Parent Day Agenda

Saturday, October 18th, 2008


8:00 AM   Check-in & Light Refreshments

  • Plaza Del Sol, University Student Union (USU)
  • Campus tours will be provided for parents who want a tour of the University by Orientation Leaders

8:30 AM   University Welcome

  • Dr. Jolene Koester, University President

9:00 AM   Partnering with the University

  • Academic Success

    • Dr. Cheryl Spector, Professor and Director for Academic First Year Experiences

    This presentation will inform parents of the role of the University, the responsibility of the student as a CSUN student, and introduce parents to the role they can play in supporting student academic success. This presentation will include a general discussion of the requirements for the bachelor’s degree, Executive Order 665, general overview of advisement, and provide an overview of how to plan to graduate in a timely manner while avoiding those pitfalls that delay graduation.

  • Student Life

    • Dr. William Watkins, Associate Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students

    This presentation will focus on importance of engagement in co-curricular activities as means to promote student success. This presentation will discuss opportunities for student involvement, including volunteer service, NSE and study abroad, and acquaint parents with their role in supporting an appropriate balance between campus life and academic activities. Parents will be informed of the Student Conduct Code and the University’s expectations concerning civility and respect for others.

9:50 AM   TAKE Skit Presentation

  • Students perspective on dealing with transitional college challenges

10:05 AM   Partnering with Your Student

  • Dr. Lideth Ortega-Zillalobos,
    Staff Psychologist, University Counseling Services
  • Dr. Aisha Dixon - Peters,
    Staff Psychologist, University Counseling Services

    • A presentation and discussion about the experiences that parents and students typically face during the first year of college. The importance of parents’ support in promoting students academic success will be discussed. Additionally, strategies to help parents stay connected and manage their concerns and worries will be presented.

10:25 AM   Student Well-being & Safety on Campus

  • Dr. Terry Piper, Vice President for Student Affairs/li>

    Personal well-being and campus safety are areas of concern for students, parents, and all members of the campus community. The Vice President for Student Affairs will discuss University practices and resources that combine to promote a secure campus environment conducive to student learning.


(15 minute break to transition to new location)



11:00 AM – 12:30 PM
Service Fair and Optional Campus Tour & Library Tour

At this time a service fair will be held in the San Fernando Valley Hall to provide parents with a large array of service departments ranging from Academic, Health, Safety, and Involvement support. Tours will be available for parents who would like a university tour conducted by an Orientation Leader or a library tour lead by a University Librarian.


Breakout Sessions #1:
These breakout sessions will be occurring simultaneously
11:00 AM - 11:45 AM

Conversation with Academic College Dean’s
Location: Thousand Oaks Room

This session will provide parents with the opportunity to ask questions and obtain answers regarding university academic regulations, procedures, policies and expectations as it relates to student academic success.

Financing your Student through College
Location: Plaza Del Sol

This session is intended to assist parents in understanding the cost of college and provide information regarding the financial aid process, applying for scholarships, applying for educational loans, as well as answer any related questions.

Spanish Speakers Forum
Location: Flintridge Room

This session will provide information for Spanish speaking parents and will cover topics such as college experience, supporting your student, campus safety, and academic success.

Student Panel
Location: Grand Salon

Current CSUN students will share their stories about the challenges, opportunities, and tips for surviving the college experience.

Breakout Sessions #2:
These breakout sessions will be occurring simultaneously
12:00 pm – 12:45 pm

Financing your Student through College
Location: Flintridge Room (English), Thousand Oaks (Spanish)

This session is intended to assist parents in understanding the cost of college and provide information regarding the financial aid process, applying for scholarships, applying for educational loans, as well as answer any related questions.

Student Housing
Location: USU Theatre

This session will focus on resources available in Student Housing and will allow you to meet staff. The session will also allow plenty of time for your questions.

Student Panel
Location: Grand Salon

Current CSUN students will share their stories about the challenges, opportunities, and tips for surviving the college experience.

12:45 pm - 2:30 pm

Lunch on your own. Please consult your packet for recommended places to eat around campus.

2:30 pm

Matador Athletics invites you to:
Location: Soccer Field

Men’s Soccer Game - Cal State Northridge vs Cal State Fullerton


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