Student Services

Academic Advising Center

The Academic Advising Center is committed to the smooth transition and the academic success of all undergraduate students at Georgia College. Advising at Georgia College is a shared responsibility between students and the advisors. Through a network of resources and support, students communicate with advisors to obtain information and guidance aimed at the student’s successful completion of degree requirements and preparation for post baccalaureate opportunities. An inherent goal of the advising process is for students to gain self understanding that will inform their decisions regarding academic, career and life goals.

GC provides a centralized, professional advising experience in Lanier Hall, located in the middle of the Academic Square. With professional advisors located in one building and representing every major, students can receive guidance in a one-stop setting. The average student changes majors three or four times before finalizing his/her decision. For this reason, a centralized advising experience enables students to make the most of their time while talking to the appropriate qualified professionals. Our professional advisors also teach or support the First Year Academic Seminars, which increases the amount of contact between advisor and student. Advising sessions are required each semester for academic advisors and students to review the student’s degree progress.

In addition to the professional advisors in the Academic Advising Center, upper-level students may also have faculty mentors within their academic department. Advisor assignments are listed on the student’s Tranguide in PAWS. If an incoming student is not informed regarding his/her advisor assignment, he or she should contact the Advising Center in Lanier Hall at (478) 445-2361.

Athletic Complex Located at West Campus

The athletic complex consists of softball fields, eight tennis courts, athletic offices, and a training room. A shelter and picnic facility are also located at the complex. The Village and numerous recreational facilities are adjacent to the athletic complex, as is the Intramural Complex.

Bobcat Card

The Bobcat Card Office is located on the lower level of Maxwell Student Union. The Bobcat Card is an essential key to campus life and a handy tool for managing money. As the official GC identification card, it offers students access to facilities and services such as residence halls, meal plans, and snack/beverage/laundry/vending services. CatCash balances roll over from semester to semester. Upon graduation, transfer, or withdrawal from GC, balances are fully refundable.

Students should present the Bobcat Card to any properly-identified faculty or staff member upon request. The Bobcat Card may be required for admission to certain student activities and college facilities, including weekend use of the academic computer labs. A valid Bobcat Card is required to conduct any financial transaction at the Business Office.

For more information, please call (478) 445-CARD (2273).

Bookstore

The University operates one bookstore, Barnes & Noble at Georgia College, that is located at 135 West Hancock Street in the Campus Theatre building. It offers general reading books, textbooks, school supplies, and GC clothing and gifts.

The store is open Monday through Saturday with extended hours during the first week of classes each semester. Call the store for specific hours (478) 445-TEXT (8398)). The Georgia College bookstore also serves the Warner Robins and Macon campuses via our on-line bookstore.

For more information about Georgia College’s bookstore, please call (478) 445-TEXT (8398). Also, please visit the bookstore’s web site, accessed from the Student Life tab of GC’s homepage.

Campus Life

The Department of Campus Life is responsible for the intentional promotion of student development by encouraging student self-appraisal, assisting students in acquiring the skills necessary to excel in all areas of their life, assisting students in developing effective social and leadership skills, and creating and encouraging involvement opportunities. Campus Life offers programming that contributes to the University’s mission of providing quality educational and co-curricular experiences.

Georgia College students may participate in a variety of activities that are coordinated or organized through this department. The department consists of the following units: Business Operations, Fraternity & Sorority Life, Student Involvement and The GIVE Center. A range of activities include concerts, comedians, movies, special interest groups, academic organizations, honor societies, community service projects, and social Greek lettered organizations. Please visit the Campus Life website for more detailed information on student involvement opportunities.

Career Center

Georgia College believes that career planning is a lifelong process and desires for all graduates to secure fulfilling careers post-graduation. To meet this goal, the Career Center provides advising services and networking resources that help all students meet their specific career objective. The Career Center staff uses the Career Planning Milestones to guide students through the foundations of career management so that they can plan and work towards meeting their career objectives beginning in their first year at Georgia College. By completing the Career Planning Milestones, students will explore career and major options, learn how to develop a targeted resume and/or curriculum vitae, articulate how their experience meets the needs of employers and graduate programs, and use in-person and online networking platforms to make connections with potential career opportunities. These activities are key to being competitive for internship, graduate and professional school, and full-time employment opportunities.

Services and programs are provided to students beginning in their freshman year and continue throughout their undergraduate experience. Services are also available to alumni and graduate students. These services include:

• Individualized advising appointments for developing resumes, practicing interviewing skills, formulating job and internship search strategies, graduate/professional school applications, and career planning
• Career and major exploration advising with access to an online career interest inventory and assessment, Focus2
• Mock interview opportunities with career advising staff and employer volunteers
• Thousands of job and internship opportunities through the Handshake online career management platform. Handshake also includes a calendar of Career Center workshops and career fairs, a resource library, and academic internship paperwork
• Over 12 annual career fairs and networking events with employers and graduate schools each year
• Opportunities to interview with employers on campus
• Relevant career workshops and online resources for maximizing LinkedIn, job searching, internships, and graduate/professional school

The Career Center is located in Lanier Hall, Room 110. Hours of operation are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. We can also be contacted at (478) 445-5384, career.center@gcsu.edu, and through our website www.gcsu.edu/career.

Career Planning Milestones

Expectations for Students

Georgia College believes that career planning is a lifelong process and desires for all graduates to secure fulfilling careers post-graduation. Therefore, prior to graduation, undergraduate students are expected to complete a set of career planning benchmarks that follows a four-year career planning model. Known as the GC Career Planning Milestones, these benchmarks provide students an opportunity to engage in career development activities on an annual basis so that they are prepared for internships as well as transitions to a career or to graduate / professional school. Career Center advisors and staff, academic advisors, and faculty will check students’ progress through the Milestones, and students will be reminded of their need for timely completion of Milestones through their official GC e-mail account.

In their first year, GC students complete a career assessment and review the results through an individual or group planning session with a career advisor. First-year students also activate their profile in the Career Center’s online career management platform, Handshake, to access career events, resources, and internships. In their sophomore year, students participate in resume review sessions that include an introduction to LinkedIn. As juniors, students complete a career planning appointment in which they work with an advisor to discuss career plans and a mock interview focused on articulating transferable skills gained through their liberal arts education. In their final year, students complete a senior-year check-in in which they consult with career advisors on their resumes or CVs, LinkedIn profiles, and career plans. Lastly, each student uploads his or her final resume to Handshake so that they are included in Employer Resume Books.

While the university expects all students to complete these Career Planning Milestones, the university encourages students to go beyond the Milestones to take full advantage of the Career Center’s services. The Career Center works closely with employers and provides multiple opportunities for students to attend career fairs and interview on campus for job and internship opportunities. To help prepare specifically for job, internship, or graduate / professional school searches, students should participate in additional programs such as career fairs, employer interviews, and networking events as well as meet-ups or workshops focused on LinkedIn, professionalism, job or internship search strategies, graduate school, and other career transition topics. The university strongly encourages all students to complete a practical work experience such as an internship prior to graduation.

Students transferring into GC are also expected to complete the Career Planning Milestones. Career Center staff will work with transfer students to ensure they have opportunities to complete all components of the four-year plan so long as the student takes an active role in his/her professional development.

The Career Center is located in Lanier Hall, Room 110. Hours of operation are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. The Career Center staff can also be contacted at (478) 445-5384, career.center@gcsu.edu, or through their website at www.gcsu.edu/career.

Centennial Center Complex

This 97,000 square-foot multi-purpose facility opened in October 1989, and was constructed to enhance educational opportunities through facilitating comprehensive health, physical education, and intercollegiate athletic programs, and after meeting these needs, to provide special services to the remaining university family and its community. The later addition of a swimming pool and bathhouse facility and six lighted tennis courts make the complex one of the most appealing and highly-used facilities on the campus.

For more information about the Centennial Center Complex call the Department of Public Services at 445-6542.

Center for Student Success

The Center for Student Success strives to help students succeed in their studies, graduate in a timely manner, and fully realize their academic and leadership potential as they benefit from Georgia College’s distinctive liberal arts education. The Center is comprised of the following areas:

• Academic Advising Center
• Bridge Scholars Program
• Honors Program  and the National Scholarships Office
• Leadership Programs  
• Learning Center
• Testing Center
• Writing Center

Center for Testing

The Center for Testing administers tests which satisfy undergraduate degree requirements, such as, the U.S. and Georgia history and constitution tests and the Senior Exit Exam for many majors. Other available testing programs include the College Level Examination Program (CLEP), the Miller Analogies Test (MAT), Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) and the College of Education Graduate Writing Assessment. Testing services include proctoring course tests for students who qualify for learning accommodations, proctoring independent study/distance learning examinations, scoring and generating reports for course tests for faculty and administering some professional certification tests. For more information visit the Center for Testing website at www.gcsu.edu/testingcenter.

Counseling Services

Georgia College provides a range of counseling services to GC students. These free and confidential services include personal counseling, psychiatric services, career counseling and academic skills counseling. Personal counseling helps students deal with issues such as adjustment to college, relationship difficulties, and coping with grief and loss. Personal counseling and psychiatric services also help individuals better manage issues such as depression, anxiety and recovery after trauma. Career counseling and testing may be useful to those who are undecided about a choice of major or career path. Academic skills counseling is offered on such matters as study skills, time management, and test taking skills. Services to faculty and staff include consultation, presentations to classes and crisis intervention. Group counseling, workshops and seminars are offered to help students develop skills and achieve goals.

For more information, visit the Counseling Services website at: http://www.gcsu.edu/counseling

Dining Services

GC offers a wide variety of dining options. Students, visitors and the surrounding community can choose from The MAX, our dining hall, located on the second floor of MSU, Einstein Bros. Bagels, located on the first floor of MSU, Books & Brew Starbucks Cafe’ and The Lunch Box, located in the Library, or Chick-fil-A and Subway, located on the first floor of MSU in the Bobcat Food Court.

Diversity Programs and Services

The Office of Diversity Programs and Services provides institutional leadership on all matters of diversity and equity.

Our prevention work serves to ensure that agents of the university do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, disability, veteran status or any other irrelevant non-bona fide qualification in the administration of educational and employment programs, or any other activity administered by the university.
Georgia College’s primary goal is to prevent discrimination and harassment and stop such behavior if it occurs. To that end, the University has adopted informative and formal processes through which discrimination and harassment (including sexual harassment) complaints can be resolved through OIED.

For more information, visit www.gcsu.edu/oie/oie-initiatives-office-of-inclusive-excellence

The Women’s Resource Center (WRC)

The Women’s Resource Center is a place where anyone can come and find out about gender issues. Two former GC students created the WRC in 2005 because women should be able to live life free from fear of partner violence, sexual assault, and sexual harassment; because women should be paid equitably, enjoy healthy self-esteem, and have confidence that comes from within. For more information, please contact us at 478-445-4233 or visit http://www.gcsu.edu/womenscenter.

Diversity and Cultural Programming

Diversity and Cultural Programming works to ensure that there are adequate programs and initiatives which provide support and advocacy for cultural and minority populations, enhance awareness and appreciation of cultural and racial diversity and promote a campus climate that celebrates all differences. We work collaboratively with student organizations such as Black Student Alliance, Inter-Views, Latino Student Alliance, NAACP, and Pride Alliance, faculty, staff and the local communities to integrate an appreciation of diversity into university and civic life. For more information, please contact us at 478-445-4233 or visit gcsu.edu/oie/oie-initiatives-office-of-inclusive-excellence

Minority Support Programs - Student Oriented Activities and Resources (SOAR); Mentoring African Americans for Leadership and Education (M.A.L.E.)

Minority Advisement Programs were established in 1983 by the University System of Georgia to address findings from various studies that have shown that minority students on Predominantly-White Campuses face unique barriers that often include lack of familiar networks, inadequate relationships with faculty, resulting in meager use of campus resources that are important to their retention and successes. The programs at GC are designed as mentorship that matches incoming minority students with upper-class peer mentors, professional mentors from GC faculty and staff, and community mentors, forming a network of resources and support to ensure the student’s successful transition and completion of their collegiate experience. For more information please contact us at 478-445-4233 or visit www.gcsu.edu/education/male-connection-college-of-education

East Campus (Lake Laurel)

East Campus is an eighty-three acre site which features wet lands, mised forests, walking trails, a 3.5 acre pond (Lake Laurel) and myriad wildlife. This beautiful and varied natural environment provides Georgia College students and faculty many opportunities for outdoor, field based learning experiences. East Campus academic facilities include the Biological Field Station, equipment storage facilities which support student learning experiences sponsored by the Georgica College Outdoor Center and the instructional needs of the Outdoor Education Academic Programs, Lake Laurel Lodge (indoor group meeting space), the Outdoor Center Cabin (administrative support office), the Georgia College Challenge Course, as well as open space for outdoor group activities.

The Outdoor Center staff provide excellent technical training, outdoor recreation education, leadership training and group development experiences for student groups, academic class instruction and specialized program to community and corporate groups at the East Campus facilities. The Outdoor Center’s “Venture Out” program offers a variety of outdoor recreation opportunities to Georgia College students which are designed to be experienced in a short timeframe (weekends, breaks between semesters, etc…) The Outdoor Center’s main administrative offices are located at the Wellness & Recreation Center on GC’s West Campus.

Extended University Division

The Extended University Division of Georgia College provides many services to GC students, primarily through the Department of Continuing Education, the Office of Afterschool Achievement, Communities In Schools Milledgeville-Baldwin County, the Department of Public Services, Academic Outreach and the Old Governor’s Mansion. Afterschool Achievement and Communities In Schools both offer a number of opportunities for GC students to serve as paid tutors or volunteers in programs that serve Baldwin County school children. Continuing Education provides a number of summer employment opportunities to students. The Department of Public Services supervises the Centennial Center, outdoor pool, and tennis courts, as well as Russell Auditorium, Chappell Hall, Miller Dance Studio, and several other facilities used by students. Public Services is also responsible for nonacademic facility reservations for the campus, and can assist student groups in finding meeting space. The Old Governor’s Mansion - a historic house museum - provides free tours of the Mansion to students.

Since 1968, Academic Outreach (AO) has provided free positive educational experiences for Pre-K through 12th grade students in Baldwin and surrounding counties. This is accomplished through hands-on activities and non- traditional delivery systems at schools, environmental centers and GC that are facilitated by GC students from a variety of majors. Many of its programs are science or environmental based, but they also range in programming from history and team building to art and music. As members of the Community Action Team for Service (CATS), GC students gain valuable leadership and group management skills in addition to practical application of classroom studies. Hours completed with AO can be added to GC students’ experiential transcripts through service or volunteer hours.

To learn more about the services Extended University provides to students, visit the division’s website at: www.gcsu.edu/extendeduniversity/

First-Year Experience

The First-Year Experience is a comprehensive program of events, programs and activities that assist students in becoming familiar with Georgia College and in developing the necessary college skills to thrive in GC’s liberal arts environment. The sequenced schedule of events and activities persists over a 12-month period - from contact during a prospective student’s senior year of high school through the completion of the first term of study at Georgia College. The First-Year Experience not only links incoming students with the institution, but also with faculty within their prospective department, and with other incoming students. The FYE also introduces students to the mission and expectations of the learning community of Georgia College, including the first year theme of “Reason, Respect & Responsibility.”

Aspects of the FYE program include:

• High school recruitment activities organized through the Admissions Office, including events and receptions held during the senior year when top high school scholars from around the state are invited to attend for information and exposure to the campus community.
• Fallfest - During the month of October, Georgia College hosts a premiere visitation day for prospective students who are engaged in an early and timely search for their college of choice. At Fallfest, students and parents have the opportunity to attend academic presentations and open houses that are representative of all GC majors. A prospective freshman forum answers questions regarding the admissions process, financial aid, possible scholarships, campus living, POUNCE (early course registration), and technology. Visiting students are encouraged to tour the Bobcat Marketplace (registered student organization fair) to preview opportunities for student involvement. Please visit the website at www.gcsu.edu/fallfest.
• POUNCE  - the early registration program for incoming first-year students.
• INTRO  - our registration process for all newly admitted transfer students.
• Springfest - Springfest is an exceptional opportunity for students who have decided to attend Georgia College to reaffirm their decision, and for undecided students to discover the vitality and quality of Georgia’s designated public liberal arts university. The days’ agenda includes: academic open houses, non-academic drop-in opportunities, information on early registration (POUNCE), transfer registration (INTRO), summer orientation, residence life, student organizations, campus tours, and resources that support student success. Please visit the website at www.gcsu.edu/springfest.
• New Student Orientation - a one day structured program for new first-year and transfer students to foster the link with faculty in their intended major, become familiar with the campus and array of academic and extracurricular programs available at Georgia College.
• Summer Reading program - a unique summer reading assignment for first-year students entering Georgia College in Fall semester. Books (or occasionally films) selected each year relate to the first-year theme, “Reason, Respect & Responsibility.”
• CIRCLES - a program to assign the entering class into small discussion groups. Groups are facilitated by faculty and university staff and meet during Week of Welcome to discuss the assigned reading.
• Convocation - a ceremony where the entire entering first-year class gathers for the official opening of the term.
• Week of Welcome (WOW) - a week of academic programs and social activities prior to the beginning of Fall semester.
• First-Year Academic Seminars - a one-credit course that is a required component of students’ schedules during their first term. Courses in each department are designed to assist students in adapting to college life and to identify resources within their major department to assist them in achieving their goals.
• • Advisement and Registration - an intentional process and relationship between students and university faculty or staff that not only provides quality advisement through the core curriculum, but also provides career exploration opportunities for students to assist them in making sound choices about majors and career directions.

First-Year Seminars

As a result of the academic advising and First-Year seminars, Georgia College students should:

• Demonstrate familiarity and understanding of the liberal arts mission and academic expectations of the university and the majors in the four colleges, and involvement opportunities on campus provided through exposure to relevant material, people and experiences.
• Evaluate the importance and benefits of engagement (study abroad, undergraduate research, internships, co-curricular activities, GIVE Center, diversity initiatives) with student organizations, faculty, staff and other students (housing, peer mentors, supplemental instructors).
• Demonstrate knowledge and application of academic planning skills such as PAWS, DegreeWorks, Appointment Plus, Bobcats e-mail and other tools designed to self-register, generate degree audits, create four-year plans, locate university policies and procedures, interpret academic requirements, and manage academic progress.
• Use career exploration to examine career opportunities within an academic major or field of study that have been identified using self-awareness, personal characteristics, skills, academic interests, aspirations, values, and goals; and to develop a four-year plan to complete career readiness milestones by the time of graduation.
• Integrate and apply effective academic success strategies for self-improvement and academic achievement by using learning support resources (Learning Center, Writing Center, Counseling Services, Career Center, Disability Services, Financial Aid, Library Information Technology Center, etc.).

Fraternity and Sorority Life

Fraternity and Sorority Life is a unit of the Department of Campus Life. Fraternity and Sorority Life provides a comprehensive array of programs designed to enhance the quality of Georgia College fraternities and sororities. The department currently provides service to twenty-seven national Greek organizations, including seven National Interfraternity Conference organizations, eight National Panhellenic Conference organizations, and seven National Pan-Hellenic Council organizations, and four United Greek Council organizations. Each council coordinates recruitment and other activities. Please visit the Campus Life website for detailed information on Fraternity and Sorority Life.

The GIVE Center

The GIVE Center is a unit of the Department of Campus Life. The GIVE Center serves as the volunteerism clearinghouse empowering students to make a difference by linking them to needs of the local community. It is through the Center that Georgia College students, faculty and staff become involved in campus, local, national and international community volunteer efforts. The GIVE Center offers volunteer opportunities in the following areas: Animals, Children & Youth, Disabilities, Disasters, Education & Literacy, Elderly, Environmental & Recycling, Female Issues, Fine Arts, General Service, Health, Male Issues, Minority Issues, Office & Clerical, Patriotic & Political , Poverty, PR & Event Planning, Recreational & Outdoors, Religious, and Technology. For more information, visit the GIVE Center’s website.

The HUB

The HUB (Honoring, Uniting, Building) at Georgia College strives to honor and unite the intersectional identities of our campus community while challenging identity-based oppression through education and support. We offer a multitude of programs and opportunities for involvement, as well as a physical, welcoming space for students to gather and be in community with one another.

The HUB is home to the Cultural Center, LGBTQ+ Center, and the Women’s Center including Project BRAVE. We are organizationally located under the Division of Student Affairs - Student Development.

Blackbridge Hall, 111 S. Clarke Street Ph: 478-445-8519

Cultural Center

The Cultural Center ensures that there are adequate programs and initiatives which provide support and advocacy for underrepresented populations, enhances awareness and appreciation of cultural and racial diversity and promotes a campus climate that celebrates all differences. We work collaboratively with student organizations such as the Black Student Alliance and Latino Student Association, in addition to faculty, staff and the local community to integrate an appreciation of diversity into university and civic life. For more information, please contact 478-445-8519 or visit gcsu.edu/culturalcenter

Campus Box 06
Ph: 478-445-8519

LGBTQ+ Center

LGBTQ+ Center works closely with the Georgia College Pride Alliance to support the students, staff and faculty at Georgia College who identify as LGBTQ+. The office is also home to our Safe Space program, a training series that educates our community on LGBTQ+ identities and ways in which to be an ally. For more information, please contact 478-445-8519 or visit gcsu.edu/lgbtq

Campus Box 06
Ph: 478-445-8519

Women’s Center

The Women’s Center at Georgia College strives to create a dynamic campus community that challenges gender-based oppression through education, support, and advocacy. Utilizing a feminist and intersectional lens, we work to achieve our mission through:

• Creating programming promoting healthy sexuality and relationships;
• Providing opportunities for leadership development and personal empowerment;
• Collaborating across campus and community for social change;
• Driving power-based interpersonal violence prevention efforts at GC;
• Supporting members of our campus community in times of crisis.

The Women’s Center (WC) is a place where anyone can come to learn about gender-based issues. We are here because we believe women should be able to live life free from fear of partner violence, sexual assault and sexual harassment. We believe women should be paid equitably, enjoy healthy self-esteem and have confidence that comes from within. For more information, please contact us at 478-445-8519 or visit gcsu.edu/womenscenter

Campus Box 06
Ph: 478-445-8519

Project BRAVE

An initiative of the Women’s Center, the mission of Project BRAVE (Bobcats Rising Against Violence Everywhere) is to:

• implement comprehensive prevention education programs surrounding power-based interpersonal violence (PBIV; i.e. sexual assault, dating/domestic violence, stalking and other sexual violence)
• provide advocacy and support for campus victim/survivors
• create a community where violence prevention is everyone’s responsibility

Project BRAVE has several trainings open to the campus community including our Be BRAVE: Step Up bystander intervention training and BRAVE Ally training. We also work closely with BRAVEheart, the student organization arm of Project BRAVE who host many awareness raising events on campus, and our Project BRAVE Peer Facilitators who are responsible for bringing a number of educational programs and trainings to our campus community. Project BRAVE also offers confidential victim advocacy services to campus victim/survivors of PBIV of all genders. For more information, please contact us at 478-445-8519 or visit gcsu.edu/BRAVE

Information Technology

Information Technology

Information Technology maintains the cyber-infrastructure necessary for the University to fulfill its mission of teaching, research and service. By providing and managing campus networks-both wired and wireless-as well as Internet connectivity and technology infrastructure, IT provides the resources that Georgia College’s faculty, staff and students rely on to do their work. Applications, servers, electronic file storage, teaching technologies, extensive wired and wireless networking and Internet access are available throughout campus for the benefit of the University community. High speed connectivity to the Internet and access to broadband research networks are possible through IT’s agreement with PeachNet, the statewide education network. This network access is provided in all academic buildings and all residence halls have wired and wireless access capability.

In addition to information technology and computer services, IT has designed and manages the campus’s administrative computing infrastructure. Advanced and energy efficient technologies, including virtual server technologies, are used extensively; in addition, IT maintains a state-of-the-art Storage Area Network that provides high speed, secure and reliable digital storage for the University community. A large part of IT’s own mission is its commitment to clients. The Technology Support Services area of IT provides user support for anyone on campus struggling with campus technologies by answering questions about both hardware and software. In addition to this targeted support, there are traditional and computer-based technology training resources. Training topics include various software packages and, most importantly, computer security and appropriate use of digital resources. IT’s Serve helpdesk is available Monday through Friday. All requests for assistance are made through the SERVE Help Desk by dialing (478) 445-SERVE (7378) or via e-mail at serve@gcsu.edu.

Academic Computing Resources

Georgia College recognizes the importance of and promotes computer literacy among students, faculty and staff. Although no specific computer courses are required, Georgia College students have many opportunities to gain computer proficiency. Many departments expect students to use computer software in specific courses. To improve computer literacy and proficiency among the entire University community, IT offers free training to students, faculty and staff including online software training at Lynda.com accessed through Unify, GC’s identity management system. Helpful information concerning appropriate use of digital resources including copyright issues related to peer-to-peer file sharing is available on the IT website.

Technology access is essential in today’s social and learning environments. Most classroom buildings house one or more computer facilities that are available during normal business hours. In addition, the Library & Instructional Technology Center (ITC) is open daily as well as during the evening hours and on weekends and computer labs in many residence halls are available to their residents at any time. Computing facilities, resources and support are also provided at Georgia College’s Macon and Warner-Robins facilities. IT promotes computer proficiency at Georgia College by providing the entire University community with a choice of hardware, operating systems and applications in classrooms, computer labs, offices and living quarters. PCs can be found across campus; labs with Macintosh computers are located in the Library and many academic buildings. Workstations (both PCs and Macs) in computer labs run either Windows or Macintosh operating systems and provide a variety of software including the Microsoft Office suite of applications, discipline-specific software and a choice of Internet browsers. Specialized labs throughout campus support various disciplines including computer science, digital media creation and geographic information systems. Most classrooms have network connections, computer teaching stations, digital projectors and various other teaching technologies. GeorgiaVIEW, GC’s learning management system, provides fully online, hybrid and traditional classroom courses.

Once a person becomes part of the Georgia College community-whether as an employee or a student- IT’s support begins. All permanent faculty members have their choice of a Windows or Macintosh computer-either desktop or laptop-with access to the campus network. Faculty are provided an email account and can access Web hosting, network file storage and course Web sites via GeorgiaVIEW. Further, faculty and staff are free to attend computer training and to use DoIT’s Serve helpdesk as needed. Student accounts are created upon admission and, once established, they can access e-mail, class registration, course schedules, grades and more through Unify at http://unify.gcsu.edu. Student email is provided though the Google-hosted BobCat Mail system and students have access to Google^® drive file storage along with Google Apps^® and Google+^® services. Students can access the campus network from any computer lab or their residence hall room. IT is committed to supporting Georgia College’s mission of teaching, research and service by providing a current, reliable, secure and easily accessible computer infrastructure and resources. As the University grows in size, student population and reach, IT intends to keep pace by increasing the resources necessary to ensure GC’s continued success.

Intercollegiate Athletics

Georgia College has offered intercollegiate athletics since 1968. The purpose of the athletic program is to enrich the students’ collegiate experience. Student athletes are expected to place a priority on academics while participating in a sport, thus striving for excellence as students and as athletes.

GC athletic teams compete in the Peach Belt Conference. The PBC is composed of schools from Alabama, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina.

The Georgia College Athletic Department supports the following teams that compete within the Peach Belt Conference and the NCAA Division II, along with cheerleading.

Further information may be obtained at www.gcbobcats.com.

Learning Center and Tutoring Services

The Learning Center offers tutorial assistance to GC students enrolled in core curriculum subjects, particularly Math, Science and Economics.

The mission of the Learning Center is to provide academic support for the core curriculum courses particularly in the areas of mathematics, science and economics. Learning Center services are accessible to any GC enrolled student free of charge. The Learning Center aims to strengthen academic skills, improve academic confidence, and enable the student to achieve academic success. Through a variety of academic support options, resource materials, and an inviting atmosphere, the Learning Center encourages active learning and promotes the timely and successful progression toward graduation.

As a member of CRLA (College Reading and Learning Association), the Learning Center is well staffed with highly qualified University students who provide academic mentoring. Peer tutors are chosen not only on their ability to comprehend the material, but also on their ability to communicate the material to fellow students. Qualified tutors possess at least a 3.5 overall GPA and a 4.0 in their area of expertise.

Contact The Learning Center to learn more about our tutorial services, tutoring schedules or about becoming a peer tutor. The Learning Center is located on the second floor of the Library and Instructional Technology Center (LITC).

Maxwell Student Union

The Maxwell Student Union accommodates the Give Center, dining options, mail services, and the Bobcat card office. The first level of the Maxwell Student Union houses a Chick-fil-A , Einstein Bros. Bagels , and Subway. Offices located on the first level include The Colonnade , The GIVE Center, the Bobcat Card Office, MidSouth Federal Credit Union, Mail Services, and Auxiliary Services. The second level accommodates the University’s dining hall, The MAX.

Miller Dance Studio

Miller Dance Studio is located on the corner of Wayne and Montgomery Streets. This space is a classic dance studio with 2080 square feet of space, which includes a professional dance floor, mirrored walls, dance bars, and a state-of-the art sound system. It is ideal for dance, self-defense, yoga, and various other movement-related activities.

For more information or these and other campus facilities, contact the Department of Public Services/Facility Reservations at 445-2749 or 445-6542. The on-line space reservation system (R25) is used to see available locations and make space reservations.

Parking and Transportation

The parking services function of Parking and Transportation implements the university’s parking plan and manages vehicle registration, permit issuance, lot enforcement, fine collection, citation appeal, lot scheduling for special events, and guest parking pass issuance. P&T works closely with Materials Management to oversee the university’s fleet and Vehicle Management Plan, and with Facilities Operations to provide ADA accessible parking on campus and perform regular lot maintenance.

The transportation services function of P&T delivers routine campus shuttle services, bus charter services and vehicle rentals for student organizations and university departments, and an on-demand service, TapRide, that will operate at scheduled times throughout the week and transport GC students and employees to and from select locations on campus and around Milledgeville for a flat rate. To learn more, visit www.gcsu.edu/parkingandtransportation.

Russell Auditorium

Built in 1928, Russell Auditorium serves the University and the community for many cultural events. The auditorium seats 982 persons (with balcony) and was completely renovated in 1996. It is fully air conditioned, accessible to persons with disabilities, and ideal for large productions and other large gatherings. To reserve, rent, or obtain additional information on Russell Auditorium, contact the Department of Public Services/Facility Reservations at 445-2749 or 445-6542.

Russell Library

As the academic heart of the campus, Russell Library is a 21st century learning and information commons. Our core values emphasize lifelong learning, excellence in service, and meeting the instructional needs of the GC community. Our resources and services include:

Resources

• Print and Electronic - Over 246,000 print volumes and access to 171,000 ebooks and 233,000 online serials
• Media - CD and DVD collections; streaming media
• Instructional Technology - Computers for individual or collaborative use; media lab; equipment for check-out; poster-size printing; 3-D printing
• Facility - Technology enhanced group and individual study spaces, public access computers, presentation practice rooms. Wireless printing throughout the facility.

Services

• Research Assistance - Ask a Librarian via email, chat, text, telephone or in person
• GIL Express - Borrow books from 27 state university system libraries
• Interlibrary Loan - Borrow books, multimedia and journal articles from state, national and international libraries

For more information visit us online at www.gcsu.edu/library or call 478-445-4047.

Student Affairs

Student life at Georgia College offers students a wide range of opportunities to become involved in University programs, services, and activities. Learning that takes place outside the classroom is an integral part of personal and educational development.

The educational mission of Georgia College is the advancement of student learning both within and outside the classroom. The persons and offices which comprise the Division of Student Affairs contribute to this mission by providing programs and services which facilitate student learning, enhance student success, and teach responsible community membership. This Division is committed to helping students meet their full potential through providing co-curricular experiences that complement the University’s academic experiences. In order to help students progress toward their educational and career goals, a number of student services, programs and activities are provided by the Student Affairs Office which is responsible for leadership, management and supervision of the operations of all departments within the Division. Counseling Services, Athletics, University Housing, and Campus Life are coordinated by this office.

The Student Affairs office administers the University’s disciplinary code of conduct and student’s rights and responsibilities; assuring due process procedures for students accused of misconduct. The University’s Honor Code and disciplinary policy is administered by the Vice President for Student Affairs/Dean of Students. The office also represents student interests and concerns to the faculty, staff, and administration of Georgia College.

Student Activities Center

The Student Activities Center, located on Hancock Street and is directed by the Department of Campus Life, is designed to provide students with educational, recreational, and meeting space. The Department of Campus Life office is located on the second floor of the Student Activities Center and includes Business Operations, Student Involvement, Fraternity and Sorority Life (located on the third floor) and the GIVE Center (located across the street on the first floor of the Maxwell Student Union).

Spaces available for use include: the Magnolia Ballroom, “the DEN”, Dogwood and Maple Conference Rooms, and the Game Room.

Also located in the Student Activities Center are the offices for the Campus Activities Board (first floor), the Student Government Association (first floor) and the Senior Health Educator (third floor).

Student Disability Resource Center

At Georgia College, we want every student to feel welcome and supported from the beginning of their college journey, and we want to be part of that experience. Students are surrounded by a community that strives to create an informed, accessible environment. Our goal as the Student Disability Resource Center keeps students in mind, as we are here to help them fully participate in and benefit from all aspects of college life. To ensure your time at Georgia College is met with ease and comfort, we provide services to students with documented disabilities including assistance with accommodations in courses, programs, activities, transportation and more. Prospective and current students may contact the Student Disability Resource Center at any time with any questions about accommodations.

To receive services from the Student Disability Resource Center, students must:

1. Complete and submit a Request for Services Form. The form that should be completed and mailed, faxed to 478-445-1959, or delivered in person to Russell Library, room 109.
2. Provide Disability Documentation. Students must provide documentation from an appropriate licensed professional that documents their impairment(s). Along with the documentation, students can also include any records of accommodations/services provided in previous academic settings (e.g. IEP, SOP, Section 504 Plans, or letters from other collegiate institutions).
3. chedule a registration meeting. This will give the student an opportunity to learn about the Student Disability Resource Center as well as discuss the student’s disability, how it may affect him/her in an academic environment, and request appropriate accommodations.

For additional information, please visit the Student Disability Resource Center’s website.

Student Health Services

Outpatient medical care for the treatment of illnesses and minor injuries is provided for students by certified nurse practitioners at the Health Service Clinic in the Wellness and Recreation Center on west campus. Students who have paid the health fee are eligible for services. A valid Bobcat card must be presented to receive service at the clinic. There may be additional costs involved if lab work is done that is sent out to a facility. Insurance may be filed by the clinic. Students may be referred to consultants if needed or if desired by the patient. Students are referred to Oconee Regional Medical Center in the event of an emergency.

The clinic is open Monday through Friday, 8:15 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Other staff members include a board certified physician consultant, part-time pharmacist, administrative assistant, Licensed Practical Nurse, and a health educator.

Student Health Services promotes the Wellness Concept as an educational process and life-style for students. Health education information, designed to have a positive influence on students’ health, behavior, and mannered, is provided through the office.

The Wellness and Recreation Center

Wellness and Recreation is a department within Campus Life. Located at West Campus, Wellness and Recreation exists to enhance student life by providing elite programs, facilities, and experiences that foster student development, promote lifelong health, and meet the needs of the entire campus community. For more information, visit the Wellness and Recreation website.

University Housing

The goal of University Housing is to provide a positive living-learning environment for all on-campus students. There are seven residence halls available in addition to The Village Apartments at West Campus. Rooms are assigned using a priority system based on housing application complete date. University Housing recommends that students submit their application prior to April 1 to have the best chance that mutual roommate requests will be honored. Incoming students may apply for housing once they have confirmed their admission with Georgia College. A meal plan is available, though not required for upperclassmen.

When accepting a room assignment, the student agrees to abide by the rules and regulations established by the University, including carrying at least seven academic hours each semester. Exceptions to the seven-hour minimum requirement may be granted through University Housing. Each residence hall is staffed by a Community Director and all residence halls have at least one student on each floor serving as a Community Advisor (CA). The CAs represent University Housing, provide assistance to the residents and strive to build community in the building.

Residence Hall Accommodations

All halls offer suite-style housing (two rooms sharing a full bath) with men and women housed on each floor. Each room is fully furnished and is equipped with wireless Internet and cable television offering approximately 70 different channels including four channels of HBO. All utilities are included.

University Housing has 833 apartment beds available at The Village at West Campus for upperclassmen and graduate students. The apartments operate on a 12-month lease. There are four-bedroom and a limited number of one and two-bedroom apartments available. Each apartment has a furnished living room shared by all occupants of the apartment and a furnished private bedroom for each occupant. Apartments also have a full kitchen with a dishwasher and a washer and dryer available either inside the unit or in a common area on the same level as the apartment. All utilities are included.

For additional information on The Village, please call 478-445-5160 or email housing@gcsu.edu.