As Short Term wraps up and Commencement Weekend approaches, it’s hard to believe we’re already at the end of another remarkable academic year at �ֲ���ý. As we prepare for summer on campus, we want to share a few updates and reminders.

• Action Required – Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP): All returning students must enroll or waive health insurance coverage through Garnet Gateway by Wednesday, May 27, 2026. Students who do not complete the process by the deadline will automatically be enrolled in the �ֲ���ý-sponsored health insurance plan.��Learn more about SHIP requirements and coverage details →

• New �ֲ���ý ID Cards: �ֲ���ý will introduce new student ID cards starting on August 14. Returning students will exchange their current ID card when they arrive on campus for the fall semester. Students can check �ֲ���ýNow for additional information.

• Summer Support & Resources: During the summer months, students continue to have access to a wide range of campus support services. Whether your student is spending the summer on campus, at home, or elsewhere, they can connect with departments including Campus Safety,��Residence Life and Housing,��and the IT Help Desk.

If you’d like to connect with our team, please reach out at parents@bates.edu or 207-786-6242. Thank you for being part of the �ֲ���ý community this year and for all the ways you’ve supported your student along the way. We hope you and your Bobcat have a restful and wonderful summer!

Best from �ֲ���ý,
The �ֲ���ý Parent Team

As we move through the final stretch of the semester, we wanted to share a few updates to help you stay connected and support your student in the weeks ahead, including a quick look back at a vibrant March on campus. In case you missed it, check out a few of our favorite highlights in �ֲ���ýNews’ This Month at �ֲ���ý.

• Short Term Begins: Classes begin on Monday, May 4. During this four-week term, students take one immersive course, often including hands-on learning, research, or travel. Learn more about Short Term → 
• Financial Aid Renewal: A reminder for families who will be applying for renewal of �ֲ���ý financial aid that required documents must be submitted by May 1. Review the Financial Aid renewal process →
• End-of-Semester Support: As the semester wraps up, students can turn to a wide range of campus resources to help them finish the semester strong, including academic support and support for their well-being.

If you’d like to connect with our team, please reach out at parents@bates.edu or 207-786-6242. We’re cheering your students on as the semester wraps up!

Best from �ֲ���ý,
The �ֲ���ý Parent Team

• Winter Carnival: Students recently enjoyed Winter Carnival with activities throughout the week that brought the campus together. The week wrapped up with the beloved Puddle Jump, a 50+ year �ֲ���ý tradition, as students braved the icy waters of Lake Andrews. 

• Great Day to be a Bobcat: �ֲ���ý’ annual giving day is coming up on March 12. Tune in to the Great Day livestream featuring students, campus personalities, President Jenkins, and the Bobcat as we work to reach 2,026 donors in celebration of all that makes �ֲ���ý special. Learn more about Great Day →

• Class of 2026 Families: As Commencement approaches, we will be sharing important updates and information in the coming months. In the meantime, you can bookmark the Commencement 2026 schedule →

If you’d like to connect with our team, please reach out at parents@bates.edu or 207-786-6242. We’re grateful for your continued engagement and for the many ways families help strengthen the �ֲ���ý community.

Best from �ֲ���ý,
The �ֲ���ý Parent Team

(Photo Credit: Theophil Syslo/�ֲ���ý College)

We hope your family enjoyed a restful holiday season. As we look ahead to the start of the Winter 2026 semester, we’re sharing a few timely updates to help you stay connected with campus and support your student as they return to �ֲ���ý.

• Winter Semester Move-In: Residence halls will reopen for students from Sunday, January 11–Tuesday, January 13, with Access Control open on Sunday, January 11 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. to support arrivals. Winter semester classes begin on Wednesday, January 14. View the residential calendar →
• Travel Planning: As students are returning to campus, this resource is helpful for planning transportation to and from campus. Getting to �ֲ���ý FAQ →
• Add/Drop Period: Students may adjust their Winter 2026 course schedule through Monday, January 27, at 11:59 p.m. Full details are available on the Registrar’s website →
• Stay Connected: �ֲ���ýNews features regular updates on academics, student life, campus events, and community highlights. Explore recent stories anytime, and in case you missed it, check out this recap of the Top 10 Social Media posts of 2025 →

If you’d like to connect with our team, please reach out at parents@bates.edu or 207-786-6242. We’re grateful for your continued engagement and for the many ways families help strengthen the �ֲ���ý community.

Best from �ֲ���ý,
The �ֲ���ý Parent Team

(Photo Credit: Joe Massa/�ֲ���ý College)

As students enter a busy stretch of the semester, we’re sharing a few timely updates to help you stay connected with what’s happening on campus.

• Thanksgiving Recess: The upcoming break runs from Saturday, November 22-Sunday, November 30. While residences remain open, please note that the board plan does not cover meals over Recess. View the residential calendar →
• Travel Planning: With Thanksgiving Recess and upcoming winter travel on the horizon, families and students may find this resource helpful for planning transportation to and from campus. Getting to �ֲ���ý FAQ →
• Winter Gathering and Gallery Talk: Families are invited to our Winter Gathering and Gallery Talk on Saturday, December 6, at 11 a.m. at the �ֲ���ý College Museum of Art. Enjoy the current exhibitions and connect with other families on campus. Learn more and �鳧�ձ�&�Բ�����;→
• Safety in Action: This fall, �ֲ���ý has hosted a series of Campus Safety Awareness events, featuring situational awareness training, bicycle registration, and culminating with a Public Safety Day on Saturday, November 15. This event will bring key emergency response agencies to �ֲ���ý for demonstrations, networking, and career insights—helping students feel informed, confident, and connected to their community.
• Short Term Spotlight: As students plan for the semester’s end, they can also look ahead to Short Term. �ֲ���ý will again partner with Dartmouth’s Tuck School of Business to offer the Tuck-�ֲ���ý Business Essentials Course, designed by Tuck faculty and built around a comprehensive business case. Application for enrollment opens December 1. The course, limited to 30 students, is coordinated by the Center for Purposeful Work. If your student has a career interest in business, consulting, or marketing, encourage them to explore this opportunity to develop tangible business skills.

If you’d like to connect with our team, reach out at parents@bates.edu or 207-786-6242.We appreciate your continued engagement and the important role families play in the �ֲ���ý experience.

Best from �ֲ���ý,
The �ֲ���ý Parent Team

Winter made its first appearance on campus this week, bringing a light snowfall that settled over the last of the fall leaves. (Photo Credit: Sammy Weidenthal ’27 for �ֲ���ý College)

We hope you’ve had a wonderful summer! As the fall semester approaches, here are some important dates and reminders to help your students ease back into campus life.

• Arrival for returning students: We welcomed fall student-athletes back to campus earlier this week for pre-season training. All other returning students may move into residences between Sunday, August 31 and Tuesday, September 2, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Students should make their first stop at Commons.��View the residential calendar →
• First week of Fall Semester: The first meal on the board plan for returning students will be dinner on Monday, September 1. The Add/Drop Period for Fall 2025 course schedules opens on Tuesday, September 2, and classes begin on Wednesday, September 3.��
• A Note on Textbooks from the College Store: Textbooks are available to buy online at our partner site via . Books purchased from eCampus can be picked up by students at Post & Print like any other incoming mail or packages, and digital purchases are immediately available for use. Students received additional information on the new process via their �ֲ���ý email.��
• Back to �ֲ���ý: Register now for our annual Alumni and Family Weekend,��October 3–4, 2025! It’s a great opportunity to return to campus and enjoy a full schedule of activities with your Bobcat.��View details and register →
• Fall recess: Residences and Commons will remain open Wednesday, October 15–Sunday, October 19.��See the full residential calendar →
• Student support: This is a great time to remind your student of the many resources available on campus for both academics and well-being. Your encouragement to seek out support early can make a big difference.��Explore academic and student support resources →

If you’d like to connect with our team, reach out at parents@bates.edu or 207-786-6242. We’re so excited to welcome your students back to campus for another year filled with learning, growth, and community!

Best from �ֲ���ý,
The �ֲ���ý Parent Team

This Sept. 20, 2022, webinar for new �ֲ���ý families included panelists from the following campus departments:

• �ֲ���ý Health Services
• Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS)
• Student Support Advising
• Multifaith Chaplaincy
• Residence Life and Health Services

This webinar is password protected, and the password was sent to all incoming families whether they registered for the webinar or not. 

To request that we resend the password, please email parents@bates.edu.

Are the CAPS clinical support groups short-term or long-term? Can you give more info about what types of groups are available? 

Clinical groups will be offered on a weekly basis for 8 sessions for a core number of students (usually between 6-8 students). Groups will run for Fall semester and then be reoffered in the Spring.

This link shares the types of groups and support spaces being offered: www.bates.edu/counseling-psychological-services/#groups-and-support-spaces-for-fall-2022

Do the student support services help with time management skills?

There are great supports in this area through the Academic Resource Commons: www.bates.edu/academic-resource-commons/learning-strategies-2/ 

How do students figure out who their student support person is?

Students can sign into using their standard �ֲ���ý College username and password. On �ֲ���ý Reach, students can find their “Network” where their Student Support Advisor (SSA) is located.

Where do we find out more about the Multifaith Chaplaincy programs? 

Pause and Hearth are the two mentioned this evening, plus we have a lot of other programs that pop up throughout the year: www.bates.edu/multifaith/connect/ 

My first–year has reported issues with dorm fire alarms. What can be done?

While safety is our primary concern, we know this can be frustrating. If a student is concerned, please have them reach out to the Res Life team at reslife@bates.edu. 

How can our student initiate a FERPA waiver?

Students can set their FERPA releases via their Garnet Gateway account. If students wish to sign a waiver so that their health information can be shared with their parents, they can find that document in the “Forms” tab of the �ֲ���ý Health Service site.

Do you have an emergency texting alert system? 

We do have an emergency alert system that sends text messages along with other types of alerts. We send what is called a brief and timely warning when there is a threat to the community and specific actions are recommended. That message goes to those who are on campus – faculty, staff, and students – so that they can quickly respond.

Additional resources mentioned in the webinar:

Accessing health services after hours or on weekends

Scheduling a CAPS appointment

Campus Safety

Parent version of �ֲ���ý Today

Student Affairs dedicated mailbox: studentaffairs@bates.edu 

This Sept. 15, 2022, webinar for new �ֲ���ý families included panelists from the following campus departments:

First-Year Experience and Dean of Faculty’s Office
Accessible Education
Academic Resource Commons (ARC)
Mathematics and Statistics Workshop (MSW)
Writing and Language Center
Library and Information Services

This webinar is password protected, and the password was sent to all incoming families whether they registered for the webinar or not. 

To request that we resend the password, please email parents@bates.edu.

Does a student have to be approved for the major they select, or is there an unlimited number of students who could choose a certain major?

There is no cap on any major, meaning that we don’t limit any major field of study to a particular number of students. Students are limited to a maximum of 2 majors (they can only declare up to 2 majors). All students must complete a “Major + 1” as part of their general education requirements; the +1 can be either a second major, or a minor, or a 4-course “general education concentration.”

Where can we find class requirements?

You can find them here: /first-year-experience/academic-requirements/

Do you have advice for a student who did not get into a particular intro class this semester (even during add/drop) and really wants to take it next semester? 

Many introductory level courses (100-level) are offered either every semester or every year. As such, students will have multiple opportunities to take it if they didn’t get into a section this first Fall semester. Course registration for Winter 2023 will take place in early November. Registration is not first-come, first serve, so students will have a multi-day period to select their options. If they don’t get into a course during the first round, they can add it during the week that follows registration. Seats are kept empty to ensure that students have access during this second round.

Then there is the add/drop period during the first 2 weeks of the Winter semester in January. Encourage your student to utilize this process and to partner with their academic advisor/FYS instructor for additional assistance with course registration.

If a student wants to drop and add a class, whom should they contact?

Add/drop is controlled by the student through the last day to add a course, which is Tuesday, September 20 for the Fall 2022 semester. Given that [this webinar is taking place] near the end of the second week of courses, adding a course at this point requires permission of the instructor, so the student should reach out to the professor directly. The last day to drop a class is October 28. All of these dates are on the Important Dates and Deadlines Calendar at the Student Advising Portal.

Thanks for sharing that spots have been made available this fall to meet the need for Chem 107. Is it possible this course might be offered in the spring, given how many fields of study list it as a prerequisite?

Chem 107 is currently only offered in the Fall so that Chem 108 can be offered in the Winter semester. This also enables the follow-up class, Organic Chemistry, to be offered on a consistent and annual basis. 

The Chemistry faculty are looking into two options at the moment for future years: 1) offering Chem 107 each semester and 2) offering a different introductory chemistry course other than Chem 107 for students interested in Earth and Climate Sciences and for students interested in Environmental Studies. 

For students who are interested in global education, studying abroad, and global community-engaged learning opportunities, how might they be able to find out more and prepare?

They should reach out to the Center for Global Education. More information is available at the Student Advising Portal, and their Academic Advisor can also connect them to the Center.

Is there a place where students can be on a Zoom call that is not their rooms? Is there a media center to make a video?

We have several rooms in Ladd Library that students can use for a Zoom call. We do have the Digital Media Studio in Pettigrew Hall where students can check out equipment, edit videos, create podcasts and more. It is an absolutely fabulous space, and there are two staff members who can also help them.

How are peer support advisors selected? Do they receive mentorship training?

Peer tutors are selected in several ways. Some are nominated by faculty, and others simply apply based on their own interests and experiences. Any students who apply or are nominated go through an interview process with one of the professional staff. Many writing tutors take a course to learn how to tutor in writing; all other peer tutors receive several hours of on-the-job training, some before the semester begins and more throughout the semester. They are also mentored by us and their fellow peer tutors, some of whom have been with us for several years.

If a student finds a tutor they work well with, will they be able to arrange to continue working with that same tutor?

Yes. Our drop-in tutors have a regular schedule of shifts, meaning each works the same hours on the same days of the week. So, if a student likes a particular tutor, they can refer to our schedule to see when the tutor works. Those who have a CAT (course-attached tutor) embedded in their class would certainly work with the same CAT all term.

What are the requirements for a student to become a language tutor?

Students interested in becoming language tutors apply for the job with a cover letter, a writing sample from a class they’ve taken at �ֲ���ý in the language they wish to tutor, and a language faculty recommendation. Then we interview and train them in best practices in tutoring their peers. Students who are peer tutors in the languages are typically language-learners themselves, majors or minors in the language.

This Sept. 13, 2022, webinar for new �ֲ���ý families included panelists from the following campus departments:

• Student Affairs
• Campus Life
• Residence Life and Health Education
• Harward Center for Community Partnerships
• Office for Intercultural Education (OIE)
• International Student Services
• Center for Purposeful Work

This webinar is password protected, and the password was sent to all incoming families whether they registered for the webinar or not. 

To request that we resend the password, please email parents@bates.edu. 

Athletics

Are there yoga or tai chi classes?

Yes, we offer a few yoga classes throughout the week and have an online database of recorded classes students can access from anywhere. We also have a student that hosts pop-up yoga classes around campus in unique spots.

Do the sports teams have houses and sponsor parties?

None of our campus residences are designated for a specific sports team.

How successful are your athletes in engaging with community volunteer opportunities and/or shadowing opportunities through career exploration and purposeful work?

We have really great engagement from our athletes and Purposeful Work. We have a number of peer advisors and office assistants who serve as great ambassadors for our programs. We also have a staff member serving as a dedicated athletic liaison, so she’s constantly connecting and speaking with coaches and teams. Athlete alumni are constantly in touch with our coaches and staff regarding potential internship/employment opportunities as well.

Additionally, each athletic team has a community liaison serving their program and helping with engagement opportunities in the community.

Bias reporting

What is the bias reporting system at �ֲ���ý? 

We have many professionals trained to support individuals affected by bias, discrimination, and harassment based on any measure of identity, including racism, homophobia, sexual harassment, and sexual violence. You can find more information on Bias Reporting at this link:

Campus Life

How do the students know what is going on?

�ֲ���ý Engage is a great resource for finding information on all kinds of activities. Please encourage your students to keep an eye on �ֲ���ý Today as well, which is pushed daily to their emails!

How would a student go about starting a club based on a unique interest?

Students can find this information via the �ֲ���ý Engage App or at www.bates.edu/clubs/start/ 

Will there be a late-night dining option this year? [Note: The Den is closed because of the Chase Hall renovation.]

Yes! There is a new option for late night dining arriving over the next few weeks. It’s not quite ready to be announced yet, but students will be excited when it arrives.

Harward Center

Are there global community-engaged learning programs available?

The Center for Global Education offers an International Education Week in November in association with several campus partners, including the Harward Center, and offerings that week including student presentations on their engaged learning projects around the globe. �ֲ���ý Today is a great way to find out about these kinds of opportunities.

It’s important to note that �ֲ���ý is very careful to connect students with engaged learning opportunities globally – as well as within the US – that ensure students are connected with ethical programs that are not exploitative of the communities in which they learn and serve. 

Wellness

Is the flu shot available at the health center?

�ֲ���ý will host a flu shot clinic later this autumn. Please encourage your student to keep an eye on �ֲ���ý Today for announcements about that.

Will the college help facilitate COVID booster shots for the students, either by offering it on campus or by helping them get to vaccine centers or pharmacies?

�ֲ���ý will be communicating with students about accessing the new bivalent booster and will provide students with transportation to local drug stores to get the booster. The college is exploring whether or not we may be able to operate our own booster clinic in parallel to our on-campus flu vaccine clinic; that, of course, depends on the booster supply. 

What mental health supports are available?

You can find information about mental health supports at this link, and we’ll talk more about this topic at our Sept. 20 session: /counseling-psychological-services/

International Circle

What kinds of students participate in International Circle field trips and social gatherings?

The International Circle wants all students to participate. Out of the 600 names on our email list, around half have international attachments. Students from outside the US, US citizens who may never have lived in the US, as well as students who are from the US and simply have great interest in our activities and discussions – all are welcome. 

Office for Intercultural Education (OIE)

Are there any GSAs on campus (gay/straight alliance)?

Yes! There is a student-run club called Outfront which is similar in structure to a GSA. Students can get connected with this group through �ֲ���ý Engage.

Is OIE open to students who are of Hispanic heritage?

Absolutely, the OIE welcomes all students who are invested in creating inclusive communities. We provide cultural programming and support to student affinity and identity based clubs including our Hispanic student community.

Transportation

Can �ֲ���ý make transportation to Amtrak in Freeport more available?

We will pass this request along to our Transportation Coordinator. Here is a link to some additional transportation options:  

Is there transportation available to and from the airport?

Here is a link to transportation from the Portland Jetport: www.bates.edu/campus-safety/transportation-arriving-students-from-portland-jetport-to-bates-campus/

Any chance �ֲ���ý might reinstitute Zipcars?

We will forward this question to our Sustainability Manager