HIDDEN JOB MARKET
Students can also consider contacting employers and prospecting for jobs. Just because a company has not posted a position, does not mean it is not out there, since it is estimated that over 80% of positions are not advertised. Students can send their resume and a letter of inquiry as a cover letter to the organizations they have investigated.
The most important thing that a student can do between now and the time they graduate is to get experience, and get prepared.  Career Services can help every step of the way.

Submitted by Staci Heidtke, UW-Eau Claire Career Services
***************************

Campus Events:
Check out  University events and activities at:
http://www.uwec.edu/advantage/thingstodo/index.htm
***************************

I’m off campus for a meeting all day tomorrow and in only part of Friday.  I’m back next week if you have any questions. 
Have a great week—it’s getting warmer! 
 
Bonnie Isaacson
Nontraditional Student Adviser
Schofield Hall 226-E
Phone: 715-836-3259

Nurturing Thought:
“If we had no winter, the spring would not be so pleasant: if we did not sometimes taste of adversity, prosperity would not be so welcome.”
--Anne Bradstreet

BACK TO THE TOP

Monday, March 30, 2009

Hello All,
I’m meeting with lots of students who have questions on summer courses, scholarship information, personal concerns, general support and advising.  That’s what I am here for!  Let me know if I can be of assistance to you in any way.  If you would like to schedule an appointment, please call 836-3259 to get on my calendar so we can talk.  I love meeting with students!

Tomorrow:  Chancellor's Open Discussion on Budget. Chancellor Levin-Stankevich will discuss the status of the budget. Faculty, staff and students are invited to attend. Sponsored by the University Senate. Tamarack Room, Davies Center, 3 to 5 p.m., Tuesday March 31.

April 2 & 3, SWAP-O-RAMA:  Finding alternatives to consumerism.  Help yourself to donated items from the recent clothing drive.  Davies Cabin. Noon-4 pm.

Registration News:

Mid Semester Grades

Students with freshman classification will get mid-semester grades emailed to them on April 3. Students can also go to MyBlugold. A student should enter a username and password to login. Then select the My Info tab, choose Grades, Midterm/Final. The grades will come from each individual professor. If you do not receive a mid-term grade, it is a good time to check-in with your professor. University policy states that all freshmen should receive such reports.

Scholarship Information:
A.H. Zeppa Family Foundation Single Parent Scholarship and Internship Opportunity
Eligibility: Must be a single parent. Must be a currently enrolled student at UW-Eau Claire in good academic standing, have at least a 2.0 g.p.a. on 12 credits at the time of application and have potential for academic and career success. Must demonstrate financial need as determined by the UW-Eau Claire Financial Aid Office. All applicants must have a current FAFSA on file.
Preference will be given to students pursuing their first undergraduate degree, although second degree and graduate students will be considered.
Award: $1,000 for scholarship; up to $1,000 in internship stipend
Number of awards: Varies
Description: In addition to a $1,000 scholarship, a student can receive up to $1,000 stipend for an internship. These internships are very flexible and can be arranged to fit your schedule. They can be for credit (one, two or three credits) or not for credit; part-time or full-time during the summer, fall, winterim or spring. They can include internships required for your major. Compensation will depend on the number of hours involved in the internship.
Deadline: April 1st for scholarship; July 1st for completing internship paperwork
Online Application
Printable Application
Online fill-in form (must have Adobe 7 or higher to access)

Single Parent Scholarship Program
Eligibility: Applicants must be currently-enrolled UW-Eau Claire students, in good academic standing with the potential for academic and career success, a single custodial parent with dependent children, and demonstrate financial need not met by traditional forms of financial assistance. Preference is given to female returning students. All scholarship applicants must have a FAFSA on file in the Financial Aid Office. Notifications of the award determinations will be sent to award recipients only by the approximate award dates noted in the scholarships.
Award: Variable
Number Awarded Yearly: Varies depending on funding
Deadline:December 1st for spring awards and April 1st for fall awards.
Award Determination: Approximately mid-January for spring awards, and mid-May for fall awards
Online Application
Printable Application
Online fill-in form (must have Adobe 7 or higher to access)

Fall Course Registration:
All admitted, regular students will register for fall classes soon, (according to your registration appointment). Special students can register for fall classes beginning on August 27. 

Take note of these summer course offerings that are available in Philosophy and Religious Studies; English; and in Anthropology!

Interim May 18-June 5
RELS 100 Intro to the Religions of the World, M-F, 9:15-12:15, Dr. Steve Fink; Fulfills GE-IVB, Foreign Culture and Cultural Diversity
RELS 100 Intro to the Religions of the World, M-F, 1:00-4:00, Kay Kennedy; Fulfills GE-IVB, Foreign Culture and Cultural Diversity
RELS 353 Emancipating Eve and Adam, M-F, 9:15-12:15, Dr. JoAnne Juett; Fulfills GE-IVB
PHIL 120 Moral Problems in Contemporary Life, M-F, 9:15-12:15, Dr. Matt Meyer; Fulfills GE-IVB
PHIL 310 Philosophy of Law, M-F, 1:00-4:00, Dr. Sean McAleer; Fulfills GE-IVB

June 8-July 2
RELS 110 Basic Issues in Religion, M-Th, 9:15-12:00, Steve Spina; Fulfills GE-IVB and Foreign Culture

Registration is ongoing so please register as soon as possible -- $100 down payment is not required until April 24, 2009!

ANTH 161 Introduction to Cultural Anthropology
GE IIIA Social Science-Anthropology
Meets Foreign Culture Requirement
Cross-listed with AIS 161
Credit may not be earned in both ANTH 161 and AIS 161

Culture as the human means of environmental adaptation.
Explores cross-cultural regularities and the range of
variation in human behavior. Comparison of widely
different economic, social, political, and religious
systems.
Call# 5506   Section 001    3.0 cr
May 18-June 05
8:30am-11:30am   Mon.Tue.Wed.Thu.Fri.   SSS 107
Instructor: Smith, B. Jill

ENGL 110 Introduction to College Writing
Not for GE
P: One of the following: a UWENGL standard score of 375
or higher, a UWEPT standard score of 490 or higher, an
ACT English score of 18 or higher, an SAT writing
score of 430 or higher, a C or above in ENGL 099, a B
or above in ESL 305, a TOEFL score of 600 or higher
S/U grade basis not allowed
Writing assignments will range from informal, reflective
pieces about personal experience and observations to a
more formal research project on a chosen topic. Class
sessions will include time for individual conferences and
for work in a computer lab and in McIntyre Library.
Call# 5045   Section 001    5.0 cr
June 08-July 16
9:00am-12:00pm   Mon.Tue.Wed.Thu.   HHH 226
Instructor: Welch, Karen A.

Are you a Nontraditional Student with Children?
We want to hear from your kids.  If your child is interested, we’d like to have him/her write a couple of sentences about or draw a picture of Mom or Dad as a nontraditional student.  We’ll make a collage of these writings and drawings and display in the Oasis Room.  Please have your submissions to me by Monday, April 13th. 

I’ll have a folder at the front desk of Advising (Schofield Hall 226—my office area) for you to drop off your writings and drawings.  Please put your child’s first name and age on the item.  There is no age limit on this—younger or older children’s writings and drawings are welcome!!

Campus Events:
Check out  University events and activities at:
http://www.uwec.edu/advantage/thingstodo/index.htm

Have a great week!  For those of you who are counting…. 6 weeks until final exams!

 
Bonnie Isaacson
Nontraditional Student Adviser
Schofield Hall 226-E
Phone: 715-836-3259

Nurturing Thought:

“If you don't design your own life plan, chances are you'll fall into someone else's plan. And guess what they have planned for you? Not much.”
--Jim Rohn

BACK TO THE TOP

Monday, March 23, 2009

Welcome back to campus as we enter the last stretch of the spring semester!  I hope that you had a restful break-- a chance to catch up on sleep, reading, homework, or whatever filled your time over break.  Kathy and I worked all week—tidied and cleaned the Oasis room so you would come back to a fresh room to hang out in. 

There are only 7 weeks of classes until finals week!!  Can you hang in there?  Are you struggling?  Feel you need help with anything?  There is no reason to try to muddle through on your own! If you need help don’t be afraid to ask me—I’ll connect you to the right resource on campus.

Registration is just around the corner.  You are invited to attend a “Registration Tips” presentation this Wednesday in my Gen 100 class.  Class meets from 11-11:50 in the Old Library.  Students in my class will learn important information on the registration process and I wanted to open it up to all nontraditional students who might have an interest too.

Are you a Nontraditional Student with Children?
We want to hear from your kids.  If your child is interested, we’d like to have him/her write a couple of sentences about or draw a picture of Mom or Dad as a nontraditional student.  We’ll make a collage of these writings and drawings and display in the Oasis Room.  Please have your submissions to me by Monday, April 6th. 

I’ll have a folder at the front desk of Advising (Schofield Hall 226—my office area) for you to drop off your writings and drawings.  Please put your child’s first name and age on the item.  There is no age limit on this—younger or older children’s writings and drawings are welcome!!
*****************

I wanted to highlight the upcoming scholarships that are available with an application deadline date of April 1.

American Association of University Women Scholarship
Eau Claire Branch
Eligibility: Scholarships are available to returning women students at UW-Eau Claire. Applicants must be 23 or older, currently enrolled in or returning to an undergraduate or graduate degree program and in good academic standing (GPA of 2.0 or above). Applications will be available and accepted from January 1 through March 31.
Award: Variable
Number Awarded Yearly: Varies
Deadline: April 1st
Award Determination: Before the end of spring semester
Printable Application
Online Fill-in Form (must have Adobe 7 or higher to access)

Robert & Ellen Tenney Moore
Returning Adult Scholarship
Eligibility: Adult students attending UW-Eau Claire, full or part-time, who demonstrates financial needs not met by traditional forms of financial assistance. Must have FAFSA on file with the Financial Aid Office. Notification of the award determination will be sent to award recipient only by the approximate award date noted in the scholarship.
Preference is given to a female returning adult student.
Award: $500
Number Awarded Yearly: One
Deadline: April 1st
Award Determination: Approximately mid-May
Online Application
Printable Application
Online Fill-in Form (must have Adobe 7 or higher to access)

Lyla Flagler Award
Eligibility: Mature individuals who formerly attended UW-Eau Claire without graduating and returned to complete their degree. Recipients must display financial need and should formerly have had an above-average scholastic record when they first attended the University. Notification of the award determination will be sent to award recipient only by the approximate award date noted in the scholarship.
Award: $600
Number Awarded Yearly: Varies
Deadline: April 1st
Award Determination: Approximately mid-May
Online Application
Printable Application
Online Fill-in Form (must have Adobe 7 or higher to access)

Wilbur, Valaria Kopplin Memorial
Eligibility: Recipient must be a self-supporting adult student or an adult of a self-supporting family unit attending as a full- time junior or senior undergraduate carrying a minimum of 12 credit hours or is a graduate student carrying a minimum of 9 credit hours. Student must be from Northwestern Wisconsin, preferably from the Fall Creek High School. Student must maintain a 2.5 GPA (on a 4.0 scale). Financial need must be documented. Preference will be given to those who do not have adequate financial aid or scholarship resources available. Use of the scholarship is restricted to tuition or other expenses through UW-Eau Claire (tuition credit awarded, not cash). This scholarship is renewable. Notification of the award determination will be sent to award recipient only by the approximate award date noted in the scholarship.
Award: $300
Number Awarded Yearly: One
Priority Deadline: April 1st
Award Determination: Approximately mid-May
Online Application
Printable Application
Online Fill-in Form (must have Adobe 7 or higher to access)

Single Parent Scholarship Program
Eligibility: Applicants must be currently-enrolled UW-Eau Claire students, in good academic standing with the potential for academic and career success, a single custodial parent with dependent children, and demonstrate financial need not met by traditional forms of financial assistance. Preference is given to female returning students. All scholarship applicants must have a FAFSA on file in the Financial Aid Office. Notifications of the award determinations will be sent to award recipients only by the approximate award dates noted in the scholarships.
Award: Variable
Number Awarded Yearly: Varies depending on funding
Deadline: December 1st for spring awards and April 1st for fall awards.
Award Determination: Approximately mid-January for spring awards, and mid-May for fall awards
Online Application
Printable Application
Online fill-in form (must have Adobe 7 or higher to access)
If you have trouble accessing any of the applications, go directly to the NSS website at: http://www.uwec.edu/advising/nss/scholar.htm
*******************

Registration News:

Mid Semester Grades

Students with freshman classification will get mid-semester grades emailed to them on April 3. Students can also go to MyBlugold. A student should enter a username and password to login. Then select the My Info tab, choose Grades, Midterm/Final. The grades will come from each individual professor. If you do not receive a mid-term grade, it is a good time to check-in with your professor. University policy states that all freshmen should receive such reports.

Summer Activities
If are looking for summer activities for your children check out the Continuing Education website, http://www.uwec.edu/ce/youth/index.htm, for information on summer youth programs offered at UW-Eau Claire and in the community.

Health Care For Adults With No Dependent Children

Important Note: Effective January 1st, 2009, individuals enrolled in County health care plans between December 1, 2008 and December 31, 2008, were transitioned into the BadgerCare Plus Core Plan for Childless Adults. 
The Department will begin accepting applications for the Core Plan starting June 1, 2009.  The earliest enrollment date will be July 1, 2009.
The BadgerCare Plus Core Plan will be a limited plan that covers basic health care services, including primary and preventive care as well as generic drugs. You will be able to enroll in the BadgerCare Plus Core Plan for Childless Adults, if you:

• Are a Wisconsin resident;
• Are a U.S. citizen or legal immigrant;
• Are age 19 through 64;
• Do not have children or do not have dependent children, under age 19 living with you;
• Are not pregnant;
• Have family income at or below 200% of the federal poverty level guidelines ($1,805 for a single person and $2,428.33 for a married couple*); 
• Do not have private health insurance coverage when you request Core Plan coverage or in the 12 months before that date; 
• Do not currently have access to insurance from an employer;
• Cannot sign up for insurance from an employer during month of application or next three months;
• Did not have access to insurance from an employer in the 12 months before you request Core Plan coverage; and
• Are not getting BadgerCare Plus, Medicaid or Medicare.

*For current guidelines go to badgercareplus.org/fpl.htm.

Please keep in mind, the earliest you may be able to apply is June 1, 2009. No applications will be accepted before this date.

New student center to be town hall meeting focus
Members of the UW-Eau Claire campus and greater Eau Claire communities are invited to a town hall meeting Tuesday, March 24, to discuss the proposed new student center on campus. The open town hall meeting will run from 5:30-8 p.m. in the Alumni Room of Davies Center.
During the meeting, architects from the Philadelphia-based architectural firm Burt, Hill and the Wisconsin-based firm Bray Architects will provide an overview of the project. The formal presentation will be followed by a question-and-answer session

Forum speaker to address health effects of stress
Stanford University neurobiologist Robert M. Sapolsky will present "Why Zebras Don't Get Ulcers" at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 25, in UW-Eau Claire's Zorn Arena as part of the university's Forum series.

Sapolsky, recipient of a MacArthur Foundation genius grant, is known for his work on the effects of stress on brain chemistry and human health. In his book, "Why Zebras Don't Get Ulcers," he explains the human response to stress and its effects. The physiological responses experienced by humans and animals are identical, but because humans do not resolve conflict as animals do, through fight or flight, years of unresolved stress can make the human body ill. His lecture will include the human capacity for preventing problems associated with stress. Full story.

Friday, March 27
Majors and Student Services Fair. Two events formerly separate have been brought together. The fair offers a relaxed atmosphere where students can speak to department faculty, staff and students representing UW-Eau Claire's majors, minors and pre-professional programs. Representatives from student services departments also will be available to describe the full range of services offered to students. Council Fire Room, Davies Center, noon to 1:30 p.m. More information
.
Relay for Life.
Members of Colleges Against Cancer are organizing this year's American Cancer Society's Relay for Life to be held on the McPhee Ade Olson Center indoor track. Relay for Life is an overnight event that unites the community in a common effort to raise funds for cancer research, education, advocacy and patient services. The event begins with an opening ceremony at 7 p.m. More information.

Saturday, March 28
Spring Thaw Run/Walk. The UW-Eau Claire Student Athletic Training Association will host Spring Thaw 2009, a 5K run/walk. Participants may sign in beginning at 8 a.m. in the Council Fire Room of Davies Center. The 5K race begins at 9 a.m. and a 1/2-mile race for children begins at 9:45 a.m. Registration fee: $15 for UW-Eau Claire students; $20 for the public. Additional information is available on the event's Web site. More information.

Children's Planetarium Program.
Today's show, "Constellations, Myths and Legends," is aimed at children 4-12. Tickets are $2 and will be sold at the planetarium before the show. L.E. Phillips Planetarium, 11 a.m. See related item March 24. More information.

Sunday, March 29
Hmong Culture Fest. The theme of this year's event is "Hmong Generation Y." The culture fest is held annually at UW-Eau Claire to offer information about the Hmong culture and provide an opportunity for people from different cultures to meet and socialize. Council Fire Room, Davies Center, 1 to 6 p.m. More information.

Monday, March 30
Distinguished speaker Terry Gips, will be speaking on the topic of sustainability next, at 5:00 p.m. in Schofield Auditorium.
This event is free and open to the public. Please encourage your friends and neighbors, both in the university and the community, to attend.
****************

Looking Ahead:

Grandparents University
Where Generations Learn Together
Saturday, June 20th, 2009
UW-Eau Claire’s Grandparents University (GU) is an interactive learning adventure designed for you and your grandchildren (ages 8-12).  You’ll attend exciting GU courses together with your grandkids on the beautiful UW-Eau Claire campus.  Children may also be accompanied by a special older adult who is not their grandparent—anyone who wants to share their love of learning with a child and be a Blugold for a day is welcome!  All GU participants will attend opening and closing keynote classes together and walk short distances to campus academic buildings for morning and afternoon classes.  All GU classes are proudly taught by dynamic UW-EC faculty and staff. 
To read full GU course descriptions and learn about program and registration details, please click here.
Grandparents University courses include:
*  The Pressure’s On: Amazing Science Demonstrations Using Pressure! Dr. Erik Hendrickson, Department of Physics and Astronomy
*   Learning by Heart--The Art of Making Memories: Dr. Ann Collier, Department of Psychology
*   Backyard Star Gazers: Dr. Nathan Miller, Department of Physics and Astronomy
*  Think Small: Nanoscience: Dr. Marc Mc Ellistrem, Department of Chemistry
*   Native American Skills & Craft: Dr. Jill Smith, Department of Geography and Anthropology
*   Ancient Origins of the Alphabet: Dr. Arlyn Anderson, Department of Communication and Journalism
*   Backyard Bug Safari: Kelly Murray, Department of Biology
*  Shakespeare Alive! Dr. Theresa Kemp, Department of English
To register, or for more information, please click here.
Or contact UW-Eau Claire Continuing Education
www.uwec.edu/ce | ce@uwec.edu
715-836-3636 | toll-free 866-893-2423
210 Water Street | Eau Claire, WI 54703

Have a great week!!
Bonnie
 
Bonnie Isaacson
Nontraditional Student Adviser
Schofield Hall 226-E
Phone: 715-836-3259

Nurturing Thought:

Success has taught me little, failure has given me an
ongoing source of education that is priceless.
Covering up our failures, blaming others and not being flexible
has cost all of us immeasurable wisdom.
During this time of restructuring our lives and work, the message is clear.
What I really need is a daily assessment.  Priorities are constantly questioned. 
Learning and knowledge are evaluated and embraced.
                                                                    ~~Mike McKinley

BACK TO THE TOP

Monday, March 9, 2009

Hello All,
Well, the cold season is not over yet.  It hit me last week (and several others in our unit) as I was out several days with a sinus infection.  Doing much better this week and it feels good to feel good again! 

Since I was gone much of last week, I have extended the deadline to submit nominations for the OWL award until this Friday, March 13th.  Thank you to those who have already submitted their nominations! Nominations for the OWL AWARD due to me (isaacsbj@uwec.edu) by Friday, March 13.

YOUR CHANCE TO RECOGNIZE OUTSTANDING FACULTY Who Teach, Mentor & Encourage Nontraditional Students at UWEC.
If you would like to nominate an outstanding faculty member for this award, please write a letter of nomination (a couple of paragraphs and via email is fine) explaining your reasons for the nomination.  All faculty who are nominated will receive a Certificate of Appreciation, and the Nontraditional Student Advisory Committee will select one faculty member from among the nominees to receive the “OWL AWARD,”  a special plaque that recognizes one faculty member annually for helping “Older Wiser Learners” reach their academic potential.  This award will be presented to the winner in April.  

For those interested--here is a good website with summer school information. http://www.uwec.edu/summer/.

FOR CLARIFICATION FROM A PREVIOUS NEWSLETTER:
The schedule for when finals exams are happening will be posted on MyBlugold beginning on Feb. 27.  Finals week is May 11-15. You can check to see when your finals will be held, because many are not during your regular class period.

Registration News:

Mid Semester Grades

Students with freshman classification will get mid-semester grades emailed to them on April 3. Students can also go to MyBlugold. A student should enter a username and password to login. Then select the My Info tab, choose Grades, Midterm/Final. The grades will come from each individual professor. If you do not receive a mid-term grade, it is a good time to check-in with your professor. University policy states that all freshmen should receive such reports.

Viennese Ball Needs YOU! – Volunteers are need to help with set-up and tear-down for the Viennese Ball the week of April 12-19.  Help is also needed with coat check on the evenings of the Ball, as well as with sales in the market.  Volunteers have the opportunity to earn a pass to attend the Viennese Ball.  The Viennese Ball is scheduled for April 17 and 18, 2009.  If interested in volunteering, please contact Amanda Seveland (hillac@uwec.edu; 836-4419).  For more information on the Viennese Ball, please visit www.uwec.edu/activities/vball.

Campus Activities for the week:
Tuesday, March 10
Foster Gallery Exhibit. Gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekdays, 6 to 8 p.m. Thursdays and 1 to 4:30 p.m. weekends.

Viennese Ball Gown Sale. The sale, made possible by Marry-Go-Round Occasions of Strum, will feature a large selection of popular gown styles valued at $150 to $400 but priced from $59 to $99. Ho-Chunk and Oneida rooms, Davies Center, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Also March 11. More information.

Women's Herstory Month Event. Today Minnijean Brown Trickey will present "Return to Little Rock: a Seminal Moment in American Education and Civil Rights." Brown Trickey was one of the nine students from Little Rock High School who integrated the public school system during the Civil Rights Movement. Schofield Auditorium, 7 p.m.; Reception — Presidents Room, Davies Center, 8:30 p.m. See related item March 11. More information.

Planetarium Program. Tonight's show, "Ancient Horizons," a presentation about ancient Egyptian astronomy," is recommended for adults and children 12 and older. Tickets are $2 and will be sold at the planetarium before the show. L.E. Phillips Planetarium, 7 p.m. More information.

Wednesday, March 11
Women's Herstory Month Events. Today Minniejean Brown Trickey, one of the nine students from Little Rock High School who integrated the public school system during the Civil Rights Movement, will have coffee with students at 9 a.m. in the Skylight Lounge, Davies Center, and will speak at 10 a.m. in Davies Theatre. See related item March 10. More information.

Thursday, March 12
'Empty Bowls' Fundraiser. UW-Eau Claire ceramics students once again are pitching in to help fight hunger in the Chippewa Valley by donating 200 handmade ceramic bowls to the Feed My People Food Bank for the organization's "Empty Bowls" fundraiser, a lunch and supper of soup, specialty breads and desserts. Trinity Lutheran Church, 1314 East Lexington Blvd., Eau Claire, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. More information, including ticket prices.

REMEMBER:
Spring Break Monday, March 16 through March 22. Classes resume Monday, March 23.

Have a great time during your spring break!
Bonnie

 Bonnie Isaacson
Nontraditional Student Adviser
Schofield Hall 226-E
Phone: 715-836-3259

Nurturing Thought:
In every success story, you find someone has made a courageous decision.
--Peter F. Drucker

BACK TO THE TOP

Monday, February 23, 2009

Hi All,
It is good to see the sun shining today.  With March next week we know that spring is just around the corner!  We are beginning the 5th week of the semester--one-third of the way into it.  Hope you are settled into your classes, enjoying them, and doing well.  If anyone is experiencing any stress or anxiety and would like to know about campus resources—ask.  There is much help available for all students on campus.

Tuesday. Feb. 24
Planetarium Program. "Lifestyles of the Stars," is recommended for adults and children 11 and older. Tickets are $2 and will be sold at the planetarium before the show. L.E. Phillips Planetarium, 7 p.m. See related item Feb. 28. More information

FINANCIAL INFORMATIONAL SESSION FOR NONTRADS:

It’s hard enough being an adult student and having financial struggles just adds to the stress. Join us as we explore the topic of “Dealing With a Drop in Income”.  I will share information with you from the Richland County UW-Extension Office on:

• How to manage your cash flow
• What to do if you can’t pay bills
• Deciding which debt to pay first
• How to find out your credit score
• And more

Two sessions will be offered—attend the session of your choice:
1. Brown Bag Lunch, Wednesday, Feb. 25th , 12:10-12:50 p.m. in the Potawatomi Room of Davies Center (second floor).  Grab your lunch and eat while you learn valuable information during these tough economic times. 
OR
2. Thursday, March 5th, 3:20 – 4:00 p.m. in the Arrowhead Room of Davies Center.
*********************

Black Student Association Panel:
On Being Black at UW-Eau Claire
Learn firsthand what Black students experience on-campus and in Eau Claire while trying to maintain
their cultural identities. 
Thursday, Feb. 26, 2009
Presidents Room, Davies Center
11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. (feel free to come & go as necessary)
Light refreshments
Moderator:    Dr. Selika Ducksworth-Lawton, History
Panel:             Anastasia Davis, sophomore, Broadcast Journalism
                        Abou Amara, senior, Sociology
                        Tamika Marchbanks, sophomore, Biology
                        Joe Webb, Asst. Football Coach & Multicultural Recruiter
                                 
Sponsored by the Office of Multicultural Affairs & Black Student Association
*********************

REGISTRATION NEWS:

FINANCIAL AID NEWS:

Remember, file your FAFSA renewal for fall 2009/spring 2010 as soon as you have your 2008 federal tax return completed.  Some types of aid are awarded based on application date.  So, the sooner you apply, the better your chances at certain types of aid.  If you have special circumstances related to your finances, please see a financial aid counselor (Schofield Hall 226) to determine if an appeal is in order for you.

Scholarship News:
Riverland Energy Cooperative Scholarship
Eligibility: Applicant, spouse, or parent/guardian must be a member in "good standing" of Riverland Energy Cooperative, which includes Buffalo and Trempealeau, and parts of Pepin, Eau Claire, Jackson, and La Crosse counties. Must also be a nontraditional student returning to UW-Eau Claire after having spent a minimum time of three years in the work place or raising a family. The recipient must be enrolled with a minimum of 5 credits in a course of study leading to an associate or bachelors degree and have a 2.0 or better GPA during the current semester. Applicants can pick up an application form at the Nontraditional Student Services Office, Schofield Hall 226 or access online at: www.riverlandenergy.com under Youth Programs. Return applications to Nontraditional Student Services, Schofield 226 by March 15th. Note: Correct application is not the “At-Large” version and must include an Instructor Recommendation.
Award: $750
Number Awarded Yearly: One
Deadline: March 15th
**********************

REMINDER:
Nominations for the OWL AWARD due to me (isaacsbj@uwec.edu) by Friday, March 6.
YOUR CHANCE TO RECOGNIZE OUTSTANDING FACULTY Who Teach, Mentor & Encourage Nontraditional Students at UWEC.
If you would like to nominate an outstanding faculty member for this award, please write a letter of nomination (a couple of paragraphs and via email is fine) explaining your reasons for the nomination.  All faculty who are nominated will receive a Certificate of Appreciation, and the Nontraditional Student Advisory Committee will select one faculty member from among the nominees to receive the “OWL AWARD,”  a special plaque that recognizes one faculty member annually for helping “Older Wiser Learners” reach their academic potential.  This award will be presented to the winner in April.  
************************

Saturday, Feb. 28
Children's Planetarium Program. "Larry, Cat in Space," is aimed at children 4-12. Tickets are $2 and will be sold at the planetarium before the show. L.E. Phillips Planetarium, 11 a.m. See related item Feb. 24. More information.

Campus Films. "The Visitor." (U.S. 2007, 104 min., directed by Thomas McCarthy, rated PG-13.) A humorless economics professor (Richard Jenkins) travels from Connecticut to New York to attend a conference and finds a Syrian man and his Senegalese girlfriend living in the Greenwich Village apartment he rarely uses. The couple has nowhere to go; surprisingly, he is touched by them and allows them to stay. Sponsored by the International Film Society. Tickets are $2 at the Service Center for IFS members and UW-Eau Claire faculty/staff or $1 for UW-Eau Claire students. Davies Theatre, 6 and 8:30 p.m. Through March 1. More information.

Foster Gallery Exhibit. A new exhibit titled "Teapots: Functional, Formal, Narrative" opens today and will be on display through March 29. The exhibit is co-curated by Susan O'Brien, a ceramist and art & design faculty member at UW-Eau Claire, and Margaret Bohls, a ceramicist and art faculty member at the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities. Both also are exhibitors. An opening reception will be held from 7:30 to 9 p.m. Thursday, 2/26 in the gallery. Gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekdays, 6 to 8 p.m. Thursdays and 1 to 4:30 p.m. weekends. More information.

University Theatre. Featuring Benjamin Britten's "Albert Herring," directed by Mitra Sadeghpour. The production, a comic chamber opera performed in three acts, is based on a short story by Guy de Maupassant. It is a coming-of-age adventure about a simple English grocer's lad who has been unwittingly selected as Loxford's first-ever May King. Gantner Concert Hall, Haas Fine Arts Center, 7:30 p.m. Through Feb. 28 and March 5-7 at 7:30 p.m. and March 8 at 1:30 p.m. More information

Monday, March 2--LGBTQ Discussion/Gathering. LGBTQ faculty, staff, students and allies are invited to a social gathering to discuss the creation of a sense of community for LGBTQ faculty, staff and students at UW-Eau Claire. Presidents Room, Davies Center, 4:30 to 6 p.m. More information.

Bone marrow registration drive set for March 3
A bone marrow registration drive will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday, March 3, in the Oneida and Ho-Chunk rooms of the Davies Center as part of second annual Eberth Alarcón Peace and Justice Lecture Series. The process takes only minutes, and those interested in donating may come any time during those hours.
The Eberth Alarcón Peace and Justice Memorial Lecture Series was created as a tribute to the life of Dr. Eberth Alarcón, associate professor of mathematics at UW-Eau Claire, who died Sept. 26, 2006, after a battle against acute leukemia. Alarcón was known for his energy and passion for teaching and social justice.  See a recent news release and the Staff and Faculty for Peace and Justice Web site for more information.
********************************

Find other things to do on campus at: http://www.uwec.edu/advantage/thingstodo/index.htm

Did you know?....
…that you can meet with an attorney at UWEC?  Harry Hertel is on campus one day a week.  Check out this link:  http://www.uwec.edu/studentsenate/eventsservices/legal/

Have a great week!

Bonnie Isaacson
Nontraditional Student Adviser
Schofield Hall 226-E
Phone: 715-836-3259

Nurturing Thought:
“Some people grin and bear it; others smile and do it”
--unknown

BACK TO THE TOP

Tuesday, February 17, 2009

Hello All,
For many adult students returning to school means leaving a fulltime job and working part-time hours.  Some leave their job altogether to complete a degree.  Whatever your situation, being in school probably means your budget has changed. We are planning an informational session at two different times in the next two weeks to talk about “Dealing With a Drop in Income”. The session times are listed below.  I hope you will be able to attend one of the sessions if this is a topic of concern to you.

INFORMATIONAL SESSION FOR NONTRADS:

It’s hard enough being an adult student and having financial struggles just adds to the stress. Join us as we explore the topic of “Dealing With a Drop in Income”.  I will share information with you from the Richland County UW-Extension Office on:

• How to manage your cash flow
• What to do if you can’t pay bills
• Deciding which debt to pay first
• How to find out your credit score
• And more

Two sessions will be offered—attend the session of your choice:
1. Brown Bag Lunch on Wednesday, Feb. 25th , 12:10-12:50 p.m. in the Potawatomi Room of Davies Center (second floor).  Grab your lunch and eat while you learn valuable information during these tough economic times. 
OR
2. Thursday, March 5th, 3:20 – 4:00 p.m. in the Arrowhead Room of Davies Center.
*********************

Davies Redevelopment Project - The Davies Redevelopment Project is seeking input from all students on the location of the new building. It is importantfor students to attend a meeting on Tuesday, February 17,  at 4 p.m. in the Menomonie Room so that their opinion can be considered for this decision. The two sites under consideration include:
a.  The open green space near the nursing building and by current Davies center parking lot, expanding the campus mall to include Little Niagara.
b.  A building connected to Zorn where Campus School is currently between Schneider.
 Please attend to have your voice heard!  Pizza and refreshments will be provided.  Please contact Tim Lauer (lauertd@uwec.edu) with any questions.
****************

Black History Month events continue
The following Black History Month events are planned this week at UW-Eau Claire:
--Dr. Ryan Jones, music and theatre arts, will present "Stevie Wonder and 1970s Musical Activism" from 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 17, in the Presidents Room, Davies Center. Free admission, light refreshments
--A faculty forum will be presented from noon-2 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 18, in Schofield Auditorium. The topic will be "We've Elected a Black President, Where Do We Go From Here? Race Relations and the Obama Effect." Featured faculty will include Dr. Selika Ducksworth-Lawton, history; Jones; Dr. David Shih, English and UW-Eau Claire's equity, diversity and inclusivity fellow; Dr. Richard St. Germaine, history; and Dr. Dwight C. Watson, College of Education and Human Sciences.
--A "Soul Food Buffet" will be offered from 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 19 in The Dulany, Davies Center.
******************

Winter Carnival celebration takes place this week
Winter Carnival 2009 — "Let the Good Times Snow" — is set for Feb. 18-22 at UW-Eau Claire.
Highlights include a sold-out concert by reigning "American Idol" David Cook, a comedy showcase featuring Comedy Central funny guys Sheng Wang and Chad Daniels, the fifth annual Mr. Freeze competition and a midnight screening of "The Rocky Horror Picture Show." The celebration also features a number of outdoor recreation activities. See the full schedule of Winter Carnival events.
****************

Friday, Feb. 20
Kids' Night Out Program. Blugold athletic teams and coaches will lead activities and games for children 5-12. The cost is $10 per child. For more information, call Todd Glaser at 836-3093. View additional information and registration form. McPhee Physical Education Center, 6 to 9 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 21
Ice Fishing Contest. Tickets are $10 and are available at the Environmental Adventure Center or at the lake the day of the event. Valid Wisconsin fishing license required. Contact Andy Jepsen at jepsenan@uwec.edu or 836-2176 for more information. Lake Altoona, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. More information.

Children's Planetarium Program. Saturday's show, "Larry, Cat in Space," is aimed at children 4-12. Tickets are $2 and will be sold at the planetarium before the show. L.E. Phillips Planetarium, 11 a.m. More information.
**************

Third civil rights trip planned for spring break
Another group of UW-Eau Claire students will spend their spring break on a Civil Rights Pilgrimage to the South, visiting sites of historic importance to the U.S. civil rights movement.
Students who take the March 13-22  trip also may also choose to register for one class credit (HIST 280, "History Travel Seminar") or to participate in a faculty/student research project coordinated by student planners Janna Casperson, Sarah Gonzalez and Tony Och.
Registration for the trip will continue until all 50 slots are filled. Students may register on a first-come, first-served basis in the Student Senate office, Room 132, Davies Center, from 8 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. weekdays. Full story
****************

News to Know:

Tuition Information:

Registration Information:

FINANCIAL AID NEWS:

Remember, file your FAFSA renewal for fall 2009/spring 2010 as soon as you have your 2008 federal tax return completed.  Some types of aid are awarded based on application date.  So, the sooner you apply, the better your chances at certain types of aid.  If you have special circumstances related to your finances, please see a financial aid counselor (Schofield Hall 226) to determine if an appeal is in order for you.

Scholarship News:
Riverland Energy Cooperative Scholarship
Eligibility: Applicant, spouse, or parent/guardian must be a member in "good standing" of Riverland Energy Cooperative, which includes Buffalo and Trempealeau, and parts of Pepin, Eau Claire, Jackson, and La Crosse counties. Must also be a nontraditional student returning to UW-Eau Claire after having spent a minimum time of three years in the work place or raising a family. The recipient must be enrolled with a minimum of 5 credits in a course of study leading to an associate or bachelors degree and have a 2.0 or better GPA during the current semester. Applicants can pick up an application form at the Nontraditional Student Services Office, Schofield Hall 226 or access online at: www.riverlandenergy.com under Youth Programs. Return applications to Nontraditional Student Services, Schofield 226 by March 15th. Note: Correct application is not the “At-Large” version and must include an Instructor Recommendation.
Award: $750
Number Awarded Yearly: One
Deadline: March 15th

Are you aware of all the resources and opportunities for involvement available to you as a student at UWEC? Tutoring—Counseling—Support Groups—Student Organizations—Movies—Planetarium—Bird Museum—Sporting Events—Concerts—Art Shows--Artist Series—the Forum—and more!  If you have an interest you will more than likely be able to find an activity or have a need met on campus.   Many events are free or very low cost for you and your family.  Just ask!!

Have a good week.

Bonnie Isaacson
Nontraditional Student Adviser
Schofield Hall 226-E
Phone: 715-836-3259

Nurturing Thought:
Always bear in mind that your own resolution to succeed
is more important than any other.
--Abraham Lincoln

BACK TO THE TOP

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

Hello All,
What a nice change in the weather to have a break from the cold temps that we had last week!  I feel like spring is just around the corner.  By the way, did you know that spring break is only 4.5 weeks away? 

Some of you are receiving this email newsletter for the first time this week.  I am the adviser to the nontraditional students (defined as age 24 and older, or under 24 but married or a parent; military veterans; a significant break since high school).  I send out this informational newsletter about once a week to keep you informed of important campus information.

News to Know:

Tuition Information:

Registration Information:

University Writing Center opens in CETL
UW-Eau Claire's English Writing Center has moved to the new Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning in Room 1142 of the Old Library and is offering expanded services under its new name: the University Writing Center.

The new University Writing Center has a mission to help university students, faculty and staff with writing tasks for any purpose or discipline.

Dr. Karen Welch, director of the English Composition Program, is serving as interim director of the University Writing Center. "The Writing Center isn't only for struggling writers," Welch said. "It is a place for all writers on this campus to discuss their drafts or writing tasks, to seek feedback from trained staff, and to use what they learn in those discussions to review and help strengthen their writing."  Hours are Monday –Thursday, 9 am – 3 pm and Friday, 9 am – noon.  Phone 836-2644 or walk-in to schedule an appointment.
*******************************

Black History Month
Dr. Selika Ducksworth-Lawton presents:
Civil Rights, Martin Luther King Jr. & Barack Obama …
How we got here!

Ducksworth-Lawton traces America’s Black Civil Rights history
from the 1920’s to the election of Barack Obama.
Thursday, Feb. 12, 2009,  11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Presidents Room, Davies Center
Free admission, light refreshments
Sponsored by the Office of Multicultural Affairs & the dept. of History

More Black History Month Events:
http://www.uwec.edu/multicultural/documents/09%20Feb~BHM%20events.pdf
***********************************

Saturday, Feb. 14
Children's Planetarium Program. "Larry, Cat in Space," is aimed at children 4-12. Tickets are $2 and will be sold at the planetarium before the show. L.E. Phillips Planetarium, 11 a.m. More information.
***********************************

Check out other Things To Do at UW-Eau Claire at this website:
http://www.uwec.edu/advantage/thingstodo/index.htm
********************************

2nd Eberth Alarcón Memorial Peace and Justice Series
Register to be a Bone Marrow Donor. Save a life.

Informational Panel
A panel discussion with donor recipient, Kyle Buchmann (UW-Eau Claire Alumnus and Staff member), his sister and donor, Meg Buchmann, donor activist, John Cole, and National Marrow Donor Program representative, John Pawloski, about the need for donors, the donor process, and your questions.
Monday, February 16th
Noon – 1 pm (brownbag lunch) in Davies Theatre, Davies Center
Registration Drive - sign up to be a donor.
                       
Tuesday, March 3rd, 10 am – 4 pm
Oneida and Ho-Chunk rooms, Davies Center

When beloved mathematics professor and social activist Dr. Eberth Alarcón was diagnosed with a rare form of leukemia, he and his wife, Dr. Asha Sen, of the English department, found that it was very difficult for racial minorities to find compatible donor matches. Dr. Alarcón was committed to the fight against cancer and even donated his body to science. We would like to honor him and other members of our campus community like Dr. Andrew Balas and UWEC graduate J. J. Lehmann who have fought and continue to fight against cancer by supporting the National Marrow Donor Program’s efforts to recruit minority as well as Caucasian donors.
*********************

Discussion and Support Group for Those with Deployed Loved Ones
Deployment Support Group Meeting
Held every Monday, 5:00 – 6:00 p.m. in the WAGE Center, Schofield Hall 30
This is an opportunity to connect with others and have an open and supportive group discussion. 
**********************

Children's success to be Mogensen Lecture focus
Education strategies designed to help all children succeed will be the topic of a presentation by nationally recognized child advocate Rick Miller during the sixth annual UW-Eau Claire Martin Mogensen Education Lecture at 4:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 16 in Schofield Auditorium.

Miller's "Kids at Risk, Kids at Hope" lecture will focus on how schools and nonprofit agencies can adopt a cultural strategic framework to support the success of all children. The presentation, sponsored by the College of Education and Human Services and the Eau Claire Area School District, is free and open to the public.
******************************

I hope you are utilizing the Oasis Room, the nontraditional student lounge in Davies Center.  Also, don’t forget about the library study room for nontrads on the fifth floor of the library.  (You need an access code for the library room—see me for access).

Sometimes half the battle of being a student is just knowing where to go for answers or assistance.   The link below is a guide to referrals organized by issue rather than by office. Check it out—I bet you’ll learn a lot!
http://www.uwec.edu/advising/help.htm

Remember, I am a resource for you, too.   
That’s it for this week!

Bonnie Isaacson
Nontraditional Student Adviser
Schofield Hall 226-E
Phone: 715-836-3259

Nurturing Thought:
The best thing you can give someone is a chance.
                                --unknown

BACK TO THE TOP

Wednesday, February 4, 2009

Hello All,
Well, after I sent out the first newsletter last week, I realized two things.  1. I did not define what a nontradtional student means at UW-Eau Claire, and, 2. I did not explain what an iclicker is (never mind, it is already sold).  Actually, an iclicker is used by students in large lecture halls to respond to instructor questions, instant surveys, etc.  Not all instructors use them.  You would know if your instructor wanted you to have one.

Nontraditional students are defined at UW-Eau Claire as those students who are age 24 and over or under age 24 but are married, and/or a parent, a military veteran, have had a significant break in their education since high school.   So, if you are any of those, you are on my email distribution list and will receive my email messages.

This Week’s News:
OPEN HOUSE tomorrow, Thursday, Feb. 5th, from 11:30-1:00 to welcome you back to the new semester.  Stop in to the Oasis Room, lower level of Davies Center, room 127, to meet other nontraditional students, myself, and my assistant, Kathy.  Enjoy refreshments too!  Then, stop in at the:

Community Action Fair
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Council Fire Room | Davies Center
University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
11 AM - 2 PM
Volunteer opportunities, internships and careers in the common good will be showcased at the fair. The goal of the Community Action Fair is to demonstrate the real connections that can be made between volunteer service during college and the range of gratifying career opportunities to be found in the nonprofit sector and government service.  A number of the represented agencies provide opportunities that enable student volunteers to receive university credit or to fulfill the university's service-learning requirement.  The Community Action Fair also showcases internships and career opportunities offered by local, state and federal agencies and nonprofit organizations.

UW-Eau Claire’s Black Student Association
Thursday, February 5, 2009
3:30 – 5 p.m.
Tamarack Room, Davies Center
Learn about the famous and not-so-famous African Americans
who paved the way for American’s first Black President
Sample Chicken Fingers in Peanut Sauce, Sweet Potato Sausage Balls and
Barack’s Favorite Chili with Chips

For a complete listing of Black History Month events:
http://www.uwec.edu/multicultural/documents/09%20Feb~BHM%20events.pdf

 Important Information You Need to Know:

Registration News:

Friday, February 6th is the last day to drop full-semester spring courses with no record.

Financial Aid News:

Students must apply for financial aid each year to determine eligibility for need based financial aid and some non-need based financial aid. UW -Eau Claire has a priority date of April 15th. To apply for financial aid, students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Completing the FAFSA by the priority date allows students the opportunity to receive consideration for all financial aid.

Free Help in Completing the FAFSA
College Goal Sunday is scheduled for 2:00 p.m., Sunday, Feb. 22 at Chippewa Valley Technical College in Eau Claire and will offer free advice from financial aid professionals in completing the FAFSA. 

Scholarship Applications
Now is a good time to begin looking at scholarships for the fall semester.  Check out nontraditional student scholarships, their eligibility criteria and application procedures at: http://www.uwec.edu/advising/nss/scholar.htm. Many application deadlines are coming up in March and April!

McIntyre Library Tours. Tours of McIntyre Library will be held through Feb. 12 at the following times: Mondays at 5:30 p.m., Tuesdays at 3 p.m., Wednesdays at 10 a.m. and Thursdays at noon. Tours start in the Grand Corridor outside the library entrance.

I’m attaching a link to a newsletter that our Blugold Family Connection sends out to parents of enrolled traditional students.  While the newsletter is geared for parents, this month’s newsletter has great information that you will be interested in reading too!  http://www.uwec.edu/sdd/Parents

Check out other University events and activities at:
http://www.uwec.edu/advantage/thingstodo/index.htm

COMMUNITY RESOURCES:

Family Resource Center of Eau Claire County provides programs and services that build family strengths through education and activities.  Take a look at their website for a listing of programs and services: www.frcec.org.

Western Dairyland advocates for low-income families and individuals.  There are SEVERAL programs offered to assist you.  Their website is:
http://www.westerndairyland.org/aboutUs.htm.

Have a good week—let me know if there is anything that you need help with—questions, concerns, etc.
Hope to see many of you at the Open House tomorrow!

Bonnie Isaacson
Nontraditional Student Adviser
UW-Eau Claire
Schofield Hall 226-E
Phone: 715-836-3259

Nurturing Thought:
“Obstacles are things a person sees when he takes his eyes off the goal.”
                --E. Joseph Cossman

BACK TO THE TOP

Thursday, January 29, 2009

Welcome back and welcome to all new students this semester!  I hope that you had a lovely winter break and are all refreshed and recharged for a new semester!  I had a working break, but did manage to take some time off and read a couple of books for pleasure.

For those of you who have not yet met me, my name is Bonnie Isaacson and I am the adviser to nontraditional and special students at UW-Eau Claire.  I can be a resource to you above and beyond your academic adviser.   I am not fulltime but work Monday through Friday (half days on Tuesdays and Fridays) and am available to meet with you or to answer your email questions. 

This informational newsletter will be sent to you each Monday or Tuesday to let you know of activities on campus, upcoming deadline dates for such things as class withdrawal, scholarship applications, registration information, community resources, and anything else that I think will be of interest and importance to you as a student who is balancing many activities in your day.  I will always close with a nurturing thought-- something that I have come across in my reading that I pass on to you to keep you inspired as your focus on your goal of receiving a baccalaureate degree from this fine university.  Take a moment each time you set foot on campus to remember the privilege that is yours as you proudly say that you are enrolled as a student at the University of Wisconsin in Eau Claire.  You have every right to feel very proud of your accomplishments!
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       Each semester there are a few students who email me to say they would like to be removed from my email distribution list.  The distribution list is automatically created and sent to me from the Registration Office so that I can be in contact with you students.  I do not have the ability to remove any names from the list. As long as you are an enrolled student at UWEC you will be on the list and receive messages from me.  I try to send only one or two emails a week as I know that you are all busy people and that it is annoying to have several email messages to sift through.  Please do not ask me to remove you from the list because I am not be able to do that.  If you find throughout the semester that my messages are not useful to you, simply delete them when you see them in your inbox.  I hope that is not the case.

I would especially like to welcome the new nontraditional students just beginning this semester.  I hope that your first week of class is turning out to be all that you hoped for and more!  If any of you have questions or concerns remember that I am your campus connection.  If there is a question that I do not have an answer for immediately, I will certainly find out the answer for you.  If any new student would like to have a "seasoned" nontrad student as a mentor, please let me know and I can hook you up with a mentor.

If you are a new student this semester or have been here one semester but are feeling that you really need some help with getting acclimated to being a student again and to learning the university, I teach a class that you may be interested in registering for.  Gen 100.706: Introduction to the University for Adult Students meets Wednesday, 11-11:50 a.m. This one credit course is specifically for nontraditional students who would like to learn ways to balance the duties of a nontraditional student, learn of campus resources and study tips, scholarship application tips, budgeting and financial aid tips, time and stress management, and other topics.  If you are interested in this class you may still register for it (we have only met one time so far).  Class size is small and the setting is very non-intimidating.  Please email me or call 836-3259 for pre-registration for the course.

Now on to this weeks’ news!

I would like to invite you to visit the “Oasis Room” located in the lower level of Davies Center, room 127.  The room is there for you to relax in between classes, have your lunch, study, or visit with other nontraditional students.  We’re doing an OPEN HOUSE next week, Thursday, Feb. 5th, from 11:30-1:00 to welcome you back to the new semester.  Stop in to see the room, meet other nontraditional students, myself, and my assistant, Kathy.  Enjoy refreshments too!

Important Information You Need to Know:

Registration News:

Tuition, Financial Aid and Tax Information

Spring Semester
An electronic bill with financial aid applied will be emailed to all students to their University of WI-Eau Claire email address on January 22nd.  A final electronic bill will be emailed on February 11th.  Payment is due in full by Friday, February 20, 2009 to avoid finance charges.

If you elected to participate in our partial payment plan, one half of the bill is due on Friday, February 20th.   The remaining half, plus finance charges, is due on Friday, March 20, 2009.

An electronic bill with be emailed to students at their University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire email address on February 26th. Students can also review their account or obtain a bill anytime on MyBlugold. For more information about billing go to: http://www.uwec.edu/bussvs/busoff/index.htm

Financial Aid Disbursement

Spring Semester
If your financial aid exceeds your University costs, refunds will be disbursed beginning January 26, 2008 from 8:00 a.m. through 4:00 p.m. at the Cashier’s Window, Schofield Hall 108.  Students who do not pick up their financial aid refund checks during the first week of classes will be mailed their refund check to their local address on file on February 4th.

Scholarship News:
Check out the link to Pennies from Heaven, the scholarship booklet for nontradtional students.  Several scholarships have upcoming February and March application deadlines.  Look for scholarships within the department of your major, too!
http://www.uwec.edu/advising/nss/scholar.htm.

1098-T Information Tax Information
In January, students will receive an important email notification that their 2008, IRS 1098-T document is available.  Please watch for this email and follow the instructions to retrieve this tax form.  More information will follow and be available at the Business Office website at http://www.uwec.edu/bussvs/busoff/index.htm.
McIntyre Library Tours. Tours of McIntyre Library will be held today through Feb. 12 at the following times: Mondays at 5:30 p.m., Tuesdays at 3 p.m., Wednesdays at 10 a.m. and Thursdays at noon. Tours start in the Grand Corridor outside the library entrance.

Tax forms available at McIntyre Library
U.S., Wisconsin and Minnesota tax forms are available on the first floor of McIntyre Library near the DVDs and music CDs. Forms are for personal use only, as supplies are limited. The reference desk has forms that can be duplicated for 10 cents each. Forms also may be downloaded from the following Web sites: www.irs.ustreas.gov, www.dor.state.wi.us and www.taxes.state.mn.us

Community Action Fair

Thursday, February 5, 2009
Council Fire Room | Davies Center
University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
11 AM - 2 PM
Volunteer opportunities, internships and careers in the common good will be showcased at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire's Community Action Fair Thursday, Feb. 5. A collaborative effort of the Center for Service-Learning and the Activities and Programs office's Community Action and Lifelong Learning program, the event will take place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Council Fire Room of Davies Center.
The goal of the Community Action Fair is to demonstrate the real connections that can be made between volunteer service during college and the range of gratifying career opportunities to be found in the nonprofit sector and government service.
A number of the represented agencies provide opportunities that enable student volunteers to receive university credit or to fulfill the university's service-learning requirement.
The Community Action Fair also showcases internships and career opportunities offered by local, state and federal agencies and nonprofit organizations. The is hosting the 2008 Community Action Fair, designed to connect students and community organizations through meaningful service projects.

Subsidized Energy Audits to Homeowners:
Xcel Energy is offering heavily subsidized energy audits to homeowners.  This service normally costs $300.  If you live in a qualifying area, you only pay $25.  If interested, please read on.
If you live in the City of Eau Claire, including the 16th ward:  Your program runs in 2009 and you can call 839-1419.
If you live elsewhere in Eau Claire County:  The audit program is tentatively scheduled to be offered in 2010.
As funds are available in the future, they intend to offer the program in other areas such as Dunn County.

Entrepreneurial Training Program:
Are you looking to start your own business?  Check out this link with information on UW-Eau Claire’s Entrepreneurial Training Program held in February, March and April.
http://www.uwec.edu/newsreleases/08/dec/1219SmallBusiness.htm

New Master’s Degree in Social Work Offered:
Human service professionals in western Wisconsin will soon be able to earn a master's degree in social work by taking weekend classes at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire. The UW System recently approved a plan that will allow the UW-Madison's master of social work program to be available on the UW-Eau Claire campus.  See the link below for the full story.
http://www.uwec.edu/newsreleases/09/jan/0115socialworkmasters.htm

Ride the Eau Claire Transit Bus for Free!
UW-Eau Claire and the Eau Claire Transit Co. will increase bus service to UW-Eau Claire this winter as more members of the campus community opt for public transportation in an effort to reduce the university's carbon footprint.
Between Jan. 26 and March 13, four buses will serve the university, providing 10-minute service throughout the day. Beginning March 23, after spring break, the university routes will return to three buses with 20-minute service throughout the day.  YOU CAN RIDE THE CITY BUS FOR FREE BY SHOWING YOUR UWEC STUDENT ID CARD!

For Fun!:

Cabaret
The theme for this year's production is "Colors". Cabaret features student performers from ensembles in the music and theatre arts department as well as various small acts and solo performers. The concert will include performances by the Concert Choir, The Singing Statesmen, and the Women's Concert Chorale. Other featured performers are Frank Moran, Midwest Reciprocity and The Golden Girls.
Performances for the popular Cabaret are scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Jan. 29-31 in the Council Fire Room of Davies Center. Matinees are scheduled for 2 p.m. Jan. 31. Go to http://www.uwec.edu/newsreleases/08/dec/1215Cabaret.htm for more information on this year's Cabaret production.

Nontrads Rock!
This section is yours to “tout” what you are doing.  Let me know if you have received an award, some recognition, if you are involved in something special, anything you want to share with your fellow nontrad students.

One of our nontradtional students will be performing in Sylvia. Actually she IS Sylvia!  See show information below.  It sounds like a fun show and a way to support a fellow nontrad student.
Sylvia
A Comedy by A.R. Gurney
7:30pm, Feb. 12-14 & 19-21
1:30pm, Feb. 15 & 22
Grand Little Theatre
$15 Adults
$14 Seniors
$8 Youth/Students
It’s middle age! Greg’s career is winding down as his wife, Kate, watches her career take off. Their nest is now empty, but along comes Sylvia. Lovely, smart, and affectionate, she offers Greg an escape from the stresses of middle age. To Kate, Sylvia becomes a rival. Trouble is she’s a dog... but she’s no Lassie! This touching, sassy comedy is a must for all who have loved a man, a woman, or a dog. Adult language.

Sign up now for University Recreation events
UW-Eau Claire students, faculty and staff, as well as community members, are invited to participate in several upcoming special events offered by University Recreation & Sport Facilities. Advance signup is required for the events, which have varied registration deadlines. More information about the following events is available on the University Recreation & Sport Facilities Web site:

• Feb. 12 Night of Entertainment at Chanhassen Dinner Theatre
• Feb. 24 Minnesota Wild vs. L.A. Kings hockey game
• March 3 Minnesota Timberwolves vs. Golden State Warriors basketball game
• March 8 Shamrock Shuffle fundraiser for the Wisconsin Youth Sports Program.

Check out other University events and activities at:
http://www.uwec.edu/advantage/thingstodo/index.htm

This first newsletter is a bit longer than the others will be just because I had so much information to share with you today.  A copy of this newsletter will be printed and put in the Oasis Room.
Let me know if you have any questions.  I’m here to help!

Bonnie
Bonnie Isaacson
Nontraditional Student Adviser
Schofield Hall 226-E
Phone: 715-836-3259

Nurturing Thought:
All our dreams can come true if we have the courage to pursue them.
                                --unknown

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