Woods, right, is pictured at the Kansas Public Health Association conference in 2019. Keene Woods is part of a team of women at Wichita State University who are researching health disparities, particularly obesity, as part of the university's Convergence Sciences Initiative.
Guidelines for staying safe when decorating offices, rooms this holiday season
Holiday safety is an issue that burns brightest from late November to mid-January, when faculty, staff and students gather for holiday parties and decorate their offices or rooms. Decorating is one of the best ways to get into the holiday spirit, but fires and injuries caused by improper use of electrical decorations, such as lights or the use of candles or other open flame items, injure or kill many people each year. Take some basic precautions to ensure we all remains safe and injury-free throughout the season.
Decorations of all types shall be either non-combustible or adequately treated to render them fire resistant. Decorations are allowed 14 calendar days before the holiday or event. All decorations are expected to be removed no later than seven calendar days after the holiday or event. Artificial wrapped presents kept on the floor are limited to lobby areas. Keep wrapping paper on artwork to a minimum (i.e., less than 10% of the wall). The use of trees or wreaths shall be restricted to artificial types containing a UL or FM tag or seal indicating satisfactory fire resistance. No live or cut trees or wreaths are allowed. Do not use strings of lights on metal trees.
Streamers, garlands, lights and other decorations shall not run along or across halls, obstruct or restrict aisles, passageways, or corridors; be hung from smoke detectors or sprinkler heads or obstruct exits signs, fire extinguishers or other fire equipment. Holiday lighting strings must be double insulated or grounded and have an approval rating from either UL or FM. A maximum of three strands may be connected together. No extension cords shall be used to light strings of lights, only a circuit breaker protected power strip shall be used.
- Decorations may not be attached to doors, walls, or painted surfaces by any methods which would damage the surface or leave behind adhesive residue (i.e., low adhesive masking tape is preferred). Any costs associated with damage caused by installation or removal of decorative materials will be the responsibility of the department.
- Prohibited items include, but are not limited to, the following list:
- Latex balloons, silly-string, bubbles, glitter, confetti, rice, birdseed.
- Fireworks (including sparklers) or weapons of any kind.
- Live animals (except for those assisting individuals with disabilities).
- Any item with an open flame, such as candles or incense.
- Decorative materials may not be placed on fire doors, smoke doors, light fixtures, electrical equipment, electrical outlets, circuit breaker panels, etc.
- Cut trees, tree branches, pinecones, wreaths, mistletoe, and live potted plants. Artificial trees, wreaths, and other seasonal decorations must be fire/flame-retardant. It is the department’s responsibility to save packaging material as proof to the fire marshal that decorative materials have received flame-retardant treatment.
The following list of materials may not be used for decorations under any circumstances because they are inherently combustible or cannot be flame proofed:
- Bamboo
- Cedar Trees or Branches
- Corn Stalks or Shucks
- Cotton or Confetti (loose, in large quantities)
- Dry Moss or Leaves
- Flammable Powders or Liquids
- Hay or Straw (loose or baled)
- Paper Streamers (serpentine)
- Plastic Sheeting or Pellets
- Sawdust
- Tumbleweeds
- Wood Bark or Shavings
If you have questions, please contact the WSU Fire & Safety Office at 978-5803 or 978-5531.
WSU Fire & Safety wishes you a safe and happy holiday season.
From one student to another: Why we should register now for spring 2021 classes
Spring 2021 registration is here, and there’s no need to wait. In fact, registering as early as possible has several benefits for us as students. As a senior, I have experienced the stress of registering late for classes, and I understand now that signing up during the first week ensures that I am prepared for the next semester. There are advantages I’ve learned during my college experience and Lisa Hansen, director of OneStop Student Services and Stephanie Cockrell, a success coach from Student Success also shared some benefits with me.
Check out this list of all the reasons you should register right now rather than later.
Respondus LockDown browser now available for Chromebook
Respondus LockDown browser is now available to students using Chromebook as a beta test for Wichita State and a few other universities. If you are a student who needs Respondus LockDown Browser for a Chromebook, please follow these instructions:
- Log into the Chromebook and start Google Chrome
- Go to the download link for LockDown Browser: You will automatically be redirected to the Chrome Web Store.
- From the Chrome Web Store, select “Add to Chrome” to install the LockDown Browser Extension
- Log in to Blackboard Learn and navigate to the exam that requires LockDown Browser
- The LockDown Browser extension will be started automatically when an assessment requires it
- Note: during the beta, this extension will only work with assessments an instructor has enabled for use with LockDown Browser for Chromebook. If your instructor has asked you to use it, but it won't work for you, check with them to make sure they have authorized Chromebook use for the quiz you need to work on.
Join Wu's Big Challenge
Join Wu’s 2020-21 Challenge! Due to COVID-19 and university restrictions around social distancing, we have had to reschedule our BIG events, but we have a challenge for you!
Commit to volunteering five hours. Hours may be completed virtually or in person or both. Students may complete the challenge in both semesters or only one. You decide what works best for you.
How it works:
Visit volunteerICT for ongoing volunteer opportunities and choose the ones you would like to serve between now and May 6, 2021.
Sign-up and volunteer five hours. Track your hours on your volunteerICT account.
Submit your volunteer resume to CSB@wichita.edu or bring it to the Student Involvement office in 216 RSC, and you will receive your Wu’s Big Challenge T-shirt and other goodies from the Community Service Board. Your name will also be entered in a raffle to win prizes throughout the year.
Do you still have questions? Email CSB@wichita.edu
Exercise and meditate with Shocker Strong
This week Shocker Strong is talking about the benefits of exercise, physical activity and meditation. Join us on Facebook Live or on Student Affairs' YouTube channel at 3:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 12, for a presentation on setting and reaching goals.
Learn more about Shocker Strong at wichita.edu/SSRP, and sign up for the program at wichita.edu/SSjoin.
It's not too late to be entered to win a $500 book scholarship! Learn more at wichita.edu/SSdrawing.
No-cost entrepreneurship webinars to help your small business succeed
Give yourself and your business the opportunities to succeed with our no-cost small business webinars.
Register at www.wichita.edu/ksbdcworkshops
Startup and Start Right
Noon-1 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 11
This workshop will cover the Small Business Administration's 10 steps to start your business. Learn about licenses and permits, federal and state tax IDs, business structure, funding, marketing, and other essentials.
Competing for Government Contracts: Basic Training
1:30-4 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 17
Federal, state, and local governments spend more than $800 billion per year buying goods and services. This webinar offers an overview of the critical first steps to becoming a government contractor. Learn to identify opportunities, understand the contracting process, and know the services available to help you.
Are you stressed?
We get it. With the end of the semester and holidays approaching, not to mention the pandemic, we have seen a lot of students who are experiencing more stress than usual. Let us help! Email student.success@wichita.edu to schedule a quick one-on-one session and receive some effective, quick techniques to help you manage your stress in the coming weeks.
Enroll for an in-person service-learning course in psychology!
The INSPYRE research lab (directed by Dr. Samantha Gregus) is currently recruiting undergraduate mentors for a 3-hour service-learning course in psychology (PSY 416) for the spring 2021 semester!
Prior to enrolling in PSY 416 (Psychology and Problems of Society) mentors are required to: pass an interview and background check, have reliable transportation, lunch availability from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at least twice a week, and attend class on Mondays from 3:30-6 p.m.
We have a course syllabus, class readings, and paper assignments. Mentors will receive training at the beginning of the course and a grade at the end based on attendance and completion of assignments. We are interested in recruiting mentors from any college and major.
For more information, please contact the INSPYRE research lab at inspyre@wichita.edu ASAP.
Attention students! How can we better our parking system?
For my Technical Writing class, one of the required projects involves working collaboratively as a group, with the goal of writing a proposal that identifies a problem or opportunity that impacts an organization or community we belong to. The project plan that my group came up with was fixing the ongoing parking situation that occurs at WSU. In order to successfully complete this project, our group needs to gather information that will be used in our proposal.
One of the primary sources we wanted to include in our paper was surveying students at WSU. The survey questions mainly revolve around asking the audience about how they feel about the current student parking system, and if they have any suggestions to try to improve it.
While this proposal is not official and will not be submitted to anyone but our professor, we have to treat it and write it as if it were real. We would greatly appreciate any of the inputs that the audience has to provide.
Exercise Science Performance Suite Interns wanted!
Campus Recreation is looking for exercise science interns! This role includes equipment maintenance, cleaning, roster management, spotting, risk management, live educational posts, online live stream educational content, and much more.
If you are interested, please use the application form and send it to andy.sykes@wichita.edu. Applications are due Wednesday, Nov. 25.
Support mental health on campus through this internship!
Interested in an internship that promotes mental and physical wellness and gives back to your community? Check out the Prevention Service Advisory Board’s Prevention Ambassador Program.
Prevention Ambassadors receive training and mentorship in providing prevention and outreach services to assist the Prevention Services Advisory Board in our #WSUWeSupportU mission of preventing suicide, sexual violence, and substance abuse, in addition to promoting wellness in the WSU community.
For more information or to complete an application, go to wichita.edu/PrevAm.
Join us for our upcoming Real Talk! Debriefing the 2020 Elections
Upcoming Topic: Debriefing the 2020 Elections
Engage in meaningful dialogues around various topics that impact identity, diversity, inclusion, equity and society. We welcome you to lean into discomfort and join in on the discussion.
Session 8: 9-10 a.m. Monday, Nov. 9
Register at wichita.edu/odievents!
Real Talk – Intersection Dialogues
RBOS Distinguished Guest Artist Isabelle Demers to perform in Wiedemann Hall
Join us either through the live-stream or in person (limited attendance) for the Rie Bloomfield Organ Series Distinguished Guest Artist Isabelle Demers, professor of organ and head of the organ department at Baylor University, Waco, Texas. The concert will be held at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 10, in Wiedemann Hall.
Her program on the great Marcussen organ is a spectacular mix of old and new with Bach, Beethoven and Louis Vierne, who was born 150 years ago this year.
Tickets are available at the Fine Arts Box Office. WSU students are able to still get free student tickets with your myWSU ID, as long as tickets are available.
Masks and social distancing respected.
Ulrich Virtual Stories book discussion Tuesday examines 'Last Night at the Lobster'
Looking for a fun distraction? Head over to Watermark Books, pick up your copy of Steward O'Nan's "Last Night at the Lobster," and join the Ulrich Museum for an Ulrich Virtual Stories book discussion at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 10.
Delve into a discussion with Beth Golay, host of KMUW’s podcast Marginalia, on this poignant and redemptive story set in the workaday world. The book discussion is free and open to all, but registration is required to get the Zoom link.
Virtual panel series tackles social inequality research in relation to the pandemic
The Covid-19 pandemic has exposed several types of social inequality already present in American and global societies. In this panel, social scientists will join with subject librarians in a discussion of approaches and research methods used to explore social inequality in relation to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Find full event information from 3-4:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 12, and a direct link to the virtual Zoom panel, click here.
Event listing: Part three
This month is full of fun for everyone! Join us for events like Virtual Drag Show, Catalyst, Wichita Clean Streams, Five Days of DIYs and more. Be sure to check out our event listing for all our upcoming programs.
Leadership opportunity: Catalyst on Nov. 14
CatalystTM is a one-day program designed for anyone who is interested in starting something extraordinary. Participating in Catalyst is a first step in the life-long process of learning, exploration, and action.
We will be limiting spaces due to social distancing restrictions. This event will be held in person and participants are expected to follow all guidelines pertaining to in-person events (masks, social distancing, etc.)
When: Wednesday, Nov 14
Deadline to register: Sunday, Nov. 8
For more information, go to www.wichita.edu/catalyst.
KMUW Radio is hiring!
KMUW, Wichita's NPR station, is seeking applicants for a full-time Financial Specialist position and Summer 2020 Korva Coleman Diversity in Journalism Internship. Wichita State University does not discriminate in its employment practices, educational programs or activities on the basis of sex, ancestry, color, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, national origin, political affiliation, pregnancy, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or status as a veteran. To learn more and apply, please visit KMUW.org/employment.
Do you want a non-traditional Honor Society experience?
Fill out the application now to be part of the Mortar Board Honor Society next school year!
The Mortar Board Honor Society is one of the country's premier senior college honor societies. Open to academic seniors of all disciplines and majors, the society stresses its members to exhibit its three core ideals: Scholarship, Leadership, and Service.
As a member, you will be part of an organization that strives to help its school and local communities by hosting various charity events and fundraisers. These events, and others, will also bring you into contact with the other members of the society and help you form connections that will enhance your final year as a Shocker!
Due to the fact that each year the society replaces its members due to graduation, you will have the guaranteed opportunity to leave a huge mark on a student organization, even if you have a full schedule. Interested in joining? Fill out the application below and you'll be notified if you are selected. The deadline to apply is 11:59 p.m. Dec. 31, 2020.
Mortar Board Honor Society Member Application
Free tutoring and academic mentoring for diverse Shockers!
The Office of Diversity and Inclusion is offering free tutoring and academic mentoring!
Our tutors help students develop a deeper understanding of class material and gain successful skills that can improve their overall GPA.
Our academic mentors offer biweekly meetings to help you with academic success skills, such as time management, effective studying and note-taking, test preparation and more!
You can drop in any of the listed times or schedule an appointment. See when we are open, what classes are offered, and how to request appointments at wichita.edu/pass!
Check out this week’s Wellness virtual programs
Please join us for another week of great programs that have gone virtual. Hosted by CAPS, SHS and Campus Recreation.
Tacos and Trivia at Fuzzy's this evening!
Join us at 7 p.m. Monday, Nov. 9, for LIVE trivia at Fuzzy's on the WSU campus! Prizes include:
1st - $25 gift card
2nd - $15 gift card
3rd - $10 gift card!
Thanksgiving Massage Special at the Heskett Center
Don’t miss the Thanksgiving Massage Special! While celebrating the spirit of thanksgiving, make sure to also give thanks to your body.
For the month of November, you can schedule a 90-minute massage for only $50. Gift certificates are available for purchase.
For more information, visit the Heskett Center Guest Services desk or call 316-978-3082.
Facemasks now available for purchase at the Heskett Center
Facemasks are now available for purchase at the Heskett Center. We have these two designs available. For more information, visit the Guest Services desk at the Heskett Center or call 316-978-3082.
New clear bag Gameday Bundle from the Shocker Store
The Shocker Store has a new clear bag Gameday Bundle to help you be compliant with Koch Arena’s new clear bag policy! For $25, you’ll get a clear WuShock bag and six disposable WSU masks. Available now at the RSC and Braeburn Square locations and online at shockerstore.com.
Discount at Shocker Store for veterans
The Shocker Store appreciates the service and sacrifices of our veterans and active duty military! In honor of Veterans Day, on Wednesday, Nov. 11 at our Rhatigan Student Center and Braeburn Square locations, veterans and active duty military can take 20% off one regular priced WSU imprinted item with military ID. Some exclusions apply. Thank you for your service!
Free bowling for veterans, active duty military and their families
The Shocker Sports Grill & Lanes thanks our veterans and active duty military! In honor of Veterans Day, from 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 11, veterans and active duty military in the community and their families, can enjoy free bowling! Must show military ID. Thank you for your service!
Please help less fortunate children this Christmas
Our Toys for Tots toy drive is happening now until Dec. 16! We had fantastic support last year ending with a box brimming over with toys. We helped so many underprivileged children in Wichita. Let's shoot to double it this year!
You can stop by the Campus Credit Union lobby between 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday, and 9 a.m.-noon Saturday, to donate.
The American Red Cross Club of Wichita State is hosting an upcoming blood drive!
Red Cross blood donors have the opportunity to help patients fighting COVID-19! If your regular donation tests positive for COVID-19 antibodies, plasma from that donation may now help coronavirus patients in need of plasma transfusions.
*Free COVID-19 antibody testing with blood donation!
Wichita State University Blood Drive: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 18 and Thursday, Nov. 19 in the Heskett Center lobby
To schedule your life-saving appointment, visit RedCrossBlood.org; Sponsor Code: Wichita State or Call 1-800-Red-Cross.
Join SHS Director Camille Childers to discuss COVID-19 safety during the holidays
Wondering how to continue fighting the spread of COVID-19 during the holidays? At 2 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 10 on Facebook Live, join Student Health's Director Camille Childers, Nurse Heather, and WSU students for a conversation about how to stay safe while traveling for the holidays.