The Division of Student Affairs supports student life and services. The offices within this division include Vocation & Career Services, Student Activities, Housing & Residential Education, Campus Ministries & Service, Prevention & Awareness, and the Student Health Center. Student development at Reinhardt is guided by the philosophy that views varied experiences and interactions of the maturing student within the University environment as necessary challenges for growth. While students develop potential in unique ways, the fabric of each person’s life includes both predictable tasks to be confronted and resources upon which to draw. For the young adult entering the University, some of those challenges and transitions include formulating values to guide behavior, making choices and plans about career endeavors, forming relationships with peers, and becoming independent and responsible. While coursework emphasizes the academic and intellectual sphere, the community of students, faculty, and staff also recognizes the importance of personal, social, spiritual, career, and physical development. The professionals within the Division of Student Affairs help with the many aspects of student life and student development. The staff is dedicated to helping each student have an enjoyable and meaningful experience at Reinhardt University.
Office of the Dean of Students
The Office of the Dean of Students is dedicated to being a resource to students through support, advocacy, involvement, and accountability, with a goal of helping our students reach their fullest potential both in and out of the classroom. We serve as a support for students facing challenges to their success as students and assist with the interpretation of university policy and regulations. Our staff are ready to assist students, staff, faculty, family members, and community members with student questions, issues, and concerns. Our office can also serve as a referral resource to other areas within the University and/or in the community.
Orientation
The Division of Student Affairs, in collaboration with the Division of Enrollment Services, the Division of Academic Affairs, and various other units of the University provide orientation programs (New Student Orientation, or NSO) for all new students and their parents or legal guardians. New students entering the Main Campus classified as freshmen, first-time-in college, or transfer are required to attend an orientation prior to registering for classes their first semester. Exceptions to the orientation requirement include: active -duty military, nondegree seeking students, and students accepted into the Online Only, adult, and/or Graduate programs.
The Main Campus orientation program for new students (freshmen and transfers) entering in Fall semesters is a three-step process. The first step is called SOAR sessions which are scheduled throughout the summer and feature a one-day agenda including academic advising and information on important policies and procedures as well as campus life and resources. The second step of NSO is Eagle Essentials which is an online virtual course within Canvas which highlights campus life and resources. The third step of NSO is Eagle Bound and takes place the weekend before the start of the Fall semester. Eagle Bound features community building activities and events that provide new students with additional opportunities to build relationships with other new students, engage in campus activities, learn about campus traditions, and other topics critical to their success as students at Reinhardt.
An abbreviated orientation is offered in December and January for new students entering in Spring terms. Students admitted to the adult degree or graduate degree programs will receive information pertaining to course registration directly from their respective programs of study.
First Year Seminar: Thriving in College
First Year Seminar: Thriving in College (FYS 101) assists new students in making a successful transition academically, socially, and psychologically to Reinhardt University. This course introduces students to the collegiate experience. FYS 101 aims to foster:
- an engagement in deep learning,
- application and growth of academic determination,
- positivism and confidence in the student’s present and future life,
- a sense of belonging and connectedness,
- an involvement in the curricular and cocurricular life of the university, and
- a commitment to make a difference in the community.
This course also articulates the benefits of higher education and the expectations and values of Reinhardt University. FYS 101 supports students in the transitions to college and encourages their university journey as one in which students more than survive a four-year academic course; rather, they thrive.