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Orientation

Transfer Students: Frequently Asked Questions

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1. When should I arrive on campus?

Students who plan to live on campus may check into their assigned residence halls as early as 9:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 22, 2009. Early check-in is not permitted. For more information, see the Residence Life & Housing Web site or call  404-727-7631. Transfer students must be on campus for mandatory events on the early morning of Monday, August 24, 2009, though other planned events for transfer students will occur on Saturday, August 22, and Sunday, August 23.

2. Where do I go when I arrive on campus?

First, students should check in at the lobbies of their assigned residence halls. Residence halls open at 8:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 22, 2009. Students may check in until 3:00 p.m. Students will receive their EmoryCards (official student identification cards) at this time.

Emory Public Safety staff will be around campus to assist families in finding places to unload vehicles near residence halls. Emory Public Safety will then direct families to one of the visitor parking lots. For safety reasons Emory Public Safety will remove, at the owner’s expense, any car parked in an unauthorized area.

3. What happens on the first day of Orientation?

After checking into the residence halls, all parents and students should proceed to the Woodruff P.E. Center to receive important Orientation materials. At this time students will receive orientation group assignments, as well as important academic advising information and their EmoryCards.

Students may talk with representatives from Student Financial Services, Financial Aid, EmoryCard, and Admission; meet various Campus Life organizations; receive a meningitis vaccination; or open a checking/savings account at any one of several local banks that will have representatives on campus. A continental breakfast will also be served in the P.E. Center at this time. Students meet with their Orientation groups later in the day and enjoy a "Coke Toast" with the President Wagner and their families. The day concludes with residence hall meetings and recreational activities in the Woodruff P.E. Center.

4. What if I'm living on campus and want to ship my belongings to Emory before Orientation?

For security of persons and property, residence halls remain closed until Saturday, August 22, 2009. Students who wish to ship items to Emory prior to that date may do so with any one of these major freight carriers: UPS, DHL, FedEx, and USPS. Packages should be shipped so that they do not arrive prior to August 11, 2009. Packages should have a tracking number so that students can trace the package, if necessary. Please address packages as follows:

Student's Name
Residence Hall/Room #
Emory University
605 Asbury Circle
Atlanta, GA 30322

Flowers should be sent in a box—not a vase—via one of the four above carriers. Emory does not accept deliveries from independent couriers. Food items (cookies, cake, fruit, etc.) should be shipped via one of the four above couriers and should be properly marked "perishable" or "refrigerate immediately." (Emory will refrigerate these packages if space permits.)

Students may pick up shipped packages from package storage trailers near their residence halls on Saturday, August 22, 2009, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

5. How do I get to Emory?

Directions are available on the Emory Web site.

If you are driving from the airport, follow the signs to Interstate 85 North. Take I-85N to Exit 91 (Clairmont Road, Emory University). Take a right onto Clairmont Road. Follow Clairmont Road to North Decatur Road. Take a right on North Decatur and follow to Emory University. Look for signs that will direct you to the various residence halls.

The Atlanta Airport Superior Shuttle & Limo services the Emory Conference Center & Emory Inn (located near the campus). To reach the shuttle, follow the airport signs to "Ground Transportation" in the South Terminal. Ask for the shuttle to the Emory Conference Center & Emory Inn. The shuttle leaves every 30 minutes (depending on demand) from 6:00 a.m. until 11:30 p.m. Visit the Atlanta Airport Superior Shuttle & Limo Web site or call (404) 457-4794 for rate and reservation details.

Cab service is also available from the airport to Emory for about $35.00-$40.00 (for a single rider). Checker Cab Company (404) 351-1111 services the Emory/airport area.

6. When do I find out my residence hall assignment and roommate?

Transfer students who are living in on-campus residence halls may view their residence hall assignments as they become available by visiting the MyHousing Web site.

Please direct further questions regarding housing to Residence Life and Housing at housinghelp@learnlink.emory.edu or 404-727-7631.

7. What items do I need to buy for my residence hall room?

Residence Life and Housing provides a list of items that students should bring, as well as a list of items that students should not bring. Vendors will be on campus during the first days of orientation to rent refrigerators and to sell carpets and other items. In addition, several large stores near Emory sell linens, storage boxes, curtains, and other room decorations. Each room comes equipped with an extra-long twin bed, desk, chair, and bookcase. Students are responsible for their own decorations and other items.

8. What is my mailing address at Emory?

Every Emory College student who lives on campus will receive an Emory Post Office Box. All U.S. and campus mail is sent to that box. P.O. Box assignments will be sent to new students in early July via their LearnLink e-mail accounts. Their mailing addresses will be in the following format:

Student's Name
Emory University
PO Box #
Atlanta, GA 30322

View a sample address on the Mail Services Web site.

Items shipped through major carriers (UPS, DHL, and FedEx) should be addressed as follows:

Student's Name
Emory University
605 Asbury Circle
Atlanta, GA 30322

9. What is my e-mail address at Emory?

Every student enrolled at Emory will receive an individual LearnLink email account for his/her use while at Emory. Newly accepted students may retrieve their network IDs and passwords at http://it.emory.edu/newid. For additional information, visit the University Technology Services Web site for New Student Accounts.

10. How do I connect my computer to the Emory network?

After you check in to the resident hall on Saturday, August 22, 2009, the next stop is the hall lobby to pick up the free copy of the Emory Online (EOL) CD and instructions. University Technology Services staff and their student employees will be available in the residence halls on Saturday, August 22, and Sunday, August 23, to help with the EOL installation. Remember that an installed ethernet card must be functioning in your computer before arriving at Emory. See the University Technology Services website at for more detailed information.

11. How will I arrange for phone service?

Each residence hall room comes equipped with a standard telephone line and voice mailbox. Students must bring their own phones. Long-distance service is provided at competitive rates through an Emory long distance service. Students using these services will be billed monthly. Students will receive information about phone services and phone numbers over the summer. Students may also use telephone credit cards and other calling cards. For further questions regarding phone and long distance service, see the Network Communications Web site or call 404-727-2323.

12. What is the EmoryCard?

The EmoryCard is the official ID card of the University and is managed by The EmoryCard Office under the Division of Campus Life. The EmoryCard is the property of Emory University and its use is governed by the University's regulations and policies.

For office location, hours and contact information go to the Emory Card Office.

The EmoryCard is a debit and access identification card. The EmoryCard holds your Dining Plan and grants you access into Dining at Dobbs as well as retail purchases around campus using Dooley Dollars.  When using Eagle Dollars, you can make purchases of products and services both on and off campus.   Eagle Dollars are just like cash - dollar for dollar. On campus purchases include the bookstore, vending machines, laundry machines, copy and printing services.  Through the Eagle Merchants program, you can use your Eagle Dollars at participating off-campus merchants.  Eagle Dollars WILL continue to roll over each semester until you leave Emory University and are refunded to you at that time.

Certain residence halls and other facilities require your EmoryCard to enter the facility.  This access is based on the approval given to you by that facility.  Common university area access, such as the Woodruff Library and Woodruff PE Center, is automatically granted to all.

13. How does the meal plan work?

Transfer students are eligible for a number of Dining Plans.  Cox Hall Food Court is the main retail dining location featuring national brands like Chick-fil-a, Burger King, Freshens and Pizza Hut; as well as Emory community favorites like comfort foods from Emory Market, made-to-order deli sandwiches with premium Boars Head meats at the Sandwich Shop, and Sushi made fresh daily.  In addition to Cox Hall are 14 retail dining locations around campus.

For more information on Dining Plans, Locations and Hours go to Emory Dining or call 404-727-4015.

14. How do I set up a bank account at Emory?

Emory University has five on-campus ATMs. Several banks will have representatives available on Saturday, August 22, 2009, to open checking and savings accounts for students. The Emory Federal Credit Union, which has a branch on campus, will also be available to open accounts for students. Most banks offer special student banking services and have locations near campus.

15. May I have my car at Emory?

Transfer students beyond their first year in college may apply for parking online. They also can take advantage of some alternative transportation options. Bicycling also is popular at Emory: to learn more visit the Bike Emory Web site.

16. What is an Orientation Group?

Orientation groups consist of approximately twenty new students and are led by a student leader. The Orientation Leader serves as a peer support person for assisting new students in their transition to Emory and Atlanta. Students will receive Orientation Group assignments at Orientation Check-In. Orientation groups will meet several times during the week.

17. How and when will I choose my classes?

Please call 404-727-9321 to schedule a phone appointment with an academic adviser. Once you have finished your phone appointment, you will be able to register for courses on O.P.U.S.

18. Can I arrange this summer my flights home for Thanksgiving and Winter breaks?

Students can view the 2009-2010 Academic Calendar for the exact dates of the Thanksgiving and Winter breaks. Though many students want to make airline reservations at this time, we encourage students to wait to make airline reservations until after they enroll in courses, receive their course syllabi, and know their final exam schedules. Class and exam schedules will prescribe the days and times when students will be able to depart campus for these breaks.

19. What health and wellness services are available at Emory?

Emory University Student Health and Counseling Services (EUSHCS) provides preventive care and wellness education as well as primary outpatient medical and psychological/psychiatric care for enrolled Emory students. Tuition covers basic EUSHCS professional office visit charges: students can speak with our healthcare providers, educators and counselors for FREE. Additional services, such as lab work, X-rays, injections, medication and hospitalization are provided on a fee-for-service basis. You can view special information for parents, as well as complete information about health and wellness services on the Emory campus, at the Emory University Student Health and Counseling Services website, or you can call EUSHS at (404) 727-7551.

20. What do I need to know about health insurance?

Emory University requires all degree-seeking and all international students either to have health insurance or purchase the University-sponsored plan.  In order to waive enrollment in the Emory-sponsored plan, all Fall 2009 new, transfer, and returning students must show evidence--by the first day of Fall Semester classes--of enrollment in a health insurance plan that meets waiver criteria. 

In order to meet this requirement, students either must enroll in the Emory Student Health Insurance Plan (offered by Aetna Student Health, with an annual 2009-10 premium of $2,158) or successfully complete the waiver process online at www.opus.emory.edu. Students who have not waived out of the Emory Student Health Insurance Plan by July 1 will be enrolled automatically in the annual Emory/Aetna plan for 2009-2010 and billed by Emory Student Financial Services. However, students will still have until the first day of classes to complete a waiver and have the insurance enrollment and charge reversed.

Students who wish to be enrolled in the Emory Student Health Insurance Plan do not need to do anything; the enrollment is automatic.  The website is for insurance waivers only, not insurance enrollment.

For more information about the Emory/Aetna student plan, go to www.studenthealth.emory.edu and click on the “Fees/Insurance” button.

To complete the insurance waiver process for 2009-10, students should do the following:

  • Go to www.opus.emory.edu.
  • Enter the site using Emory Network ID and Password.
  • Select "Health Insurance Waiver" on the Student Center page.
  • Follow the four-steps to complete the waiver process.

Please be aware that students also need to complete the annual insurance enrollment/waiver process each year they are enrolled at Emory.

21. When will I receive the first bill from Emory?

Student Financial Services does not mail billing statements. Billing statements for the Fall 2008 semester will be posted to student accounts during the second week of July. These statements are posted on OPUS, and Student Financial Services sends an email to each student for notification of this posting. In addition, students can create a “Bill Payer” email address to receive these same notifications. Billing statements are also generated on a monthly basis for any student with a remaining balance.

View more important details about billing on the Student Financial Services website.

22. What are the payment options?

You may pay your Emory bill in one of two ways. The first is to send a check for the total amount to Student Financial Services by the given deadline. Or you may utilize the Emory Payment Plan, which allows you to pay the total bill in four installments. Emory does not accept credit card payments.

Emory University offers the Emory Payment Plan (EPP) as an alternative method for paying tuition, room, and board for fall and spring semesters. The plan allows academic expenses not covered by scholarships, loans, or other financial aid to be paid in four equal installments per term. Some specific charges (e.g., fraternity dues & parking permit) are not eligible for the plan. The payment plan is not offered for the summer term. There is also a $30 nonrefundable fee, per semester, to apply for the payment plan. You can now enroll in the Emory Payment Plan and make a payment on-line using the “Enroll in Payment Plan” and "Make a Payment" menu options on the Student Financial Services main O.P.U.S. menu. This is the easiest and fastest way to complete your financial obligation.

Representatives from the Offices of Student Financial Services and Financial Aid will be available during Orientation in the Woodruff P.E. Center to answer specific questions about bills, payments, loans, grants, and payment plans. If you or your student have any further questions regarding billing and payments, contact Student Financial Services at 404-727-6095 or send an email to student.financials@emory.edu. Please direct any further questions about loans, grants, or other need-based aid to the Office of Financial Aid at 404-727-6039.

23. What is O.P.U.S. "Guest Access"?

"Guest Access" is an O.P.U.S. (Online Pathway to University Students) feature that allows students to permit up to five individuals to have access to their student information in O.P.U.S. A guest may have access to a wide range of functions, as the student has in OPUS. The student is the owner of the IDs and passwords and can create the ability for their guests to view information from the Registrar, Student Financial Services, Financial Aid, Student Health, and other campus groups. Students can designate some or all of the following functions for their guests:

1. Academics: View class schedule, grades, GPA, transcript, degree progress, and/or final exam schedule.

2. Accounts: View account detail, monthly bills, registration bills, wire transfer instructions, registration clearance status, and/or 1098-T tax information. Make on-line payments and/or EmoryCard deposits. Enroll in payment plans on student's behalf.

3. Financial Aid: View financial aid information.

4. Mandatory Health Insurance: Submit health insurance waiver.

5. Personal Portfolio: View student names, addresses, phone number, e-mail addresses, emergency contacts, parent/guardian addresses, honors and awards, holds, "to dos," and messages.

24. What should I know about property insurance?

Emory University does not sponsor a personal property insurance plan, but encourages students and parents to consult their homeowners' insurance policies (or similar policies) to determine or arrange for coverage of personal property away from home.

25. What is tuition insurance, and why should students purchase it?

Every year unexpected illnesses or accidents force some students to withdraw from classes. If a student withdraws after the last permissible date for tuition refund, as delineated in the Tuition and Fee Adjustment Schedule, students and their families could incur large financial losses. Emory provides families the opportunity to purchase tuition insurance at a nominal cost as protection from that potential loss. The insurance reimburses to a student the cost of tuition that is not refunded by the university when he or she withdraws for medical reasons. Students and parents will receive additional information about tuition insurance in a summer mailing; brochures will also be available during Orientation. Students can also find details online.

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Contact Us

Call 404-727-9000 or e-mail orientation2009@emory.edu with any questions you may have.