Countdown to class: The back to school checklist

First day of class is August 26!

By Jen Sobolewski

Whether you're a returning student or coming to BGSU for the first time, there are a number of items you'll want to cross off your "to-do" list and add to your calendar before Aug. 26, and the first day of class, arrives.

The deadline to pay your fall eBill and to waive or enroll in health insurance was Aug. 15. All students with unpaid balances after this date will have their classes dropped and will not be allowed to move into their residence hall. Visit the Office of the Bursar to learn more about this policy and how to enroll in the Installment Payment Plan.

All students taking eight or more credit hours on the Bowling Green campus and all international students regardless of credit hours are required to have health insurance. Students who don't want to purchase the Student Insurance Plan must have alternative health insurance coverage and complete a waiver with that information.

Before you know it, Opening Weekend will be here! Opening Weekend is for all incoming BGSU students. Whether you're a first-time or transfer student, living on campus or commuting, you're invited to participate in all the events.

Residence Hall move-in for fall 2013 freshman and new transfer students is Aug. 23. Returning students move in Aug. 25. The 2013 move-in arrival schedule and interactive map with routes is available online.

Opening Weekend activities begin at 7:15 p.m. Aug. 23 with residence hall floor meetings, followed by the University Welcome and Opening Weekend Kickoff at Doyt Perry Stadium. On Aug. 24, students meet with faculty and staff from their major to discuss strategies for success and learn some of the history and traditions at BGSU.

Commuter students start their Opening Weekend with a welcome meeting and introduction to the Commuter Connection program.

After Opening Weekend, first year students are encouraged to attend Fall Welcome events and explore the First Year Success Series, offering a variety of workshops to assist with your transition to college and connect you with other students and members of the University community.

All students - don't forget to mark your calendars for Family Weekend Sept. 20-22 and Homecoming Sept. 30-Oct. 6.