WELCOME TO OWL NATION!
Whether you are a new first-year student or you are transferring from another institution, we are looking forward to helping you start your journey at Kennesaw State University. The New Owl Guide is designed to help all new undergraduate students in their transition to campus. We encourage you to use this guide and the New Student Programs team as resources as you embark on your journey at KSU. Welcome home — we are so glad you are here!
GET CONNECTED AT KSU!
UNIVERSITY INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY SYSTEMS (UITS) 470-578-6999
service@kennesaw.edu ksuhub.com/techguides
STEP 1: ACTIVATE YOUR NETID
Your NetID is the first part of your KSU email. Need to look up your number? Visit ksuhub.com/NetID.
STEP 2: DOWNLOAD THE MICROSOFT AUTHENTICATOR APP FROM YOUR APP STORE
Microsoft Authenticator is a multifactor authentication system used by all KSU systems. Authentication is available through downloading the app or receiving a call from Microsoft.
STEP 3: SIGN IN TO YOUR KSU EMAIL
You’ll use your KSU student email and password to sign in.
STEP 4: LEARN YOUR KSU NUMBER
This is a 9-digit code found on your Mobile Talon Card and Owl Express.
UITS is here to help! Walk-in support is available on both campuses – check the technology guide for locations by scanning the QR code or visiting ksuhub.com/techguides. You can also contact the UITS Service Desk by calling 470-578-6999 or emailing service@kennesaw.edu.
ACADEMICS
AT KENNESAW STATE, YOUR SUCCESS IS THE PLAN.
You’re not expected to figure college out on your own. From your first semester to graduation, you have access to built-in support designed to help you grow academically, professionally, and personally. Whether you need help mapping your next steps, strengthening your skills, or building confidence in a challenging class, there’s a place for you here, and the opportunity to succeed is yours.
TUTORING AND ACADEMIC RESOURCES
askadvising@kennesaw.edu ksuhub.com/tutoring
KSU offers free tutoring and academic support to help you succeed in your courses and build confidence in your learning. Resources such as Supplemental Instruction, the Writing Center, and the SMART Center provide targeted support for common first-year courses, including math, science, writing, and languages. These services help you strengthen your understanding, ask questions, and build confidence while developing strong study skills. Use the QR code to learn more about support options, including general and college-specific tutoring resources, as well as workspaces and labs.
ACADEMIC COACHING AND SUPPORT
academiccoaching@kennesaw.edu ksuhub.com/academiccoaching
Academic Coaching and Support is dedicated to students’ academic, personal, and professional success. We support Kennesaw State students by providing academic success coaching, peer mentoring, workshops, and enrichment events. Use the QR code to learn more about how Academic Coaching and Support can help you thrive at KSU!
Check out the Academic Calendar located on the Registrar’s website: ksuhub.com/calendar. Academic Calendars are created in advance for each semester and provide dates for breaks, payment deadlines, registration dates, and more.
CAREER PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT
careerplanning@kennesaw.edu
ksuhub.com/CareerPlanning
Career Planning & Development helps students develop and explore their career goals. From one-on-one coaching to interactive workshops, staff are prepared to help you in your professional development journey. Check out the Career Planning & Development website to access Handshake, KSU’s online platform for part-time and full-time jobs, on-campus positions, internships, volunteer experiences, and more.
GLOBAL EDUCATION
educationabroad@kennesaw.edu
ksuhub.com/GlobalEducation
Global Education leads KSU’s international endeavors by facilitating global partnerships, supporting its international population, and coordinating programming at home and abroad that prepares students for success in today’s increasingly global environment. Visit the Global Education website for more information about study abroad, international student services, and more!
KSU JOURNEY HONORS COLLEGE
honors@kennesaw.edu
ksuhub.com/HonorsCollege
The KSU Journey Honors College offers programs for highly talented and motivated students who want access to robust, transformative experiences during their undergraduate career. Visit the KSU Journey Honors College website for more information, including program offerings, application information, and more.
STUDENT DISABILITY SERVICES
sds@kennesaw.edu
ksuhub.com/DisabilityServices
Student Disability Services (SDS) is the first contact for students with disabilities to arrange accommodations and locate campus and community resources. SDS can help students with temporary and long-term accommodations inside and outside of the classroom. Visit their website for a full list of services, request forms, and more!
Need a place to study? Check out the library! Both the Sturgis Library on the Kennesaw Campus and the Johnson Library on the Marietta Campus offer study rooms, printers, computers, 1-1 research support, events, and more. Check out ksuhub.com/Library for more info.
CAMPUS LIBRARIES
UNDERSTANDING YOUR COURSE SCHEDULE
Course information, including your course schedule, textbook list, and more, can be found on the Registration tab of Owl Express. Use this info to learn more about course registration!
DOWNLOAD NAVIGATE360
ksuhub.com/Navigate360
The Navigate360 Student App is a mobile student success hub that is your portal to:
• Schedule appointments with academic advisors, tutoring, peer counseling, career advising, and more!
• Connect with classmates or peers in your shared classes or programs for study sessions.
• Check your to-do list and view action items provided by your KSU support team to keep you on track for graduation.
• Stay informed with reminders for important dates and events, and easily connect with a range of student support offices.
CLASS MODALITY AND INSTRUCTION TYPE
Courses may be offered in-person, online, or hybrid (mix of in-person and online). Check your schedule and the course syllabus to make sure you are attending in the correct format.
Instruction types may vary depending on the course. Some lab courses only meet once a week while lecture courses may meet several times a week. Instruction formats will be indicated in the course description and syllabus. Students can take classes on both the Kennesaw and Marietta campuses. Campus location will be displayed when registering for a course. If you choose to take classes on both campuses, make sure to give yourself enough travel time.
NEW OWL TIP: FACULTY SUPPORT
HOW DO I REGISTER FOR CLASSES?
ksuhub.com/AdvisingRegistration
Students will register for classes using Owl Express and can make edits to their schedule until the end of the Add/Drop period (see terms). Use this QR code to view a guide on how to register for classes!
ACADEMIC ADVISING
askadvising@kennesaw.edu
ksuhub.com/advising
Academic Advisors are dedicated to helping you identify and make progress towards your academic goals, supporting you every step of the way until you graduate. Students are encouraged to meet with an Academic Advisor at least once a semester. During Orientation, you will meet with your major’s Academic Advising team to learn more about your program of study and how to register for classes. Use the QR code to learn more about your Academic Advising team!
Your professors are here to support you! Start by reading your syllabus and adding key dates to your calendar, then visit office hours when you need clarity or guidance. And don’t forget to check your KSU email and D2L regularly so you never miss an important update.
The Kennesaw State Department of Athletics sponsors 18 NCAA Division I programs, with 17 of those competing in Conference USA. Owl Nation boasts over 30 intramural and club sports teams, making it easy for students to stay active and involved. for more information!
MEN’S SPORTS
• Baseball
• Basketball
• Cross Country
• Football • Golf • Tennis
• Track & Field WOMEN’S SPORTS • Basketball • Cross Country
Golf
Lacrosse
Soccer
Softball
Tennis
Track & Field
Volleyball
CAMPUS SERVICES
FIVE THINGS TO DO BEFORE YOU START AT KSU
SET UP YOUR MOBILE TALON CARD
ksuhub.com/FiveThingsToDo
Upload a photo to our Online Photo Submission website. Once approved, you can access your Mobile Talon Card by downloading the Transact eAccounts App and following the instructions on our website. Contact the Talon One Service Center for assistance or for more information.
PURCHASE A PARKING PERMIT
If you plan to bring a car to campus, you must purchase a virtual parking permit through the Parking Portal. Watch your email for important parking announcements and visit our Parking website for more information on selection dates, parking areas, permits, parking guidelines, and more.
CUSTOMIZE YOUR MEAL PLAN
KSU’s dining program is one of the best in the nation. Whether you live on campus or commute, we have a meal plan to fit your needs. Our vast dining program offers variety, with more than 16 restaurants between both campuses and more options coming soon. Purchase or upgrade your meal plan today to save before classes start!
VISIT THE KSU BOOKSTORE
Stop by the KSU Bookstore or shop online for back-to-school essentials. Show off your pride with KSU-branded apparel. Purchase your course materials with confidence with our “Correct Edition Guarantee.” Take advantage of our education pricing on technology at OwlTEC.
LEARN ABOUT HOUSING
If you plan to live on campus, check your student email for important information about move-in dates, what to pack, payment deadlines and more. For more information or to add yourself to the waitlist, visit our Housing website.
CONNECT WITH US!
Check your student email account often for important information from Campus Services, and stay in the know about all of our departments by following us on Instagram. @campusservicesksu, @eatksu, @ksustore, @housingksu
COLLEGE EXPENSES
At KSU, we believe in empowering you with the tools and knowledge you need to thrive in the workforce without burdening your financial future. With a focus on responsible financial decisions, we help make your college degree an affordable reality.
THE OFFICE OF THE BURSAR bursars@kennesaw.edu ksuhub.com/Bursar
The Office of the Bursar bills and collects for tuition, fees, and other campus expenses. Students can view their account information and pay online via Owl Express. Visit the Bursar’s website for more information about tuition and fees, student services, and frequently asked questions.
THE OFFICE OF SCHOLARSHIPS AND FINANCIAL AID
470-KSU-INFO (578-4636) finaid@kennesaw.edu ksuhub.com/FinancialAid
• COST CALCULATOR: From tuition and fees to books and supplies, check out our cost calculator to get an idea of what you’ll spend to attend college at KSU.
• FAFSA: The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) will determine your eligibility for various forms of aid, including grants, loans, Federal Work-Study Programs, and more. If you think there’s a chance you’ll need financial aid to attend KSU, you should file a FAFSA.
• HOPE AND ZELL MILLER SCHOLARSHIPS: If you are a Georgia resident who has met certain academic achievements, you may be considered for the HOPE or Zell Miller scholarships. Visit gafutures.org for more information about these scholarships.
NOTE: To check your eligibility for the HOPE or Zell Miller Scholarship, you must have provided your Social Security number on your admissions application and you must have an application on file, either the FAFSA or the GSFAPP.
• SCHOLARSHIP UNIVERSE: This one-stop resource helps students apply for internal and external scholarships. Check out the Financial Aid website for more information!
NEW OWL TIP: UNDERSTANDING FINANCIAL AID
Need help understanding your financial aid package? Visit ksuhub.com/ContactFinancialAid Each student is assigned a Financial Aid Counselor to support you and your family. Visit the Contact Us section of the Scholarships and Financial Aid website to find your counselor’s contact information.
CAMPUS ENGAGEMENT
From campus traditions to 400+ student-led organizations, there is something for everyone at KSU!
COMMUNITY
ksuhub.com/Community
Including:
• 4-Year Engagement Pathways
• Community Support Hubs
• Military & Veterans Services
Scan the QR code to find your community!
INVOLVEMENT
ksuhub.com/InvolvementKSU
Including:
• KSU Clubs & Organizations
• Student Activities
• Student Leadership
• Student Volunteerism and Service
Scan the QR code to get involved!
flight@kennesaw.edu
ksuhub.com/FLIGHT
FLIGHT is a class-year connections program developed by the Division of Student Affairs with the support of the Office of the President. Incoming first-year students belong to a specific FLIGHT class and will receive their FLIGHT jersey at Orientation to be worn at First-Year Convocation (your official welcome to KSU), the FLIGHT Runout, and other class-year and community-building events. Scan the QR code to get more information about your FLIGHT class.
FRATERNITY & SORORITY
LIFE (FSL)
ksuhub.com/FSL
FSL offers leadership, service, and engagement opportunities through nationally affiliated organizations, giving you a fun, supportive way to connect and get involved.
NEW OWL TIP: STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS
Want to learn about student organizations? Wondering what to do this weekend on campus? Check out Owl Life! Owl Life is KSU’s online engagement platform used to explore campus departments, registered student organizations, campus events, and more! Check out ksuhub.com/OwlLife for more info.
HEALTH, WELLBEING, AND SAFETY
Your wellbeing matters just as much as your academic success. KSU is committed to providing the resources, support systems, and safe environments you need to feel confident, cared for, and ready to focus on your goals and thrive as a part of our Owl Nation.
CARE SERVICES
careservices@kennesaw.edu ksuhub.com/CareServices
Student Programs & Resources:
• Emergency Financial Assistance
• CARE Pantry (Located in the Student Center on both campuses)
• Case Management
• ASCEND
CENTER FOR ADDICTION RECOVERY, PREVENTION & EDUCATION
recovery@kennesaw.edu ksuhub.com/Recovery
Student Programs & Resources:
• Recovery Support Services
• Alcohol & Other Drug Workshops & Resources
• Programs & Events
COUNSELING & PSYCHOLOGICAL SERVICES
counseling@kennesaw.edu ksuhub.com/Counseling
Student Services & Resources:
• 24/7 Mental Health Support
• Clinical Services (group and individual counseling, psychiatry, and case management)
• Peer Counselors
HEALTH PROMOTION & WELLNESS
wellctr@kennesaw.edu ksuhub.com/HealthPromotionAndWellness
Student Services & Resources:
• Nutrition Services
• Mental Health Trainings
• Relaxation Station
Find tips and tools for everything from your mental and physical health, to friendships and finding balance. It’s all here at YOU at KSU: you.kennesaw.edu
NEW OWL TIP: YOU AT KSU
UNIVERSITY RECREATION
sports_recreation@kennesaw.edu
ksuhub.com/Recreation
Kennesaw Campus: Dr. Betty L. Siegel Student Recreation and Activities Center
Marietta Campus: Recreation and Wellness Center
Student Services & Resources:
• Club Sports, Intramural Sports, & Esports
• Fitness Classes
• Adaptive Recreation
• Bike Shops & Gear Rentals
STUDENT HEALTH SERVICES
Schedule an Appointment Online or via Phone at 470-578-6644
ksuhub.com/StudentHealth
Virtual appointments now available!
Student Services:
• Primary care clinic locations on both campuses
• Illness diagnosis and care for colds, flu, sore throat, infections, and more
• Chronic disease management including asthma, diabetes, and hypertension
• Routine exams, including physicals
• Prescription Medication Dispensary which provides 30 essential medications at no additional charge.
• Immunizations
UNIVERSITY POLICE
police@kennesaw.edu
To Request an Officer: 470-578-6666
ksuhub.com/UniversityPolice
Student Services & Resources:
• Emergency Assistance & Campus Notifications
• Incident and Accident Reports
• Safe Walk Escorts
• Lost & Found
NEW OWL TIP: LIVESAFE APP
RAVE MASS NOTIFICATION SYSTEM
ksuhub.com/RAVE
KSU uses this notification system to send rapid emails, test messages, and phone message announcements to all KSU faculty, staff, and students.
UPDATE YOUR INFORMATION TO RECEIVE NOTIFICATIONS!
1. Login to Owl Express.
2. Navigate to the “Student Records” tab.
3. Click on “Personal Information.”
4. Fill in appropriate information under the “Phone Number” section.
If you would like to receive both text and voice alerts, the phone type must be listed as cellular. Other phone types will receive phone calls only. Students may list up to three phone numbers to receive alerts.
Download the LiveSafe app! Visit ksuhub.com/KSULiveSafe. This free app provides the campus community with a direct connection to campus police. Students and family members can set up a safe walk, contact University Police, and sign up for emergency alerts using the LiveSafe app.
PARENT & FAMILY PROGRAMS
family@kennesaw.edu
ksuhub.com/PFP
Your family can be part of your KSU journey, too. The Department of Parent and Family Programs helps keep your support system connected and informed every step of the way. Through the Owl Family Hub, your parents and family members can access helpful updates, important resources, and fun ways to stay engaged with campus life. When your family feels informed and involved, you are better supported as you navigate your time at KSU.
OWL FAMILY HUB
kennesaw.campusesp.com
The Owl Family Hub is your number one source of information from Parent and Family Programs! In the hub, parents and family members will have access to important campus news and deadlines, insight to your student’s progress and financial details, and receive personalized newsletters on your schedule. Scan the QR code to join and create an account. Make sure to complete the onboarding survey to personalize your account!
PARENT AND FAMILY ASSOCIATION
The KSU Parent and Family Association (PFA) is your community of family, parents, and supporters. All supporters attending Orientation are now part of the Parent and Family Association. You can connect with other members of the PFA through the Owl Family Hub!
PROGRAMS AND TRADITIONS
There are a variety of programs and traditions KSU parents and family members can participate in throughout their student’s journey at KSU. Including: Family Weekend • Family of the Year • Legacy Bricks • & More!
SUPPORTER FLIGHT PATHWAYS
ksuhub.com/SupporterFlightPathways
Supporter Flight Pathways is Parent and Family Programs’ year-by-year virtual learning program designed specifically for parents and supporters of our students. Each pathway provides the tools, resources, and insights you need to support your student as they navigate college life, from launching their first year to preparing for graduation. Use the QR code to create an account and gain access to your pathway!
TERMS
• ACADEMIC ADVISOR: staff member assigned to help you navigate your academic path at KSU; visit ksuhub.com/advising to find information about your advising team.
• ACADEMIC CALENDAR: list of important dates, events, and deadlines for each semester.
• ADD/DROP: timeframe (usually the first week of the semester) during which a student may adjust their course schedule without penalty; see Academic Calendar for the Add/Drop deadline.
• BIG OWL BUS: shuttle service providing convenient transportation between KSU’s campuses and some off-campus locations; included in Transportation fee.
• D2L: online platform for your academic courses to complete assignments, view course documents, connect with classmates, and more (also known as D2L Brightspace). New students typically do not have D2L access until the first day of classes.
• DEGREE WORKS: online platform that lets you track your degree progress and explore course options.
• FERPA: The Family Educational Rights & Privacy Act is federal law that protects the privacy of student education records. Visit ksuhub.com/ferpa.
• FULL-TIME/PART-TIME: full-time enrollment is 12 credit hours for the fall and spring semesters. Any less is considered part-time enrollment; students must be at full-time status to maintain certain financial aid and housing requirements.
• GPA: Grade Point Average; visit owlexpress.kennesaw.edu to view your most updated semester and cumulative GPA.
• HANDSHAKE: online platform for career resources and finding job postings for internships, co-ops, part-time, full-time, & on-campus positions.
• HOLD: a flag on a student’s account that will prevent them from registering or graduating; usually due to an outstanding form, unpaid fee, or immunization requirement.
• KCASH: students can upload funds to their Mobile Talon Cards for use at dining, campus stores, printing locations, and vending around campus.
• KSU STUDENT HANDBOOK: the Student Handbook contains important conduct policies and details about the student experience at KSU. This can be helpful as a new student. Visit ksuhub.com/StudentHandbook.
• MOBILE TALON CARDS: your KSU student ID; provides access to campus buildings, athletic events, meal plans, printing, recreation centers, and more!
• MICROSOFT AUTHENTICATOR: multifactor authentication system to protect student and employee accounts when logging into applications like Owl Express, KSUmail, and D2L Brightspace. Visit ksuhub.com/techguides for assistance.
• OWL EXPRESS: online portal for course registration and schedules, financial aid and billing, student records, and more.
• OWL LIFE: online platform for student organizations, campus events, and more!
• SYLLABUS/SYLLABI: an outline of a course, including class topics, assignments, and course requirements, provided at the beginning of each term.
• UITS: University Information Technology Services (UITS) is KSU’s IT division that supports NetID, Microsoft Authenticator, D2L Brightspace, and more. Visit ksuhub.com/UITS.
• WAITLISTING FOR CLOSED COURSES: if a course is full, some courses allow students to join the waitlist; students will be added to the course in the order they entered the waitlist.
• WITHDRAW: after the Add/Drop deadline, you may withdraw from one or more of your courses prior to the withdrawal deadline listed on the academic calendar without penalty; withdrawing from a class after that deadline will result in an “F” or failing grade for the course.
OUR SPIRIT & TRADITIONS
As a new owl, you will soon learn about the exciting traditions that make the KSU spirit— Black and Gold, Proud and Bold. Make sure you know the war chant for your first athletic event!
OWL CREED
WAR CHANT
Pursuing EXCELLENCE, I will show KINDNESS to all I encounter, display HONESTY in all that I do, and take RESPONSIBILITY for my own success.
Embracing new knowledge, I will pair AUTHENTICITY with CURIOSITY, have RESPECT for the ideas of others, while uplifting our community.
ALMA MATER
Kennesaw, dear Kennesaw Kennesaw, dear Kennesaw, Nestled in the Georgia pines, What a special place you hold, Treasured in this heart of mine. For the candles you set burning, Lighting paths of love and learning, For the gifts you have given me, Kennesaw, I will cherish thee.
Kennesaw, dear Kennesaw, Fairest of the Southland’s fame, Sons and daughters gathered here, Stand to praise thy lovely name. For the friendships that were made here, For the dreams we dared to dream here, Kennesaw, we will cherish thee, Kennesaw, we will cherish thee.
Lyrics by Cynthia Parks (1982)
You don’t want to go to war, With the Owls. With the Owls! You don’t want to go to war,
OWL EYES
SCRAPPY
The embodiment of KSU pride, Scrappy is the university’s loyal, confident, and wise mascot. He welcomes all with open wings!
Mimicking the appearance of Georgia’s native great horned owl, the Owl Eyes hand gesture unites us from the classroom to the stadium and beyond.
NOTES
SCRAPPY HOUR
Take a break and mingle with Scrappy for this weekly gathering to enjoy a Coke float with the KSU community. Attendees will receive a souvenir cup to take home. Students, faculty, and staff are welcome. Visit Owl Life for dates and locations!
SLAP THE ROCK
For decades, students on KSU’s Marietta Campus have marked an exposed limestone rock with their handprints to celebrate important milestones, like the first day of class and Commencement.
HOOTY HOO
Used as a greeting or exclamation, “Hooty Hoo!” is how Owl Nation demonstrates radiant energy and relentless spirit.
NEW OWL TIP: OWLSWAP CLOSET
Visit the OwlSwap Closet! Revolutionize your wardrobe with free everyday and professional wear. Beyond fashion, OwlSwap offers mending workshops and monthly clothing swaps, creating a vibrant community passionate about style and positive change. OwlSwap isn’t just a closet; it’s a movement shaping a sustainable, stylish, and successful future.
