Student Life

Emphasis at the University is on learning, including the learning which occurs beyond the classroom and laboratory. In the mission statement of the University, is the intent to “prepare students to live wisely in a diverse and global community.” A variety of University programs and services offer opportunities for students to develop their abilities to live wisely. These include but are not limited to: career preparation, health and wellness, and various opportunities for leadership development. Students are encouraged to apply the skills they learn in the classroom and learn new skills out of the classroom through their involvement in the holistic student development opportunities at USI. To learn more about involvement opportunities and services, visit www.usi.edu/students. 

Activities Programming Board

The Activities Programming Board (APB), composed of numerous committees, is responsible for programming student activities for the campus community. Cinema USI (movies), lectures, musical performances, novelty events, and comedians, are just a few events coordinated by APB. For more information on APB’s activities or how to become a member, visit the web site at www.usi.edu/apb or follow them on Twitter @usiapb.

Career Services and Internships

An integral part of the University, the Career Services and Internships office complements and supplements curricular programs by providing career coaching and employment assistance to students at all levels, freshman through senior, and active alumni from all academic disciplines. The primary mission of the office is to assist students in transitioning from the academic environment to the professional workplace. To achieve this mission, Career Services and Internships professionals meet with students in individual appointments as well as working closely with academic departments, student organizations, and Student Affairs departments to provide programs and presentations that encourage and educate students in obtaining internships and professional employment.

The University encourages all students to participate in an experiential education activity prior to graduating, and an internship or cooperative education (co-op) experience provides this opportunity. These professional practice programs offer an opportunity for students to integrate classroom learning with career-related work experience in both the public and private sector. Although many are paid positions, the primary value of an internship or cooperative education experience is the opportunity to clarify career goals, gain practical experience, and establish contacts with professional colleagues. Internships and co-ops are competitive, and Career Services assists students from all majors in conducting an effective search. The office also provides ongoing support to students during the internship or co-op and facilitates documentation of the student’s experience.

To be eligible for participation in most co-op or internship opportunities, students must have a grade point average (GPA) of at least 2.0 and must have completed at least 32 credit hours. Transfer students must have attended the University for one full semester. Requirements for students from certain academic disciplines are more stringent, requiring a higher GPA or that particular classes be completed before eligibility can be met.

Internships most frequently are completed during a student’s junior or senior year and most University internship courses allow students to earn up to three credit hours by working a specified number of worksite hours. However, students are encouraged to begin planning and researching internship opportunities during their freshman and sophomore years by meeting with a Career Services and Internships professional. This will allow students to learn about the internship process, options for credit, and to discuss potential internships that complement their career goals. The co-op program offers two distinctly different patterns of study and work: alternate and parallel. The alternate pattern requires students to alternate semesters of full-time work with semesters of full-time study. The parallel pattern offers part-time work experience over an extended period of time while students maintain a minimum academic load. Because each program option benefits each student differently, programs are individually tailored to meet student and employer needs.

Upon admittance to the University, undergraduates seeking employment may receive job referrals to both on- and off-campus positions through Career Services and Internships. Part-time jobs and summer employment opportunities listed with this office allow all students, regardless of financial need, to earn money to support their education.

Students who have completed, or who will be completing, a degree program within the next calendar year are advised to meet with a Career Services and Internships professional for assistance with job search strategy for post-graduation professional employment. There is a professional staff member dedicated to working with each of the University’s colleges. In addition, workshops and presentations emphasize the identification of individual marketable skills and assist with resume development, interview preparation, employer networking, and general job search strategy. The department also facilitates online career communities that allow students and alumni to participate in discussions and obtain information via social media.

Students and graduates are strongly encouraged to use their account in Eagle Career Launch, the online job listing and recruiting system exclusively for USI students and graduates. All students have an account, ready to be activated once they are admitted to the University, and are advised to routinely use the system as well as store up-to-date resumes in their accounts. All opportunities, including part-time, summer, co-op, internships, and full-time professional positions are listed in Eagle Career Launch and include positions with local, regional, and national employers.

Career Services and Internships serves a vital employer relations role for the University by maintaining an extensive database of contacts, routinely meeting and communicating with employers, and planning and facilitating events such as career and job fairs and networking events for students and employers.

Career Services and Internships maintains an extensive web site of career and job resources including job listings, a virtual practice interview program, and general information about careers and jobs. A career resource library in the office contains printed materials covering such diverse topics as career and occupational information, job search techniques, and recruiting events. Computers also are available for resume writing and job research activities.

Information regarding the Graduate Record Examination (GRE), the entrance exam frequently required for admission to graduate programs, may be obtained by contacting Career Services and Internships or the Graduate Studies Office. Career Services also assists with personal statements for graduate school application, as well as practice with admission interviews.

Students at all levels of academic study, from freshmen through seniors and graduate students, are encouraged to meet with Career Services and Internships professionals and take advantage of the career, internship, and job search services provided.

Center for International Programs

The primary mission of the Center for International Programs (CIP) is to enhance the international dimensions of the University and to facilitate opportunities for all students to acquire skills necessary to succeed in a global society. The CIP is responsible for international recruitment and retention and the delivery of information, services, and programs designed to meet the unique needs of international students and scholars. The CIP includes the Intensive English Program which provides language training for international students who have not yet achieved the required level of proficiency for matriculation into an academic program.

The CIP is also responsible for the development and administration of USI’s study abroad programs in over 60 countries. Students obtain USI credit for coursework completed through an approved study abroad program. Program fees are billed through USI, which enables students to apply most types of financial aid and scholarships to the study abroad program costs. Students should plan well in advance of the term they plan to study abroad, to determine how the coursework completed overseas will count toward the USI degree program. 

In addition, the CIP organizes weekly events for the Global Community Program in Ruston Hall and works closely with the International Club and other organizations on campus to provide activities and programs designed to increase international awareness, acceptance, and understanding of peoples and cultures from all corners of the globe. Further information on the programs and services and a detailed calendar of international events can be found at www.usi.edu/international.

Intensive English Program (IEP)

The Intensive English Program (IEP) at USI helps international students, scholars, and professionals to develop English language skills, academic strategies, and cultural knowledge necessary for success in academic programs and professional settings in the United States.

The program provides non-native English-speaking students with the resources and opportunities to develop their listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills to a level appropriate for university study and to equip them with the academic strategies necessary for successful study in a language and culture that may differ from their native language and/or culture.

Upon successful completion of the Intensive English Program, a university exam consisting of math, reading, and writing is administered by Academic Skills to determine placement into the appropriate level of freshman composition (ENG 100/101/201), math, and reading classes.

The Intensive English Program is accredited by the Commission on English Language Program Accreditation for the period December 2016 through December 2021 and agrees to uphold the CEA Standards for English Language Programs and Institutions. CEA is recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education as a nationally recognized accrediting agency for English language programs and institutions in the U.S.

Program Format

Upon enrollment, students are given a placement test (CaMLA) to determine their level of proficiency. The IEP has seven levels, from a preparatory level for absolute beginners to Level 6. Each level includes courses in listening, speaking, reading, writing, and academic skills with grammar. TOEFL preparation is offered in the higher levels. All classes are administered in eight-week terms with nineteen-and-a-half to twenty-one hours of instruction per week. Units provide students with intensive instruction in the four skills with embedded cultural learning in order to reach the high standards of quality education. View a list of IEP courses (IEP 092, IEP 093, IEP 094, and IEP 095) in the Course Descriptions  section of the bulletin.

For more information, visit www.usi.edu/iep

Counseling Center

It is normal for people to struggle at challenging times, and the Counseling Center is here to help. The Counseling Center offers individual therapy, group therapy and substance use assessments to currently enrolled students. All services are supported by tuition and student fees, and students do not pay extra to access counseling. However, students found responsible for certain violations of the Code of Student Behavior may be charged an additional administrative fee.

The Counseling Center is here to help students develop the personal awareness and skills necessary to overcome problems, make effective decisions and grow in ways that help them maximize their total educational experience. The Counseling Center helps students learn how to effectively relate to others, understand and cope with emotions, set appropriate goals, make healthy decisions, resolve inner conflicts, develop independence and increase self-confidence. Through counseling and the various presentations and workshops offered, the Counseling Center helps students fulfill their hopes, dreams and potentials in their journey of life-long learning.

Students may call the Counseling Center at 812-464-1867 or stop by the office in the Orr Center, Room 1051, to make an appointment. Except in very limited circumstances, all information shared with counselors is kept private and confidential. Referrals are offered when students have needs that are beyond the role and/or scope of services available. Additional information and resources can be found on the Counseling Center’s website: www.usi.edu/counselingcenter. 

Dean of Students Office (DOSO)

The mission of the Dean of Students Office (DOSO) is to enhance academic achievement, social integration and overall transition to USI by supporting student success at USI and in their local, regional and global communities. The DOSO staff helps students succeed at the University by connecting them to resources, assisting them as they navigate administrative processes with other University offices and serve as advocates when student face academic and personal challenges. We provide support during times of challenge, crisis and emergencies, as well as opportunities for students to engage in good decision-making.  

The DOSO strives to empower all students to discover, pursue, and achieve their personal and educational goals. In addition, we serve as primary student advocates offering and promoting collaborative programs and services in collaboration with Academic Affairs and other Student Affairs offices. We do this by assisting students in the resolution of problems, providing information about and referral to campus resources and promoting institutional initiatives that address students’ needs and interests. We also serve as a resource for faculty and staff, as well as parents and families, in supporting student retention, graduation and overall success at USI.

For the current Student Handbook, Student Rights and Responsibilities: A Code of Student Behavior and additional resources, visit www.usi.edu/deanofstudents. 

The Dean of Students Office can be reached by calling 812-464-1862 or emailing deanofstudents@usi.edu. 

Dining Facilities

The University dining facilities are operated by Sodexo Campus Services. Dining options are offered in Chick-fil-A, Steak ‘n Shake, Sub Connection, Fiesta Fuego, and Cyclone Salads on the main floor of the University Center. The Loft and The Sweets Spot Bakery are located on the upper level of the University Center, and Starbucks is in Rice Library. In addition, Sodexo operates Eagle Xpress Convenience Store, located in the Residence Life Community Center, Red Mango in the Wright Administration Building, and two Simply To Go units with sandwiches, salads, and beverages: one in the Liberal Arts Building and one in the Health Professions/Science Center link. Sushi, made fresh daily, is now offered at Cyclone Salads, Fiesta Fuego, both Simply To Go units and the Eagle Xpress Convenience Store. Catering services are available for meetings, programs, and events. For additional information on meal plans, catering services, or employment opportunities, contact the food service office, UC 019, 812-464-1859, or visit www.usi.sodexomyway.com. 

Disability Resources (DR)

Disability Resources (DR) coordinates services and academic accommodations for USI students with disabilities to ensure equal access to facilities, programs, services and resources of the university. Students with disabilities seeking accommodations (such as extra time on exams, accessible textbooks, note takers, etc.) are encouraged to submit documentation of their disability to DR at least 60 days prior to the date they will need accommodations. If you are uncertain as to the documentation that may be needed please call 812-464-1961 or visit www.usi.edu/disabilities.

Disability Resources is located in the Science Center, room 2206. The office is open 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Housing and Residence Life

Housing and Residence Life provides on-campus accommodations for approximately 2,800 students. The department is committed to supporting and enhancing the educational mission of USI by providing programs, services, staffing, and facilities that support academic success. Students live in quality facilities, including one- and two-bedroom furnished apartments with full-size kitchens, as well as two-bedroom, two-bath residence hall suites.

Housing facilities also provide several amenities, including:

• full-size kitchens or kitchenettes
• basic expanded cable service
• Internet access including both wired and wireless connections
• computer areas for student use
• fully furnished apartments and suites
• campus and community shuttle service
• air conditioning
• laundry facilities
• convenience store
• all utilities
• on-site 24-hour security provided by Public Safety
• 24-hour on-site staff supervision

Housing and Residence Life has numerous leadership opportunities for students in the residence halls and apartments. We invite you to get involved with your community and meet many great people on campus. Getting involved at USI makes the most of your time here and is a fun way to meet others who want to make a difference on campus. Getting involved is also a great way to learn leadership skills. Check out all that we have to offer!

Student Housing Association (SHA) and the National Residence Hall Honorary (NRHH) are student organizations within Housing. Each group has their own executive board, goals and purpose. SHA is open to all housing residents. NRHH is an invitation-only student organization that recognizes the top 1% of students in Housing.

Housing and Residence Life also offers leadership opportunities as a job! We hire resident assistants, desk assistants, marketing assistants, community assistants, and programing assistants throughout the year. 

Living Learning Community (LLC) programs also are available for incoming freshmen. Each Living Learning Community is developed around a common academic discipline or interest area and requires a separate application. Currently, there are eight LLCs, which are housed in Ruston and O’Bannon halls:

For more information, contact the Housing and Residence Life office at 812-468-2000, living@usi.edu, or visit the Housing and Residence Life web site at www.usi.edu/housing.

Multicultural Center

The University of Southern Indiana’s Multicultural Center enhances the personal and academic success of students by preparing them to be responsible citizens in a multicultural society. The goals of the Center are to:

• Foster and provide a warm, welcoming, supportive, and inclusive environment for diverse populations at USI
• Encourage, promote, and assist the academic and social integration of underrepresented students into the University through programs and services offered by the Center and through partnerships with other campus entities
• Create opportunities for cultural interaction between students, the campus and the community at large to promote cultural awareness and sensitivity
• Provide outreach opportunities to underrepresented groups and under-served communities to seek higher education.

The Vision Statement for the Center is to develop diversity awareness within students to build a bridge between college life and future multicultural experiences. For more information, visit www.usi.edu/multiculturalcenter.

Recreation, Fitness, and Wellness

The Recreation, Fitness, and Wellness department is the combination of the intramural sports, fitness, recreation and student wellness programs. The University encourages the lifelong pursuit of an active, healthy lifestyle, and enhances student development by providing healthy activities, as well as leadership and employment opportunities. The offices are located in the Recreation, Fitness, and Wellness Center (RFWC).

Recreation and Fitness — Recreation and Fitness offers programs designed to promote a healthy lifestyle and meet the physical, social, spiritual, intellectual, and emotional needs of students and employees. Some of the services and programs provided by Recreation and Fitness include fitness consultations, facility orientations, group exercise classes, incentive programs, bike and camping equipment checkout, and open recreation. The RFWC also includes a lobby with computers and a printing station, a game room, and a climbing center. A valid USI Eagle Access card is required to participate. Guest passes are available for purchase at the RFWC welcome desk. Recreation and Fitness staff can be reached in the Recreation, Fitness, and Wellness Center, or by calling 812-461-5268.

Intramural Sports — The Intramural Sports program offers a wide array of recreational activities which provide competition suitable for students regardless of physical capabilities. Participation in the intramural, special events, and outdoor adventure programs enriches social relationships, develops an understanding of sports, and aids physical and mental improvement. Intramural staff can be reached in the Recreation, Fitness, and Wellness Center or by calling 812-461-5268.

Student Wellness — The Student Wellness program develops, implements, and coordinates health and wellness education activities for the University community. In order to promote mindfulness, meditation, and other reflective practices that enhance wellness, students are encouraged to use the Reflection Room, located on the third floor of the RFWC. The staff of Student Wellness is located in the Recreation, Fitness, and Wellness Center, 812-461-5483.

USI Recreation facilities include:

Religious Life

Religious Life provides religious guidance, educational and worship opportunities for students, faculty, and staff, and is located in the O’Daniel Apartment complex (corner of O’Daniel Lane and Clark Lane). The mission of the Religious Life Office is to provide access to programs that enable interested students to pursue full spiritual growth and development. Religious Life fosters a campus atmosphere in which members of the college community may freely express their religion/non-religion faith beliefs as to live wisely. 

Religious Life sponsors the Spiritual Diversity Project, a campus initiative aimed at cultivating greater awareness and respectful dialogue among religious and non-religious students. The diversity of beliefs and non-beliefs in our community is celebrated through religious, spiritual, and cultural literacy programs, as well as interfaith collaborative service projects. Spiritual Diversity Project programs are tailored specifically for our USI community.

To find out more about the religious life organizations on campus, the Spiritual Diversity Project, and area worship information, visit www.usi.edu/religiouslife.

Scripps Howard Center for Media Studies

The Scripps Howard Center for Media Studies houses a television production facility and the student cable television channel, SETV-12. The facility includes a fully equipped, three-camera television studio, camcorders for field shooting, and Apple computers for video editing. Student productions include the live newscast Access USI, entertainment shows, and Radio/Television class assignments. SETV-12 airs these programs along with movies and student organization announcements.

Student Development Programs

(Student Organizations, O’Daniel Leadership Programs, Orientation, Fraternity and Sorority Life, Student Activities, Activities Programming Board, and First Year @ USI)

Student Development Programs promotes student learning by providing leadership education, avenues for involvement, and personal growth opportunities to develop responsible individuals as engaged members of their communities. They assist students in their transition to the University and college life through the development and coordination of new, transfer, and adult student orientation, Welcome Week, and other transition programs. The staff coordinates, advises, and supports the growth and development of over 140 student organizations that represent a wide range of interests, including academic/professional organizations, programming, political, religious, multicultural, special interest, service, sororities, fraternities, and honor societies. These organizations provide co-curricular and extra-curricular activities for students. This department fosters an active and comprehensive campus experience through encouraging students to get involved. The staff trains students to become effective campus leaders and prepare them for leadership roles in their communities through the O’Daniel Leadership Programs. It is designed to enhance the personal and professional skills long associated with leaders: initiative and motivation, goal setting, communication, critical thinking, problem solving, self-confidence, teamwork, conflict management, and self-assessment. The leadership programs challenge and empower students to become aware of their leadership skills and help them feel confident in their ability to lead and make changes. Programs include Emerging Leaders, Camp Eagle, Student Organization Leader Retreat, educational leadership events, and annual leadership awards.

Student Development Programs is located in University Center East and can be reached at 812-465-7167, getinvolved@usi.edu or visit www.usi.edu/student-development.

Student Government Association

The Student Government Association (SGA) is the representative body of all currently-enrolled students. It is composed of elected members of the student population and includes an executive board, five administrative vice-presidents, 23 representatives from the four academic colleges and University Division, 27 members at large, and a seven-member University Court. SGA serves as the voice of all students to the Board of Trustees, faculty, administration, and USI community. All students, by virtue of their registration at the University of Southern Indiana, are members of SGA and are encouraged to attend General Assembly meetings and serve on SGA committees. For more information, visit the web site at www.usi.edu/sga or email sga@usi.edu.  

The Shield

The Shield, a student publication and designated public forum, provides opportunities for students to gain experience in reporting, writing, design, photography, and sales. The Shield’s print edition is available at more than two dozen locations across campus every Thursday during the fall and spring semesters and online every day at usishield.com. Students from all disciplines are welcome to apply for staff and management positions in the editorial or sales and marketing departments. Apply at usishield.com/work-for-us or in person in The Shield office in the lower level of UC East. 

University Health Center

The University Health Center provides medical services and health-related information to students, faculty and staff. We are located on the lower level of the Health Professions Center in room HP 0091. The University Health Center recognizes that health and education are precious assets. Our goal is to help you maintain or improve your health, allowing you to reach your highest potential both in and out of the classroom. Services offered include acute and minor care, contraceptive counseling and birth control options, immunizations, allergy injections, pregnancy tests, laboratory testing, physicals, STD diagnosis and treatment and other medical procedures. Services needed beyond the scope of the Health Center are accessible through our referral network. Services provided at the University Health Center do not replace the need for a primary care physician.

The University Health Center is staffed by Deaconess Clinic employees including nurses, nurse practitioners and a Doctor. The Health Center is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 am – 4:30 pm. To reach the UHC call 812-465-1250, email at studhlth@usi.edu or via fax at 812-465-7170. Additional information and resources can be found at www.usi.edu/healthcenter.

95.7 The Spin

95.7 – The Spin is an award-winning, student-run, non-commercial radio station owned and operated by the University. The Spin can be heard on multiple platforms, including 95.7-FM, www.957thespin.com, channel 12 in student housing and on smartphone apps. The station’s main format is alternative rock, and it produces news and sports. Students from all disciplines are welcome to be a part of The Spin’s programming. Positions are available for disc jockey, news writing and reporting, sports broadcasting, marketing, promotion, and underwriting.