As we near the end of the semester, we have a few reminders and updates about the change in season, change in semesters and support opportunities available on campus. We’re in the home stretch of fall semester!
We’ve been lucky in mid-Michigan with the weather, but we know these mild temperatures won’t last, so here’s a quick nod to the winter weather to come. Your student will need a warm coat, hat, hand covers and waterproof boots. Remind them to dress in layers (the buildings get hot with steam heat!), and our gloomy mid-Michigan skies call for bright, reflective clothing — even the reflective tape that can be added is helpful on those dark, wet mornings and nights.
Hopefully your student is already working on their spring semester enrollment plan. They have assigned enrollment times (which they were emailed and can also find in SIS) until Nov. 10 when everyone can adjust, as desired. They can continue to adjust their schedule until Jan. 16, when the semester course-add period ends. The spring semester billing will be available Jan. 10 and due Feb. 1.
And finally, I want to wish each of you a restful Thanksgiving holiday. For those staying on campus or around the East Lansing-area this November holiday break, the Office of Multicultural Enrichment and Advocacy would like to invite all community members to join them in celebrating their bounty of community and friendship for its 23rd annual Unity Dinner. The complimentary holiday meal will be held in the Brody Classrooms Nov. 27, from noon–2 p.m. Kosher, halal, vegetarian and gluten-free options will also be provided. The registration link can be found at Qualtrics Survey | Qualtrics Experience Management. To those whose students are returning home for a quick break before finals, enjoy the time together. Don’t be surprised if you see some changes in your student, and maybe prepare for those changes by viewing the previously recorded Togetherness: Preparing for Break webinar prior to their return home.
No matter what your November looks like, we are so thankful for each of you and the support you give your Spartan.
Take care and Go GREEN,
Laurin
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Spartan Family Cookbook
If you’re looking for a unique gift for that Spartan fan in your life, look no further! The Spartan Family Cookbook will be in print and ready for delivery soon and is available now for preorder. It will also be available in-store at the MSU Union and 1855 Place Spartan Spirit Stores. The Spartan Family Cookbook is more than just a collection of recipes — it’s a taste of MSU prepared right in your kitchen. From vintage favorites to allergen-friendly meals inspired by Thrive dining hall, you’ll find nostalgic classics, campus specialties and modern recipes designed with every Spartan in mind, whether you’re craving a timeless family treat or looking for inclusive dishes that meet today’s dietary needs. Perfect for alumni, parents, supporters and students alike, this cookbook is a flavorful way to bring a little East Lansing comfort home — and share a piece of the Spartan table with your family.
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Veterans Day
Nov. 11 is Veterans Day, and this year we hope you will consider supporting MSU’s Center for Veterans and Military-Affiliated Students (CVMAS). The center is dedicated to providing service members, veterans and military-affiliated students with the resources and support they need to thrive. Their vision is to create and sustain a culture in which every member of the military community feels welcome and supported. The services offered by CVMAS are made possible through donor support. If you would like to join in supporting our Spartan Veterans this Veterans Day, you can learn more about making a gift here.
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December Commencements
Are you celebrating a fall semester graduate? So are we! We’re so proud of all the soon-to-be MSU alums and are excited to celebrate their graduation. You can find all the commencement information, including livestream links for those unable to join you, at commencement.msu.edu.
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FAFSA Information
The 2026-27 free application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is now available at fafsa.gov. Completing this application each year ensures students are eligible for any student financial aid that requires the FAFSA, including federal student loans. Students or new Contributors completing the FAFSA for the first time need to set up the required FAFSA ID.
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Spartan Spirit Shop Specials
The Spartan Spirit Shop Black Friday sale runs Nov. 24–30. Save 30% on merchandise in-store and online (excludes golf equipment, tennis equipment, and graduation). Stores will be closed Nov. 27–30, but online shopping will still be available. Join the email list for additional deals and savings!
Cyber Monday brings its own special flair! Beginning Dec. 1, get a free gift when you purchase $150 or more from Spartan Spirit Shop.
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2025 MSU Annual Collectible Now Available
The 2025 MSU Annual Collectible is the 20th in a series of limited-edition Michigan State University-themed collectibles. It represents 20 years of cherished memories of the Spartan community we all love: A window through time.
As we reflect back through the years, fond memories of strength and resilience guide us into a bright future filled with the fortitude of Spartan pride.
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Thanksgiving in the Residence Halls
As Thanksgiving Break approaches, we want to let you know that residence halls will remain open throughout the break. Students are welcome to stay on campus from Wednesday, Nov. 26 through Sunday, Nov. 30 at no additional cost. There’s no need for your student to notify staff whether they plan to leave or stay — they’re welcome either way!
Learn more at liveon.msu.edu/features/thanksgiving-break.
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Be a Residential Student Leader
Encourage your student to consider becoming a Residential Student Leader! Roles like Resident Assistant (RA) and Intercultural Aide (ICA) offer valuable opportunities to build leadership skills, support peers and create inclusive communities on campus. These positions provide hands-on experience that fosters personal and professional growth. Applications are open now. Learn more liveon.msu.edu/resident-assistant.
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Culinary Services Updates
Culinary Services is excited to host two special dinners in December. On Dec. 2, students with a dining plan may sign up for the Dicken's Dinner, an experiential dining event with an English-inspired menu hosted at The State Room in the Kellogg Center. This traditional meal is served among festive holiday decor, with chef interaction and a choir providing seasonal favorites. It's the perfect way to kick off the holiday season!
On Dec. 3, the annual Student Appreciation Dinner will be served at all dining halls. This has become a student favorite with appetizers, prime menu options and premium desserts. This dinner is included in the dining plan. Students without dining plans may attend for $13.50.
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Updates from University Health and Wellbeing
Save the Date: Spartan Wellbeing Summit: Join us to celebrate the one-year anniversary of adopting the Okanagan Charter to integrate health and well-being into campus life and share your ideas for how we can continue to support student success.
Nominate a Spartan Champion for Wellbeing: Do you or your student know an MSU student, faculty or staff member, team, or college that is making a meaningful impact on the health and well-being of our campus community? Nominate them for a Spartan Wellbeing Award now through Dec. 2!
Spartan Resilience Grief and Loss Support Sessions: In grief, we may not feel like ourselves. No Spartan needs to face grief alone. Encourage your Spartan to find healing and growth within our community through weekly, virtual support sessions led by licensed grief counselors.
Supportive Nutrition Services Available: University Health and Wellbeing nutrition offers free one-on-one appointments that focus on Spartans' unique needs. Whether figuring out how to eat well on a budget, navigate the dining halls, manage food allergies, or interpret all the nutrition advice out there, our registered dietitians are here to help.
Experiencing Basic Needs Insecurity? Support Is Available: On Oct. 23, MDHHS announced a temporary pause in the distribution of November SNAP benefits due to the ongoing government shutdown. Support services through the University Health and Wellbeing Food Bank and Basic Needs Program are available for affected Spartans. If you wish to support affected Spartans, learn about ways you can give back to promote access to food and essential supplies.
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Have You Read This Far?
Let's celebrate with another MSU Dairy Store single scoop coupon giveaway! Enter here by 11:59 p.m., Nov. 30 for a chance to win two coupons to enjoy a single scoop on us!
Congrats to Kathy M., our October winner!
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Undergraduate Action Items
On a monthly basis, Undergraduate Education, Student Affairs, and Residential and Hospitality Services share an Action Item email to all undergraduate students. You can find this messaging here.
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Upcoming Events and Important Dates
November
Nov. 10: Spring semester 2026 enrollment open for all
Nov. 11: Veterans Day
Nov. 17: Summer semester 2026 enrollment begins
Nov. 24–30: Spartan Spirit Shop Black Friday 30% off sale
Nov. 27: OMEA Unity Dinner
Nov. 27–28: Thanksgiving holiday (university closed; residence halls open, dining consolidated)
December
Dec. 1: Fall 2025 minimum tuition and fee payment due
Dec. 3: Student Appreciation Dinner, all dining halls (meal plan/swipe or $13.50 at the door)
Dec. 7: Fall semester classes end
Dec. 8–12: Fall semester final exams
Dec. 12: Residence halls close for between semester break, limited dining available
Dec. 12: Deadline to apply to graduate for fall semester 2025
Dec. 12–13: Fall semester commencements
Dec. 25-Jan 2: Winter break for university employees (university closed)
January
10: Spring semester billing available
10: Residence and Dining halls open for spring semester
12: Spring semester classes begin
14: College Nights at Wharton: Back To The Future
16: Last day to add a full-session class for spring semester
19: MLK Jr. Day (University closed, Residence Halls and Dining open)
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