Making the Transition to University Park

If you plan to make the transition to University Park soon, now is the time to begin planning your move. There are many things to consider such as housing, class schedules, identifying your adviser, and getting involved in student clubs and organizations. Here are some tips to help out.

Ag Sciences Change of Campus Mentoring Program

This program is designed to provide Ag Sciences students in transition from other campuses with resources to successfully acclimate to University Park, the College of Ag Sciences, and the community.

Program events are held once a week from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. for the first six weeks of the fall and spring semester. Join us for dinner, followed by key programming and discussions that will help your transition to University Park go more smoothly. Please contact ACCoMPlish@psu.edu for more information or to be added to the list for invitation.

Housing and Food Services

After the first year, students at University Park may choose either on- or off-campus housing. If you plan to live on campus, the Penn State Housing website is an excellent resource.

Living off-campus typically means finding an apartment. You can locate housing options through the local newspaper, realtors, or the Penn State Off-Campus Living website. This resource can help you search for housing options as well as other students looking for roommates.

Whether you are living on or off campus, you may purchase a meal plan. Visit the Penn State Food Services website for more information.

Health Care

University Health Services offers a wealth of information and health care services for students. From general health care and educational programs to preventive health care and physical therapy, University Health Services helps students care for their physical and emotional health. Remember to bring your medical insurance card and prescription card if you have a prescription plan. In addition, for more serious medical needs, Mount Nittany Health is just minutes away from University Park.

Getting Around

The Centre Area Transportation Authority (CATA) provides bus service both on and off campus. On campus, the Blue and White Campus Loop buses, as well as the Green and Red Link buses, are free of charge and run roughly every 5 to 7 minutes. Off-campus bus routes cover the Centre Region and service many off-campus housing and apartment complexes.

Office for Undergraduate Education

The College of Ag Sciences Office for Undergraduate Education is a great place to get to know. Associate Dean Tracy Hoover leads an office of professionals who stand ready to assist you with academic issues and referrals. We look forward to getting to know you!

Academic Program Coordinators

Academic Program Coordinators are faculty and staff in each major who are the primary contact people for any questions you may have about your major. They can assist with advising questions, help you with co-curricular opportunities such as study abroad, or point you toward interesting career options. The Program Coordinator is not necessarily your assigned academic adviser, but is a wonderful resource to add to your advising team.

Orientation

Each semester, the Office for Undergraduate Education hosts an orientation meeting for all students new to University Park. It is highly recommended that you attend this meeting. You will receive notice of the date, time, and place for the meeting shortly before the semester begins. You will have an opportunity to meet staff, Academic Program Coordinators, and others who will help you with your transition.

Getting Involved

Students in the College of Ag Sciences are very involved in co-curricular activities, including student organizations. Before you arrive, check out clubs and organizations that look interesting. You'll find them on our Current Student Web site. Typically, our students host a Clubs/Organizations Fair in the fall so that you can meet club members and leaders. Get involved!