UAF Admissions

Paying your way through college

2012-01-09T12:13:00.001-08:00

Have you taken a moment to calculate the estimated costs of tuition, room, and board at UAF? If you have, you've probably figured out that going to college costs money, and you're probably in search of some assistance (by that I mean cash). We are here to help direct you to a few great resources.

Feb. 15 is the deadline for applications for UAF privately funded scholarships. For more information contact scholarships@uaf.edu or visit www.uaf.edu/finaid/scholarships/.

Admissions annual event, Discover UAF: Admissions, Financial Aid, and Scholarships will take place on Saturday, February 4, 2012 in the lobby of Signers' Hall. Participants will hear from representatives from the Office of Admissions and the Registrar and the Financial Aid Office about the admissions application process, how to apply for scholarships, and the Free Application for Federal Student Aid.

The Financial Aid Office is hosting its annual Financial Sense Day on Wednesday, February 1. If you live in Fairbanks, this is a great opportunity to attend free financial literacy workshops throughout the day. Topics include:

Writing a scholarship essay
Living on less
Money skills
Money management tools
Paying for college
Discover your money personality
History of money
Understanding personal finance
Using your parents' GI bill
Getting out of debt
Avoiding bank fees
Money realities
Tax filing

The event runs from 9 am - 8 pm with workshop at the Wood Center (UAF Main Campus), and at the Community and Technical College (604 Barnette Street). Additionally, students can attend a Financial fair from 10 - 1 pm in the Wood Center and receive FAFSA application help in the Rasmuson Library (lab room 301) from 12-2 pm or at CTC (computer lab) from 6-7:30 pm.

Contact Ashley Munro at akmunro@alaska.edu or 474‐1934 for more information.

Another great event to think about attending is College Goal Sunday. This annual event is offered throughout the state and is available to anyone.

Traditionally offered right around Super Bowl Sunday - and conveniently just prior to tax season - College Goal Sunday provides on-site expert assistance with the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

The FAFSA is used for many forms of aid, from grants to loans to work-study. Did you know the FAFSA is also the application for the new Alaska Performance Scholarship?

College Goal Sunday is a 2-hour event where financial aid professionals from Alaska's higher education institutions and the Alaska Commission on Postsecondary Education will join other volunteers in key locations statewide to help Alaska's students complete the paperwork.

Ashley Munro, Financial Aid Advisor for the University of Alaska Fairbanks, will provide expert, line-by-line advice on the FAFSA and will be available to answer your financial aid questions. Internet and phone access are required to participate. Students and adult learners are welcome to attend these sessions.

Other great resources:

Financial Aid Grid

These websites relate to financial aid. The UAF Financial Aid Office and UAF do not control the content or take responsibility for the content of these pages. However, UAF Financial Aid staff have looked at these sites and found helpful information on a variety of topics including free scholarship searches and loan repayment options, to name a few.

Alaska Sea Grant Funding Opportunities
American Indian College Fund
The American Indian College Fund's mission is to raise scholarship funds for American Indian students at qualified tribal colleges and universities and to generate broad awareness of those institutions and the Fund itself.
Education is Freedom National Scholarship Program
The program provides college scholarships to high school seniors or graduates, age 24 and under.
FinAid! The SmartStudent Guide to Financial Aid
Created by Mark Kantrowitz this site contains a wide variety of general information about financial aid and links to free scholarship searches, universities and other organizations relating to higher education.
FastWeb
Free searches for scholarships and/or colleges.
Hispanic Scholarship Fund (HSF)
In support of its mission to double the rate of Hispanics earning college degrees, the Hispanic Scholarship Fund provides the Latino community more college scholarships and educational outreach support than any other organization in the country.
IRS Tax Information for Students
Online tax resource dedicated to helping you find the information, news, and forms you need to complete your taxes.
- Tax Benefits for Education (PDF)
  IRS Publication in PDF format about the Hope Scholarship and Lifetime Learning Credit.
Mapping Your Future
This one-stop site for students and parents with information on financial strategies, career options, and college planning.
Scholarships for Graduate Students
A list of scholarships available to graduate students maintained by the UAF Graduate School.
Scholarships for Volunteering and Community Service
SchoolSoup
A free scholarship search site.
Social Security Administration
Tylenol Scholarship
Cash for college sweepstakes.
United Negro College Fund
The nation's oldest and most successful African American education assistance organization.
U.S. Department of Education
This site contains a variety of information concerning the federal government's involvement with education at all levels. Below are pages within the U.S. Department of Education that may better direct you towards specific information you seek:
- FAFSA on the Web
  Enter your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) online. Doing your FAFSA on the Web can save you about two weeks of processing time when compared to using the paper FAFSA.
- "Guide to Defaulted Student Loans"
  Maintained by the Office of Post secondary Education.
- Hope Scholarship and Lifetime Learning Credit
  New federal government incentives for higher education.
- National Student Loan Data System (NSLDS) Student Access
  U.S. Department of Education's central database for student aid. It receives data from schools, agencies that guaranty loans, the Direct Loan program, the Pell Grant program, and other U.S. Department of Education programs. NSLDS provides a centralized, integrated view of Title IV loans and Pell grants that are tracked through their entire cycle; from aid approval through closure.
  
  Office of Postsecondary Education
  Higher education and financial aid topics.
- The Student Guide: Financial Aid from the U.S. Department of Education
  The online version of the department's free guide.
Wiredscholar
A free financial aid service offered by Sallie Mae. The Scholarship Search connects you to one of the Internet's largest databases of financial aid.

Alaska Performance Scholarship and FAFSA help

2012-01-04T09:59:00.001-08:00

The Alaska Commission on Postsecondary Education (ACPE) and the Alaska Department of Education & Early Development are hosting WebEx/Teleconference meetings in January for the general public to learn more about the Alaska Performance Scholarship (APS). Students, parents, educators, and other interested parties are welcome. Participants will learn about eligibility requirements, award levels, the application process, and using the award. There will also be an opportunity to ask questions. Go to APS.alaska.gov to view a schedule of available sessions, and to register.

Additionally, in February, ACPE will host online meetings on completion of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) – the application for the APS - as part of Alaska College Goal Sunday. Ashley Munro, Financial Aid Advisor for the University of Alaska Fairbanks, will provide expert, line-by-line advice on the FAFSA and will be available to answer your financial aid questions. Students and adult learners are welcome to attend these sessions. Go to www.alaskacollegegoalsunday.com to view a schedule of available sessions, and to register.

For either meeting, you must register at least 24 hours in advance to participate. Once you have registered online, you will receive an e-mail with instructions on how to participate in the meeting. Internet and telephone access are required to participate.

If you are unable to participate in the online meetings but would like additional information about the APS sent to you by mail or fax, please call 1-800-441-2962 (465-2962 in Juneau).

Closed for the holidays!

2011-12-16T17:07:00.001-08:00

Most offices at the University of Alaska Fairbanks will be closed for the winter break, Dec. 24 – Jan. 3. Some offices will also be closed or minimally staffed Dec. 19 – 23 and Jan. 4 – 6 as a cost-saving measure.

The UAF police and fire departments will remain open and the UAF Bookstore, the Student Recreation Center, the Wood Center, the UA Museum of the North and the Rasmuson Library will have limited hours during some parts of the winter break.

Campus shuttle service will be on an on-call only basis from 7:30 a.m. – 7:30 p.m. Dec.19 – 23 and Jan. 4 – 13. Call 474-RIDE (7433) for pickup. Regular campus shuttles will not run Dec. 24 – Jan. 3 or Jan. 14 – 16. Campus shuttles will run at limited times from 7:30 a.m. – 7:30 p.m. Jan. 17 – 18. All routes will return to normal schedules on Jan. 19.

Visit http://www.uaf.edu/marketing/holiday/index.xml for specific dates, hours and schedules.

Students will begin returning to campus Tuesday, Jan. 17, when residence halls reopen. New students are invited to participate in orientation activities the following day. The first day of classes for the spring semester is Thursday, Jan. 19. The 2011-2012 academic calendar is also online at www.uaf.edu/catalog/current/acad_calendar.html.

The University of Alaska Museum of the North will be open during the holiday season Dec. 19 – 24 and Dec. 26 – 31 and Jan. 2 – 7. Regular hours resume Jan. 9. Visit http://www.uaf.edu/museum/ for more information.

Going to College in Alaska!

2011-11-30T16:18:00.000-08:00

Announcing the ALL NEW online version of the 2011-12 edition of Going to College in Alaska!

The online magazine can be found at www.GTCIAK.com. The magazine provides general college admissions and financial aid information; and brief profiles of postsecondary institutions in Alaska, including many that the Alaska Performance Scholarship can be used at.

The Alaska Commission on Postsecondary Education (ACPE) annually produces Going to College in Alaska which contains useful tips to help Alaska’s high school students make decisions about postsecondary school options.

Transfer to UAF!

2011-11-11T10:13:00.000-08:00

Dear Transfer Students,

Perhaps you know about the Transfer Credit Resource Site that gives you a comprehensive list of all of the courses that UAF has accepted for transfer credit (and the courses for which they are applied). You may even know that UAF has recently created a position that is aimed at helping transfer students gather information about the school, assist you through the application process, and help you transition to UAF (that’s me, by the way). But, did you know that UAF will waive lower division General Education (core) requirements for students transferring in from a regionally accredited school that meets one of four requirements? No? Well, let me tell you the criteria. You’ll receive the waiver if

1. Your AA or AS degree is from the University of Alaska;

2. Your community college has an established 2+2 program with public universities in the same state;

3. Your community college or community college district is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU); OR

4. Your associate degree program has been approved by the Core Review Committee as satisfying the 100 and 200 level General Education requirements.

We implemented this policy for Fall 2011 and it has been a great success and tremendous boost to many our transfer students. If you’re not sure if your degree will qualify or what any of these requirements actually mean, send me an email. We’ve compiled a list of schools that have already been approved for the wavier that I can check for you. If your school isn’t on that list – don’t fret - it doesn’t necessarily mean you won’t qualify. Your application may be the first we’ve received from that community college since we implemented the program. Worst case scenario is that you apply for admission and 2-3 weeks after acceptance, we’ll let you know the results of the Transfer Credit Evaluation.

We haven’t even talked about all of the great undergraduate research opportunities available, UAF’s thriving campus community, or the adventure of attending college in Fairbanks, Alaska, so don’t forget to ask me about these when you send that email.

Sincerely,

Mary

mmkreta@alaska.edu

Stay on Track

2011-11-04T17:17:00.001-07:00

Students make the Stay on TRACK “Finish in Four” Promise

Fifty four students have made the Stay on TRACK “Finish in Four” promise to complete 30 credits a year, choose a major, see an advisor, and other smart steps to finish their degree in four years. Students responded positively to the additional attention on their progress to graduation, and Regent Heckman commented in support of the campaign at the UA Board of Regents Nov 2nd meeting.

The Stay on Track campaign is grounded in the philosophy that students and the university can take deliberate actions to help students graduate in a more timely manner, saving them money and reducing their loan debt. Campaign kickoff events were held this week at nine campuses across the UA system – Yukon-Koyukuk Center, Aleutians-Pribilof Center, Kenai River Campus, Bristol Bay, Matsu, Ketchikan, Juneau, Fairbanks and Anchorage.

Postcards, emails, electronic billboards and UA websites urged students to visit the Stay on TRACK website www.alaska.edu/stayontrack, which had 6,600 unique page views since mid-October.

Work continues on the current phase of the campaign, which is specifically focused on first time, full time bachelor’s degree seeking freshmen. Phase II, slated for Fall 2012, will focus on students seeking an associate degree.

UAF- Friday Flashbacks Year in Review

2011-07-08T12:10:00.000-07:00

Every Friday during the past year, Todd Paris uploads one of his favorite images from his years working as a photographer here to UAF's Facebook page. Here's his Year on Flashbacks in review.

A picture says a thousand words. UAF in photos...

2011-07-01T16:10:00.000-07:00

Todd Paris, UAF's amazing photographer, recently put together a montage of photos that had been used on the front page of our university website.
Check it out!

Even for Cashiers, College Pays Off

2011-06-29T11:46:00.000-07:00

I just noticed this article in the New York Times and thought it would be a nice addition to our college prep planning series on the blog. I've included it below but the summary is that people who have a college degree make more money. So...get a degree.

Even for Cashiers, College Pays Off
By DAVID LEONHARDT - New York Times

Published: June 25, 2011

ALMOST a century ago, the United States decided to make high school nearly universal. Around the same time, much of Europe decided that universal high school was a waste. Not everybody, European intellectuals argued, should go to high school.

It’s clear who made the right decision. The educated American masses helped create the American century, as the economists Claudia Goldin and Lawrence Katz have written. The new ranks of high school graduates made factories more efficient and new industries possible.

Today, we are having an updated version of the same debate. Television, newspapers and blogs are filled with the case against college for the masses: It saddles students with debt; it does not guarantee a good job; it isn’t necessary for many jobs. Not everybody, the skeptics say, should go to college.

The argument has the lure of counterintuition and does have grains of truth. Too many teenagers aren’t ready to do college-level work. Ultimately, though, the case against mass education is no better than it was a century ago.

The evidence is overwhelming that college is a better investment for most graduates than in the past. A new study even shows that a bachelor’s degree pays off for jobs that don’t require one: secretaries, plumbers and cashiers. And, beyond money, education seems to make people happier and healthier.

“Sending more young Americans to college is not a panacea,” says David Autor, an M.I.T. economist who studies the labor market. “Not sending them to college would be a disaster.”

The most unfortunate part of the case against college is that it encourages children, parents and schools to aim low. For those families on the fence — often deciding whether a student will be the first to attend — the skepticism becomes one more reason to stop at high school. Only about 33 percent of young adults get a four-year degree today, while another 10 percent receive a two-year degree.

So it’s important to dissect the anti-college argument, piece by piece. It obviously starts with money. Tuition numbers can be eye-popping, and student debt has increased significantly. But there are two main reasons college costs aren’t usually a problem for those who graduate.

First, many colleges are not very expensive, once financial aid is taken into account. Average net tuition and fees at public four-year colleges this past year were only about $2,000 (though Congress may soon cut federal financial aid).

Second, the returns from a degree have soared. Three decades ago, full-time workers with a bachelor’s degree made 40 percent more than those with only a high-school diploma. Last year, the gap reached 83 percent. College graduates, though hardly immune from the downturn, are also far less likely to be unemployed than non-graduates.

Skeptics like to point out that the income gap isn’t rising as fast as it once was, especially for college graduates who don’t get an advanced degree. But the gap remains enormous — and bigger than ever. Skipping college because the pace of gains has slowed is akin to skipping your heart medications because the pace of medical improvement isn’t what it used to be.

The Hamilton Project, a research group in Washington, has just finished a comparison of college with other investments. It found that college tuition in recent decades has delivered an inflation-adjusted annual return of more than 15 percent. For stocks, the historical return is 7 percent. For real estate, it’s less than 1 percent.

Another study being released this weekend — by Anthony Carnevale and Stephen J. Rose of Georgetown — breaks down the college premium by occupations and shows that college has big benefits even in many fields where a degree is not crucial.

Construction workers, police officers, plumbers, retail salespeople and secretaries, among others, make significantly more with a degree than without one. Why? Education helps people do higher-skilled work, get jobs with better-paying companies or open their own businesses.

This follows the pattern of the early 20th century, when blue- and white-collar workers alike benefited from having a high-school diploma.

When confronted with such data, skeptics sometimes reply that colleges are mostly a way station for smart people. But that’s not right either. Various natural experiments — like teenagers’ proximity to a campus, which affects whether they enroll — have shown that people do acquire skills in college.

Even a much-quoted recent study casting doubt on college education, by an N.Y.U. sociologist and two other researchers, was not so simple. It found that only 55 percent of freshmen and sophomores made statistically significant progress on an academic test. But the margin of error was large enough that many more may have made progress. Either way, the general skills that colleges teach, like discipline and persistence, may be more important than academics anyway.

None of this means colleges are perfect. Many have abysmal graduation rates. Yet the answer is to improve colleges, not abandon them. Given how much the economy changes, why would a high-school diploma forever satisfy most citizens’ educational needs?

Or think about it this way: People tend to be clear-eyed about this debate in their own lives. For instance, when researchers asked low-income teenagers how much more college graduates made than non-graduates, the teenagers made excellent estimates. And in a national survey, 94 percent of parents said they expected their child to go to college.

Then there are the skeptics themselves, the professors, journalists and others who say college is overrated. They, of course, have degrees and often spend tens of thousands of dollars sending their children to expensive colleges.

I don’t doubt that the skeptics are well meaning. But, in the end, their case against college is an elitist one — for me and not for thee. And that’s rarely good advice.

David Leonhardt is a columnist for the business section of The New York Times.

A version of this news analysis appeared in print on June 26, 2011, on page SR3 of the New York edition with the headline: Even for Cashiers, College Pays Off.

College Planning Tip of the Week: Tips for Transfers

2011-06-20T15:48:00.000-07:00

Tips for Transfers

Whether you started out at a community college or you've suddenly decided that it's time to transfer to UAF, the transfer process is a little different from your standard high school to college experience.

So I've asked around and below you'll find a few tips from our experts on how to make your transfer experience a breeze!

1. Complete your associate's degree. National research shows that community college students who finish their degree program complete the baccalaureate at a much higher rate than those students who transfer with simply a grab bag of credits.

Be sure to attend a school that is regionally accredited. Credits will not transfer from schools which are not accredited or from schools which are nationally accredited only!

2. Shop around. Examine all of the options available to you as a transfer student. Examine both public and private four-year institutions to decide what will be the best fit for you. The four-year institution that you had your heart set on in high school might not ultimately be the best choice for the subject you want to pursue.

3. Plan ahead. The earlier you begin to prepare for transfer, the better. Visit, collect transfer materials, and find out if there are any transfer agreements between where you are and UAF. The more information that you have, the easier it will be to make a decision.

Did you know that your Advanced Placement test scores can count as transfer credit? Plan ahead and have your scores sent directly to UAF!

4. Know what actually transfers. Make sure you are picking courses that are transferable. At UAF you can go to the UA Transfer Credit Resource Site to find out how transfer credit has been evaluated in the past. Also, here a link to the UA Table of Substitutions for Non-UA Institutions as an aid to choosing general education classes that should transfer easily to UAF -- http://www.uaf.edu/catalog/catalog_09-10/admissions/transfer_placement_chart3.html

Did you know that quarter credits convert to semester credits at UAF by multiplying by .667 (i.e., a 5 credit quarter class transfers to UAF as 3.335 semester credits).
Did you know that, in general, 100 and 200-level (lower division) courses are not equivalent to 300 or 400-level (upper division) courses?
Did you know that a 3 credit class does not equal a 5 credit class?
Did you know that a science class with a lab is not equal to a science class without a lab even if they are the same number of credits and the course descriptions match in every way but with the lab? Sign up for the lab sections!

5. Don't be shy. Meet regularly with advisors at the community college. Keep your advisor informed of your transfer plans, and as transfer approaches, set a time to meet with an admissions counselor at UAF. If you try to navigate this process without the help of advisors, you might not be able to maximize your community college courses.

6. Choose a major. Pick your major early, and seek advice about the best courses to take to meet requirements. By choosing your major early, you can take the prerequisites that you need for that program at the university. Well-planned course taking will help you finish your transfer program more efficiently, saving you time and money in the long run.

7. Get admitted. At UAF we evaluate your transfer credits after you have been admitted. So get that step out of the way early to give yourself enough time between getting admitted and getting advised.

8. Talk to us about Money. Fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) if you have not done so already. Apply for scholarships. We have scholarships available to transfer students but you can't get them unless you apply by Feb. 15! Make sure that you meet all of the deadlines for financial aid. Otherwise, you might miss out on assistance that is available to you.

9. Attend orientation. You might think that you do not need this because you already are a college student. But navigating the university is different. Take advantage of the opportunities that UAF's Orientation Program has created for transfer students.

10. Stay focused. This one is easy to forget. Whether it's your associate's or bachelor's degree we're talking about, finishing on time is not easy. But it can be done if you are focused and work hard. Keep your goal in mind even when you're working in your hardest class, which you don't much like. It will all pay off.

1 - 10 Source: http://www.usnews.com/education/blogs/professors-guide/2009/09/16/10-tips-for-transferring-from-community-college

Types of transfer credit:

AP - Advanced Placement
CLEP - College Level Examination Program
Credit for Prior Learning
Military (Navy, Marine, Airforce, Army)
College credits
IB - International Baccalaureate
DSST or DANTES
Certificates (may have been pre-approved for transfer by UAF's departments)

Please visit: http://www.uaf.edu/admissions/undergrad/transfer/ for more details on transferring to UAF!

Capture the Flag

2011-06-08T17:24:00.000-07:00

I have one UAF pennant left and it could be yours! To capture it simply browse the postings to this blog beginning in January of 2011. Find the answers to the following questions and send them to admissions@uaf.edu.

Subject line: Admissions Counselor Blog Posting.
Include your name, address, and date of birth along with your correct answers.

All correct answers will be entered into a drawing for this pennant.

Questions:
1. According to the blog: Money! You want it?, what three events take place in February each year?
2. What is a nanook?
3. What creature did the department of Fish and Game ask you not to taser in April?

On your mark, get set, go!

The drawing will take place next Monday at 12 noon! I will post the winning entrant here!

UAF Lower Campus Panaroma, June 7, 2011

2011-06-08T13:19:00.000-07:00

The statue in the middle is Charles Bunnell. The buildings are: Signers' Hall (Admissions, registrar, business office, and other administration offices); the library, the Brooks Building, the Duckering Building, the Bunnell Building. In the center is the circle of flags (which represents has flags of the countries represented by students here at UAF.

The College Experience: College Roommates

2011-06-08T09:55:00.000-07:00

The College Experience: College Roommates

If you are a newly admitted student planning to live on campus you might be asking yourself what it will be like to have a roommate and hoping that you'll get paired with someone that you like or at least can tolerate! Below are a few simple rules to follow for a successful roommate experience.

College Roommate Rules
source: http://www.collegeboard.com/student/plan/college-success/26657.html

Most college students who don’t live at home have one or more roommates, often assigned to them randomly by the college. This is the first time some students have lived with anyone other than their family. If you’re on your way to college, you might be wondering how well this works.

Many first-year students miss the privacy of their homes, of course. But most also find comfort in the company of others who are going through the same things they are — such as taking challenging courses and figuring out how to balance school and social life. Even roommates who have differences are often able to solve any problems they have by talking it out.

Living harmoniously with someone means respecting differences, sharing, being courteous, and accepting others for who they are. These are good life skills to learn. They may be the most important lessons you’ll learn in college outside the classroom.
Lifestyle Differences

Let’s hope this won’t be your experience:

11 p.m.: You've finished your schoolwork for the evening. You stack your books on your desk, fold and put away clothing, shut off the lights, slip into your neatly made bed, and drift off to sleep.

2 a.m.: You're jolted awake by bright lights and laughter. Could it be morning already? No such luck. Rather, it seems your party-loving roommate has arrived home and is just now starting to do homework. You watch in near-disbelief as your roommate gets online, cranks up some music, and starts singing loudly and dancing — discarding clothes and books on the floor. Noticing you, your roommate says “What’s up?” cheerfully and without a trace of guilt, apparently unaware that you were fast asleep.

You flop back onto your bed, put your pillow over your head and groan, "How am I ever going to get through the year?"

Scenes like this are not unusual at college. If you're a bookworm who goes to bed early and your roommate is a party animal who just gets going at midnight, sharing the same quarters may not be easy. But that doesn't mean the two of you can't get along.
The Talking Cure

Keeping lines of communication open is essential. If your college has given you contact information for your roommate, call or e-mail before college begins. Introduce yourself and find out more about the person you’ll be living with for the next year. Here are some other tips for getting off to a good start:

Discuss important issues and establish rules. If you make house rules, and communicate openly and often, you can avoid unpleasant surprises down the road. If you can't study with music on, then come to an agreement about quiet times. If your roommate likes to have lots of friends over and you like solitude, make a schedule for using the room that’s fair to both of you.

Be respectful. Successful roommate relationships are based on mutual respect. If your roommate doesn’t want to loan or borrow clothes, respect that choice. Your roommate should respect reasonable requests from you, too — for example, not to eat your food without asking.

Be willing to compromise. You and your roommate may not agree on everything, but you both have to compromise a little bit. For example, suppose one of you is a slob and the other is a neat freak. The untidy one should keep the shared areas of the room clean. And the neat one should overlook untidiness in the roommate’s area.

Be courteous. Courtesy is contagious. If you behave politely to your roommate, your roommate is likely to follow your lead. Wish your roommate luck on an exam. Ask if you can pick up something while you're running errands. And don't borrow anything without asking.
Good friendships often begin by sharing space with strangers. Who knows — maybe that loud, partying roommate you thought would drive you crazy will become your best friend.

College Prep Tip of the Week: Plan Ahead

2011-05-31T11:49:00.000-07:00

College Prep Tip of the Week: Plan Ahead

"In a speech to Congress on Feb. 24, 2009, President Obama encouraged every American to complete at least one year of education beyond high school, whether at a community college, or a four-year school, or through vocational training, or an apprenticeship. This checklist will tell you how to get ready for that education — and how the government will help you pay for it." - http://studentaid.ed.gov

The website studentaid.ed.gov provides a great road map of the college planning process for students (of any age) who haven't attended college or trade school and parents of students in elementary and secondary school.

Having a checklist such as this provides you with a plan, a compass if you will, to help navigate the path to college. This particular list is great because it talks about the academic and financial preparation families should have for education beyond high school. The page is split into sections for students and parents, explaining what to do and which publications or web sites might be useful.
The three basic principles outlined on this site are:

College Preparation Checklist

FIND MONEY FOR SCHOOL
TAKE THE RIGHT CLASSES
CHOOSE A CAREER

At UAF you can contact the Financial Aid Office for information on where you can find money for school; you can talk with an Admissions Counselor for questions about what classes to take in high school; and you can explore your career options with our Career Services Office.

Of course, we encourage you to visit campus so that you can meet with representatives from these offices and our academic programs. For information about how to visit, got to: http://www.uaf.edu/admissions/info.

Until then, happy planning!

Making the most of your campus visit

2011-05-27T13:32:00.000-07:00

UAF's Discover UAF: Inside Out event is just around the corner (June 24th) and so I felt inspired to share this little nugget with our followers.

I found the advice listed below in an article on the College Board website in a section dedicated to helping students prepare for their college search process. (I highly recommend checking in out!) As you read through the article you will notice that there are links you can click on. These links will (more often than not) take you to a UAF website. My advice: click through and read more about these areas and then...COME VISIT US.

If you haven't signed up for Discover UAF: Inside Out, it's June 24, 2011 and you can sign up by clicking here!

Campus Visit Checklist - www.collegeboard.com/student Make the Most of Your Trip
Visiting a campus helps you get a sense of what that college — and life for its students — is like. This can make a difference when you’re deciding whether the college is a good fit for you.

When you’re planning your trips, make sure that you allow enough time to explore each college as fully as possible. Wander around the campus by yourself and imagine being a student there. Here are some things you can check out while you’re visiting.

Admission and Academics
Find out what you need to do to apply. And see if the college environment supports your educational goals.

Participate in a group information session at the admission office.
Interview with an admission officer.
Pick up financial aid forms.
Sit in on a class that interests you.
Meet a professor in your chosen major or in a subject area that you may want to pursue.
Get business cards and the names of people you meet for future contacts.

Campus Life

Daily life has a big effect on your happiness — and your success — at a college. Get a feel for student life and decide whether the college is a setting where you can thrive.

Take a campus tour.
Scan bulletin boards to see what day-to-day student life is like.
Talk to the coaches of sports in which you might participate.
Go to the career center and learn what services it offers.
Plan an overnight with a student.
Ask to see the residence hall where most freshmen live.
Visit the cafeteria, fitness center, library, bookstore and other campus facilities.
Walk or drive around the community surrounding the campus.

Campus Media

Tune in to learn what’s happening on campus and what’s on students’ minds.

Listen to the college radio station.
Read the student newspaper.
Review other student publications — department newsletters, alternative newspapers, literary reviews.
Browse through campus blogs.

Current Students

Being on campus gives you a wonderful chance to talk to the students who currently go to that college. You can ask questions like these to see what their experience is, and what yours might be like:

What are the best reasons to go here?
What do you do on weekends?
What do you love about this college?
What do students complain about most?

Photo credit: Todd Paris, University of Alaska Fairbanks, Marketing and Communications
Participants at the Spring 2011 Inside Out event pose for photo opportunities with UAF's mascot, the Nanook.

College Prep Tip of the Week: Take Algebra II

2011-05-26T09:14:00.000-07:00

As the video shows below, Algebra II is tough, but not that tough. Students thinking about going to college should plan to stick with Math for at least 3 years (preferably 4). At UAF we require math as a part of the undergraduate core curriculum. Having a strong background in math will provide you with a strong foundation for success!

University of Alaska Fairbanks to launch new outdoor facility

2011-05-17T15:33:00.000-07:00

University of Alaska Fairbanks to launch new outdoor facility

by Jeff Richardson / jrichardson@newsminer.com

May 16, 2011 | 873 views | 4 | 2 | |

FAIRBANKS — The University of Alaska Fairbanks is about to start work on the first steps of a new Outdoor Education Center, launching a facility that officials believe could ultimately transform winter recreation on campus.

Vice Chancellor for Students Mike Sfraga said the outdoors center is part of an effort to gradually turn UAF into a more enjoyable place for students, particularly during winter months. Chancellor Brian Rogers challenged administrators last year to eye the campus with that goal in mind.

The centerpiece will be a new climbing wall near the campus sledding hill, capable of simulating rock climbing in the summer months and an ice wall in the winter.

“The big idea is, how do we transform this campus to reflect the student that goes here?” Sfraga said. “A little more adventurous, a little more outdoorsy.”

The new climbing structure, which would be more than 30 feet tall, would supplement a less-sophisticated climbing wall inside the nearby Student Recreation Center.

UAF’s student government allocated $50,000 toward the project, which was matched by Rogers using privately raised money from the UA Foundation.

Sfraga said it should be just enough money to build the wall. Designs for the new facility should be completed by the end of the month, with construction starting in July.

UAF Outdoor Adventures coordinator Mark Oldmixon envisions a structure that will be useful to everyone from novices to elite climbers. The new wall will be able to provide technical climbing training, such as lead climbing and belaying skills.

“Our current climbing wall is awesome and gets a ton of use, but it’s limited in its educational value,” he said.

Two other elements of the park are envisioned after the climbing wall is completed, although funding for those pieces still hasn’t materialized.

A “ropes course” is tentatively planned for an area near the roundabout on lower campus, providing an area strung with ropes for skill development and exercise. A third piece would include a terrain park for snowboarders below the Butrovich Building.

Oldmixon said each piece of the planned center will have education potential, including possible use by ROTC students or campus clubs. The areas will be fenced and well-lighted, with limited hours and staff oversight.

“It’ll be heavily supervised,” Oldmixon said. “Definitely not a free-range activity.”

Sfraga said a second phase of the outdoors education center has been discussed and could include a series of zip lines from upper campus to the climbing wall. That phase is more a dream than a well-defined goal.

“That’s the grand plan,” Sfraga said. “I don’t know if we’ll ever get there.”

The concept of the outdoors center has been discussed since last fall, spurred by Rogers’ desire for a more inviting campus environment. Sfraga envisions the new additions as pieces that will allow UAF to retain more students and boost recruiting efforts.

A handful of questions remain about the projects, including how their operations will be staffed and funded.

Sfraga said UAF should be able to handle some of the added workload with existing employees, but more personnel likely will be needed to oversee and maintain the facilities. He said campus officials will evaluate those needs later this summer.

Sfraga said the outdoors center probably won’t require an added fee for UAF students, although some equipment rental may be involved. Off-campus school groups and Scouts could be potential users, and those groups would likely pay an undetermined cost to use the facilities, he said.

Sfraga said he would like to see the climbing wall completed in time for UAF student orientation in late August, although he admits that timeline will be tough to achieve. A fall opening is more likely.

“It’s still a vision, but we’re working toward the reality of this,” he said.

College Prep Tip of the Week: Envision Yourself in College

2011-05-17T11:46:00.001-07:00

In the news: Joe Alloway, Admissions Counselor and Graduation Emcee

2011-05-09T11:16:00.001-07:00

UAF announcer finds graduation a special thrill

by Jeff Richardson / jrichardson@newsminer.com

May 08, 2011 | 1026 views | 0 | 4 | |

University of Alaska Fairbanks admissions counselor Joe Alloway poses for a photograph in Signer's Hall Wednesday afternoon, May 4, 2011. Alloway, who will be emceeing the UAF graduation ceremony for the third straight year, is the Spotlight for the week. Eric Engman/News-Miner

FAIRBANKS — Diplomas won’t be handed out at the University of Alaska Fairbanks for nearly a week, but Sunday’s rapidly approaching commencement ceremony is already making Joe Alloway nervous.

Alloway, an admissions counselor at UAF, isn’t among those sweating out final exams. He’s more likely having flashbacks to some of last year’s graduates, which included daunting pronunciations like Okechukwu A. Opara and Mindona M. Krzykowski.

It’s Alloway who acts as emcee at the event, reading off more than 1,000 names and dozens of doctoral theses in a little more than two hours.

College Prep Tip of the Week: Be determined

2011-05-09T11:07:00.001-07:00

College prep tip of the week: Take tough classes

2011-05-02T16:38:00.001-07:00

Wild Potato Hill: Troth Yeddha

2011-04-26T11:40:00.000-07:00

I stumbled upon this lovely website for the Alaska Native Languages Center. They have an informational resource site which includes this article about the name "Troth Yeddha" - which was what land now occupied by the University was once called. If you have some time, the site is rich with information about our Alaska Native Languages and history.

On the name Troth Yeddha' (Troth Yedda')
'wild potato hill'

The land now occupied by the University of Alaska Fairbanks campus was called Troth Yeddha' (sometimes spelled Troth Yedda') by the Tanana Athabascans. Tanana Athabascan is the indigenous language of the Middle Tanana Valley, spoken from Salcha (Sol Chaget) to Chena Village (Ch'eno') to Nenana (Nina No') to Minto (Menhti).

The word troth refers to the plant known in English as "Indian potato," "wild potato," or "wild carrot" (Hedysarum alpinum). The word yeddha' means "its ridge" "its hill." Linguistically, it can be analyzed as the word yetth "ridge" plus the possessive suffix -a' (the change from tth to ddh in the possessed form is part of a regular phonological process). Thus the name Troth Yeddha' can be literally translated into English as "Indian Potato Ridge." The apostrophe at the end of the word yeddha' is a meaningful symbol that represents a glottal stop.

Other areas now on and around the UAF campus also have original Athabascan names. Some examples include:

Ch'eno' Chena River
Sresr Ddhela' Ester Dome (literally: 'black bear mountain')
Tr'exwghodegi Troth Yeddha' Bena' Smith Lake
(literally: 'upper Indian potato ridge lake')
Tr'exwghotthigi Troth Yeddha' Bena' Ballaine Lake
(literally: 'lower Indian potato ridge lake')

Describing the UAF campus, Chief Peter John of Minto said:

Our people used to come to this hill to pick troth. They would paddle up the creek, Troth Yeddha' No' (Noyes Slough), and camp by the Lake Troth Yeddha' Mena' (Ballaine Lake). Troth Yeddha' was important, a meeting place. The grandfathers used to come to talk and give advice to one another about what they were going to do. When they learned this place would be used for a school, the university, they came here one last time, to decide what they should do. They decided that the school would be good and would carry on a very similar traditional use of this hill (a place where good thinking and working together would happen). They placed an eagle feather on a pole. This was to let all the people know that the Dena would no longer be using the ridge for a meeting place or to pick wild potatoes. They were also giving a blessing so their grandchildren would be part of the new school.

While Troth Yeddha' was probably not a permanent settlement, the archaelogical, linguistic, and oral history records indicate the importance of Troth Yeddha' to the Athabascan people. Troth can still be found growing wild on the UAF campus, and people continue to come to Troth Yeddha' to harvest troth, the roots of which form an important traditional food. The usage of troth is described by Father Jules Jetté in the Koyukon Athabaskan Dictionary:

The [troth] is good only during the winter, when the natives gather it, digging for it under the snow. It is then round and full, juicy and tender. After the thaw it loses its qualities, becomes hard, woody, and tasteless. It is also used as a substitute for tea or coffee. For this purpose, the root is sliced transversely in segments 1 to 2 inches long; these are divided longitudinally, by separating the fibers, and these are cut again across in small portions, which are afterwards dried and roasted in a frying pan. They are used as tea, in an infusion, and sometimes as a decoction. The beverage thus prepared is said to taste like chocolate.

Compiled by Gary Holton (gmholton@alaska.edu)

Please don't taser the moose.

2011-04-11T09:39:00.001-07:00

This really doesn't have a whole lot to do with admissions or UAF per se, but it made me chuckle, so I thought I'd share...

Twitter @newminer wrote: "Alaska Department of Fish and Game asks you to please not Taser the moose: http://bit.ly/ecRm8m"

Where else would this even be an issue? Here on campus we will see the occasional moose meander though campus. More frequently, a person may run into a moose on the ski/walking trails behind campus. And now we know... leave that taser at home!

ConocoPhillips establishes engineering endowment at UAF

2011-04-05T16:15:00.000-07:00

ConocoPhillips establishes engineering endowment at UAF

UAF photo by Todd Paris
Trond-Erik Johansen, left, president of ConocoPhillips Alaska, poses with Chancellor Brian Rogers and Doug Goering, dean of UAF's College of Engineering and Mines, after Johansen announced a $500,000 endowment to CEM.

end_of_the_skype_highlighting
4/5/11

The University of Alaska Fairbanks and ConocoPhillips Alaska today announced a gift to support engineering education and research at UAF.

The $500,000 ConocoPhillips UAF Engineering Endowment will support students in the UAF College of Engineering and Mines by augmenting engineering laboratories, increasing the availability of academic support services and building undergraduate research opportunities.

“This grant continues our tradition of investing in quality training and education opportunities in Alaska,” said Trond-Erik Johansen, president of ConocoPhillips Alaska. “Our company is investing in UAF’s engineering programs to create the workforce our state will need in the future. We hope that funding these programs at the University of Alaska Fairbanks will encourage students to stay in Alaska, work in Alaska and bring their skills, technology and innovation to the state.”

UAF photo by Todd Paris
Trond-Erik Johansen, president of ConocoPhillips Alaska, makes a presentation to the Fairbanks Chamber of Commerce, during which he announced a $500,000 endowment to UAF's College of Engineering and Mines.

UAF has been educating engineering students since 1922. ConocoPhillips has a longtime association with the UAF College of Engineering and Mines. The company offers internships to students and many of those students move on to full-time positions when they graduate. Company representatives and alumni serve on the school’s advisory board and give back to the school as volunteers and mentors. In addition, the university and ConocoPhillips have a longstanding tradition of research collaboration.

“We look forward to continuing that partnership and working together to develop the human capital needed to advance Alaska’s oil and gas industry and the state’s economy,” said Doug Goering, dean of the UAF College of Engineering and Mines. “This gift will help train tomorrow’s engineers and advance our knowledge base in arctic oil and gas development. By working together, we hope to help keep Alaska’s oil and gas industry healthy and viable for many years to come.”

ADDITIONAL CONTACTS: Natalie Lowman, ConocoPhillips Alaska communications director, at 907-263-4153 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 907-263-4153 end_of_the_skype_highlighting or N.M.Lowman@conocophillips.com. Doug Goering, College of Engineering and Mines dean, at 907-474-7730 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 907-474-7730 end_of_the_skype_highlighting or djgoering@alaska.edu.

2011-03-29T10:18:00.000-07:00

Inside Out showcases UAF’s Fairbanks campus

By Site administrator on March 28, 2011

The UAF Admissions counselors pose with a special friend March 25 after hosting prospective future UAF students and their parents during the annual InsideOut event on the Fairbanks campus. From left to right, back to front, are Carrie Coxon, Joe Alloway, Nanook, Mary Kreta, Chris Wheeler, Lael Oldmixon and Jessica Bennett.

Nearly 200 prospective students, families and chaperones from around the state had the opportunity to ask questions about academic programs, financial aid and student life as part of the annual InsideOut event on the Fairbanks campus March 25. Inside Out takes place once in the spring, summer and fall each year.

A small group of students provided feedback of their existing perceptions of UAF in a Marketing and Communications focus group over the lunch hour.

If you know prospective students who are interested in visiting UAF, please have them contact Carrie Coxen at cdcoxen@alaska.edu or have them fill out a campus visit request form.

Birch Tapping...

2011-03-24T17:58:00.000-07:00

Okay - so this just caught my eye and I had to put it out there.

"The University of Alaska Fairbanks will offer a birch-tapping class Saturday, April 16tPublish Posth in Palmer.

The class will run from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Matanuska Experiment Farm. All equipment will be provided and the fee is $10.
The workshop is sponsored by the UAF School of Natural Resources and Agricultural Sciences and UAF Cooperative Extension Service.
To sign up, contact Valerie Barber at 907-746-9466 or vabarber@alaska.edu."

What I love about this posting is that this is so representative of the variety of really neat courses you can take through UAF or our extension programs. It's great to be a Nanook!

- Lael

Have you liked us on Facebook yet?

2011-02-11T13:04:00.000-08:00

If not, you should! So much great news and information is shared through the UAF Facebook Page. Here's the address: http://www.facebook.com/uafairbanks.

Today's Facebook post of the day:

Alaska Summer Research Academy (ASRA)

2011-02-09T23:02:00.000-08:00

The Alaska Summer Research Academy at the University of Alaska Fairbanks will be accepting applications Feb. 14-28 for the 2011 academy.

ASRA is part of the UAF College of Natural Science and Mathematics. The academy provides hands-on, experiential learning in science, technology, engineering and mathematics fields for students in middle and high school. Students attend one module for the entire two weeks. Classes are small, with eight students and two instructors. The ASRA staff includes UAF faculty members and graduate students, MIT instructors and industry professionals.

Highlights this year include:

* Sixteen residential modules, ranging from biomedicine to paleontology to “sounds of science”

* ASRA advanced module at the Kasitsna Bay Research Lab near Homer

* A new partnership with the Discover Design Research program at the University of Alaska Southeast provides an additional three modules.

* Ten full tuition and travel scholarships courtesy of New York Life for students in rural Alaska

* ASRA Jr., a new day program for students entering seventh and eighth grades

Applications will only be accepted Feb. 14 - 28, 2011. Visit www.uaf.edu/asra for more information.

ADDITIONAL CONTACTS: Jeff Drake, ASRA director, at 907-474-7077 or jdrake@alaska.edu.

ON THE WEB: www.uaf.edu/asra

Nanooks to Feast on Seawolf Tacos

2011-02-03T10:22:00.000-08:00

The rivalry between the Alaska Nanooks and the UAA Seawolves is never greater than during the Governor’s Cup hockey game. This year, the University of Alaska Fairbanks is kickin’ it up a notch by hosting a seawolf taco feed the night of the game in Fairbanks.
While the seawolf is the mascot for the University of Alaska Anchorage, it is also the common name for the edible Atlantic wolf fish. On Saturday, Feb. 26, 2011 members of the community are invited to attend a seawolf taco feed. For more information: http://www.uafnews.com/headlines/nanooks-to-feast-on-seawolf-tacos.

College Admission Blog : College Guide and Search Advice: College Application Calender - Senior Year

2011-01-31T17:42:00.000-08:00

I've been doing some quick browsing through www.colegeadmissionblog.com and thought you might find this link helpful (especially you seniors who are looking for guidance about where to start!). Juniors...start planning!

College Application Prep Plan for the Senior Year

College Admission Blog : College Guide and Search Advice: FAFSA Application for Financial Aid

2011-01-31T17:37:00.000-08:00

I just read this great blog with information and tips about navigating the FAFSA. Check it out!

FAFSA Application for Financial Aid

Money! You want it?

2011-01-26T22:00:00.000-08:00

Don't miss your chance to get it!

It's FAFSA Time (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)!

JAN. 30...
College Goal Sunday
Kick off FAFSA season with College Goal Sunday! It's your chance to fill out the FAFSA with the experts there to help! Bring your parents!!

FEB. 1 - FEB 28...
UA's February FAFSA Frenzy

The University hosts a month long FAFSA Frenzy to encourage you to complete your FAFSA in the month of February!

FEB. 15...
UA Scholarship Deadline

Complete your application to any of the UA campuses and then apply for scholarships. We have a single application for hundreds of scholarships plus links to many more scholarships.

There are only 5 questions on the scholarship application, with one being a personal essay (no more than 500 words). What to write:

We want to learn something about you.
What do you plan to do/study/achieve at UAF?
What achievements have you had in high school?
Who has had an important influence on your life?

Sometimes we receive only a couple of sentences and that just doesn't tell us enough about you...so PLEASE, use all 500 words!

How to...

1. Apply for admission
2. Watch the video below and then apply for scholarships (it's that easy):

FAFSA Facts

The FAFSA stands for FREE APPLICATION FOR FEDERAL STUDENT AID - if someone asks you to pay for it...you're at the wrong site. Go to www.fafsa.gov for details on how to complete the FAFSA.
The FAFSA is the application for the new Alaska Performance Scholarship.
If your parents have completed their taxes electronically, they can automatically load their tax information into their FAFSA anytime after January 30th.
If your parents won't be completing their taxes soon, they can still complete the FAFSA with information from their W-2's, and 1099's or use last year's taxes as an estimate.
The form continues to become simpler to use and faster to complete.

Former UAF Professor Partners with Rosetta Stone

2011-01-25T16:13:00.000-08:00

Former UAF Professor Edna MacLean joined forces with Rosetta Stone to create a program that teaches the North Slope Inupiaq dialect of the Inuit language. With only 1,500 people fluent speakers of Inupiaq left, the once predominant language of Northern Alaska could become extinct in as little as one or two generations. This program, a part of Rosetta Stone's endangered language program, will be distributed by NANA Corporation and the North Slope Borough to schools, shareholders, and families in the region as a way to ensure the next generation of children do not lose the language and a vital component of their culture.

To learn more, read the article Alaska natives team with Rosetta Stone in the Seattle Times.

Reflections on 2010

2011-01-12T14:11:00.001-08:00

I thought you might enjoy this amazing slide show of photos from 2010 which were taken by Todd Paris, the university photographer. I think the photos do well to capture life here on campus and in Alaska.

UAF reindeer researcher takes his job home with him

2010-12-21T18:41:00.000-08:00

http://www.uafnews.com/headlines/uaf-reindeer-researcher-takes-his-job-home-with-him

Nancy Tarnai

907-474-5042
12/20/2010

Thoughts of reindeer are not limited to the Christmas season for George Aguiar; in fact the creatures are pretty much a year-round, 24/7 obsession.


Photo by Nancy Tarnai.
George Aguiar cares for his reindeer in the Goldstream Valley.

Reindeer are the focus of Aguiar’s job and his graduate work at the University of Alaska Fairbanks and when he gets home each night, he has his own reindeer to care for. A research coordinator for the Reindeer Research Program, he is working on a master’s degree in natural resources management and geography. His research focuses on how meat quality is affected by freezing and storage time.

But to call Aguiar, 32, single minded wouldn’t be right; he plays guitar, skijors, gardens, runs and rides snowmachines, motorcycles and mountain bikes.

Aguiar grew up in Turlock, Calif., on a large dairy farm where his father was the herdsman and Aguiar raised his own cows, goats, rabbits and a pig. His family arrived in California from the Azores Islands and Aguiar didn’t learn to speak English till he was 5. “Our family traditions had to do with providing food,” Aguiar said. “Once a year we would have a big feast and kill a pig and make sausage. There would be dances and wine.”

His childhood brought him to realize the importance of food production. “We have to get food to the table and it doesn’t come from a grocery store,” he said.

Aguiar decided at a young age that he wanted to incorporate his ethics and ideas into how animals should be treated. “You know the end result but still you have respect for the animal,” he said.

While Aguair was attending a community college in California he hauled cattle and worked in the veal industry. In 2002 he headed to Alaska to try something new, enrolling in the UAF School of Natural Resources and Agricultural Sciences and persistently applying to work for the Reindeer Research Program until he got hired.

Although Aguiar had never seen a reindeer (“except on TV”) he quickly learned they were very suitable livestock for Alaska. He credits RRP manager, Greg Finstad, his supervisor and advisor, with teaching him an enormous amount about reindeer.

The more Aguiar worked with the animals the more determined he became to raise his own. Due to the Reindeer Act of 1937, this was harder than it first appeared. Only Alaska Natives can own Alaska reindeer so Aguiar and a friend tackled it another way; they went to Canada. Aguiar’s buddy took care of the truck and trailer and Aguiar signed up for the paperwork. “The more I investigated the harder it seemed to be,” he said. He wrote, called and e-mailed the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency. There were permits and health certificates and vaccines to take care of. After a nearly endless nightmare of bureaucratic entanglements, the time finally arrived in August 2009 when the two men drove to British Columbia to pick up 11 deer.

Things went smoothly until they got to the checkpoint to re-enter Alaska. After driving 20 hours the guys were anxious to get home and let the animals out of the trailer, but the border guard at Northway had other ideas.

“I was cool and confident,” Aguiar recalled. “I had done all the paperwork.”

Told they could not bring animals into the country without representation by a customs broker, the fledgling reindeer producers had to backtrack down the road a bit and spend all night faxing paperwork to a total stranger. Just when they were considering giving up and perhaps even slaughtering the animals to try to recoup some of their investment, the process finally clicked and they got home.

Aguiar had built an eight-foot enclosure for his six reindeer on his Goldstream Valley property but he was a nervous wreck that they might run off or stray dogs


Photo by Nancy Tarnai.
Three of George Aguiar’s reindeer convene at the feeding trough on a cold winter day. Reindeer are so well adapted to the harsh Alaska environment that they eat half the amount of food in the winter that they do in the summer, unlike traditional livestock who must increase their caloric intake to deal with the cold.

would attack them so he spent the first few days nearly camped out in the pens.

As for the agonizing trip, Aguiar said he doesn’t think he could do it again but he’s glad he made the effort that one time. “I’ll work with what I have,” he said. Two calves were born this year and he is looking forward to more next spring. His one regret about the Canada trip was that he wishes he’d bought more animals while he was there.

Eventually Aguiar hopes to build up his ranchette of four acres to be able to sell breeding stock and “crank out meat animals.” He would also like to get a little piece of the agritourism business.

Aguiar enjoys reindeer meat, especially when it is thinly sliced and cooked in butter with salt and pepper. “It’s just simple,” he said. “Hot and fast is the way I like it.” He touts the research that reindeer meat is high in protein and low in fat, but cautions that chefs should not overcook it.

In addition to his reindeer herd, Aguiar raises rabbits, chickens and turkeys. “There’s something about raising animals and being connected to your food source,” Aguiar said. “There is something fulfilling in that.”

One of his greatest challenges is the high cost of animal feed. He purchases locally grown brome hay, a pelleted mixed ration feed, barley and oats. In the summer the reindeer diet is supplemented with fireweed and willow that Aguiar gathers from roadsides. The deer eat twice as much in the summer as they do in winter, a key factor in their near-perfect adaptation to Alaska’s harsh environment. “Traditional livestock generally eat more to cope with cold,” Aguiar said.

Someday Aguiar hopes more farmers will raise reindeer. “It’s no more different than caring for a cow or horse or pig,” he said. “You just feed and water them, vaccinate them and treat for parasites.” He finds his reindeer are mostly mild mannered and calm. “A lot of it has to do with how they are handled,” he said. “Minimize the stress and keep their basic needs met.”

In his job Aguiar worked for two years with 4-H students, teaching them to raise and care for reindeer. This project led to the first market reindeer shown at a fair in the country.

His advice for wannabes? “Don’t let anybody tell you you can’t do it if you really want to do it. You must have the proper infrastructure. Make sure you are educated in nutritional requirements and husbandry.

“And make sure you have enough money for feed.”

—————-
This column is provided as a service by the UAF School of Natural Resources and Agricultural Sciences and the Agricultural and Forestry Experiment Station. Nancy Tarnai is the school and station’s public information officer. She can be reached at ntarnai@alaska.edu.

Rats Off Highlights UAF

2010-12-13T17:19:00.001-08:00

Rats Off, a blog that has been mentioned on both the Today Show and Late Night with Jimmy Fallon, recently featured the photo Todd Paris took of a sundog from UAF's campus that we featured in an earlier post. Just another example of UAF making national headlines, this time for our stunning location.

To see the whole post on Rats Off, click here.

Movie Magic

2010-12-10T11:29:00.000-08:00

Every year my family and I make a holiday movie to send out to our friends and family. Because I consider you prospective Nanooks my friends, and because there is a lot of Fairbanks scenery, I thought I'd share. Keep your eye out for the shots of campus (including reindeer!) and if you can tell the difference between scenes shot at 11 degrees above zero and those shot at -20.

The Kreta's 2010 Holiday Movie from Mary Kreta on Vimeo.

If you have any questions about locations or some of my amazing dance moves, send me an email at mary.kreta@alaska.edu

I hope you all have a productive end of semester and safe winter break.

Sun Dogs!

2010-11-30T12:07:00.001-08:00

Photo of yesterday's sun dog by Todd Paris, UAF Marketing and Communications

There are three things about a Fairbanks winter that make me all aflutter: 1) the Aurora Borealis, which I fawned over in a previous post; 2) the ice and snow that cover every twig on every branch on every tree, every day, all winter, which I am certain to wax poetic about sometime soon; and 3) the sun dogs, the topic of today's post.

Yesterday felt like the first day of real winter and the thermometer hung out around -20 degrees. I gave a campus tour and, as we walked around campus, the man I was with had ice on his eyelashes. Yesterday also gave us the first great sun dog of the season.

Ned Rozell, with the help of UAF's atmospheric scientist Ken Sassen, explain the sun dog phenomenon as, "plate-like ice crystals" that reflect "sunlight from their flat sides and create columns of light that extend from the sun to the ground." Sassen adds that "the two colored bands are there because light gets refracted." To read the entire article, which contains a more detailed explanation, click here.

I think I love sun dogs so much because they are so unique to the arctic and they can't see them anywhere else. It just goes to show, we really are defined by our location.

Earn 3 credits in 2 weeks!

2010-11-29T09:17:00.000-08:00

January 3-14, 2011
WINTERmester is an excellent opportunity to take a three-credit course before Spring Semester 2011 begins.

WINTERmester credit courses are intensive, meeting five days a week, January 3-14. Many credit courses require reading to be completed prior to the start of class. Check for the course syllabi link on this page and get your textbooks at the campus bookstore before leaving for break.

Registration for WINTERmester is available at uaonline.alaska.edu or at the Summer Sessions and Lifelong Learning secure registration form or by using the In-Person Registration Form for students as follows:

November 8 - Online registration available for continuing UAF students.
November 10 - Registration open for all students.

WINTERmester payment must be completed by January 3. Students with guaranteed financial aid for spring semester will have payment applied to their account on January 10 without late fee.

Registering for a 100 or 200 level WINTERmester course requires a 2.5 gpa.

Dorm housing is available. Contact Residence Life for information and reservations at 907-474-7247

What Exactly is Broomball?

2010-11-24T16:31:00.000-08:00

Broomball is one of UAF's most popular - and fun - intramural sports, but many students arrive on campus with no idea what it is or how to play it. UAF's student newspaper, the Sun Star, came to the rescue when they recently ran this piece covering the Broomball basics.

Late Night Sweeping

By JR Ancheta
Sun Star Reporter

Looking for something to do at night? Broomball is a late night activity that is growing in popularity. Envisioning athletes running after a ball with a normal heavy-duty broom is a reasonable concept, but often is inaccurate. “It’s basically just like hockey,” said Matt Anderson, a junior. “Except there’s no puck, no hockey sticks, and [no] skates.” Broomball is played on the ice rink at the Patty Center in the evenings from 10:30-12:30.

Davida Isaacs from Southeast Alaska, Prince of Wales Island runs accross the ice Monday Nov-8. "I've never been on ice before and I like to run" Isaacs said. JR Ancheta / UAF Sun Star

Broomball is a mélange of different sports such as lacrosse and soccer, but hockey remains its most predominant influence. Each team has six players, which includes a goalie, on the ice at a time but has the option to rotate players any time. Helmets are the only mandatory gear, but shin and knee protection are encouraged. Unlike hockey, slipping and falling are very common.

“All you need is experience,” said Matt Nyholm, a junior. “The more you play the better you get.” He said that having some soccer experience is an advantage in passing the ball. “Dexterity, coordination, and especially balance sure helps,” Nyholm said.

Whether it is the opportunity to meet new people or to try something new, broomball lures many to create teams and compete. “I’ve never been on ice before and I like to run,” said David Isaacs, a freshman from a remote Prince of Wales Island in Southeast Alaska.

Tamara “T” Dale, an exchange student from England, said she took up the sport, “because I’m only here for a semester and I wanted to try everything that was unique to have fun.”

The UAF Intramural Broomball Rules state: “no sliding will be allowed during game play.” This rule was recently enforced and disappointed many broomball players. “[Sliding] made it fun because you could travel a lot faster…[and] had more control…so you could do some stunts that [are] pretty awesome,” Jonathan McMahon said. “Basically, they’ve taken most of the fun out of the game.”

Ruth Olsen, Director of Intramural Sports and the Student Recreation Center said that the “no sliding” rule came into effect numerous years ago due to injuries from the sport Olsen became aware that the rule was not being enforced during a recent captains meeting. It is now enforced for safety and liability issues. “You can go to your knees, they just can’t run five feet, slide in their knees and then hit [the ball] because they have no control,” Olsen said.

Approximately 180 participants in 21 teams are playing this season and Olsen predicts it will continue to be a popular intramural sport. Sliding or not, students continue to be attracted to the sport called broomball.

2010-11-22T11:36:00.000-08:00

Last week a student from the Outside (which is what Alaskans call everywhere except Alaska) was sitting in my office and we were chatting about UAF, Fairbanks, and the adventure that awaits her up here. I mentioned the Aurora Borealis, also known as the Northern Lights, to which she responded with a blank stare. I pulled up micrometeorologist's youtube page because trying to explain the Aurora is futile. It is, quite simply, impossible to do them justice.

We both sat transfixed. I've seen the Northern Lights more often than I can count, but my stomach still flip-flops every time I look to find them dancing above me.

Micrometeorologist is really Taro Nakai, a postdoctoral fellow at UAF's International Arctic Research Center. In his spare time he creates phenomenal youtube videos that communicates the overwhelming beauty of the arctic.

This next one is my favorite. In fact, I've watched it a couple of times (okay, 4) while preparing this blog post to, you know, make sure it really was my favorite. It emphatically is.

This final one is another of my favorites because it communicates how vital and exhilarating the winter sun is.

Music student selected for exclusive conducting workshop

2010-11-22T10:08:00.000-08:00

From: http://www.uafnews.com/tag/students

Music student selected for exclusive conducting workshop

Emerson Eads

11/18/10 University of Alaska Fairbanks music student Emerson Eads is one of 10 people nationwide selected to participate in the Baltimore Chamber Orchestra Conducting Workshop next month.

“This workshop is a terrific opportunity for me, not just because of the teacher, but because of the professional orchestra,” said Emerson, a senior in the music program. “The ability to have podium time with the Baltimore Chamber Orchestra is a terrific opportunity. Also, the players vote on who will be selected to return and conduct the orchestra in a performance during the first week of January, so that’s an exciting opportunity.”

He will conduct at a concert Sunday, Nov. 21 at 4 p.m. in the Davis Concert Hall at UAF. The concert will feature the world premiere of his composition, “The Red Balloon Suite,” and a performance of Mozart’s “Piano Concerto No. 9 ‘Jeunehomme.’” Donations for admission will be accepted at the door.
Son of pianist and composer Emerson Eads Sr., Emerson has been surrounded with music his whole life. He grew up in Delta Junction, where his high school music teacher introduced him to vocal studies, music theory, sight singing, conducting and orchestration. After high school, Emerson earned a bachelor’s degree in history education with a minor in music from Covenant Life College. He taught choir and band at Whitestone High School in Delta Junction for six years before coming to UAF in 2009. During his time in Delta Junction, Emerson also directed the Whitestone Community Choir and the Delta Community Choir.

In addition to his work conducting, Emerson is a vocalist and composer. His resume includes the composition of a seven-minute work, “Homeland,” celebrating the 50th Anniversary of Alaska’s Statehood, which was performed by Opera Fairbanks. He studies with music department faculty members Jaunelle Celaire and Eduard Zilberkant.

“Composition and conducting are both equal passions of mine,” he said. “I love singing and, as much as I’d love to do it all, there aren’t enough hours in the day to devote to it all. I am so grateful to the University of Alaska Fairbanks’ Department of Music and the faculty members, who have gone out of their way to foster my musical upbringing in so many ways.”

The Baltimore Chamber Orchestra Conducting Workshop is an acclaimed and highly competitive workshop. Participants work under the supervision of Baltimore Chamber Orchestra music director Markand Thakar to conduct the orchestra in works by Elgar, Mozart, Schubert and Beethoven. Participants range from young professional to advanced pre-professional conductors. Thakar is the co-director of the graduate conducting program at the Peabody Conservatory of The Johns Hopkins University, where Emerson plans to get his master’s degree.

Life in Fairbanks, by Ben Abbott, Biology and Wildlife graduate student

2010-11-17T18:24:00.000-08:00

What follows is a blog entry written by Ben Abbott, a current Biology and Wildlife graduate student which was posted at http://www.bw.uaf.edu/graduates/life-in-fairbanks.php. I think Ben really captures what life is like here in Fairbanks and while it's long, I think it's completely worth the read.

"Please turn off your electronic devices, we are approaching Seattle."
It was mid January and I was moving from Utah to Alaska. James, a guy from Seattle I'd been chatting with, leaned across the aisle. "Just remember to keep your face covered. I went through Fairbanks once in February. Snow was so dry it froze my eyes open."

Until I moved to Fairbanks, I never imagined what life would be like just two degrees shy of the Arctic Circle. Fairbanks sits in the heart of Alaska's interior, combining the comforts of civilization with more than a taste of legitimate frontier living for those who seek it. Though my eyes haven't been flash frozen open by the cold, there's been so much going on that I have hardly closed them since getting here.

Blueberries are plentiful throughout Denali National Park. Photo credit: Todd Paris

What is Fairbanks like?
Search "Fairbanks Alaska" on YouTube and you'll find clips of the northern lights, the midnight sun, "moose walking in back yard" and the obligatory "coffee freezing in MID AIR" trick. A few novelties and eccentricities aside, day to day life isn't as different as you might expect from many other college towns in the U.S.

Fairbanks is the second largest city in Alaska, and the largest city in the interior of Alaska. There are 100,000 people in the metropolitan area (which includes Fairbanks, the city of North Pole, Fox, Ester and the surrounding areas). Downtown Fairbanks boasts a variety of small shops, cafes and restaurants. Ubiquitous store chains like WalMart, Barnes and Noble, Safeway, and Home Depot round out the commercial scene. Though you don't have the same variety you would in a larger city, you can basically find anything you need right here in town.

The Alaska Range makes up the southern view from Fairbanks. Denali (the highest peak in North America) is visible on a clear day from campus. A series of prominent hills (called domes by the locals) surround Fairbanks to the north, east and west. The Tanana River flows along the south side of town, and the Chena River meanders right through the city. Farther to the north the Brooks Range separates the interior from the North Slope and Arctic Ocean. Fairbanks is only at 440 feet above sea level.

Recreation

Fairbanks is hard to beat as far as outdoor recreation is concerned. In the summertime many residents go berry picking, mountain biking, canoeing, kayaking, rock climbing, road biking, four wheeling, and trail running. All of these activities are accessible right in town or nearby-no driving required. Basically anything you can do outside anywhere you can do here. The only difference is, with constant light, you can do it 24 hours a day.

Spring and fall bring bird migrations. Creamer's Field, the site of a historic dairy between the university and downtown, is the stopping point for thousands of Sandhill Cranes, Canada Geese and other migrating birds.
In the winter you can go cross country skiing, snow shoeing, dog sledding, skijoring, ice climbing, snow machining, snow biking, swimming (indoors or at Chena Hot Springs), running or check out the ice sculptures around town.

If you're looking to get out of town, Denali National Park, Gates of the Arctic National Park, and many state parks are within driving distance from Fairbanks. For both summer and winter activities there are quite a few community organizations planning expeditions, events, and adventures. The Outdoor Adventures program located in the Wood Center at UAF organizes trips and activities throughout the year.

Cultural scene

Living in Fairbanks, you have access to some of the most breathtaking and pristine wilderness in the world. That said, Fairbanks is more than just a base camp for expedition; it's also a nice place to live.

For a town this size, Fairbanks boasts an impressive portfolio of restaurants, cafés and dining establishments. Plenty of American, Mexican, Italian, Korean, Japanese and Chinese diners along with a whopping seven Thai restaurants populate the Fairbanks culinary scene. It's also worth visiting the "northernmost" Denny's, Pizza Hut, McDonalds etc.

Perhaps partially due to the long winters and frenetic summers, the Fairbanks community is very active, with frequent festivals, parties, lectures, races and other events. Every Wednesday and Saturday through the summer the Tanana Valley Farmer's Market brings together local artisans, craftspeople, growers and performers. Fairbanks has an active music and theater scene, which includes the Fairbanks Concert Association, Opera Fairbanks, several dance companies, the world's "northernmost" Shakespearian company and an excellent symphony orchestra. Part of Fairbank's charm is the mix of tuxedos, dresses, and Carhartts you'll see at any of these events. If there is a dress code in town it appears to be overalls, down jackets, and Xtratuffs.

Besides providing a stage for homegrown talent, local venues, including the Blue Loon and Pioneer Park attract a wide range of national and international artists. In the last few years alone Fairbanks has seen Elton John, Snoop Dogg, Cake, and the Wailin Jennys to name a few.

Weather

The first thing I thought of when thinking about moving to Alaska was the climate. Never having experienced anything colder that a few degrees below zero, -30°F sounded menacing and -50°F sounded impossible. Now that I've been through a few winters I can say, yes it does get cold and dark here, and yes life does go on in the winter.

While things do get cold in Fairbanks (it usually hits -50°F at least once each winter), the town's low elevation and far inland location make for calm and dry conditions. The snow comes gradually. There are usually only a few storms a year that drop more than a couple inches of snow. Fairbanks is a land of extreme temperatures but surprisingly mild weather. Staying active through the winter is key to staying happy and healthy.

By May things have usually thawed out. Summer brings long days, warm temperatures, and an incredible burst of activity and growth. For most of the summer (June-August) the sun is only below the horizon for a few hours and even then things never get completely dark. Summer temperatures are typically in the 50-80°F range and commonly sustain around 70°F for weeks on end.

The Alaska Range looms over Fairbanks on a frigid January afternoon. Photo credit: Todd Paris

Lodging

Due largely to high shipping costs and a long heating season, the cost of living in Fairbanks is 16.5% above the U.S. average . For a place with running water, you can expect to pay $800-1,200 a month. Campus housing is convenient and competitively priced, with utilities and internet-access included. There are single and family housing options available.

If you choose to live off campus, this is one of the few places where, along with "How much is rent?", you should ask, "Does it have water?" Dry cabins (small units without running water) are a common option for UAF students and can typically be found in the $500-800 a month price range. Housesitting notices are frequently advertised through the Biology and Wildlife list serve and can be a great way to save money and get a place near campus.

Transportation

Fairbanks, like much of Alaska, is truck-country. Cars and trucks are the most common form of transportation. There is also a well-developed bus and shuttle system, particularly around campus and downtown and you definitely can manage without a car. One thing you'll notice around Fairbanks is the number of bicycles. Cycling is a popular transportation alternative and there is a large cycling community. While the Fairbank's cycling infrastructure isn't perfect, it is growing. Campus and community clubs and organizations give workshops on bike maintenance, winter riding, and other subjects. With a pair of studded tires, year-round cycling is totally manageable and many students (including yours truly) use biking as their primary form of transportation.

UAF Fight Song

2010-11-15T16:27:00.000-08:00

In the world of admissions and outreach we meet with a variety of students thinking about college. This afternoon the admissions team met with 60 5th graders from Ladd Elementary School (a local Fairbanks School). It is always so much fun to present to enthusiastic kiddos and this was no exception. Led by Joe Alloway, the 5th graders helped us with a resounding rendition of the UAF Fight Song. Here are the words in case you don't know them...

Fight for Alaska
Win the victory!
Fight for the blue and gold

Hail to our banner
As it waives so free
Over the victor's gold!

Fight for the Polar Bear
Mighty Nooks are we!
Onward to honor and fam

We're going to FIGHT
For our Alma Mater
Fight for Alaska's name!

GO NOOKS!

Here's a video of Matt Anderson leading the fight song on the bus ride down to Anchorage for the Governor's Cup: http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=483645111557

UAF News and Events » Blog Archive » Alaskan has close encounter with comet Hartley 2

2010-11-11T07:53:00.000-08:00

UAF faculty member, Don Hartman, of the physics department was recently recognized for his role in capturing this beautiful photograph of a the comet Hartley 2. Who wouldn't want to learn from this guy?!

UAF News and Events » Blog Archive » Alaskan has close encounter with comet Hartley 2

An image of comet Hartley 2 from NASA's EPOXI mission. The image was taken as the spacecraft flew by the comet on November 4, 2010. According to NASA, the Hartley 2 comet is 1.4-miles-long and is composed of water ice, carbon dioxide ice and silicate dust. The name "EPOXI" is a combination of the names Extrasolar Planet Observations and Characterization (EPOCh) and Deep Impact Extended Investigation (DIXI).

UA Scholar Reception a Success!

2010-11-09T15:29:00.000-08:00

UAF celebrated this year's UA Scholars on Friday night with a reception and program that featured University of Alaska President Patrick Gamble, UAF Chancellor Brian Rogers, and current UA Scholar and UAF student Shaun Nesheim. The UA Scholars program recognizes and gives scholarships to the top 10% of the graduating class of every high school in the State of Alaska.

Shaun Nesheim, UA Scholar and UAF student, gave a lively and personable speech about the great opportunities at UAF, including International Study Abroad, the flexibility of his schedule to take the classes he wants, and the ample scholarships available at UAF.

Mike Sfraga, our amiable Vice Chancellor for Students, shows a new crop of potential students that UAF is not only serious about academics, but we're also fun!

Several of our Student Ambassadors were on hand to chat with students and parents about what it's really like to attend UAF.

It was a busy night in the Great Hall with over 200 in attendance and all of our schools and colleges represented.

Student Ambassadors Victoria and Heather enjoyed the evening and hanging out.

Interim Dean of the College of Natural Science and Mathematics Paul Layer talks with a UA Scholar about the many opportunities they offer.

If you're interested in challenging yourself academically, consider applying for the Honors Program at UAF!

So...You Wanna Chat?

2010-11-08T12:26:00.000-08:00

Last week we debuted a new chat feature on our admissions page in an effort to make the process of deciding on, applying to, and enrolling in UAF as seamless as possible. We are happy to report that is has been a tremendous success. Students and those of us in the Office of Admissions and the Registrar are excited about the ease of navigation and the ability to have an immediate and productive interaction.

Here’s how it works: an incredible student who looks very similar to you is perusing UAF’s Admissions website looking for the answer to a burning question about anything to do with UAF. They don’t see the answer right away, so they click on the orange chat button at the bottom of the page and ask their question. Within moments, an Admissions representative provides an answer, which prompts more questions, answers, and conversation. The next thing you know the student happily exits the chat with the information they sought and a personal connection with UAF.

If you’re checking out our page in the middle of the night or at another time when we’re offline, just click on the same orange chat button to leave a message. It will be sent to one of us and we’ll respond to you via email within a short time.

What are you waiting for? Head over to the Admissions page and give it a try! You can give us some feedback while you’re at it. Do you love it? See a way we can improve it? Let us know.

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner - Alaska Nanooks mascot legacy is full of fun and sweat

2010-11-08T09:43:00.000-08:00

I stumbled upon this article in the local paper, The Fairbanks Newsminer this morning and thought it was worth sharing. In summary, it's the true story of our amazing Alaska Nanook mascot and the people behind the costume.

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner - Alaska Nanooks mascot legacy is full of fun and sweat

Enjoy!

CollegeWeekLive This Week!

2010-11-02T17:45:00.000-07:00

CollegeWeekLive FALL
November 3rd & 4th, 9 AM - 10 PM Eastern

Meet the University of Alaska Fairbanks online at CollegeWeekLive FALL on November 3rd and 4th from 9 AM to 10 PM Eastern.

Sign Up Today!

Visit our virtual booth to chat live with University of Alaska Fairbanks admissions reps about topics such as admissions, financial aid, campus life, and more!

Ashley and Mayanna talk about applying for UAF Scholarships and Financial Aid by February 15

2010-11-02T11:02:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I shared a list of scholarships with instructions on how to apply. Today, Mayanna Bean and Ashley Munro from the UAF Financial Aid Office offer their insights on how to apply for UAF Scholarships.

Applying for Scholarships Step 1: Apply for Admission!

Applying for Scholarships Step 2: Watch the video below...

Leave your comments and questions for Ashley and Mayanna and they will respond in our next segment of Applying for UAF Scholarships and Financial Aid.

Money, money, money, money..... MONEY!

Scholarships

2010-11-01T14:46:00.000-07:00

The number one lesson I have learned about scholarships is that you can't get any if you don't actually put forth the effort to apply. It's a hard lesson to learn, especially when there are so many great scholarships out there that go unused each year. Even if it's not a huge chunk of money, every little bit helps to offset the costs of your education, which includes tuition and fees, books, travel, housing, and food.

Below is a short list of scholarships I've recently heard about with upcoming deadlines. The deadlines for many of the scholarships listed below are fast approaching. For UAF's privately funded scholarships and UA's Foundation scholarships, the deadline is February 15th. The UAF and UA scholarships deadline is still a few months away, but it will come quickly, so apply early and get your essays done soon!

For a quick tutorial on applying for scholarships through UA and/or UAF click here.

Scholarships:

Alaska Association of Environmental Professionals (AAEP) Scholarship
To provide scholarships for full-time undergraduate or graduate students currently enrolled in a degree-seeking program in at the area of environmental (or natural) sciences, environmental technology, or environmental policy.

One scholarship of $1000 will be awarded for the 2010/2011 school year.
Application Procedure:
Complete the Alaska Association of Environmental Professionals Scholarships application, available from academic departments or the UAF Financial Aid Office. Applications must be received (not postpone) by November 12, 2010 to be considered.
Return completed applications to:
Alaska Association of Environmental Professionals Scholarship
UAF Financial Aid Office
Room107 Eielson Building
PO BOX 757530
Fairbanks, AK 99775
General questions about this scholarship can be addressed to the Scholarship Coordinator (907) 474-6228 or via email scholarships@uaf.edu

The Women's Self Worth Foundation

The Women's Self Worth Foundation has pledged $250,000 to the American Indian College Fund over the period of four years for 14 scholarships to benefit American Indian women attending college.

The goal of the grant is to empower American Indian women by providing scholarship support to ensure women obtain higher education. The grant will be used to fund seven scholarships at the amount of $4,000 per year for a period of two years for Native women pursuing an associate's degree at a tribal college; four scholarships for $6,000 per year for four years for Native women students pursuing a bachelor's degree at a tribal college; and three scholarships for $8,000 per year for four years for Native women pursuing a bachelor's degree at a mainstream college or university.

Preference will be given to Native women applicants who show academic achievement and involvement in their communities.

About the American Indian College Fund: with its credo "Educating the Mind and Spirit," the Fund is the nation's largest provider of private scholarships for American Indian students, providing 6,000 scholarships annually for students seeking to better their lives and communities through education. For more information about American Indian College Fund please visit www.collegefund.org.

American Indian College Fund
8333 Greenwood Blvd.
Denver, CO 80221 USA
Toll Free: (800) 776-3863
Phone: (303) 426-8900
Fax: (303) 426-1200

Intertribal Timber Council Scholarship Announcement

For Native American/Alaskan Natural Resource Students

The Truman D. Picard Scholarship Program is dedicated to the support of Native American students pursuing a higher education in Natural Resources.

Required Materials:

1) Letter of Application

2) Resume

3)Three Letters of Reference

4)Evidence of validated enrollment in a federally recognized tribe or Alaska Native Corporation.

5) Transcripts

All requested information MUST be received by the close of business (5:00 pm) March 18, 2011. For more information, please visit the website www.itcnet.org. Fax (503) 282-1274 and email itc1@teleport.com

BP Process Tech Scholarship
Note the deadline to receive applications this year is Friday, November 5th at 5:00 PM The BP Process Technology Scholarship is awarded to recipients selected for a two year Process Technology (PRT) Degree Program. The number of students selected is dependent on the allocated level of funding/credit enrolment. The scholarship awards are Level 1 = $3000 (12 + credits/ semester), Level II = $2000 (9 + credits/ semester) and Level III = $1500 (6 + credits). BP and AASSP work collaboratively to identify an interview team who interview prospective applicants. Only required PRT and required Core degree classes are funded. Recipients of the scholarship, once selected, are required to provide verification of enrollment each semester in an accredited Alaska Process Technology degree program, a sealed transcript showing they have maintained at least a 2.5 GPA. For more information or to apply, go to www.alaskaprincipal.org/218610122121916337 or email scholarships@alaskaprincipal.org.

American Indian Services scholarship
upcoming deadline Nov. 15

The Joan Hamilton Memorial Scholarship is awarded to a post-secondary school Alaska student who wishes to pursue a career related to the law in which s/he will advocate for Alaska Native rights, and defend the civil liberties of the peoples of rural Alaska. Your completed Application Forms must be RECEIVED by 4:00 p.m., Tuesday, November 22, 2010, at the ACLU of Alaska offices.

Doyon Scholarship Renewal for 2011 Spring Semester deadline is November 15, 2010.

Additional Scholarships: From: http://www.uaf.edu/finaid/types/scholarships

The University of Alaska Fairbanks encourages all scholarship applicants to also file a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) in order to determine eligibility for federal and state of Alaska aid programs. You may obtain the FAFSA from your school counselor or the Financial Aid Office at UAF.

Alaska Space Grant Scholarships

Undergraduate Scholarships of up to $1,000 will be awarded through a competitive process. Scholarships are open to new and continuing undergraduate students majoring in the disciplines of science, technology, engineering and/or mathematics (STEM). Students receiving awards in past competitions may apply and receive awards for subsequent competitions.

Army ROTC Scholarships

These scholarships are awarded to thousands of students annually on a competitive basis nationwide. The amount and length of the scholarships are based on the quality of the applicant. Scholarship awards range from $3,000 to $17,000 annually and may range from two to four years. In addition to tuition, each recipient receives $600 for books and supplies and up to $4,000 in spending money, tax free.
For further information about the Army Scholarship program, eligibility requirements and the application process, contact the UAF Department of Military Science at (907) 474-6852 or e-mail rotc@uaf.edu.

Chancellor's Scholarship

Available to a limited number of first-time freshmen. It will consist of a full or partial waiver of tuition to be used during the first Fall and Spring semesters at UAF following graduation from high school. Go toUAOnline to answer required scholarship questions. Once logged in, choose Scholarships under the Student Services menu. (The UAOnline portion of the scholarship application is required and you cannot be considered for any scholarships if you have not completed it.) Then fill out the online privately funded scholarship application. Contact the UAF Scholarship Coordinator for more information. The application deadline is February 15.

Chugach Gem & Mineral Society Clayton Rasmusson Memorial Earth Science Scholarship

The purpose of this scholarship is to offer financial assistance for tuition and other related educational expenses to University of Alaska Anchorage or University of Alaska Fairbanks students who are admitted in the field of Earth Science.

Honors Program

The Honors Program accepts about 50 talented students each year. First-time entering freshmen with a high school GPA of 3.6 or better and SAT combined scores of at least 1875 or an ACT composite of 29 or higher are encouraged to apply. Contact the UAF Honors Program for more information.

Human Achievement Award

Available to graduating high school students or transfer students with a record of volunteer service to a community, non-profit organization(s) or special interest group as well as a commitment to high academic standards. Go to UAOnline to answer required scholarship questions. Once logged in, choose Scholarships under the Student Services menu. (The UAOnline portion of the scholarship application is required and you cannot be considered for any scholarships if you have not completed it.) Then fill out the online privately funded scholarship application. Contact the UAF Scholarship Coordinator for more information. The application deadline is February 15.

Lawrence Tingook Davis Memorial Scholarships

Available for two qualified students enrolled in the Natural Resources Management undergraduate degree program $1000.00 scholarships for the fall semester. Visit specifics at the School of Natural Resources and Agricultural Sciences Reindeer Research Program.

Native Corporation Scholarships

Some regional and village corporations provide scholarships to shareholders. Contact your local native corporation for details on eligibility and application procedures.

Summer Research Tuition Scholarships

Graduate students who have a 10-20 hour per week research or teaching assistantship during the summer semester may apply for a Summer Research Tuition Scholarship. Students must have been registered for 9 credits (3 of which must be at the graduate level) during the preceding fall and spring semesters and be registered for 6 credits of research or thesis during the summer to eligible for this scholarship. The application is available online. Please see the Graduate School for further information.

Talent Award

Available to graduating high school students or transfer students who have demonstrated talent in the area of music, theater, creative writing or art. A talent sample must be submitted. Go to UAOnline to answer required scholarship questions. Once logged in, choose Scholarships under the Student Services menu. (The UAOnline portion of the scholarship application is required and you cannot be considered for any scholarships if you have not completed it.) Then fill out the online privately funded scholarship application. Contact the UAFScholarship Coordinator for more information. The application deadline is February 15.

UAF Privately Funded Scholarships

The Scholarship Coordinator manages the application process for most privately funded scholarships, and coordinates with academic departments that evaluate applications and select recipients. Some scholarships are available to part-time students. Go to UAOnline to answer required scholarship questions. Once logged in, choose Scholarships under the Student Services menu. (The UAOnline portion of the scholarship application is required and you cannot be considered for any scholarships if you have not completed it.) Then fill out theonline privately funded scholarship application. Contact the UAF Scholarship Coordinator for more information. The application deadline is February 15.

University of Alaska Foundation Scholarships

Scholarships are available for students attending any campus in the UA system. Applications are available in the UAF Financial Aid Office or at UA Foundation.

University of Alaska Scholars Program

The UA Scholars Award is a four-year scholarship offered to Alaskan high school students in the top 10 percent of their graduating class as determined by qualifying high schools. Determination is based on class standing at the end of the junior year. Contact the UA Scholars Program, (877) AKSCHOL, (877)-257-2465 or (907) 474-5105, e-mail scholars@alaska.edu, visit the University of Alaska Scholars Program, or contact the UAF UA Scholars Coordinator.

University Women's Association Scholarship

The University Women's Association provides scholarships for undergraduate women at UAF. Applications are accepted between January and April for the following school year.

STEPS FOR APPLYING FOR SCHOLARSHIPS AT UA and UAF:

Step 1: Apply for admission to a UAF degree or certificate program by February 15. The admission application can be completed at UAonline.

Step 2: Go to UAOnline to answer required scholarship questions. Once logged in, choose Scholarships under the Student Services menu. The UAOnline portion of the scholarship application is required and you cannot be considered for any scholarships if you have not completed it.

Step 3: Complete the UAF scholarship form at http://www.uaf.edu/finaid/types/scholarships/apply/

Step 4: To receive consideration for need-based scholarships, you must submit a completed Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by February 15 prior to the semester you plan to attend. FAFSA data used to determine scholarship eligibility include financial need, marital status, number of dependents other than spouse, etc. These items are selection criteria for specific scholarships and an important part of your application.

It's Good To Be Home

2010-10-20T15:46:00.000-07:00

My last few days on campus with the crisp, fall air have reminded me of the overwhelming excitement and joy I felt during my first few weeks as a freshman at UAF. I was - and still am - proud of myself for breaking free of everything I knew and daring to make my own life and adventure in a place that promised "North to the Future." It was the best decision I ever made. I graduated with a degree in Communication and began traveling the world with my husband and returning to Alaska in the summers. We moved back to the lower 48 where I earned a graduate degree in English, started a career, and had a kiddo. But UAF and Fairbanks called me back and I am thrilled to be here.

In order for us to become better acquainted, here is the lowdown on me: I read Pride and Prejudice at least once a year, usually in the winter. I like watching tv shows on DVDs. I was a tour guide to the Arctic Circle during the summer while attending UAF. I love tea and, because I have refined my taste, I carry my own tea with me in my purse no matter where I go. I played basketball for UAF and made it to the second round of the NCAA tournament. I met my husband my first weekend at college (he lived one floor above me in Lathrop Hall) but we didn't start dating for another year. I spent the last five years teaching English in colleges and universities in the Pacific Northwest and Alaska. My favorite countries that I've visited are: Australia, Cameroon, and Spain, but have been to many others. Fairbanks feels like home. I'm pretty sure my life would greatly improve if I would just start to garden. After attending a Nanook volleyball game, my two and a half year old runs around the house yelling "Point Nooks!" I love UAF and like you already.

Falafal Tuesdays at UAF

2010-10-19T21:50:00.000-07:00

I wanted to share my excitement for a recent community and university partnership that has developed with regard to food on campus. The Pita Place, a local vendor of pita falafels, which is usually open on College Rd. in during the summer months, will be serving up pita falafels at the Wood Center at UAF for the next three Tuesdays. This is a trial to see if they will be there more during the winter.

This makes me incredibly happy for two reasons:

1. Pita falafals from the Pita Place are delicious.
2. It's a great example of how the university dining services listened to student feedback and worked with a popular vendor to bring this fantastic product to campus.

Starvation Gulch

2010-09-21T09:51:00.000-07:00

This weekend, the University of Alaska Fairbanks will celebrate Starvation Gulch, an annual fall tradition.

The event was first held in 1923 and includes a bonfire competition. Students use wooden pallets to try to build the most creative fire with the highest flame.

The building of the Starvation Gulch bonfires will take place Saturday, September 25th from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Taku parking lot. The bonfires will be lit at 10 p.m. and the event will include music, booths and a barbecue. The public is invited to attend.

Free with your PolarExpress

2010-09-13T09:35:00.000-07:00

The PolarExpress card gets students into many events or activities for a free or reduced price. It's one of the many perks of being a student here at the University. As I was perusing a few of my favorite listservs I came across this announcement:

The UA Museum of the North is hosting an indoor live butterfly pavilion Sept. 18 – Dec. 31. The pavilion will be open weekdays from 1:30 – 4:30 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Admissions is $2 or free with museum admission. UAF students always receive free admission with their PolarExpress card.

It is just one of the many examples of "free with your PolarExpress card" that I've come across. I'm on the hunt for more things like this... know of any?

Move-in-day

2010-09-07T12:22:00.000-07:00

When you move into housing here at UAF it's a team effort. Check out this awesome video!

Go Nanooks!

2010-09-07T09:34:00.000-07:00

UAF photo by Todd Paris

Junior goalie Scott Greenham is ready to assume his duty to keep opposing pucks out of the Nanook net this coming season.

I just love this photo and had to share it with all of you in the blogisphere. We have another exciting hockey season to look forward to here at UAF. Can't wait for the first exhibition game on September 25th!

UAF recognized in top 15% of military friendly schools

2010-09-01T09:47:00.000-07:00

2011 Military Friendly Schools List Released
List shows veterans which colleges are a good fit.

Pittsburgh, Pa., Aug. 16, 2010 – G.I. Jobs announces the release of its 2011 list of Military Friendly Schools at http://www.militaryfriendlyschools.com/2011list. The list honors the top 15 percent of colleges, universities and trade schools which are doing the most to embrace America’s veterans as students.

Schools on the list range from state universities and private colleges to community colleges and trade schools. The common bond is their shared priority of recruiting students with military experience....

To read more: http://www.militaryfriendlyschools.com/2011list

ABOUT G.I. Jobs
G.I. Jobs (www.gijobs.com) is published by Victory Media, a veteran-owned business which also publishes The Guide to Military Friendly Schools, Military Spouse and Vetrepreneur magazines and annually rates the nation’s “Military Friendly Employers,” “Military Spouse Friendly Employers” and “Best Corporations for Veteran-Owned Businesses.”

Source: G.I. Jobs
Contact: Matthew Pavelek
(412) 269-1663 (412) 269-1663 x145
matthew.pavelek@gijobs.com
www.militaryfriendlyschools.com/press

Letter from the Chancellor

2010-08-30T17:09:00.001-07:00

Aug. 30, 2010

TO: UAF students

FROM: UAF Chancellor Brian Rogers

SUBJECT: Welcome to Fall 2010

Whether you’re in Fairbanks or downtown at UAF's Community and Technical College, at the Interior-Aleutians Campus or at one of our community campuses in Bethel, Dillingham, Kotzebue or Nome, I'd like to officially welcome you to UAF for the 2010-2011 academic year.

I encourage you to get involved at your campus. Take advantage of opportunities for leadership development, undergraduate and graduate research and public service. Together with our faculty, your involvement could help make a difference in one of the many Alaska communities where we study, teach and serve.

I encourage you help to shape the campus of the future. That's what Fairbanks students did in 2009 when they voted to charge themselves a $20 sustainability fee. The fee—funds that are matched by my office—will, over the next decade, help support overall efforts for a greener campus.

The best of Alaska's future is, in many ways, represented by some 10,000 students from all over the state, the U.S. and more than three dozen countries converging this week at UAF's campuses. Your involvement is essential to your success and to ours.

I wish you all the very best -- academically and personally. Have a fantastic semester!
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Students, staff and faculty are invited to attend fall convocation, Thursday, Sept. 9 from 1 - 2 p.m. in the Charles Davis Concert Hall. An ice cream social will take place at each of the campuses afterward. The event will also be webcast.

Information about the fall semester is also online in the Cornerstone newsletter at http://www.uaf.edu/cornerstone/. Be sure to follow UAF on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/uafairbanks and Twitter http://twitter.com/uafairbanks for updates

Orientation events welcome students to campus, community

2010-08-30T12:58:00.000-07:00

Once again, UAF welcomes our incoming students to campus. Orientation is one of my favorite times of the year! I always feel the energy and excitement for the start of the fresh new academic year. This morning the admissions counselors and I welcomed the newest members of our community and asked them how many had met with one of us. It was not too surprising to us that the majority of the audience stood to acknowledge that they had received some sort of help from the admissions team. In the coming weeks the admissions counselors will head out on the road to meet the next class (starting in Fall 2011)! Keep an eye out at your high school for one of the counselors and hopefully we'll see you at Orientation next year!

UAF News and Events » Blog Archive » Orientation events welcome students to campus, community

Fairbanks Summer!!

2010-06-21T15:25:00.002-07:00

Campus from in front of my office in Signers' Hall

Today is one of my favorite days in Fairbanks - Summer Solstice - the longest day of the year. The sun rose at 2:58am this morning, and won't set until tomorrow at 12:48am - and it's light out for 24 hours around the clock. The sun is shining, and Fairbanksans are celebrating!

Fellow Admissions Counselors Carrie Coxon and Chris Wheeler both completed the 10k Midnight Sun Run, where people come out in droves to run and walk through Fairbanks under the midnight sun, often in costume!

Wherever you are, I wish you a warm, sunny, Summer Solstice (or a warm, sunny, Winter Solstice for those of you in the Southern Hemisphere!) full of joy and friendship!!

Outdoor Adventures

2010-06-17T14:56:00.000-07:00

Now that it is summer in Fairbanks and the sun is shining almost 20 hours a day, everybody is outside. The UAF Outdoor Adventures office provides a way for people of the Fairbanks community to get outside and be adventurous. Whether you are an experienced outdoorsman or someone who just likes to try new things, Outdoor Adventures has something for you. You can choose to go on one of their trips or rent some equipment from them and take your own adventure. So whether you want to go canoeing, snow camping, ice climbing or hiking, Outdoor Adventures can help you. To see pictures of past trips and get more information, visit their website at: http://www.uaf.edu/woodcenter/outdoor/ or check out their Facebook page at UAF Outdoor Adventures.

- Jessica

The Really Free Market: Not your everyday garage sale.

2010-05-26T16:04:00.000-07:00

Ask most UAF students, and they’ll tell you Alaskans do some things a little differently than most folks in the lower 48. They might drive to work on a snow machine in the winter, choose to live without running water in a dry cabin, or have some reindeer sausage with their eggs in the morning. And the Really Free Market is no exception.

The basic idea of the Really Free Market is simple; sustainability can be simple and free.
Here’s how it works:

1) Members of the Fairbanks and UAF communities donate clean, safe unwanted items that still have some life left in them to the market. (For example, brand new Columbia jackets and sweaters or nice furniture pieces are not uncommon finds at the market.)

2) Anyone needing or wanting any of these items can show up during the designated Really Free Market dates and times to find what they’re looking for and take them home for free.

That’s it. No selling, bartering, or swapping takes place. Everything is free; no bucks needed! So bust out your calendar’s and circle August 14^th, when the next Really Free Market will be held on UAF’s campus. Do things a little differently this summer, like an Alaskan!

UAF Celebrates is 88th Commencement

2010-05-18T11:15:00.000-07:00

Hello!
This weekend, UAF celebrated its 88th Commencement on May 16th at the Carlson Center here in Fairbanks. At the event, we honored more than 1,000 graduates completing programs ranging from Certificates all the way through PhDs. We were particularly honored to be conferring 42 PhDs this year, and three honorary PhDs. This was also President Hamilton's final Commencement as President, and he was honored with the title of President Emeritus, an honor which has only been given to three other presidents in UAF's nearly 90 Commencements.

On a personal note, there's a certain weight that comes with commencement. It actually hits you that you've completed something big, something important. For those reading this, I heartily encourage you to participate and walk if you can when you complete whatever program you dream of completing. It's a rite of passage, and you may think you're doing it for your family, I know I did, but I found out during the ceremony that it was really for me. I'm thrilled to still be involved in UAF's Commencements.

If you want to learn more about the event, read the official article here.

Thanks for reading, and Ad Summum!

Posted by Joe Alloway, Admissions Counselor, UAF Alum '07, '08, and soon to be '11

PS: Our class speaker for this year was excellent, check her out

Good Morning Fairbanks!

2010-04-21T09:05:00.000-07:00

As the sun peaked over the morning sky today, I took the opportunity to stop at Creamer's Field to say good morning to our returning visitors: the Canada geese, sand hill cranes, swans and other migratory birds who make a stop in Fairbanks each spring as part of their Northern migration. The scene this morning was serene and peaceful, even among the 1000 or so chatty birds.

The birds are a sight to be seen! We all look forward to greeting our feathery friends as they make an annual stop at the former farm turned migratory waterfowl refuge. They visit Fairbanks throughout the summer, but are known to stop in this mass abundance both in the spring on their way into Alaska and in the fall on their way back out.

The scene draws visitors to the refuge to observe the magnificent gathering as they land among the 2000 acre property. There are no rides, no bells and whistles, no fancy trams driving people around...it's just 1000 or so transient guests stopping for a rest... and miles of well-maintained walking trails for the rest of us. It's one of my favorite places in Fairbanks!

UAF Orientation

2010-04-08T11:19:00.000-07:00

If you have been admitted to UAF, you will definitely want to start thinking about your next steps.

1. Talk to your advisor! Check out this PDF for a complete list of advisors.

2. Register for classes! After you have met with your advisor, make sure to register for classes!

3. Sign up for orientation!

Want to know what to expect? See what incoming students had to say about their New Student Orientation experience. For more information, visit http://www.uaf.edu/orientation/

Want to know more about your next steps? Check out our admitted student page.

Cheers!

Lael

Spring is finally here!

2010-04-01T16:46:00.000-07:00

Hello fellow Spring Lovers,
Spring has arrived in Fairbanks, and we are loving it! We're getting lots of sunlight, the sky has been crystal clear, and the weather has gotten up to the 50s (at least, it felt like it ^_^). Spring always makes me pause to consider the interesting place I live. I think we probably appreciate Spring and Summer a bit more than places that have three month long seasons: we've learned to savor the sweetness of the warmer months and soak up the sunshine while we can.

In Spring and Summer, it seems that there's a new "fun-run" going through Fairbanks every week, and the community seems to come together for exciting celebrations of the season. Don't get me wrong, I love the Fairbanks Winter, too, but in a different way. Spring is a release, and it's the beginning of some of the longest, most beautiful days in the world. If you're in Fairbanks, get out there and have some fun. If you're not in Fairbanks, still get out there and have some fun. Remember, no matter where you live, Spring only comes around once a year, and if you miss it, it's gone. Have fun out there, everyone, and have a great, sunny weekend!

Joe Alloway
UAF Admissions Counselor, Fairbanks local since 1986 ^_^

UAF aviation students reach new heights!

2010-03-31T18:35:00.001-07:00

The University of Alaska Fairbanks Tanana Valley Campus is pioneering a method of training aircraft mechanics that is likely to set the stage for training programs nationwide.

TVC’s aviation maintenance technology program is the only organization in the nation that is approved by the Federal Aviation Administration to deliver the training via simulcast. A record 11 locations participated in the training earlier this month.

“This will likely spread throughout the country, proving once again that Alaska is on the cutting edge of American aviation and UAF/TVC is a leader in aviation maintenance education,” said program coordinator Kevin Alexander.

The second-year pilot program delivers training to aircraft mechanics located around Alaska via two-way webcasting. The webcast is delivered from the Butrovich Building on the Fairbanks campus.

The goal of the program is to increase training participation by the 1,400 authorized inspectors in Alaska. Participating locations in the training included Fairbanks, Bethel, Kotzebue, Nome, Glennallen, Juneau, Sitka, Kenai, Ketchikan, Anchorage and Springfield, Ill.

"It's absolutely wonderful to be working with the FAA to help raise the level of safety and professionalism in the statewide aviation maintenance industry,” said TVC professional piloting program coordinator Roger Weggal. “The number of mechanics we're able to reach simultaneously and the ability to get real-time questions and answers from around the state is invaluable."

CONTACT: Michelle Renfrew, TVC information officer, 907-455-2833, mmrenfrew@alaska.edu

ADDITIONAL CONTACTS: Kevin Alexander, Aviation Maintenance Technology coordinator, at 907-322-5224 or via e-mail at akmechanic@aol.com.

8 days later.

2010-03-08T16:56:00.000-08:00

What happened to me in the last eight days? Well...
- Purchased 72 lbs of rice pasta, 96 rolls of TP, 55 lbs of basmati and jasmine rice, 13 jars of spagetti sauces, 48 quarts of original rice milk, 20 lbs of potatoes, a dozen bottles of ketchup, and various other non-perishable items. (Not necessary because apparently they have food in Alaska.)
- Turned 30 years old somewhere while driving through British Columbia, Canada. (That's one way to celebrate a birthday!)
- Saw a buffalo, stone sheep, and deer licking pavement. (Not recommended.)
- Said good-bye to family and friends in Oregon, but found out my wife and I will be running a hotel in Fairbanks, AK this summer. (Every will be visiting us this summer.)
- Drove through a blizzard. (Okay maybe not an actual blizzard, but for about five minutes the snow flurry was pretty intense.)
- Packed everything we own in a 14 ft U-Haul. (Sadly, we could not fill it up.)
- And started a new job in Fairbanks, AK on Monday, March 8th. (Go Nanooks!)

Now wasn't that a better introduction than just saying: "Hi, my name is Christopher Wheeler and I just spent four and a half days driving from Oregon to UAF, along the Alaskan Highway, to begin my new job as an admissions counselor at UAF."

If you would like more details on anything I have written above or have questions about UAF, please feel free to leave your comments.

Until then, have a great day!

-Chris

UAF gets Fenged Up!

2009-12-16T16:38:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone,
A student recently interviewed me for a film project for a class he was taking. The project was addressing the principles of Feng Shui and applying them to buildings. In particular, the student wanted to improve the Feng Shui of our very own Gruening Building. Check out the link here. Note: the audio on this video seemed a little off if you're not using headphones or external speaker.

I think this is great. It's a class project, but it's also an expression of creativity, fun, and embraces popular media, like youtube. And plus, that Admissions Counselor guy at the beginning was totally awesome ^_^

Thanks for reading, happy holidays, have a great night!

Joe Alloway
Admissions Counselor

Inu-Yupiaq Dance Group

2009-12-16T10:37:00.000-08:00

One of the unique things about living in Alaska is the exposure to a rich cultural community. This includes student clubs and organizations such as the Inu-Yupiaq dance group. Here the Inu-Yupiaq dance group performs during the Festival of Native Arts (2007) on the UAF campus. The Festival of Native Arts takes place typically in the spring. It's a great time to plan your visit to campus!

Another reason why it's great to live in Fairbanks!

UAF's Alligator Hunter

2009-12-16T10:30:00.000-08:00

This video was completed in 2001 by a few UAF students. It's hysterical and a great look back at how much as changed in 9 years! (Check out the computer monitor, the clothes, and the reference to Steve Erwin, Crocodile Hunter. I wonder where these alumni are today?

Diner's, Drive-Ins and Dives

2009-12-15T16:35:00.001-08:00

What happens when Guy Fieri visits Alaksa? He loves it! Check out one of our favorite Alaskan landmarks profiled on the Food Network. Silver Gulch Brewery is only a few miles outside of town. It's the perfect place to bring the folks or to go with a group of friends!

&@*! It's Cold!

2009-12-15T12:42:00.000-08:00

When we're asked, "How cold does it get in Fairbanks?" it's impossible to cover up the hard truth that it gets absolutely, nose bitingly, hand chappingly cold here. The average winter temperature is at or around zero, but it is not uncommon for us to experience -20 to -50 degree temperatures.

So what! It's cold.

Students who choose to attend UAF know that the cold will be a factor, but they also know that there are many other things that they can do despite a little cold. Visit weedsoutwimps.uaf.edu to experience a little bit of what life is like for current students here in the arctic.

Brave the cold - come to Fairbanks!

'Tis the Giving Season

2009-12-11T10:23:00.000-08:00

It's going to be a bloody holiday season - or at least we hope so. According to the Blood Bank of Alaska, 2200 people need to donate blood each month to meet the needs of patients in area hospitals. Yesterday, the Blood Bank of Alaska was on campus hosting a blood drive in the Wood Center, our student union. As a team, the Admissions Counselors decided we would make donating blood part of our celebration of the holiday season. Lael and Jessica are both getting ready to welcome new life into the world (or as Lael says, they're "prego"), so they weren't allowed to give blood, but they wished Carrie, Joe, and I luck as we headed over to donate a collective 1.5 liters of blood.

The phlebotomists and nurses' aides with the Blood Bank of Alaska were wonderful, and helped make the donation process really enjoyable, and it's great to know that the campus community is dedicated to making these regular blood drives a success.

You can read some great stories about donors and blood recipients on the Blood Bank of Alaska's Life Stories website.

We hope that when you join the UAF community, you'll participate in our strong tradition of volunteerism and service, and that no matter where you are now, that you consider giving the gift of life through blood donation.

Student Opportunities with NASA

2009-12-07T10:46:00.000-08:00

Hey All,
As many readers out there may or may not know, UAF is a triple crown institution: Land, Sea and Space grant. As a Space grant institution, there is some very exciting research is going on with relation to space and the atmosphere at UAF, and our students are able to be involved. We're also the only school in the world that owns its own rocket range, Poker Flats, so our students and faculty can build and launch rockets to gather data from the atmosphere. We're hoping to launch a satellite sometime soon, so then we'll have the only University owned satellite launching range ^_^

This year, for students majoring in science, technology, engineering, and math and some other programs will have an opportunity to apply for NASA internships and for a NASA Academy. So, for students interested in learning more about NASA and maybe laying the ground work to work for them after graduation, check out the application process here.

How cool is that, seriously? Thanks for reading, and have a great week!

Joe Alloway, Admissions Counselor

More Halloween fun at UAF!

2009-11-04T13:49:00.000-08:00

Hello Fiendish Fiends and Ghoulish Ghouls,

Yes indeed, another Halloween has come and gone. It was a fun one here at UAF. As you may have noticed, we thrilled the World, we did the great cover up, and for me . . . I dressed as the Riddler and made Homestar Runner pumpkins. It's the little things about the holidays at UAF that make it so much fun. Like the fact that there are so many things to do, and so many opportunities out there. Whatever you're into, you can express it at UAF, and that's really important when you're considering a college, eh?

Holidays are always fun, and we always look forward to the next one. For Thanksgiving, the UAF Outdoor Adventures Office is going hiking in the mountains and they're going to cook a turkey on a cabin cook stove. Perfect! That's so Alaskan!

Below I've included some of the photos I took and that were taken of me during the halloween festivities. Enjoy, and I'll be back to posting soon!

Sincerely,

Joe Alloway

UAF Admissions Counselor

Alumnus '07, '08

My wife Erin and I on the stair, posing in our costumes. Erin is Lulu from FF X, and I'm . . . The Riddler!

A group photo, Erin and our neighbors at the Halloween dance.
Senor Cardgage and a Duck. Truly, the greatest of pumpkins.
These are the pumpkins out neighbors did. I think they're both a little on the creepy side . . .

Happy Halloween Ghouls and Zombies!

2009-10-27T15:44:00.000-07:00

This weekend 23,000 people danced to Michael Jackson's Thriller. UAF students were counted among the many who participated! Watch the dance on YouTube.

Kudos to our Student Activities Office and to RA's Ashleigh Strange and Liza Krauzer for coordinating this event!

(Photo by Stephanie Walden)

2009-10-27T12:59:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone,

UAF Office of Admissions will host a booth during College Week Live, the worlds largest online college fair. Check out our booth out on November 4, 5, 6, & 7. We'll also be participating in a live video chat - so if you want to meet us visit College Week Live! (Click on the banner below)

Pride Foundation Scholarships Available!

2009-10-22T11:02:00.000-07:00

Pride Foundation has $300,000 in Scholarships - Applications are due January 31

Pride Foundation is now accepting scholarship applications for the 2010-11 school year. We anticipate awarding $300,000 in scholarships during this cycle. Along with our scholarship partner, the Greater Seattle Business Association, we offer 50 different scholarships, but have only one application to complete.

New this year is our online application. Gone are the days of paper, as now students can create an account at PrideFoundationScholar.org and complete their application completely online. This makes the application more accessible and also decreases our administrative costs.

Find out who qualifies for a Pride Foundation scholarship here and read about our past scholars here.

Starvation Gulch at UAF!

2009-10-01T17:17:00.000-07:00

Yo yo yo!

This last weekend was a hot one in the arctic north. I'm referring, of course to UAF's 85th annual Starvation Gulch, our fall celebratatory bonfire. For the event, clubs and organizations around campus gather wood to build gi-normous, flammable structures for the sole purpose of burning them down. Check out this video on youtube to see more Starvation Gulch action. This is just another example of the folks here at UAF having a blast, and having fun outside, even when it is cold. Enjoy!

Joe

Left to right: The view of the fires from the top of a neighboring hill; A life size replica flaming fire truck; Me and Chancellor Brian Rogers with the fires in the background (seen in fire gear, because tradition dictates that UAF's leader must light the fires).

Discover UAF: Inside Out

2009-10-01T14:37:00.000-07:00

Choosing a college is a big decision. We can make it easy.

Students and parents will have the opportunity to ask questions, get answers and experience life at UAF during UAF Inside Out, a preview event designed to let you see what the University of Alaska Fairbanks is all about--from the inside out. This event for high school juniors and seniors will be held Friday, Oct. 16. Parents and guests are welcome to attend during the day. We'll turn the university inside out so you can get the real story on financial aid, the admission process, classes and professors at UAF, extracurricular fun, and our outstanding academic programs.

Register now.

UAF Comes to Colorado!

2009-09-25T15:29:00.000-07:00

ATTENTION COLORADO STUDENTS!

As part of my search for talented, motivated students who are interested in adventure and a great education, I’ll be coming to Colorado. My travels will bring me to a number of high schools and college fairs, which I’ve listed below. Also, I’ll be available to meet with students and their families on an individual basis. If you’re interested in meeting with me to ask questions and to learn about all the opportunities that America’s Arctic University has to offer you, please e-mail at brandon.ilgen@alaska.edu. Appointments go fast, so please write me back soon if you're interested. If we can't meet in person, we can make other arrangements to correspond through e-mail or talk on the phone.

LOCATIONS AND DATES FOR INDIVIDUAL/FAMILY MEETINGS (e-mail me to set up a specific time and location)

Grand Junction (my hometown!) and surrounding areas - Thursday, October 1 and Friday 2

Colorado Springs - Monday, October 5

Fort Collins/Loveland - Tuesday, October 6; Wednesday October 7

Denver and surrounding areas - Wednesday, October 7; Thursday, October 8 and Friday, October 10

HIGH SCHOOL VISITS (Please contact your counselor ahead of time to make arrangements to meet with me)

Palisade High School, Palisade, CO – Thursday, October 1 at 10 am

Central High School, Grand Junction, CO – Thursday, October 1 at 12:30 pm

Fruita Monument High School, Fruita, CO – Friday, October 2 at 9 am

Grand Junction High School, Grand Junction, CO – Friday, October 2 at 11:15 am

Fossil Ridge High School, Fort Collins, CO – Tuesday, October 6 at 10 am

Rocky Mountain High School, Fort Collins, CO – Wednesday, October 7 at 10:30 am

Thomas Jefferson High School, Denver, CO – Thursday, October 8 at 10:15 am

Peak to Peak Charter School, Lafayette, CO – Thursday, October 8 at 1:35 pm

COLLEGE FAIRS

Colorado Western Slope College Fair, Aspen, CO – Sunday, October 3 from 11 am to 2 pm

(www.westernslopecollegefair.com)

Fountain Valley School’s College Day, Colorado Springs, CO – Monday, October 5 from 1 to

3pm (www.fvs.edu)

Fort Collins College Fair, Fort Collins, CO – Tuesday, October 6 from 6 to 8 pm

College Fairs of Greater Denver, Monarch High School, Louisville, CO – Wednesday, October 7 from 6:30 to 8:30 pm (http://www.collegefairsdenver.org/)

College Fairs of Greater Denver, John F. Kennedy High School, Denver, CO – Thursday,

October 8 from 6:30 to 8:30 pm (http://www.collegefairsdenver.org/)

College Fairs of Greater Denver, Cherry Creek High School, Cherry Creek, CO – Saturday,

October 10 from 6:30 to 8:30pm (http://www.collegefairsdenver.org/)

Tunnel Man Emerges!

2009-09-22T12:56:00.000-07:00

Hey Team,

I just wanted to share an awesome youtube video with everyone: Tunnel Man Emerges! Tunnel Man is a super hero who lives in Ice Tunnels, and teaches children about Ice Wedges and Contraction Cracks in Alaska. Tunnel Man is played by Kenji Yoshikawa, a Research Associate Professor for the Institute of Northern Engineering. I thought the video was awesome, fun, and educational. It was produced as part of UAF's participation in the International Polar Year (IPY). The Anchorage Daily News also did a story on Tunnel Man. Finally, check out the video!

Thanks for reading, more excitment in the North to come!

Joe

Welcome Back Students!

2009-09-04T11:41:00.001-07:00

Thu, September 3, 2009

We at UAF are so pleased to have students are back on campus. The weather is great, the trees are just starting to turn from green to gold, and the campus is bustling! Now is a great time to visit campus!

Yesterday the Anchorage Public Radio Network aired this great story about UAF enrollment.

"Fall classes started today at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, and enrollment is up. UAF Admissions Director Mike Earnest says over 7,600 students signed up for classes, a seven percent increase over this time last year." Posted in Alaska News. Dan Bross, KUAC – Fairbanks

Download Audio (MP3)

Moving In!

2009-09-02T17:05:00.000-07:00

Check out this great news posting about freshman Jerrod Williams as he gets help from his grandparents, John and Carrie Williams of Cooper Landing, to move into his room in Moore Hall on the Fairbanks campus.

UAF photographer Todd Paris' 820 photographs of move-in day have been condensed into a slide show of about 90 seconds.

http://www.uaf.edu/news/news/20090902110857.html

Enjoy!

Lael Oldmixon
Admissions

Publish Post

Orientation events welcome students to campus, community

2009-08-31T09:26:00.000-07:00

Aug. 28, 2009

Fairbanks, Alaska - The University of Alaska Fairbanks will welcome more than 750 new students this weekend at the kickoff of this year's new student orientation activities. The four-day event, which runs Sunday, Aug. 30 through Wednesday, Sept. 2, will include workshops and activities for new students and their families, as well as opportunities for students to connect with the Fairbanks community.

Highlights of this year's new student orientation events include workshops on making sound financial choices in college, sessions with tips for academic success, a special late-night shopping event at West Fairbanks Fred Meyer and several trips with Outdoor Adventures. A full schedule of events, as well as information on how to register for orientation, is available online at www.uaf.edu/orientation.

Campus residence halls will open for students to begin moving in at 8 a.m. Sunday. Student move-in includes -Rev It Up- activities in Hess Recreation Center in the Moore-Bartlett-Skarland complex from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. The event is designed to be a one-stop resource for incoming freshmen. It includes information on academics and student life, and alumni and community volunteers will be there to help students move into their new homes at UAF. This year, more than 1,300 students will live in campus residence halls. Hundreds more will live in campus apartments.

The weekend's events will also include family orientation on Sunday, Aug. 30. Student and Enrollment Services offices will be at Rev It Up from 8 a.m., to 3 p.m. and in their regular offices from 3-5 p.m. Classes at UAF begin Thursday, Sept. 3.

CONTACT: Terin Porter, new student orientation coordinator, at 907-474-2760 or via e-mail at taporter2@alaska.edu. Jamie Abreu-Napolski, first-year experience coordinator, at 907-474-1885 or via e-mail at fnjra@uaf.edu. Marmian Grimes public information officer, at 907-474-7902 or via e-mail at marmian.grimes@alaska.edu.

ON THE WEB: http://www.uaf.edu/orientation/

Crane Festival in Fairbanks

2009-08-27T19:04:00.000-07:00

Hey,
This last weekend was one of my favorite events in Fairbanks: The Sandhill Crane Festival! I know this may sound silly, but I love the birds we get in this town! Every year we get migratory birds from 5 continents flying through Fairbanks as a nesting stop on their migratory routes. It's so cool to see the birds covering Creamer's Field and then to see them flying off at the end of the week for their nest stop. Just one more thing about living in Fairbanks that I love. If you want to find out more about the birds, visit the Fairbanks Daily News Miner article about it here. Thanks for reading, and we'll be coming back at you soon with UAF New Student Orientation!

Joe

UAF Women's Volleyball Rocks!

2009-08-26T21:51:00.000-07:00

My husband, Mark, is the coordinator of the UAF Outdoor Adventure program and just took all 18 members of the UAF women's volleyball team on a 50 mile rafting trip down the Chulitna River. The team was so inspired by their trip that they have incorporated "all forward!" as their team chant. Last Friday the team played their first exhibition game. It was great to see their energy and team spirit. This is one team you don't want to miss at UAF!

Check out this recent article in the Fairbanks Daily Newsminer... Nanooks spikers have high ambitions http://newsminer.com/news/2009/aug/26/nanooks-spikers-have-high-ambitions/.

Lael

UAF Students shoot for the Moon!

2009-08-24T11:35:00.000-07:00

The Juneau Empire just ran a great story on 6 UAF engineering students who participate in NASA's Microgravity University program, riding the "Vomit Comet" as part of their undergraduate research project. Engineers get to have all the fun . . .