What is a "semester hour"?

A "semester hour," or a "credit," is given for every hour of class time a class meets each week over a full semester. So if a class is three credits, you'll meet a total of three hours a week. Expect to spend a couple hours outside of class for each hour in class!

Who is my advisor?

Your advisor is a faculty member from your major's department who is a guide in registration and academic affairs. If you are unsure who that is, ask one of your professors in the department. If you have not declared a major, you will be informed who will serve as your advisor.

What is a registrar?

The registrar is the person in charge of managing course registration and keeping students' academic records and transcripts. At EMU, University Registrar Dave Detrow and the Registrar's Office are found on the first floor of the Campus Center between Admissions office and Financial Assistance.

I'm conditionally admitted. My official papers list me as a "premajor." What does that mean?

First year conditionally admitted students do not declare a major. They are part of the Academic Advocacy Program, and Linda Gnagey in the Academic Support Center is their advisor for the first year. Linda and each advisee work together to plan a schedule of courses in which the student can be successful. Premajors declare a major and work with a new advisor in the spring of their first year.

Where do I go with my financial aid questions?

The Financial Assistance office is located on the first floor of the Campus Center, between the Registrar's office and Informational Systems (IS). Here's their other contact information.

I am struggling in a course and need help. Where can I go?

Peer tutors at the Academic Support Center offer free support in courses of many departments: accounting, Bible, business, economics, history, mathematics, psychology and the sciences. There is a “sign-up notebook” at the ASC in which each tutor lists courses that he or she is prepared to tutor. If a course is not listed, the Director of the ASC works with the professor and the student to find the requested support.

How do I find the _____ office?

If you're looking online, you can search for departments, faculty and staff here. If you're near a phone, you can call the Information Office by dailing zero (0).

What is pacifism?

Generally speaking, pacifism refers to a committment to peace, rejecting violence and war. Christian pacifists' convictions are rooted in Jesus' life and teachings, e.g. "Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you..." (Matt. 5:44)

Is it really important that I take notes?

Learning to take good notes is an important skill that will help you be successful in college. Good notes are not only helpful during the class, but should be saved and used as a resource for years to come.

Is there a test I can take that will tell me what I should do, or what major I should declare?

Don't let a test tell you who you are. Rather...
1. Start observing yourself.
What are you doing when you totally loose track of time?
Think of some stories from different time periods of your life (preschool, elementary, middle and high school) The stories should be of something that was a good experience for you, even if no one else knew about it. The stories can be a clue as to how you have been practicing being you.

2. Learn about the world of work.
What qualities and skills do employers look for when they hire someone?
"Try on" various career environments through summer jobs or internships.
Interview people who do what you think you might enjoy doing.
Use the Career Center Library. Research the internet for various careers.
The O'Net is a good source.

3. Be curious, be adventurous.
Try a broad range of classes. Take responsibility for your learning and for finding out about a broad range of future possibilities.

Is anyone available to help me write a paper?

The Academic Support Center has several writing tutors. Some tutors are available by appointment and some have drop-in hours. Anyone who wants writing help completes a form ahead of time that identifies the kind of help requested. Students bring the writing assignment with the paper and should expect to spend 45 minutes with a tutor.

What is considered plagarism?

Plagarism is using or closely imitating someone's work without authorization. Always cite where your ideas are coming from; if you have questions, talk with your faculty or the staff at the Academic Support Center.

What is EMU's address?

1200 Park Rd. Harrisonburg, VA 22802