August 12, 2021

Tips to start the semester Warrior Strong

With the fall semester quickly approaching, excitement is building as students, faculty and staff prepare for classes and campus activities. The entire WSU community is committed to helping all students succeed, and a vast network of resources are available to support all students. To help start the semester off strong, students are encouraged to do the following before classes begin on Sept. 1, 2021:

1. Register for classes

There’s still time to register for classes! Registration is now open, with a mix of class formats available:

  • Traditional: Course instruction will take place on campus. 
  • Remote (synchronous): Students must be online at a specific time, along with their professor and classmates. 
  • Web (asynchronous): All instruction is online only, with no specific meeting dates or times.
  • Hybrid: Occasional face-to-face instruction on campus, but work will also be completed through remote or online distance education. 
  • Individually arranged: These include dissertations, theses and individual research credits.

For more information on class formats, visit the Registrar's website. To register for classes, visit the Registration website.  Wayne State is also hosting on-campus Registration Rally events, where students can meet in-person with academic advisors and sign up for classes. RSVP now for an appointment with an advisor.

Be sure to review your course schedule carefully and reach out to your academic advisor with any questions about class formats.

2. Get your textbooks 

Once you’ve reviewed and finalized your class schedule, make sure to get the necessary textbooks and course materials. Students can visit the Wayne State University Bookstore – in person or online – to purchase course materials. Additionally, Warrior gear may be purchased online or in person at the WSU Bookstore or through one of our many retail partners.

3. Prepare ahead of time to help keep campus healthy

To best protect the health and safety of our community, WSU will require that all students, faculty and staff who plan to be on campus during the fall semester receive their COVID-19 vaccination. Students are encouraged to get vaccinated as soon as possible and can schedule an appointment at the Campus Health Center or a local pharmacy. It’s important to note that the two-dose Pfizer vaccine requires a 21-day waiting period between doses, and the two-dose Moderna vaccine requires a 28-day waiting period between doses; the Johnson & Johnson vaccine is a single dose. Proof of full vaccination must be submitted by Aug. 30, or Aug. 22 for those living on-campus. Be sure to also submit proof of vaccination by Aug. 29 for a chance to win a variety of prizes, including tuition, parking and more through WSU’s Summer Warrior vaccine incentive.

Masks are required indoors for everyone, regardless of vaccination status, through Sept. 15, at which point the university will reassess the mask requirement.

Before coming to campus, be sure to fill out the Campus Daily Screener. If you are cleared to be on campus, you will receive a QR code that you may be asked to produce. If you are not cleared to be on campus, you will be contacted by Campus Health Center staff for further screening. You may then be cleared, or you may be referred for testing. 

Additional information about WSU’s response to the pandemic and the latest updates can be found at wayne.edu/coronavirus. More details about the COVID-19 vaccinations are available online.

4. Know how to get help with classes

There are many free resources available to help students succeed in class.

Beginning August 23, the libraries will no longer require reservations to enter the buildings. Users should carry their OneCards and be prepared to show they’ve passed the Campus Daily Screener for entry. Library help will be available onsite and online at library.wayne.edu/help.

5. Get involved

Visit the Dean of Students Office website for an up-to-date student activities calendar, student organization membership information and more. From beloved Wayne State traditions like Convocation, Homecoming and Campus Activities Week to new programs such as esports, trivia, crafts, tours and comedy shows, there are many opportunities to connect with fellow Warriors and get involved.

FestiFall, WSU’s annual student organization fair, will be hosted on Aug. 31 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. This event is a great opportunity for students to connect and learn more about the 500-plus student organizations on campus.

If you’re new to WSU, virtual and in-person tours are available to help you get to know campus.

6. Take care of your health

Wayne State has a vast network of resources for students’ physical, emotional and mental well-being, including:

7. Connect with the Office of Student Financial Aid/Student Service Center

Avoid the beginning of the semester rush and check in now with the Office of Student Financial Aid about any questions or concerns! The Student Service Center will offer an interactive virtual presentation to on Aug. 20 to help get students ready for fall by sharing general financial aid, billing and registration information.

8. Plan for parking, dining and housing

Fall parking passes are available for students planning to be on campus. Information regarding current rates is available at parking.wayne.edu/info/rates. Fall meal plans are also now available.

Students living on-campus should stay tuned for emails with important tips and details ahead of move-in from Aug. 26 to 29.  

9. Keep your OneCard handy

When on campus, students should have their OneCard ready to help with verification and building access, as needed. If you need a replacement or new card, visit the OneCard website.

10. Stay in-the-know

Now more than ever, it’s important to stay connected with the university. Be sure to monitor your WSU email for the latest information, and follow Wayne State on social media.

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