DUS News - November 9, 2020

News: 
What Are You Going to Do With That Major?

Is there a chance you’ll hear this question over break? If so, know that it can trigger some predictable responses. A research study shows that this question often makes students feel anxious and inferior, especially when their majors are not aligned with a specific career. The question, although often well-meaning, reinforces a simplistic view of education as vocational training and perpetuates the myth of a linear path between major and career. Don’t let this question cause you to simply go with the flow, and don’t let it dampen your intellectual curiosities. Take some time to reflect on how this question might be influencing your decisions. Use your adviser as a sounding board to examine if those influences are leading you on a fulfilling path. And remember: majors are not careers, and your Penn State education is more than your major.

Alternative Grading Reinstated for Fall 2020

The University Faculty Senate has reinstated alternative grading for fall 2020. Specific details on this option will be available in advance of the Late Drop Deadline (11/13). Please plan to talk with your academic adviser to ensure you have a good understanding of the pros and cons of using alternative grading. Additionally, students who have received an academic sanction as the result of a violation of academic integrity will not be allowed to select alternative grading for that course.       

Late Drop Deadline Is November 13

You should consult with an academic adviser if you’re considering late dropping a course to fully consider the ramifications for your degree progress, financial arrangements, and potential opportunities. The Late-Drop Checklist can help you think through the potential consequences of dropping a course prior to your advising conversation. Be sure to read up on Late Course Drop policies.

Important Dates: 
Resource Spotlight: 
Lion's Pantry
Logo consisting of a cartoon nittany lion head with the words Lion's Pantry to the right.

The Lion’s Pantry was created to address the issue of food insecurity at Penn State University and is available to students with a valid Penn State ID. Similar programs may be available at other campus locations. 

Feeding Pennsylvania has a search tool for food banks in other parts of the Commonwealth.

Events and Announcements: 
Quick Question Advising
University Park

Have a question that can be resolved in a short 5-10 minute conversation? Join us for quick question advising via Zoom on the dates and times below. Some of these topics include: discussing adding/dropping courses within deadlines; getting a form signed; using LionPATH; reviewing entrance-to-major requirements; learning about general education information not related to schedule planning; and transferring credits. Quick question advising is not intended for in-depth conversations.

For students enrolled in DUS:

  • Click here for quick question advising via Zoom - Please note that a DUS adviser is only available during the times listed below. All times are Eastern Time. 
    Monday 1:00–3:00 p.m.
    Tuesday 9:00–11:00 a.m.
    Wednesday 9:00–11:00 a.m.
    Thursday 1:00–3:00 p.m.
    Friday No Quick Question Advising

For students not enrolled in DUS:

School of Hospitality Management Info Session
University Park

Interested in learning about the School of Hospitality Management? Come to the virtual info session on Monday, November 9 at 5:30 p.m. The School of Hospitality Management is not just about hotels and restaurants. The hospitality world has so much more to offer. During this virtual information session, presenters will provide information about the Hospitality Management curriculum, answer your questions about the major, and explain the many exciting opportunities afforded to students who choose Hospitality Management 

Please register in advance for this info session.

Explore Majors in EMS
All Campuses

Are you considering a major in the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences (EMS)? Join their virtual college information night on Tuesday, November 10 at 6:00 p.m., and learn from current students about majors, minors, global experiences, internships, research, and more!  

Join via Zoom: https://psu.zoom.us/s/94019455831

Be a Parents Program Family Ambassador
University Park

Are you a student looking for a way to stay engaged with the campus community while supporting the Penn State family connection? Applications for the 2021 Parents Program Family Ambassador team are open through November 11. Spread the word! The application and more information about the Family Ambassador team can be found on the Parents Program Family Ambassador Program website. 

Study Smarter Workshop
All Campuses

How can you better monitor your learning so that you don't waste time and effort on ineffective study strategies? This workshop presents research-based evidence that metacognition (awareness of how you learn and the predictable effects of the related choices you make) can help you successfully transition to the demands of college-level courses as well as the flexibility of setting your own schedule. All sessions will be held online via Zoom, and all times listed are Eastern Time (ET).

Upcoming Study Smarter Sessions: 

Join the New Student Orientation OTeam
University Park

Interested in helping the Class of 2025 to join Penn State? Join the Orientation Team! We are seeking diverse, dedicated, enthusiastic, resourceful, and motivated students to join our 2021 Orientation Team (OTeam). New Student Orientation (NSO) begins the transition to Penn State, and the OTeam makes the difference for new students and their families. Members of the OTeam will serve as group facilitators, resource persons, role models, and ambassadors for Penn State during NSO. You can learn more about the Orientation Team by visiting oteam.psu.edu.

Applications due by December 2, 2020.