The Laker Family Network is a resource of the Division of Student Affairs of Grand Valley State University.
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Even though the calendar just turned to the month of February, we know families and supporters of students are already looking ahead to the fall and are in the process of reviewing the financial aid options available to them. We know that trying to understand and navigate these systems can be confusing and stressful — even more so this year with the delays and challenges around the Free Application for Federal Student Aid ( FAFSA ® ) form, which continued last week.

In the wake of this latest news, I want to share that our Office of Financial Aid & Scholarships is here to help and is dedicated to making sure you and your family are not financially burdened due to these delays. They encourage you to contact them if you have any questions or need guidance on where things stand. Additionally, you can find a statement on how they can assist you along with other resources on the GVSU Financial Aid website. The complexity and intricacies of the financial aid process may make some people think that the cost will cause them to miss out on the opportunity to pursue their hopes and dreams, but I assure you that we are committed to breaking down barriers to ensure every student has access to the education they deserve.

GVSU is committed to partnering with students and families throughout all aspects of their entire higher education journey, and we thank you for trusting us with the development of your loved ones.

Sincerely,

Philomena V. Mantella, President
Grand Valley State University

Belonging

February is Black History Month, and GVSU is celebrating the history, culture, traditions, and contributions of African Americans. The Office of Multicultural Affairs (OMA) is hosting a variety of celebration events for the entire GV community to attend. Click the button below to learn about Black History Month events on campus!

February 23 - 24

Make a splash! Sibs & Kids weekend registration is now live! Registration is  $10 per sibling or kid with the option to add on extra items for an additional price, such as a meal plan ($8.00 per meal). Be sure to register to attend "FIN-tastic" events like the kickoff party, a comedic magic show, spa night, an improv show, and craft parties. Mark your calendars because Sibs & Kids Weekend is “shrimply” the best!

The Student Senate has made positive changes for the GVSU community, from petitioning for the university to add fall break to pushing back the credit/no credit deadline for classes. Encourage your student to learn more about Student Senate’s impact, their recent structural changes, and the opportunity to join and make a difference by watching this video.

Wellness

Remind your students to budget their Dining Dollars! All dining dollars must be spent by the end of the semester. Balances can be checked at the cashier of every dining location and online.

While your Laker is on the website, encourage them to visit the events calendar for special menus for Fish Fridays, The Big Game, and Valentine’s Day.

Academics and Careers

We want every student to maximize their potential and make the most of their GVSU experience! In an effort to achieve this, every new student (first-year and transfer) has been assigned a professional academic advisor. New students are required to meet with this advisor prior to registering for the 2024-25 academic year, and are encouraged to make appointments early as advising appointments can fill up quickly. 

Course registration for the next academic year will begin in late March, but students should make an appointment with their advisor as soon as possible through Navigate.

Feb. 22 | 1-5 p.m. | DeVos Place Convention Center

If your Laker is planning on attending the Winter 2024 Career and Internship Fair, be sure they practice their elevator pitch and polish their resume to be set for success.

Here are a few tips to get them started:

Resume
Review: only include relevant and accurate info
Update: add any new experiences or qualifications
Polish: formatting, spelling, and grammar
Print: Have your Laker visit the Career Center to get their resume looked over and printed on nice resume paper!

Elevator Pitch
An elevator pitch is a short statement that introduces who your student is, what they're interested in, and their relevant qualifications. Encourage them to prepare an elevator pitch before they attend the fair to take the anxiety of awkward introductions away!

Other Resources and Reminders

Important Dates:

Spring Break: March 3-10

Classes end: April 20

Examinations: April 20-27

Commencement: April 26 & 27

Academic Calendar

Events Calendar