Summary of Pre Arrival Webinar 4: Advising and Helpful Reminders

Summary of "Pre Arrival Webinar 4: Advising and Helpful Reminders"

This webinar provides essential information and guidance for incoming international graduate and undergraduate students at Abila University, particularly those enrolled in STEM programs. The session covers program offerings, advising procedures, orientation, housing, enrollment, CPT/OPT work authorization, and other logistical details important for a smooth transition before arrival.

Main Ideas and Concepts

1. Programs and STEM Designation

Abila University offers six STEM graduate programs: Computer Science, Business Analytics, Cybersecurity, AI, Data Science Engineering, Operations, and Digital Marketing.
STEM designation allows students to apply for CPT (Curricular Practical Training) from day one and qualify for up to three years of OPT (Optional Practical Training).

2. Advising and Contacts

Primary contact for STEM graduate students: Tracy Jones (Graduate Advisor).
Initial contact is often Haime (the speaker), who handles enrollment and CPT/OPT questions.
Tracy Jones manages enrollment, class changes, transcripts, transfers, and ongoing advising.
Students should use their Abila University (ABA) email for all official communications.
Advising appointments can be scheduled via email; office hours are available on Zoom or Microsoft Teams.

3. Orientation and Communication

Virtual orientation is mandatory for all new students and covers program details, contacts, and university resources.
Residential students will have an on-campus orientation.
Students must regularly check their ABA email and join the official Microsoft Teams channel for updates on jobs, CPT opportunities, workshops, and events.
ABA email setup instructions are provided during orientation and supported by campus IT.

4. Enrollment and Registration

Enrollment can begin as soon as students are accepted and receive their acceptance letter.
Fall semester starts August 26; students should be enrolled by August 20.
Students are advised to read the welcome email from Tracy Jones carefully as it contains critical information about enrollment and program requirements.
For application status or acceptance issues, students should contact the ABA International Admissions Department directly.

5. CPT and Internship Credit (BU 695)

Students are encouraged to seek CPT opportunities from day one.
BU 695 is an internship course allowing students to earn credit for work/internship related to their program.
One credit is earned per 60 hours of internship/work; three credits can replace the required Capstone project (MG 695).
Students need approximately one year of internship/work to earn these credits.
BU 695 credits are paid per credit hour, making it cost-effective.
Working for remote or international firms can qualify for BU 695 credit with advisor approval.

6. Graduate Assistantships and Other Opportunities

Graduate assistant (GA) positions are available but limited and posted each semester.
Information about GA positions is shared via the Teams channel.

7. Housing and Campus Living

All international students are required to live on campus during their first semester.
Move-in dates: August 21 for graduate students, August 22 for undergraduates.
Students must attend orientation immediately after moving in.
Housing forms should be completed early to secure preferred dorms or room types.
Costs vary depending on meal plans and room types; estimated living cost is around $12,820 (excluding books and other expenses).
On-campus gym facilities are available at no extra cost.

8. Arrival and Immigration

Students can enter the US up to 30 days before their semester start date.
Important documents for immigration: I-20 form, passport with valid F1 visa, and optionally, admission letter.
Airport transportation is not provided by the university, but free transportation may be available through local organizations (e.g., ISI Kansas City).

9. Undergraduate Advising

Undergraduate advisors will contact students during the first week of classes.
Advising check-ins occur weekly or biweekly.
Undergraduates use Navigate for scheduling advising appointments.

10. Technical Access

ABA accounts (email, portal, Canvas, Wi-Fi) are activated only after all admission steps are completed.
Students should promptly follow instructions to set up their ABA email and portal access.

11. Future Webinars

Upcoming webinars will focus on CPT/OPT details and navigating Canvas (learning management system).

Detailed Methodology / Instructions

Setting up Advising Meetings:
- Email advisor (Tracy Jones for STEM, others for different programs).
- Use ABA email for communication.
- Attend office hours via Zoom or Teams.
- Schedule appointments Monday-Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM.
Joining Microsoft Teams Channel:
- Use ABA email only (non-ABA emails will be blocked).
- Check regularly for updates on jobs, workshops, and university announcements.
Enrollment Process:
- Confirm acceptance with ABA International Admissions.
- Wait for welcome email from advisor with enrollment instructions.