2002 Orientation Brochure

Dear CBU Student,

Welcome to Christian Brothers University!  I know I speak for everyone on campus when I say we are delighted that you have chosen our University as your home for the next several years.

As you well know, this is a time for new beginnings and new friendships, an exciting time of growth and opportunities and challenges.  At CBU you will find a strong and supportive community built on the Lasallian tradition of the Christian Brothers – a family of students, faculty, and staff, all willing to encourage and nurture you in this exciting time.  You will find professors passionately dedicated to the art of teaching and a caring educational environment where your personal success is our most important goal.

We have been hard at work this summer preparing for your arrival.

Perhaps the busiest people on campus have been the members of the Christian Brothers University Orientation Staff, who have designed comprehensive programs to introduce you and your parents to the University and to assure your smooth transition to life here at CBU.  I’ve enclosed a package of Orientation materials, collectively “Piecing the Puzzle Together,” that summarizes the programs scheduled to begin at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday, August 17.  These programs will cover many topics of interest, including academics, athletics, social life, and much more.  I want to strongly encourage you and your family to take full advantage of Orientation Weekend and participate in all the scheduled activities.  These activities will provide you and your family with helpful information and guidance about life at Christian Brothers University.  Many lifelong friendships have also begun during University Orientation.

Please review the enclosed material, familiarize yourself with the weekend’s events, and return the response card indicating the names of the people who will attend with you by Friday, August 2, 2002.  I look forward to personally welcoming you to your campus on August 16!

CHEERS,

Brother Stan Sobczyk, FSC
President

Schedule of Events

Friday, August 16, 2002

 Saturday, August 17, 2002

Sunday, August 18, 2002

Monday, August 19, 2002

Description of Events

Academic Reception - Academic Deans and Professors

Want to see a friendly face when you go to class on Tuesday morning?  Then come to the Academic Reception and meet some of CBU’s deans and professors.  They will be there to answer any questions you might have as well as to simply greet you and make you feel a little more at home.  Since this reception is being held in the library, you will also have a chance to browse through the building and discover all that Plough Library has to offer you as a student.

The Drive to Succeed: Commuter Session - Ms. Karen Conway, Director of Cross Cultural and Commuter Programs

This session will provide commuter students an opportunity to become familiar with services offered through the Office of Cross Cultural and Commuter Affairs.  Ms. Conway will offer helpful hints on how to become involved and stay involved at CBU as a commuter student.

Finding the Right Fit - CBU Clubs and Organizations

Do you want to join a club or organization, but you don’t know what’s out there?  Then you need to browse through CBU’s Club Fair.  During the Club Fair, each club and organization will have their own booth set up so that you can find out more about them.  They will also have representatives on hand to answer any questions you might have.  This is simply a time for you to take a first-hand glance.  Club membership drive will follow at a later date.

The First Piece - Br. Stan Sobczyk, FSC, Ed.D.

Welcome to CBU, Class of 2006!  These are words you will hear many times throughout the weekend, but this session will be your first official welcoming.  Presented by our University President, Brother Stan Sobczyk, FSC, Ed.D., this time will acquaint you with the weekend activities, CBU administration, and the traditions on which Christian Brothers University was founded.

Freshman Mixer

Send the parents away because it’s time for your first college party!  Together with your roommate and the rest of your suite, come hang out with all of the new students that are living on campus and get to know the people you will be living with for the next year.  At this relaxed, casual party, we’ll have a DJ, free refreshments, games, and an opportunity for you to meet current CBU students and members of the Student Life staff.

Home Away from Home: A Session for New Residents - Dr. Evelyn A. McDonald and Mrs. Katie Foster, Division of Student Life

The CBU campus is home to more than five hundred students, several University staff and the De LaSalle Brothers.  In this session for new residents and parents, Dr. Evelyn McDonald, Ed.D., the Associate Vice President of Student Life, and Mrs. Katie Foster, Director of Residence Life and Housing, will answer your questions about residence life and introduce you to your new home away from home. 

Hypnotist Ron Jeffreys

Ron Jeffreys will mesmerize you with his remarkably entertaining show and memorable display of hypnosis.  A certified hypnotherapist and hypnotist, Mr. Jeffreys has studied with medical professionals in Tulsa, Dallas, Chicago, Orlando, and St. Louis.  In addition to performing hypnosis for entertainment purposes, he travels the country demonstrating the positive effects of hypnosis, conducting seminars to help people in non-medical areas such as smoking, weight loss, self-esteem, memory improvement and motivation.

Individually Unique, Together Complete: Joining a Sorority or Fraternity at CBU - Greek Council

This program will present the benefits of Greek life at CBU and advantages of being part of the Greek system.  The Greek Council will also explain the application and preparation process for sorority and fraternity recruitment and provide important dates for fall semester.  Highlighted during this session will be the Top Ten Reasons to Go Greek.

International Student Orientation - Ms. Karen Conway, Director of Cross Cultural and Commuter Affairs

International students won’t want to miss this!  During this orientation, Karen Conway of the Office of Cross Cultural and Commuter Affairs will help you become more familiar with immigration laws as they pertain to F-1 students in colleges and universities in the United States.  She will provide students an opportunity to interact with current international faculty, alumni, and students.  In addition, students will be given the chance to open bank accounts, complete medical insurance forms, and obtain information regarding social security cards.  

It’s Greek to Me: Greek: Session for Parents - Presidents of Greek Organizations

Come meet the presidents of our Greek organizations on the campus of CBU.  They will introduce you to their organization as well as to Greek life in general.  They will review facts and statistics about Greek life and discuss the Top Ten Reasons to Go Greek.  Parents will then have a chance to take part in a question and answer session.

The Next Piece: Building Community through Involvement - SGA Executive Board

CBU is a more than books and social experiences.  It is an institution built on faith and a commitment to service.   This session will orientate you to the importance of getting involved on campus and how to do it.

One Piece at a Time: Resident Student Check-In - Office of Housing and Residence Life

When you arrive at Christian Brothers University, the first thing you need to do is move into your residence hall. The Office of Residence Life will inform you as to which hall and specific room you will be residing in prior to your arrival at CBU.  On Friday, August 16, you will report to that room and a Resident Assistant will give you your keys and assist you in making CBU your new home. 

Orientation Sign-In - Division of Student Life

CBU needs to know that you have arrived for Orientation.  That is why it is so imperative that you come to sign in the morning of Saturday, August 17.  At that time, you will receive a packet of orientation material as well as a copy of your class schedule.       

The Parents’ Piece: Student Life and Academic Services

This session will familiarize parents with the Student Life and academic resources available here at CBU.  Meet Dr. Evelyn McDonald and Mr. Tom Burk, the Dean of Academic Services, as they answer your questions about what you and your student can expect in the coming years, and the resources available to you.

Playfair         

You’ve never played like this before!     

Presentation by CB Singers

The CB Singers, an ensemble of singers from a larger choir, the CBU Chorale, will present a short program of musical selections during dinner on Saturday evening, August 17.

Roots and Wings - Dr. Margaret Miller, Psychology Professor

Whether it is your first child who leaves for college, your last child, or a child somewhere in between, part of your nest will always be empty because of the event.  For many parents, the knowledge of having prepared their children for the opportunity to take this big step towards independence is bittersweet.  A young person’s entry into college is a time when the ‘role of parent’ is challenged to evolve in unique ways.  While there are no hard and fast rules for insuring a successful transition, there is wisdom to be gained from the experiences of post parenting as well as from our own educations in becoming adults.

Solving the Puzzle - Career Center Session

Are you unsure of which major you want to choose?  Then drop by this session sponsored by the CBU Career Center.  The center has several computerized assessments that can help students pinpoint their skills and interests, indicating compatible majors.  But wait!  The Career Center doesn’t stop there.  Later on, the Career Center can help you with such things as writing your resume and mastering an interview.  Find out how our Career Center can help you plan for your present and future success.  

Sporting a Smile: Athletics Open House

The friendly CBU coaches and athletic staff will be on hand during this open house to answer any questions parents and students may have.  Feel free to swing by if you are interested in seeing CBU’s athletic facilities.

Students Helping Students: Peer Counselor Sessions - CBU Peer Counselors

All first year students at CBU are placed in small groups called Peer Counselor Groups, which are led by student leaders commonly referred to as PC’s (Peer Counselors).  The purpose of Peer Counseling is to ease the transition of first-semester new students from high school to college, giving them a smooth adjustment to the CBU community.  These groups begin meeting during Orientation Weekend and continue to meet every Tuesday until fall break.  You will meet your PC and the rest of the students in your group, highlight events that are taking place throughout the weekend, and learn about the topics that are going to be covered throughout the eight weeks.  Make sure you attend all of your PC classes throughout the weekend and the rest of the semester.  They are mandatory and are required in order to graduate.   

A Taste of Inspiration - James Malinchak

James Malinchak is recognized worldwide as one of the top speakers on the college circuit and is a 2000 College Speaker of the Year by the Association for the Promotion of Campus Activities (APCA) and 1999 College Speaker of the Year by Campus Activities magazine and APCA.  A contributing author to the #1 New York Times Best-selling  book series Chicken Soup for the Soul, James provides an inspirational overview of the college experience and ways you can find success here at CBU!

Technology and You: Information Technology Orientation - ITS Department

The ITS Department at Christian Brothers University requires all new students to participate in a one hour orientation class.  Students will not receive an e-mail account or be able to obtain a long distance code until they have attended this class.  During the ITS orientation, you will learn how to log on to the network server named Sheba, change your Sheba password, connect to the campus network from a remote site, use voice mail, and obtain a long distance code.   

Theater Production

Come enjoy the CBU theatre production of “Graceland,” a performance featuring some of the University’s talented young dramatists.  The play will be offered in three performances on the Saturday, Sunday, and Monday of our Orientation Weekend.    

Welcome Back Party and Concert

Let’s start the school year off with a bang!  Come to the annual Welcome Back Party where you will find tons of things such as championship barbecue tasting, various contests and raffles, a great band, and much more.  This is another chance to hang out with your new suitemates and friends as well as meet some returning students. 

F.Y.I.

Parents, You’re Invited!

The faculty and staff of Christian Brothers University invite and encourage the parents of all new students to participate in Orientation with their son or daughter.  Orientation Weekend is designed to benefit both the students and the parents with activities such as an informational “Roots and Wings” session for parents, Greek sessions, and a “Home Away from Home” session for new residents.  Overall, the Parent Orientation activities are designed to give parents a better understanding of Christian Brothers University and what their son or daughter will experience in his or her years at CBU.

Taking Care of Business

In order to avoid the long lines, it is strongly suggested that local students visit the Student Financial Resources Office and the Business Office prior to Orientation.  These two offices are open each weekday during the summer.  The Business Office’s hours are 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. and the Student Financial Resources Office’s hours are 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. except on Monday, when they are open until 5:30 p.m.  Students may also conduct their business matters through the mail prior to their arrival on campus.  Payments can be directed to Christian Brothers University, c/o Business Office, 650 E. Parkway S., Memphis, TN 38104.  For those students who can not make it to the Business or Student Financial Resources Offices before Orientation, don’t worry!  Both offices will be open on Saturday, August 17, 2000 from 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Got Buc?

Get ready to show those pearly whites because one of the first things you will need to do when you arrive at CBU is get your picture ID, the Buc Card.  This ID is very important, as it will serve as your ticket to CBU sporting events as well as other campus-sponsored activities.  If you are a resident student, it will serve as your meal ticket as well.  The Buc Card is also used to check out books at CBU’s Plough Library and is acceptable for use in all college and university libraries in Memphis.  Because of long lines during Orientation, it is once again recommended that students go by the Security Office in St. Joseph’s Hall during the summer to get your picture ID.  Just make sure that you bring a copy of your class schedule with you to show proof of registration.  For those students who cannot make it to the Security Office before Orientation, the office will be open on Saturday, August 17 from 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

The Classroom Puzzle

Can’t remember whether you have Biology 111 or English 111 at 8:00 a.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays?  Not a problem!  Swing by the Registrar’s office before classes begin on Tuesday, August 20, and they will be happy to give you a copy of your schedule.  The office hours are 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.  This office will also be open on Saturday, August 17 from 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

CBU Bookstore

All the books you need for your classes can be purchased at the CBU bookstore.  The bookstore staff suggests that students do not purchase books until their class schedule is finalized.  However, it is a good idea to buy them soon after because there are a limited number of used books available at a reduced price.  The bookstore is also the place where you can purchase your first CBU tee shirt, mug, or key chain. 

Kick Back!

Although every student’s main purpose in attending college is to get an education, everyone needs a break once in a while.  For your recreational pleasure, CBU offers students an outside pool; the Swashbuckler Lounge complete with pool tables, ping-pong tables, video games, and a big screen television; tennis courts; basketball courts; a sand volleyball court; and the De La Salle gymnasium.  All of these facilities will be open during Orientation weekend.

Health Resources    

Along with an acceptance letter to CBU, every new student receives a student health form.  Both the Health Resource Office and the State Health Department require this form to be on file prior to entering the university.  Please fill out this form and send it back to CBU Admissions before Orientation begins.  If you have misplaced your health form, contact the Admissions Office at (901) 321-3205 to receive a new one.

Piecing the Campus Together

Are you worried that you won’t be able to find your first class on August 20?  Are you scared that you will end up in the Engineering Building for your 9:15 a.m. Philosophy class?  Don’t worry!  Soon the pathways of CBU will become very familiar, and the Admissions Office can help!  Student Ambassadors will be on hand from 3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 17 to give tours of the campus.  Take advantage of this wonderful opportunity to become more familiar with the Christian Brothers University campus.

Puzzled?

Have questions during Orientation?  Ask a member of our Orientation staff!  Orientation staff are students, faculty, and University personnel who play an important role in ensuring your satisfactions during your college years.  All staffers will be wearing CBU shirts and name tags, and they will be happy to assist you in any way possible.

Hotel Information

Christian Brothers University encourages all parents of new students, especially those from outside the Shelby County Area, to attend Orientation with their son or daughter.  Below is a description of four local hotels and information concerning their locations and rates.

Hampton Inn is located at 1180 Union Avenue approximately 2.5 miles from campus and 7 minutes by car.  They have a free deluxe continental breakfast, free HBO, an outdoor pool, a free USA Today newspaper, and free local phone calls.  An iron, ironing board, blow dryer, and clock radio are provided in every room.  They provide handicapped facilities and guarantee 100% satisfaction.  Their rate is $70 per night.  Reservations can be made by calling (901) 276-1175.  

French Quarter Suites Hotel is located at 2144 Madison Avenue between Union and Poplar Avenues, approximately 1 mile from campus and 2 minutes by car.  The room features either a king size bed or two queen size beds, a living room with wet bar, two telephones, two remote control televisions, and a double sized whirlpool tub.  They also offer complimentary in-room coffee, a free USA Today newspaper, free parking, free HBO, and an outdoor pool.  Their rate is $109 for weekend (Friday and Saturday) nights and $89 for Sunday-Thursday.  Reservations can be made by calling (901) 728-4000 or toll free 1-800-843-0353.

Holiday Inn Memphis East is located at 5795 Poplar Avenue approximately 8 miles from campus and 20 minutes by car.  Although this hotel is further from CBU, it is located in a less busy part of Memphis and is conveniently located on the interstate for easy access around Memphis.  Their rooms include desks, comfortable beds, coffee makers and coffee, hair dryers, irons and ironing boards, alarm clock radios, voice mail, data ports, cable TV, and free HBO.  The hotel also offers an indoor heated pool, whirlpool, a sauna, exercise facility, and free parking.  Their rate is $94.95 per night.  Reservations can be made by calling (901) 682-7881.

East Memphis Hilton is located at 5069 Sanderlin Avenue approximately 6 miles from campus and 14 minutes by car.  It resides in a quiet suburban setting in upscale East Memphis and provides easy access to I-240 and I-40.  In every room, you will find a refrigerator, workable desk, remote control television with cable and HBO, two telephones with voice mail and computer hookup, AM-FM-TV speakers in bath area, alarm-clock radios, coffee makers, hair dryers, irons and ironing boards.  The hotel also has an executive level with concierge on duty both day and night, heated indoor/outdoor pool, exercise area, complimentary coffee in the lobby, and access to tennis and racquetball courts.  Their rate is $99 per night.  Reservations can be made by calling (901) 767-6666.

These are just a few suggestions to help you in your search for a place to stay during New Student Orientation.  These four hotels are close to campus and are not hard to locate.  If you would like more information concerning other hotels, feel free to call the Memphis Visitors Information Center at (901) 543-5333.

We look forward to seeing you soon!