Frequently Asked Questions

A group of current Princeton students identified the following questions as particularly important to students of color. They talked together about a variety of issues and, as a group, developed these responses.

How can I make the most of the academic resources during my first year at Princeton?

Be assertive. Your professors, preceptors, and instructors are here for you. Seek them out. It goes without saying that you must attend all lectures and precepts, but it is also to your advantage to talk with your professors and preceptors during their regularly scheduled office hours throughout the semester — not just the night before midterms and finals or when you realize that there might be a serious problem. No concern is too trivial to be addressed. Seek assessment and support when necessary.

To whom do I turn with questions regarding a specific area of study?

Each residential college has a dean and director of studies and academic advisers who can answer questions regarding courses of study at Princeton. Additionally, if you want to talk to some of your peers about your particular academic interests, the following organizations can be especially helpful:

  • • Minority Business Association
  • • National Society of Black Engineers
  • • Pre-Med Society
  • • Society of Hispanic Engineers and Professionals
  • • Society of Women Engineers

Your Residential College Adviser in your residential college also is an important resource.

If I am having problems in a class, who can help me?

Seek out help before there is a real crisis. Support resources are available throughout the semester. Make use of tutoring centers, ask for extra assistance from preceptors and professors, and attend their office hours. Ask for help from professional staff in Firestone Library, the Office of Information Technology (OIT), and the Writing Center. The McGraw Center has staff who can help you learn study skills and develop specific strategies for being a successful student, such as time management and exam preparation. Study groups can be helpful for all students, and especially those in the engineering school. Getting help is not an admission of failure or proof that you do not belong at Princeton — if anything it is an indication that you are a conscientious student interested in availing yourself of all the resources that Princeton offers. Here are some practical tips:

  • • Get over your initial fear of asking for help.
  • • Don't let intimidation hold you back.
  • • Don't say it “doesn't matter.” It really does!
  • • Ask questions when you don't understand.
  • • Nothing is trivial.
  • • University resources are abundant — make good use of them.

If a major problem arises, remember that you don’t have to “go it alone.” The University cares about your academic and personal success, so if you are having difficulties, talk to someone. Talking to your professor is the most immediate step to take. Often new students feel that professors have more important things to do or do not want to be bothered. This is not the case. See your professor after class. Take advantage of office hours, which every professor has set aside for you. If your schedule conflicts with office hours, arrange to meet your professor at a different time. Your professor will be able to suggest ways for you to get back on track in the course. Also keep in touch with your college dean and director of studies. They are your most important academic resources at Princeton.

What is “the Street” — Do I belong there?

“The Street” — Prospect Avenue — is a collective term that refers to the eating clubs. These clubs, which operate independently of the University, are one of the many dining options for upperclass students at Princeton, and they provide space for students to eat, study, relax, and socialize. As a Princeton University student, you belong in all places that are connected with the University. However, you should not feel that the “Street” is your only social option.

What are other social options?

To have a satisfying social life at Princeton you MUST adopt a proactive attitude. Your options include creating your own space through friendships and small group activities; getting involved with student organizations that are already in place, such as Ballet Folklorico, the Black Arts Company, or the Gospel Ensemble; and taking advantage of community social activities in Princeton, Trenton, Philadelphia, and New York. In addition, the University, under the auspices of the residential colleges and the various campus centers — the Davis International Center, Carl A. Fields Center, Women’s Center, LGBT Center, and Center for Jewish Life — and other campus social centers, such as the Murray-Dodge Café and Frist Campus Center — sponsor weekly social activities and trips.

Other activities include those sponsored during the various heritage months, spring house parties, movie nights, casino nights, monthly discussions, comedy and poetry nights, and the many events organized by student groups and Frist Campus Center.

How can I “walk on” a varsity team?

Princeton is a member of the NCAA Division I athletic program and is very competitive. If you are not a recruited athlete, there are limited opportunities to play on varsity level teams, however, it is not impossible, and, if interested, you should speak directly with the coach. In addition, Princeton has many club and intramural teams that are great options for students who wish to stay involved with a sport but at a less competitive level.

Where do I go to start a student organization and how may I get funding for my project?

Check out the Office of the Dean of Undergraduate Students website; it will tell you how to start an organization and apply for funding. (www.princeton.edu/odus /activities/organizations)

When should I begin extracurricular activities?

Many freshmen agree that involvement in extracurricular activities is meaningful and allows you to contribute outside of the classroom. Attend the activities fair during the first week of school when all organizations recruit new members. With more than 250 organizations on campus, there are many opportunities for leadership and involvement.

Where might I get funding for special projects, internships, etc.?

Consult the website of the Office of the Vice President for Campus Life, which lists funding sources for many projects. (web.princeton.edu/sites/campuslife/Funding/index.htm)

How do I get involved in writing for a campus publication?

Attend the Student Activities Fair during orientation and get a flavor for the various publications. Many publications also have open house receptions for students who want to get involved.

How am I assigned an academic adviser?

Advisers are assigned by your residential college for your freshman and sophomore years and, where possible, may be in a department that reflects your academic interest if you indicated one. However, all advisers should be familiar with the curriculum to advise you about degree requirements and a sound program of study. If you have questions, consult your residential college dean or director of studies.

How do I choose my classes?

Upon arriving at Princeton, you will meet with an academic adviser who will guide you in choosing courses. You will receive an Undergraduate Announcement, which lists the courses offered in the fall. Refer to the Undergraduate Student Government (USG) online Student Course Guide for comments about courses from students. The University handles course sign-up online. After choosing your courses, you must enroll online.

How do I go about buying books?

You are expected to buy books as soon as you decide what courses you will take. For fall 2007, the University Store (U Store) has every book for every course organized by department. For spring 2008 and after, Labyrinth Books on Nassau Street will be the main bookstore. The USG provides a venue on their website called Bookline where students post advertisements for used books. The database allows you to find a listing of the names and telephone numbers of the students selling books for your particular course. In most cases, books are sold for less than half of their original value.

May I request an adjustment in my financial aid package?

If you have questions about your financial aid package, or your family circumstances change, don't hesitate to call the Financial Aid Office. They are able to review your situation at any point during the year. (258-3330)

How do I get to NYC and Philly?

There are trains and buses to New York City and Philadelphia. See www.princeton.edu/Siteware/Visitors.shtml for travel information.

May I choose where I eat every day?

Students with meal plans may eat in any one of the six residential colleges or at the Center for Jewish Life.

What if I miss a meal at the dining hall?

If you are unable to eat during dining hall hours, the Food Gallery at Frist Campus Center offers meals at later times. You may purchase food from your meal plan.

Whom do I talk to if I feel racial tension or discrimination?

Among the many resources available, students have found staff in the following offices to be particularly helpful: The Ombuds Office; the Women’s, LGBT, International, and Carl Fields Centers; Office of the Dean of Undergraduate Students; Office of the Dean of the College; the residential colleges; the Office of Religious Life; and the Counseling Center.

What is there to do socially?

Princeton offers diverse programming for students with various interests. The eating clubs are a major part of the social scene, but you should actively seek other social options. Many campus organizations provide alternatives to the Street.

top | July 2007