STUDENT LIFE
STUDENT DEVELOPMENT SERVICES
The Division of Student Affairs shoulders the major responsibility for Student Development Services. The Vice Chancellor of Student Affairs is the Chief Administrative Officer. The division is comprised of fifteen departments assigned to four major units that are supervised by the Assistant Vice Chancellor for Student Development, Assistant Vice Chancellor for Career Services, Associate Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs and Director of Housing.
Student Development Services at the University are organized for the purpose of providing programs and services that complement the academic mission of the University and contribute to the intellectual, social, moral, cultural, and physical development of students. These programs and services are designed to meet the expressed out-of-classroom needs of students while they pursue academic careers at the University.
As a support unit to the academic process, Student Affairs works with students in areas of counseling, leadership development, housing and student activities. Such activities assist students in finding “a sense of belonging, responsibility, and achievement.” The Division carries out its purpose through goals given below:
1. To provide leadership development opportunities for student leaders, the Student Government Association, the Student Union Advisory Board and other student organizations such as sororities and fraternities.
2. To provide improved services for students that impact upon their personal development.
3. To develop activities and programs that accommodate the special needs of commuter and adult students.
4. To provide programs to accommodate the special needs of minority students.
Consistent with the overall goals of the University, Student Development Services include the following array of programs and activities: (1) Academic Advising, (2) Counseling Services, (3) Career Services, (4) Student Government Association, (5) Student Activities and Publications, (6) Health Services, (7) Intramural Sports, (8) Veteran and Disability Support Services, (9) Student Support Services, (10) Housing & Residence Life, (11) Student Union, (12) International Student Affairs, (13) Upward Bound Program, (14) Student Development, (15) Minority Affairs, and (16) Ronald E. McNair Program.
Some of the specific services are described as follows:
COUNSELING SERVICES
The University makes provisions for counseling, testing and guidance for all students through Counseling Services, located in 108 Murphy Hall.
Counseling Services conducts a testing program for all freshman students. The results of this program are used to assist freshmen in the planning of their educational and vocational careers. The Office conducts other testing programs that are required or desired by the departments of the University.
Counseling Services offers students the opportunity to discuss with a trained professional counselor or clinical psychologist any questions, dilemmas, needs, problems or concerns involving educational, career, social, personal or emotional adjustments that may occur during the college years.
The following is a list of services available through Counseling Services:
1. Individual and group personal counseling;
2. Academic and career counseling;
3. Individual test administration and interpretation covering the areas of intelligence, aptitude, personality, interest, achievement and other areas requiring special needs;
4. University Diagnostic and Placement Testing Program for all freshmen to assist in the planning of their educational and vocational careers and other programs required or desired by departments of the University;
5. College Level Examination Program (CLEP) for course credit by examination;
6. National Testing Program which includes administration of the Graduate Record Examinations, PRAXIS Examinations, Graduate Management Admission Test, Veterinary College Admissions Test and other similar examinations;
7. Graduate student internship training laboratory;
8. Graduate school information and cooperation in the placement of graduates who desire to pursue graduate studies;
9. Withdrawal Exit Interview; and
10. Outreach counseling programs and activities.
All counseling is voluntary, free of charge, private and confidential.
HEALTH SERVICES
The Sebastian Health Center is managed by a Director of Health Services. Medical services are available to all students in the student health center if they have paid the student health fee as part of their general university fee.
The basic components of the Health Service Program are as follows:
1. Medical Services: The University Physicians are in attendance in the Health Center daily (hours for routine treatment are posted) — and “On 24 hour call” for any emergency situations.
2. Nursing Services: Registered nurses, under the direction of the Nurse Supervisor, are in attendance daily to treat and evaluate students’ health needs and answer any questions pertaining to health problems and other concerns.
3. Laboratory Services: A Certified Medical Technologist is on duty daily, Monday - Friday to perform various laboratory tests as ordered by the physician to diagnose a variety of medical problems.
4. Medical Records: The Medical Records Director is responsible for maintaining a physically secure and confidential file of all student health records in the Health Center. Additionally, the North Carolina State Immunization Law stipulates required vaccines must be on file in the medical records department of the Health Center prior to registration.
5. Pharmacy Services: A registered pharmacist is available Monday-Friday to dispense medication and provide patient teaching about all prescriptions filled.
6. Health Education Services: Prevention education is available through the health educator on a variety of health conditions. The Health Educator is available Monday-Friday to assist students with any health issues or concerns.
The Center provides up-to-date and emerging information on health related issues and concerns on a continuing basis for the University community.
DRUG AND ALCOHOL EDUCATION POLICY
Preamble:
The basic mission of North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University is to provide an educational environment that enhances and supports the intellectual process. The academic community, including students, faculty and staff has the collective responsibility to ensure that this environment is conducive to healthy intellectual growth. The illegal use of harmful and addictive chemical substances and the abuse of alcohol pose a threat to the educational environment. Thus, this Drug and Alcohol Education Policy is being promulgated to assist members of the University community in their understanding of the harmful effects of illegal drugs and alcohol abuse; of the incompatibility of illegal drugs and the abuse of alcohol with the educational mission of the University; and of the consequences of the use, possession or sale of such illegal drugs and the abuse of alcohol, including the violation of applicable laws.
Objectives:
I. To develop an educational program that increases the University community’s knowledge and competency to make informed decisions relative to the use and abuse of controlled substances and alcohol; and
II. To increase those skills and attributes required to take corrective action conducive to the health and well-being of potential drug and alcohol abusers.
Program Components:
There are five (5) components to this policy:
I. Education
II. Health Risks
III. Rehabilitation
IV. Sanctions
V. Dissemination and Review
I. EDUCATION
It is the intent of the Drug and Alcohol Education Policy of North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University to insure that all members of the University community (i.e. students, faculty, administrators and other employees) are aware that the use, sale and/or possession of illegal drugs and the abuse of alcohol are incompatible with the goals of the University. Moreover, each person should be aware that the use, sale or possession of illegal drugs and the abuse of alcohol are, as more specifically set forth later in this policy, subject to specific sanctions and penalties.
All members of the University family are reminded that in addition to being subject to University regulations and sanctions regarding illegal drugs and the abuse of alcohol, they are also subject to the laws of the state and of the nation. Each individual is also reminded that it is not a violation of “double jeopardy” to be subject to the terms of this policy as well as the provisions of the North Carolina General Statutes. For a listing of relevant state criminal statutes, please see Appendix A. Further questions may be directed to the Office of the University Attorney or the Office of Student Affairs.
Each member of the University community is asked to pay particular attention to the full consequences of the sanctions specified in this policy as well as the consequences of the North Carolina criminal law referenced above. Certain violations may jeopardize an individual’s future as it relates to continued University enrollment or future employment possibilities, depending on individual circumstances.
Further, it is a policy of the University that the educational, legal and medical aspects of this issue be emphasized on an annual basis through the provision of programs and activities in the following areas:
(a) Annual Drug and Alcohol Education Week - Workshops and seminars on drug abuse led by former drug addicts and community agencies such as MADD, SADD, and the Sycamore Center;
(b) Drug and Alcohol Awareness Fair - Exhibits featuring drug and alcohol related paraphernalia;
(c) Media presentations on the University radio station, WNAA, emphasizing the most current programs with drug and alcohol education messages;
(d) “Home for the Holidays, Don’t Drink and Drive”; Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention Campaign;
(e) Publication of brochure on drug education;
(f) Continuous monthly outreach programs in each residence hall.
Although directed primarily to the student population, the above noted educational programs shall also open to participation by all categories of University employees.
Additionally, the Staff Development Office is the designated University department responsible for the planning and implementation of drug and alcohol education programs geared toward the special needs of the faculty and staff. Among the programs to be implemented by the Staff Development Office are lunch time seminars jointly conducted by the Sycamore Center, the Greensboro Police Department and the Guilford County Mental Health Department.
Health risks, associated with the use of illicit drugs and the abuse of alcohol, are wide ranging and varied depending on the specific substance involved and individual abuse pattern. These risks include, but are not limited to:
1. Physical changes which alter bodily functions such as severely increased or decreased cardiac output; shallow to irregular respiration; and damage to other major organs, such as kidney, liver and brain;
2. Emotional and psychological changes including paranoia, depression, hostility, anxiety, mood swings and instability;
3. Additional health risks could include such illnesses as AIDS HIV infection, sexually transmitted diseases, severe weight loss, cancer, cirrhosis, hepatitis, short term memory loss, seizures, and deformities to unborn children;
4. Physical and psychological dependency (addiction); and
5. Death from overdose or continuous use.
While these health risks are broad in range, persons consuming illicit drugs and alcohol will exemplify some, if not all, of the above symptoms. See Appendix A for a list of a few specific drugs and their corresponding health risks.
III. REHABILITATION
The University recognizes that rehabilitation is an integral part of an effective drug and alcohol policy. Consistent with its commitment in the areas of education and sanctions, it is the University’s intent to provide an opportunity for rehabilitation to all members of the University family. This commitment is evidenced through access to existing University resources and is furthered by referrals to community agencies.
Students:
The University Counseling Center and the Student Health Center are available to provide medical and psychological assessments of students with drug/alcohol dependency and drug/alcohol abuse problems. Based on the outcome of this assessment, treatment can be provided by either or both of these centers. If, however, the scope of the problem is beyond the capability of these Centers, affected students will be referred to community agencies, such as the Guilford County Mental Health Center and Greenpoint. The cost of such services shall be the individual’s responsibility.
Employees:
Referrals to local community agencies will be made available to include the Guilford County Mental Health Center, Greenpoint and private physicians. The cost of such services will be the individual’s responsibility. The services of the University’s Counseling and Health Centers are not normally utilized by faculty and staff members except in emergency situations.
IV. SANCTIONS
A.Illegal Drugs/Prohibited Conduct
All members of the University community have the responsibility for being knowledgeable about and in compliance with the provisions of North Carolina law as it relates to the use, possession or sale of illegal drugs as set forth in Article 5, Chapter 90 of the North Carolina General Statutes. Any violations of this law by members of the University family subjects the individual to prosecution both by University disciplinary proceedings and by civil authorities. It is not a violation of “double jeopardy” to be prosecuted by both of these authorities. The University will initiate its own disciplinary proceedings against a student, faculty member, administrator or other employee when the alleged conduct is deemed to affect the interests of the University.
Penalties will be imposed by the University in compliance with procedural safeguards applicable to disciplinary actions against students (see the Student Handbook), faculty members (see the Faculty Handbook), administrators (see the Board of Governors Policies Concerning Senior Administrative Officers as well as the EPA Non-Teaching Personnel Policies) and SPA employees (see State Personnel Commission Policies).
The penalties imposed for such violations range from written warnings with probationary status to expulsion from enrollment and discharges from employment. However, minimum penalties that apply for each violation are listed in Appendix A. For additional information, direct questions to the Office of the University Attorney or the Office of Student Affairs. It should be noted that where the relevant sanction dictates a minimum of one semester suspension from employment, the regulations of the State Personnel Commission (as pertaining to SPA employees) do not permit suspension from employment of this duration. Thus, such sanction as applied to SPA employees dictates the termination of employment.
B. Alcohol/Prohibited Conduct
1. Employees:
While the sale, possession, or consumption of alcoholic beverages is not illegal under state or federal law, it is, hereby, the policy of North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University that the consumption of alcohol sufficient to interfere with or prohibit the otherwise normal execution of job responsibilities is improper and subjects the employee to appropriate disciplinary procedures. It is also the policy of North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University that alcoholic beverages not be sold on campus. Employees violating the above noted policies are subject to appropriate disciplinary procedures which may range from warning and probation to dismissal consistent with the individual circumstances.
Similarly, employees are reminded that, under N.C. law, it is illegal to sell or give malt beverages, unfortified wine, fortified wine, spirituous liquor or mixed beverages to anyone less than 21 years old. It is also illegal to aid and abet any person less than 21 years old in the purchase or possession of the alcoholic beverages noted above. Employees found violating these state laws are subject to legal sanction as well as the appropriate disciplinary procedures.
2. Students:
Students are reminded of the following University
regulations and state laws regarding alcoholic beverages as contained in
the Student Handbook:
1. Students are liable for violation of State Law GS 18B-302 while on University premises: 18B-302 Sale to or Purchase by Underage Persons
a. Sale - It shall be unlawful for any person to:
I. Sell or give malt beverages or unfortified wine to anyone less than 21 years old; or
II. Sell or give fortified wine, spirituous liquor, or mixed beverages to anyone less than 21 years old.
b. Purchase or Possession - It shall be unlawful for:
I. A person less than 21 years old to purchase, to attempt to purchase, or to possess malt beverages or unfortified wine; or
II. A person less than 2l years old to purchase, to attempt to purchase, or possess fortified wine, spirituous liquor, or mixed beverages.
c. Aider and Abettor
I. By Underage Person - Any person under the lawful age to purchase and who aids or abets another in violation of subsection (a) or (b) of this section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to five hundred dollars ($500.00) or imprisonment for not more than six months, or both, at the discretion of the court.
II. By Person over Lawful Age - Any person who is over the lawful age to purchase and who aids or abets another in violation of subsection (a) or (b) of this section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to two thousand dollars ($2,000) or imprisonment for not more than two years, or both, at the discretion of the court.
1. Students are responsible for conforming to state laws pertaining to:
a. Transportation of alcoholic beverages
b. Consumption of alcoholic beverages in public places
c. Consumption of alcoholic beverages by students under the legal age
d. Abuses of alcoholic beverages.
2. There will be no consumption of alcoholic beverages in a motor vehicle while on University property or on University streets.
3. Consumption of alcoholic beverages is restricted to students’ rooms in residence halls, if they are of legal drinking age.
4. The possession or consumption of alcoholic beverages shall not be permitted in public places, such as lounges, game rooms, study rooms, kitchens, laundries or patios.
5. There will be no public display of alcoholic beverages.
6. The University discourages the drinking of alcoholic beverages, and other abuses of alcoholic beverages. Being under the influence of alcohol is considered a breach of conduct, and students who violate these standards are subject to disciplinary action.
Violations of the above regulations and laws will subject students to criminal prosecution as well as campus based charges.
C. Suspension Pending Final Disposition
The University reserves the right through the Chancellor or his designee to suspend a student, faculty member, administrator and other employee between the time of the initiation of charges and the hearing to be held. Such decision will be made based on whether the person’s continued presence within the University community will constitute a clear and immediate danger or disruption to the University. In such circumstances the hearing will be held as promptly as possible.
V. DISSEMINATION
A copy of the Drug and Alcohol Education Policy will be distributed on an annual basis to each employee and student of the University. The distribution to all enrolled students will occur as a part of the registration process. The distribution to University employees will be administered by the University Personnel Office.
The Chancellor of the University shall insure on a biennial basis that this policy is reviewed for purposes of assessing its effectiveness, consistency of application of sanctions and to determine the necessity for modification. This review shall be conducted by October 15 of every other year, beginning in 1992.
CONCLUSION
North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University recognizes that the use of illegal drugs and the abuse of alcohol are a national problem and that sustained efforts must be made to educate the University family regarding the consequences associated with drug and alcohol abuse. The primary emphasis in this policy has therefore been on providing drug and alcohol abuse counseling and rehabilitation services through the various programs and activities outlined above.
Past experience suggests that most members of the University family are law abiding and will use this policy as a guide for their future behaviors and as a mechanism to influence their peers and colleagues in a positive direction. However, those who choose to violate any portions of this policy will pay the penalty for non-compliance. The main thrust of this policy has been to achieve a balance between its educational and punitive components.
The effective implementation of this policy rests on its wide dissemination to all members of the University family. This will be accomplished by the dissemination procedure previously outlined and through its publication in the Faculty Handbook, Student Handbook and University Catalogue. Additionally, all affected individuals can be assured that applicable professional standards of confidentiality will be maintained at all times.
FOOD SERVICES
The University provides food services for students at a reasonable cost. A snack bar is located in the Memorial Student Union Building. Students who live in the residence halls are required to eat in the cafeterias. Students who live off campus may purchase meals also.
HOUSING AND RESIDENCE LIFE
The Department of Housing and Residence Life exists as an integral part of the educational program and academic support services of North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University.
Its mission includes providing a good living and learning environment and related educational programs which support the educational goals of our students and the University.
MEMORIAL UNION
The Memorial Union functions as the “Community Center” for the University and its constituency by providing a diversity of services and activities. The “Union” building encompasses over 45,000 square feet of space and serves as the headquarters for the Student Government Association, the Student Union Advisory Board, the Office of Student Activities, Aggie Escort Service, The Yearbook Office and the Commuter Student Center. Additionally, the Memorial Student Union offers room accommodations for small group meetings or large banquet activities, lounge areas, self-service vending, a snack bar, a barber shop, a game room, and the Information Center.
A primary goal of the Memorial Student Union is to promote an involved community through its various services, facilities, and programs. The Union’s location in the heart of the north campus provides a co-curricular community for students, faculty members, alumni, and guest served by the university. Additionally, the programming and recreational activities of the Student Union Advisory Board have a unique focus on the cultural and social development of participants.
STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS AND ACTIVITIES
The University provides a well-balanced program of activities for moral, spiritual, cultural and physical development of its students. Religious, cultural, social and recreational activities are sponsored by various committees, departments, and organizations of the University. Additionally, outstanding artists, lecturers and dramatic productions are brought to the campus.
A listing of student organizations, their purposes, objectives, chief officers, and advisors are published annually by the Assistant Vice Chancellor for Student Development. This document is available upon request by this office located in Murphy Hall Room 102.
STUDENT CONDUCT
Students enrolled at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University are expected to conduct themselves properly at all times. They are expected to observe standards of behavior and integrity that will reflect favorably upon themselves, their families and the University. They are further expected to abide by the laws of the city, state, and nation, and by all rules and regulations of the University.
Accordingly, any student who demonstrates an unwillingness to obey the rules and regulations that are prescribed or that may be prescribed to govern the student body will be placed on probation, suspended or expelled from the institution.
A student may forfeit the privilege of working for the University when, for any reason, he or she is placed on probation because of misconduct.
VETERAN AFFAIRS
North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University is an approved for veterans and veteran dependents who wish to attend and receive educational benefits.
Persons wishing to attend the University under the Veterans Administration Educational Training Program should apply to the Veterans Administration for a Certificate of Eligibility. Simultaneously, they should apply for admission to North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University through normal admissions procedures. The issuing of a Certificate of Eligibility by the Veterans Administration does not automatically assure a student of admission to the University.
The Office of Veterans Affairs located in Suite 005 Murphy Hall has been established to assist veterans and veteran dependents with enrollment and adjustment to college life. Upon enrolling at the University, the veteran or eligible person should report to the Office of Veterans Affairs for certification. If a Certificate of Eligibility has not been issued, the veterans or the eligible person should see the University Certifying Official.
Additionally, the Office provides counseling and tutorial services as necessary.
DISABILITY SUPPORT SERVICES
The Office of Disability Support Services assures ready accessibility of all academic programs, services, and activities to any person with a documented disability matriculating at the University. Likewise, it focuses on facility accessibility.
The Office serves as a liaison for students with disabilities as they participate in programs and activities enjoyed by all students. Additionally, the office arranges for any necessary reasonable accommodations or academic adjustments. Documentation is required for all disabilities.
All information and services for persons with disabilities are confidential. The office is located in Suite 005 Murphy Hall. Students needing academic adjustments or accommodations must be registered with this office.
OFFICE OF CAREER SERVICES
The primary mission of the Office of Career Services at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University is to provide centralized, comprehensive and progressive programs, services and resources designed to prepare students to successfully pursue meaningful career opportunities. Continuous career development assistance is also available to alumni of the University. Individuals who are formally enrolled in a degree program at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University or who are A&T graduates are eligible to use the facilities, programs and services of the Office of Career Services. These services include the following:
Student Employment Programs
Cooperative Education Program The Cooperative Education (Co-op) Program is an optional, counseling-centered program that offers students the opportunity to alternate periods of academic study with periods of work closely related to their major fields of study. The program is non-compulsory; however, the University urges students to consider co-op as a viable alternative to gain work experience before graduation. Students who (1) maintain at least a 2.0 overall grade point average, (2) have completed the freshman year, (3) show intent to matriculate and graduate within a four-to-five year period, and (4) are willing to commit to a mutually agreed upon work schedule are eligible to compete for positions. Transfer and graduate students are also eligible for co-op after completing one semester of successful full-time study. Interested students must closely match the qualifications requested by the employer. While on work assignment, students are considered to be “full-time” and in good standing; however, they may not be enrolled in courses unless they are applying for academic credit. Please contact the Assistant Director of Career Services. A co-op fee is assessed.
Part-time employment opportunities are posted as received in the Office of Career Services. These jobs provide local and regional opportunities for students who are interested in supplemental income during the school year. Students are responsible for making the appropriate contacts and following through with prospective employers.
Summer internships offer students the opportunity to gain work experience in industry and government. These positions are offered during the summer and are highly competitive. For companies that do not actively interview during the recruiting season, applications and announcements are available in the Office. Opportunities are also available for participation in The Institute of Government and the North Carolina State Government Internship Program. INROADS actively recruits at the University. Interested students must meet the criteria and qualifications established by INROADS and the sponsoring employers.
Permanent Career Options
On-campus Recruitment is available to students and alumni of North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. Opportunities are available in the local, state, national and international arenas. North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University observes October 1 though November 30 as the official on-campus recruiting period for the fall semester. During the spring semester, interviews can be scheduled between late January and mid-April. There is no recruiting during the months of May through September nor during the month of December. The Office of Career Services publishes a Recruiting Bulletin on the 1st and 15th of each recruiting month. This bulletin is also available on-line. Students/Alumni must be registered with the Office of Career Services before they are allowed to interview.
Alumni are eligible to participate in the referral service. They must update their on-line registration each semester. If alumni wish to schedule interviews, they must observe the policy regarding the two business days waiting period.
The Job Listing Service exposes graduating seniors, graduate students and alumni to thousands of job opportunities available nationwide. Job listings are available on-line.
Awareness Programs/Career Fairs
In addition to the recruitment function, the Office of Career Services is actively involved in exposing A&T students to career opportunities and professionals in various career fields. This is accomplished through annual career awareness programs, workshops and information sessions. The annual programs include the following:
Career Awareness Program is held in September to give students an opportunity to network with approximately 200 companies/agencies to find out services/products produced, majors being sought, and opportunities available (permanent, summer, co-op).
Graduate & Professional School Career Day is usually held in the fall semester and allows students an opportunity to broaden their knowledge of post-baccalaureate and postgraduate degrees. It is attended by graduate and professional schools from across the United States.
Career Day for Nurses is jointly sponsored by the Office of Career Services at A&T and UNCG and the Schools of Nursing at A&T and UNCG. This day provides an opportunity for students to increase their awareness of the types and availability of careers in health services.
Career Day for Teachers is held during the spring semester and is specifically designed to assist education majors. School systems from across the country attend to discuss opportunities in teaching and administration.
N.C. State Government Day is set aside for agencies to come to the campus during the spring semester to discuss career opportunities within state government.
Greensboro Area Business Career Day is held during the spring semester. This event serves as an opportunity for students to interact with local businesses about career opportunities.
Additional Services
The Office of Career Services hosts workshops, seminars, counseling sessions, classroom presentations, and information sessions on a regular basis. Representatives of industry also schedule general information sessions the evening before they interview prospective candidates.
Career Resources Library is a collection of career literature. Companies/agencies conducting on-campus interviews have current literature available in the Office of Career Services. Links to companies/agencies Web sites can be accessed through Career Services Web Page. The Office provides a video library and has individual VCR capabilities for viewing.
On-line registration and job search information is also available in the Office for interested students and alumni. Career Services’ on-line services can be accessed on the Internet at www.careerserv.ncat.edu.
MINORITY STUDENT AFFAIRS
The Office of Minority Student Affairs was created in order to assist minority (Native and Asian American, Caucasian and Hispanic/Latino) students in the development and accomplishment of their educational goals. North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University welcomes people of all races to its campus. Supporting the Office of Minority Student Affairs is one way in which the University has deidcated itself to building bridges of knowledge, cooperation and understanding between persons of differing ethnic and social backgrounds. Housed in Suite 219 of the Memorial Union, Minority Student Affairs is open from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and is staffed by the Director and Secretary.
Minority students represent approximately eleven percent (11%) of the student population. This means about 800 minority students are enrolled at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. Efforts to serve these students are designed to increase the retention and graduation of minority presence students through activities, newsletters, workshops, mentoring programs, surveys, counseling and numerous program outreach services that focus on personal development and campus involvement.
The Minority Student Association offers leadership opportunities and social activities for minority students, often in cooperation with other campus organizations.
OFFICE OF INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS AND SCHOLARS
The Office of International Students and Scholars (OISS) provides services and programs for international (foreign-born) students. The Office provides assistance with pre-arrival preparation, arrival/adjustment assistance, the admission process, housing, insurance, and immigration matters. Orientation and advisement are provided to assist students with their adjustment to the University and community. In cooperation with various departments and organizations, including the International Student Association, the office provides activities that enhance cultural, social and personal development. The Association is open to all international students with an interest in the goals of the organization.
Students are encouraged to promote multicultural understanding by participating in a variety of activities in the Greensboro community.
Three hundred international students attend the University, and they represent 55 countries in the following regions: Africa, Asia, Caribbean/West Indies, Central America, Europe, Middle East, North America, and South America.
All international (foreign-born) students are required to verify their immigration/residency status to the International Student Affairs Office before registering at the University and notify the Office immediately of any change in their immigration status and address.
All F-1 non-immigrants are required to obtain an I-20 [Certificate of Eligibility for Non-immigrant Student Status for Academic and Language Students] from this institution prior to enrollment. (I-20’s issued by another institution are not valid for attendance at A&T.) The requirements for an I-20 include acceptance to the University, a TOEFL score of 550 or above; a financial guarantee (letter of support, bank statement and verification of salary from sponsor’s employer); and a deposit for the first year’s tuition and fees. Proof of valid immigration status is required if the applicant is currently residing in the United States. Individuals seeking J-1 status should contact the OISS Director prior to submission of the application for current immigration regulations and University procedures.
Immigrants must provide the International Students and Scholars Office with a copy of their Permanent Resident Card. Foreign-born U.S. Citizens must provide a copy of their Certificate of Naturalized Citizenship. All other applicants should provide the documents necessary to verify current immigration status.
All non-immigrants are required to attend the International Student Orientation held during the registration period. The immigration law requires F-1 non-immigrants to complete their registration with the International Students and Scholars Office within 15 days after classes begin.
All non-immigrants are responsible for maintaining their legal immigration status. Non-immigrant students in F-1 visa status are required by United States Immigration regulations to enroll full-time, except for the summer terms. Full-time enrollment is defined as enrollment every term in a minimum of 12 semester hours. F-1 non-immigrants are not eligible to work off-campus without approval from the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service. F-2 and H-4 non-immigrants are not eligible to work.
The legal regulations governing non-immigrant students are complex. The Director of the International Students and Scholars is available to explain these regulations and verify who is eligible for employment and has the legal status for enrollment.
Non-immigrant students are required to maintain comprehensive health and accident insurance coverage that includes repatriation and medical evacuation. In addition, the policy must have specific levels of coverage to ensure that it is adequate to provide for medical costs in the U.S. Students are advised not to purchase insurance policies prior to arrival unless they cover the period from departure until enrollment in a new policy at the University. Government sponsored students and students with pre-existing medical conditions who have insurance should not cancel their insurance in order to purchase the plan available through the University. These students should consult with the Director of International Students and Scholars in regards to their coverage.
Any F or J non-immigrant who fails to provide proof of adequate insurance by the end of the regular registration period to the Director of International Students and Scholars will be billed for the University insurance. F and J visa holders are considered as non-residents and are assessed non-resident (out-of-state) fees.
The Office is located in Murphy Hall, Room 221, at the corner of Nocho Street and S. G. Thomas Drive. The Telephone Number is (336) 334-7551; the fax number is (336) 334-7103. Mrs. Sharon R. Martin is the Director of the International Students and Scholars Office and Adviser to the International Student Association. Her E-mail address is martins@ncat.edu . The University’s homepage address is http://www.ncat.edu .