Resources for a successful spring semester

Thursday, Jan 28, 2021

Some reminders, resources and key contacts for the upcoming semester

Dear students,

I hope you had a restorative winter break, and are ready to hit the ground running for a successful spring semester.  Whether you’re living on campus, off campus, or at home, taking classes that are remote, hybrid or in person, you have the opportunity to make the most of this semester — both academically and personally — and we are here to support you. Here are some reminders, resources and key contacts as a quick reference for you.

Student start of the semester checklist

  • Verify the format of your course delivery in the Enhanced Course Roster. Contact the Academic Coordinator in your college as soon as possible if you need to make changes.

  • Assure you have appropriate technology to support your remote learning.  Visit the Office of Information Technology page if you need to request a loaner laptop for remote academic use.

  • Consider supportive locations for studying or taking remote classes.  This on-campus list can help you with ideas.

  • Be prepared to help keep our campus safe by adhering to all COVID-19 protocols, including required COVID-19 testing, utilizing the Campus Clear app when on campus, wearing a face covering in all indoor areas and when within 6-feet of others outdoors, adhering to the residential guest policy, and limiting exposure to others.

  • If the financial impact of the COVID-19 has presented unexpected burdens on you, consider the Rider emergency relief fund guidelines.

  • Stay engaged.  Review the spring student events calendar and schedule some events into your calendar. (Continue to visit, this will be updated regularly).  

Resources available to you

  • The Rider Resource Pantry, located in the Vona Center, will be available to students in need for safe, contactless access to food, personal care items, and school supplies. Advanced orders are required, and students can request items to be picked up on Tuesday afternoons (submit request by 12 noon on Monday) or Thursday afternoons (submit request by 12 noon on Wednesday). Contact [email protected]

  • Counseling Services is available for virtual appointments and consultations.  Call 609-896-5157 to schedule an appointment. Notify staff when you schedule if you need a private space on campus for the appointment.

  • The Student Health Center will support students via in-clinic and telehealth appointments. No walk-in appointments will be available. Please contact the Student Health Center at 609-896-5060 to schedule an appointment.  We recommend that non-residential students refer care to their primary health provider.

  • The Academic Success Center provides course-specific tutoring, writing, reading, and study strategies support in addition to academic coaching. 

  • Student Accessibility and Support Services (SASS) is available to assist students who have documented disabilities by determining academic accommodations for courses, providing academic coaching and consultation, and helping with residential and dining accommodations.  Virtual appointments can be scheduled by email.

Key support contacts

Rider University offices will remain open Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., unless otherwise noted.  Campus offices may be accessible remotely via email, phone and Zoom interfaces, as well as in person in some instances.  Below are a few key contacts.

General student support services

Academic support 

A new year, and a new semester, both present a fresh start. I hope you take this opportunity to reflect on what went well last semester (and continue to do it!), and what you’d do differently (and commit to actions to make changes!).  There will undoubtedly be challenges in the months ahead, but there might just be hidden gifts and surprises too. 

Make this semester great!

Sincerely,

Dr. Leanna Fenneberg
Vice President for Student Affairs

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