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First-Year Frequently Asked Questions

First-Year Frequently Asked Questions

Welcome to the start of your Cardinal journey! As a first-year student, we know you may have many questions as you transition into your first year in college. Please use the FAQs listed below to help you navigate this great adventure. If you do not find the answer to your question(s), please do not hesitate to contact our office at 210-805-3006 or email Dr. Diana Sanchez, Director of First-Year Engagement, at castaned@uiwtx.edu.

How do I make changes to my schedule? Open

If you need guidance in choosing the right classes, please contact your Advisor or the Director of First-Year Engagement. You can contact the Director of First-Year Engagement at castaned@uiwtx.edu or 210-805-3006. Please read the add/drop form carefully before you make any changes.

Form: https://my.uiw.edu/registrar/_docs/registration-add-drop-form_fillable_rev-4-2021.pdf

What happens if I am waitlisted for a class? Open

Please follow the instructions provided on the Registrar's website.

Registrar Waitlist Information: https://my.uiw.edu/registrar/registration-information/waitlist-information.html

How do I sign up for tutoring? Open

It is important that you sign-up for tutoring as soon as possible. If you know that you experience challenges in certain subjects, it is best that you secure tutoring at the beginning of the year. Below you will find the necessary information to sign up for tutoring.

Tutoring Information: https://my.uiw.edu/tutoringservices/index.html

What do I do if I need classroom or housing accommodations? Open

Requests for accommodations are confidential. The Office of Student Disability Services is ready to help and support you. Please find the necessary information outlined on their website.

Student Disability Services: https://my.uiw.edu/sds/index.html

Where can I park on campus? Open

Parking is an essential part of your day while attending classes. Please plan accordingly when you are driving onto campus. If you have a 7:30 am class, you should try to arrive on campus by 7:00 am. Arriving at least 30 minutes before your class will give you the opportunity to park and catch a shuttle to the front of campus. Below you can find additional information related to parking and shuttle services.

Parking/Shuttle Information: https://my.uiw.edu/police/parking.html

Can I get a meal plan if I am a commuter? Open

UIW offers several options for dining services for commuters. You can load your meal plan through Cardinal Apps. You have the option of purchasing a board meal plan or dining dollars. More information is listed below.

Commuter Meal Plan Information: https://uiwdining.sodexomyway.com/my-meal-plan

Do commuters have access to microwaves? Open

Yes. You can eat your lunch at Luciano's Pizzeria on the basement level of the Student Engagement Center (SEC). You can also visit the SEC 3065 (opening soon) where you will have an opportunity to relax and enjoy your lunch.

Where can I relax in between classes? Open

Below you will find the many locations on campus where you can take a break in between classes.

Student Engagement Center (SEC)
- "The Landing" SEC 3065 (Opening Soon): This lounge will have a microwave, coffee maker, snacks, and activities.
- Red's Game Room: The game room is located on the SEC Basement Level. Red's offers a shuffleboard, pool tables, ping pong table, and video games.
- Seating Areas: You can find many seating areas in the SEC. For your convenience, the seating areas are listed below.
  - 1st floor: Outside the bookstore, Starbucks, and across the Welcome Center
  - Mezzanine
  - 2nd floor: across 2150 and next to 2034
  - 3rd Floor: across 3150 and 3120
Library
- The Library offers several quiet areas and study rooms. Study rooms are available upon request. You can also find tables in the lobby area of the Library where you can enjoy your lunch.
Dubuis Lawn
- When the weather cools down, you can enjoy the outdoors and relax with friends at the picnic tables.
Friendship Garden (Located near Clement Hall and Agnese/Sosa):
- Enjoy a shaded area with picnic tables and meet new friends
Westgate Circle (Located in the center of the Library, SEC, and Dubuis Hall)
- A great place to meet new friends and hang out in between classes.

What do I do if I feel sick? Open

UIW Health Services is located in the back area of the Agnese/Sosa parking garage. The clinic offers medical services to UIW students. Please find additional information on their website.

Health Services Website: https://my.uiw.edu/health/index.html

What do I do if I need Mental Health Support? Open

UIW Counseling Services provides counseling to students upon request. To schedule an appointment, please call their office at 210-832-5656. Please find additional information listed on their website https://my.uiw.edu/counseling/.

How do I get involved on campus? Open

UIW Campus Life offers many opportunities to be engaged on campus. You can find all of the student organizations listed on UIW Engage in Cardinal Apps. In addition, you can find a list of events on campus listed in order by date. As a reminder, all events on campus are free to UIW students, including theatre performances, athletic events, and student events.

What do I do if I am struggling with classes, making new friends, or getting involved?, Open

It is important that you utilize the resources offered at UIW. The FYE Office is here to help you navigate your first year. Do not hesitate to contact us at 210-805-3006 or visit us at SEC 3150. You can also email the Director of First-Year Engagement, Dr. Diana Sanchez, at castaned@uiwtx.edu.