Solving the academic puzzle

USD begins reaccreditation trek

It’s a time for reflection at USD. The university is conducting a self-study in preparation for an accreditation evaluation that will determine whether its students can receive federal financial aid and if credits earned by its students can transfer to other universities.

SGA reconsiders adviser’s role

The committee formed to address the controversy over USD Student Government Association’s adviser reported on its goals to the senate Tuesday night. The committee, which was chaired by SGA Vice President Anne Grady, recommended the senate seek an additional adviser to augment its current adviser, Kirsten Compary.

Economy creates challenges for students seeking jobs

Recent economic woes haven’t deterred students from pursuing their goals of a college education, even with the debt they may be paying off in the end coupled with the current job market. “Despite the economy, I still think it’s definitely worth going to college because of the benefits once you get out,” senior Katie Boehnke said. “When you find a job eventually, it’s definitely worth it.”

Slagle renovation on track

Although only the sounds of construction echo across its stage right now, Slagle Hall is on its way to drawing open its curtains to campus crowds for the first time since spring of 2009. With construction to be finished in late summer, Cathy Wagner, planning and construction director, said USD hopes to reopen the auditorium by fall 2010.

Incoming freshmen get first pick of fall courses

Incoming freshmen will have registration priority over returning students for the fall semester as a result of the admission department’s decision to move the first Fast Track program of the year to March 15. The Fast Track program, a designated day on campus for high school seniors who plan on attending USD to register for classes and get acquainted with campus, has typically been held in the early summer.

Grading guidelines concern students

The fairness of the Beacom School of Business grading guidelines has come under fire from the Student Government Association. The business school’s grading guidelines dictate that the average for a class falls within a given GPA. At Tuesday’s meeting, the SGA presented a resolution “condemning the grading policy,” and more than 60 students showed up to express their disapproval.