It’s hard to believe but our Fall Commencement is just a little more than one month away! Whether your student is wrapping up their final classes or is part of our record-setting first-year class, we know that their post-college career is always top of mind.

I want to let you know that GVSU is committed to offering real-world learning opportunities for students throughout their entire academic career. From co-ops to internships to research opportunities to study abroad, we have a wide and deep network of partners who provide chances for students to apply their classroom learnings to everyday experiences. Not only does this provide valuable connections that can lead to employment offers, but it also allows our grads to hit the ground running in their future career, which is so vital as Michigan’s economy adapts to the jobs and the workforce of the future. 

We believe this focus and our commitment to allowing students to explore careers, build their resume, gain valuable experience and practice in their field of study increases the value of their GVSU experience. Every day, our leadership team and I are exploring new opportunities to expand these offerings to allow even more opportunities. If your student has questions or interest, please encourage them to reach out to their advisor or a faculty member. It’s never too early. 

We thank you for the chance to impact the life of your learner and ask you to consider spreading the word about GVSU to families you know that are considering where their student should attend college next year. We are proud of how we prepare our graduates for their lives and careers, and we are thankful you have joined us as Lakers for a Lifetime!

Sincerely,

Philomena V. Mantella, President
Grand Valley State University

Wellness

Giving Tuesday: Nov. 28

This Giving Tuesday, consider donating to Replenish, a basic need resource for GVSU students. Any donation to Replenish helps supply basic necessities like food, clothes, feminine products, and toiletries to students in need. Make a difference and donate today! 

Nothing pairs better with football than popcorn! Remind your Laker that they can bring their student ID to the concession stand at arena games to use their Dining Dollars for concessions.

Thanksgiving is just around the corner! Lakers can get ready for turkey time with two Thanksgiving meals to look forward to before Thanksgiving break. They can head to Fresh Food on Wednesday, Nov. 15 from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. and The Dish on Monday, Nov. 20 from 4-8 p.m.

This month, we encourage our GV community to make healthy choices and exercise often to reduce the chances of Diabetes. For more information, education, and treatment for Diabetes, encourage your Laker to visit the Campus Health Center.

Academics and Careers

Sometimes, students want to change their major, but they are not sure where to start. Encourage students to meet with a career advisor from the GVSU Career Center to help them out with their goals, options, and next steps.

Students can also tune into the Work Like a Laker Podcast, Handshake, Pathway U, and Candid Career for resources if they are considering switching career paths. 

Financial Aid

This year, The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) will have some improvements. For the 2024-2025 academic year, the FAFSA will have a shorter form, simplified questions, and data that is automatically populated by the IRS. The FAFSA will open in December 2023, so mark your calendars and reach out to the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships with questions.

2024-2025 Scholarship Applications Now Open

At GVSU, there are plenty of scholarship opportunities based on interest, academic performance, special talents, or major. Encourage your student to search and apply for these opportunities through MyScholarships. Applications for the 2024-2025 academic year are now open. Students with questions can reach out to the Office of Financial Aid & Scholarships.  

Other Resources and Reminders

Important Dates:

Fall Commencement: December 9

Classes end: December 9

Examinations: December 9 -16

Academic Calendar

Events Calendar