Welcome, first-year students, and welcome back, returning students—I have missed having you on campus!
While we have been busy preparing for the new year, IUP is way too quiet during the summer months without you. I am truly looking forward to Welcome Week and to having our campuses, including the Oak Grove, full of students.
You'll see me on campus often, and I'm always open to a friendly "hi" if you spot me at an event, at North Dining, or walking around campus. I also encourage you to get to know me a little bit through my recent interview posted on the IUP website. I genuinely enjoy getting to know you and hearing your questions, concerns, and suggestions about your time at IUP. If you need me, or have something that you think I should know, stop me when you see me, or reach out to me via email at universitystudentaffairs-vpsa@iup.edu. I read and respond to every email.
Because email is IUP’s official form of communication, you’ll be hearing from me and from other members of the IUP community frequently (especially as we begin the semester) with important information designed to help you to be successful, to be safe and well, and to stay informed about university events and news. You’ll also be receiving an e-newsletter especially for students, the Pathfinder, on Fridays during the semester; it gives you tips for success, details about campus events and organizations, and important deadlines and opportunities. Please make a habit of checking your email regularly so you don’t miss out.
We know that you are receiving a lot of emails, so to help you manage important university communications, including issues of the Pathfinder, we will post these communications online.
We have worked to simplify the university’s structure, but it can be confusing. The Division of Student Affairs, which I am proud to lead, includes various offices and personnel, all focused on helping you—from housing and dining questions to counseling services to developing your leadership skills. Please don't hesitate to reach out to any member of the Division with questions or concerns. Adam Jones, IUP's dean of Students, is a valuable resource, available to help you overcome any barriers hindering your success. You can contact him via email at adjones@iup.edu. Watch for an interview with him about his work at IUP, to be published soon on the IUP website.
While we are here for you, your Navigator is your first point of contact—they are your guide through your time at IUP. If you have a question or concern, ask them! They are the place to start if you need help.
In addition to answering your individual questions, they will regularly update you on resources, events, and opportunities at IUP through your IUP email. You can learn more about your Navigator and how they will support you, and about our University College and its resources, on the IUP website.
For new students, I’m sure the excitement of going off to college for the first time includes nervousness and worry (for you and your families!)—and maybe downright fear. You are being asked to leave home, meet new people, and to try things that you haven’t done before. It can be intimidating. Please know that you are not alone—every student has these feelings, even returning students who know and love IUP. We get it, and we understand.
That’s what Welcome Week and orientation is all about—to help you manage these changes in your life and the feelings that come with them. And after Welcome Week, for every student, there are formal and informal support systems available to you—just ask. We’ll get you what you need.
Don’t let the fear of the unknown hold you back: get engaged, put yourself out there, and take chances on new friends and new experiences. I promise, when you get involved, you will find where you fit, people who “get you,” and IUP will become a home away from home.
We’re all in this together. I believe in you, and I know it’s going to be a great fall and a great year.
Best,
Thomas C. Segar, PhD
Vice President for Student Affairs