University of Miami Coral Gables, FL 33146 305-284-2211 Congratulations! If you are on this page, you have a UM student! Read on to find out the inside scoop! Pass on these great tips, tell your friends and like us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest. Find out more about how to use HaveUHeard as a great resource. Sign up for other great tips at haveuheard.com.

Here we go, they are a Cane! Accepted? So your son or daughter is going to be a Miami Hurricane! Congratulations! It is great to be a ‘Cane for so many reasons. You can now breathe a sigh of relief that a decision has been made. Take a look at our list of what to do next. First, this may sound silly, but check your admissions letter for accuracy regarding their name, entrance term, address and major. If any changes need to be made, it needs to happen in writing or online at CaneLink (a.k.a your student portal that your student created when they first applied to the University). Note: their Canelink account will be their UM account going forward for housing, class registration, tuition, grades, and meal plan payment until graduation. Next, you are going to want to turn in that $500 housing deposit and form no later than May 15 for […]

Read Our Tips Here First Before you send them to school! Before you leave to take your kid to college, there are a few items you will want to take care of that are extremely important. Most college students are 18, although a few are younger, which means they are considered to be legal adults. With that comes a whole lot of independence from their parents, regardless of who is footing the bill for their education. So before you go… Unless they give you permission or their login information, you will be unable to have access to their health records, grades, pretty much anything that has HPPA laws behind it. Talk to your student about signing over permission for the college to speak with you. Make certain they understand that without that signed permission, everything, and we mean everything, pertaining to the college from medical records to financial aid, cannot be discussed […]

A Guide to UM’s Bus System The University of Miami’s Hurry ‘Canes shuttle bus system can be a huge help to UM students that live on and around campus. As many of us in Coral Gables know, Miami traffic can be incredibly stressful and time-consuming. The shuttle service around the area is free and runs frequently. The two main loops are the Miller Circle and Stanford Circle, named after where they stop. The Miller Circle begins at the Law School, behind the Shalala Student Center and very close to Richter Library. It next goes to the St. Augustine Church, behind the Intramural Fields. It’s followed by Liguria and Brescia Lot, near the University Village and Fraternity Houses. Many students that live in Red Road use the Miller Loop to get to and from campus without a car. It goes to stop at the Hecht Athletic Center near the Wellness Center. Then it […]

The Tour Can Help You Make Your College Decision It’s the season for campus tours. Many of you have already visited a multitude of schools, but now that the verdicts are in; decisions have to be made. Therefore, this tour should look different as it should point out the pertinent things that will help your students make their final decision as to which school to attend. Of course, my daughter loves being a Cane, but your student may have specific things that will help them weigh out the pros and cons of each college. Go with a list of questions, but not the kind of questions that you can just google an answer to. Don’t be shy about asking them of your tour guide, financial advisor, a specific department, or even students hanging out near the Shalala Student Center, where students go to eat, study and attend events. They can be your […]

How to Have Your Vote Count While At College When it comes to voting, your vote counts! Voting is important so we want you to be prepared when election day rolls around. Many UM students are from out of state so they will either need to change their address to become a registered voter in Dade County or request an absentee ballot. Absentee ballots are easy. For Florida residents, you can apply for one and vote by mail. This is conducted before election day, and you may return the ballot either by mail or in person. This way of voting should be used when you are unable to be present at the polls. Find your state’s requirements. To register to vote in Florida, you must fill out a new registration form online at RegisterToVoteFlorida.gov, by mail or in person. If you prefer to fill out the form in person, there are more places […]

Can You Get by Without a Car? Whether to let your students bring a car to campus will probably lead to many conversations. In order to try to have a student perspective based on their experience, we turned to our intern. These are just suggestions that we hope will bring a productive conversation for you and your ‘Cane. Most students believe that having a car is necessary while on campus, however as someone who has gone through two years of college at UM without a car, I can tell you with certainty that you do not need to have a car while at UM. Students at the University of Miami have plenty of options as it pertains to getting around Coral Gables and the surrounding areas to choose from. At UM,  students have access to the Hurry‘Cane shu6ttle, which is an easy and convenient shuttle service that transports students to various places […]

Alumni Networking, Perks, and More… Before you know it, you are walking across the stage at graduation, and with that last step, you are officially a Cane alumnus. You may be super excited and a little sad that your “Canes” life has ended. But it hasn’t! The first thing that you should do is to join the Alumni Association. By doing that, you have the chance to continue your Cane pride through contacts, fun events, and networking. And it always provides opportunities for you to show off your new Cane swag. Like all associations, they help keep the spirit of the school going, and the benefits are too good to pass up. HaveUHeard that all UM alumni receive a free lifetime membership in the University of Miami Alumni Association? There are lots of benefits that come along with being a University of Miami alumnus, including a variety of discounts. Take a look […]

Seems like it’s almost always tax time… April 15th is always right around the corner. As you are preparing your return or having a CPA prepare your return, do not forget to take advantage of the Education Tax Credits available which can help offset the cost of your student’s education). Two Credits Available There are two tax credits available to take, The American Opportunity Tax Credit and Lifetime Learning Credit. The AOTC (American Opportunity Tax Credit) was made permanent by the Protecting Americans from the Tax Hikes Act signed in 2015. The AOTC allows credit to be claimed for four post-secondary education years instead of two. The AOTC/Lifetime Learning credits are based on the payment of “qualified tuition and related expenses.” These are the expenses for tuition and academic fees that are required for enrollment or attendance at an eligible educational institution. Qualified tuition and related expenses do not include student activity […]

Get ready for the big game with these attire tips! The best feeling for any college student, particularly if you’re a Cane, is waking up knowing its game day! There is so much preparation that goes into game days: where to tailgate, who to squad up with, and what to wear. Showing up to tailgates and games is more than just rocking your school colors, it is showing your spirit and how much you love your school. It almost feels like a school-wide competition: who can get the most spirited? With this list, you’ll be sure to place in first! It is important that whenever you are shopping for game day attire, you strictly look for your school colors. You don’t want to stick out like a sore thumb wearing the one color that doesn’t match with everyone else. As Game Day gets closer, UM will announce what colors students are expected […]

A+ or A- Those Pluses and Minuses Count in your grade! Going the extra mile to get an A in a class instead of an A- or getting a B+ instead of a B can be very worthwhile while at Miami.  The hard work you put into getting the grade you truly want in a class will be rewarded with plentiful job opportunities and graduate school options. The college grading system can be confusing, especially coming from a high school that does not use pluses and minuses.  At the University of Miami, pluses and minuses affect the GPA of the student with the exception of an A+ and an A. Therefore, it is important to understand the grading scale. Grade Scale A+  4.00 A    4.00 A-   3.70 B+  3.30 B    3.00 B-   2.70 C+  2.30 C    2.00 C-   1.70 D+ 1.30 D    1.00 F   […]

…When You Need Answers, You can Call! The important call contact info you need to have. Over the years there have been only a few times that I, as a parent, have felt the need to call the campus to resolve an issue. Generally, I try to get my kids to handle it themselves. However, knowing where to call for whatever the issue can be daunting. For instance, trying to decipher how rush works or even having financial aid issues.  Be aware though that, unless your student has given you permission to call or is sitting with you, some departments won’t speak to you, the parent. Check out our blog Before Heading to Miami Do This! to download different legal documents.  These documents give parents’ permission in different medical and legal scenarios. This is a compiled list of all key phone numbers for the University of Miami. Each number provided is either […]

Freshmen – follow this bucket list for maximum fun! As an incoming freshman to the University of Miami, it is important to be aware of some of the bucket list items that should be experienced throughout your time at college. These items are what make a Miami student’s time at UM unique and allow students to truly enjoy themselves at college. The University of Miami campus along with the surrounding area has a lot to offer, and it is important that students take advantage of these opportunities. Check out our bucket list: Participate in Homecoming festivities – head to the lake on Friday night to watch the boat burning and Hurricane Howl fireworks Relax by the pool on campus- lay in the sun on a nice reclining chair and relax with friends or do some work or studying UM football game/tailgate- make sure to be in the student section for the smoke, […]

The Most Effective Way To A Starter Job. I am a big believer in internships. I received my first internship while an art student at school, working in the Financial Aid marketing department designing scholarship brochures. After two semesters, it turned into my first real graphic design paying gig and I was hooked. I could actually make money doing what I loved! I was thrilled and now had real-life examples to put in my portfolio post-graduation. Internships allow students to learn, but it also helps them decide if that is a good career match for them. Internships help students figure out, while still in school, whether the career they envisioned for themselves is the right path. I’m not going to lie, if you know someone, now might be the time to put the word out there that your student is looking. My daughter found a great internship through her campus newspaper and […]

What 529 Pays When you decide to have kids, your first thought is not how am I going to pay for college, but it might be your second. I made a decision when they were about 5 to buy a Prepaid Florida Tuition Plan which is one type of plan, locking in a Florida college. The 529 Savings Plans, or what is also known as a Qualified Tuition Plan (QTP), is a saving was fairly new and I chose not to invest in a 529 savings plan. I wish I had not overlooked this type of tuition plan or had asked their grandparents to invest in a 529 Savings plan, as opposed to gifting them money for birthdays and holidays. Since 1996, 529 plans are a way of saving for college for your student. If you had such a qualified tuition plan or a relative set one up for you, then you […]

College Football… Canes, It’s Time We can’t wait for it! To start anticipating that our football team will end up nationally ranked and headed to a bowl game. Even after graduation, alumni go to football watch parties where they can hang with other alum. Hanging with other Canes is way more fun and it could lead to a job, a rekindled friendship, or just a feeling of being back at school. We’ve got the places to head to for football game madness. Be sure to dress in your school colors, here are some suggestions. Whether you’re in Miami or not, there are alumni all over the country who are watching the game too.  If you are interested in watching the big game with some fellow Canes, here are the 2019 Game Watch Locations: Florida: Cane Football Watch Locations Fort Lauderdale: The Historic Downtowner– 10 S New River DR E, Fort Lauderdale, FL […]

Get Ready For The Job Market! Every semester as students at the University of Miami, we have the opportunity to attend various career fairs that showcase future employers. This experience is invaluable to any college student as we must meet with potential employers at some point during our time in school. Even as an underclassman, we can get to know companies for possible internships or employment in our future. My biggest piece of advice to someone just beginning in school is to get as much experience as you can. It’s crucial that you have a chance to practice a little before it is the real deal. I can admit that at my first career fair, I didn’t even know how to approach the recruiters. Attending the general Career Expo, which is held once a semester, allows students of all colleges and majors to meet recruiters from across industries. This event is huge! […]

Study Abroad Not all classrooms have four walls. No place is this more evident than in the growing number of students that study abroad. This is one of the programs you will hear about from your student (and trust me, they will bring it up). I did not have that many friends that went abroad when I was in college. My daughter chose not to go abroad and has regretted it as several of her friends and sorority sisters have gone to London, Madrid, Chili, Japan, and Rome. I first learned about this program was at orientation. The breakout session spoke of all of the options and benefits of studying abroad. You can read all the University of Miami’s Study Abroad programs. It is comforting to send your child with a UM Sponsored program primarily because of the support students receive as it applies to travel warnings and monitoring the global situation. […]

“Brunch is breakfast without an alarm.” — Unknown Brunch is a Miami staple. If you’re in the mood for some chicken and waffles, you’re in luck. If you’re in the mood for some benedict, you’re in luck. Whether you are a UM student or some visiting family, here are some of the best brunch hot-spots in the area! Coral Gables/South Miami Bulla Gastrobar– Bulla is a tapas gastro bar with a spectacular brunch. They offer a $27 fixed price three-course menu or a la carte. They also offer a massive drink menu which includes bottomless mimosas and Bulla’s homemade sangria. Bulla is located right next to Miracle Mile in downtown Coral Gables. Taco Craft– Taco Craft offers a fun brunch on Sundays with a DJ and bottomless mimosas. Also located in the heart of South Miami, Taco Craft’s menu highlights Mexican cuisine and a Miami flair. Taco Craft is reasonably priced and […]

A Guide to Hard Rock Stadium Everyone should attend at least one UM football game! There are only 5 colleges in the US that play their home games in an NFL stadium, and Miami is one of them. HaveUHeard what that means? It means comfort and all the bells and whistles that NFL stadiums offer. Everyone gets their own seat without having to squeeze into an imaginary space. That alone is awesome since no one wants to be a leg on a leg with someone when it’s 90 degrees and 80% humidity. Cup holders are on almost every seat, and yes, they serve alcohol. One of the keys to making your visit to Hard Rock even better is to know where to sit. For instance, the blazing sun can make a big difference in the fun factor of a game. Here are some thoughts about the best seats for football games. Hard […]

You’ve waited 21 years for this! The city of Miami, specifically South Beach, is known for its nightlife, making it the furthest thing from a typical college town. The closest thing that we have to a bar scene is visiting Coconut Grove. When you turn 21 at UM, it opens up a whole new world of nightlife and opportunities that are not available to underage students. The 21st birthday in Miami is a celebration that everyone can be excited about. The first priority when your birthday falls during the school year is to go to The Rat. The Rathskeller is a University of Miami tradition! To order a drink or get a cup for a friend’s pitcher, you must show your now-21 license or ID. I still have my first wristband from The Rat pinned onto my bulletin board. It’s an important time for your friends to show you off, buy you […]

Places that Handle Money Leaving for college comes with so many new things, but handling their own money can be one of the scariest. We have all kinds of suggestions regarding Working While in College, Teaching Them to Budget; even the Best Credit Cards for College Students, but this blog is all about banking. I, personally, find it best to have an account for my daughter at the same bank as mine. It makes it easy to slide money over whenever I need to. Therefore, I was grateful when we discovered that Bank of America is UM’s bank partner. There are many ATMs on campus, in residence halls, near the bookstore at the Whitten University Center, and a branch nearby.   If they ever need cash this is helpful, although few students seem to use cash these days. Venmo and Zelle are just more convenient. Banking and how our students can access money […]

Deciding whether or not to study abroad, there are even more details to consider. There are specific recommendations that UM makes to the Parents & Guardians, as a parent you need to do what works for you and your student. Make a checklist of all the details before you push ‘go’.

Here’s How to Sublease – The Supply is Greater Than the Demand HaveUHeard that when a student moves into an off-campus apartment they generally sign a lease for twelve months? So how do you sublease? Most leases run early August (usually a few days up to a week after August 1st) through July 31st. Unlike most dorms, students are responsible for the entire year, even though your student doesn’t have classes over the summer in most cases. However, unless you are able to secure a nine-month lease, most apartment complexes will allow students to sublet their apartments. You will, nevertheless, have to jump through a few hoops to make a sublease happen. To find a sublessor for the summer, it is best to start looking in the fall semester. It may seem a bit early, but there are usually more available apartments looking for sublessors than there are people looking to sublet. […]

You May or May Not See Them… You haven’t seen them since January and are looking forward to some time with them home again over Spring Break. I recognize the scenario. They, our students, may have other plans though. Just thought I would give you the heads up. It is not uncommon for students to go away with their friends for Spring Break. It’s what they saved all summer for, right? Remember cramming 10 college kids into the Holiday Inn in Ft. Lauderdale for Spring Break when you were their age? Perhaps that is what frightens you. Spring Break Destinations Probably the most popular Spring Break trip these days is a cruise…with 422 of their closest friends (think group rates). Oftentimes large groups from sororities, fraternities or clubs will plan these trips together. Yes, generally four kids (one of which must be 21 or older) cram into the cheapest cabin possible, drinking […]

There is more than just football… Football season is over and now it’s time to clean off your flip-flops and head into Spring Sports. When people think of UM sports, they immediately think of football but there are so many more sports for both Women and Men to participate and enjoy. After this year’s stellar football season, Miami fans have the momentum of cheering on our mighty ‘Canes to more success! Keep the momentum going, Men’s and Women’s basketball continuously delivers high-level playing to sold-out arenas and more Hurricanes spirit with Sebastian the Ibis leading the way. Spring Sports What sports do you think of when you think of Spring sports? Some of the wide variety of sports in the spring include basketball, track, diving, soccer, golf, tennis, volleyball, rowing, and baseball. There is an excellent way to keep track of all UM sporting events and dates, go to hurricanesports.com and don’t miss […]

Getting Ready For the Big Season! Yes, it’s spring, and yes we mean football. It’s crazy I know! But it is springtime Canes football spring practice! Miami announced its spring practice schedule, which includes the return of the intrasquad game. The University of Miami will hold its spring football game on April 14 at Hard Rock Stadium. This will be the first spring game played at Miami’s home stadium since 2014. The Spring Game is also the only session that is open to the public. Because the Miami Hurricanes play in a professional NFL stadium, all fans are required to follow stadium rules when it comes to bringing bags, purses, etc. in the stadium. Any guest not following these guidelines will be asked to return those items to their vehicle before entering the stadium. Below are the NFL approved bags fans may carry into the stadium: One bag that is clear plastic, […]

Make Sure the Package Gets There There are many reasons that a student receives a package. It could just be their usual Amazon delivery or a care package for midterms or because your student is under the weather. But at the “U”, there are delays in getting the mail and forget about sending them your homemade cookies, balloons for their birthday, flowers or any other perishable items unless they are present to receive it. There are a few things that will make a package delivery simpler. UM has a UPS store within walking distance from campus. (Across from UM in the CVS Plaza) Your student will have to rent a mailbox first and then they have their own PO Box that’s not at the post office. They will accept packages from any carrier and hold them until it is picked up. The only downside is that you are subject to the store’s hours […]

Time Flies This is an unusual and unprecedented Spring (2020) and the situation and circumstances continue to evolve daily. Please start all your graduation planning for any event by first checking here for the updates directly from UM. Remember how when our kids were little we couldn’t envision them leaving us and going off to college? Now, if you are like me, you can’t believe how quickly the time went. It continues to rush by and before you know it, college graduation will be here. The University of Miami holds graduation ceremonies two times per year with May being the largest ceremony, broken down by the college. Commencement schedules and information. Fall Graduation is set for December 18 and 19, 2020. There is no limit on the number of guests you can bring to any of the commencement ceremonies at the University of Miami. Students will be asked to estimate the number […]

Do you really make your graduation restaurant reservations now? Graduation is a time to celebrate and a celebration requires a nice meal, a nice meal needs a reserved spot!

A Guide to Getting an Advising Appointment While in college, having a strong relationship with your academic advisor is important in being able to graduate without any missed requirements.  There are a couple of key resources that students at UM should be aware of so they can make an advising appointment with their specific advisor. One of these tools is how the student’s advisor tracks each meeting so that students can go back and review the progress they made with their advisors.  With the help of these resources, students can easily schedule an advising appointment throughout the semester. The first resource that students should know about is the website GradesFirst.  Once a student logs onto the GradesFirst portal, they will be able to schedule an appointment easily by clicking on the blue “Get Assistance” tab in the top right corner.  Once you click the tab, you can select make an advising appointment […]

When my first child left for UM, I wavered between giving her space to find her way and wanting to hear all about her life at college. I had such a wonderful college experience myself, I toggled between exuberant excitement for her and overwhelming sadness for me.

Repair and Fix-It Shops Car, skateboard or bike, oh my!  At UM, you will find all in large numbers. Talk to any student about which is the most useful at UM and you’re likely to get an equal number of answers. No matter the transportation your student is using, they may, at some point, need to get it fixed. There is nothing worse than having your main mode of transportation break down. Below you will find a list of repair shops where you can fix it! Bike Security Have U Heard that U-bicycle Locks and Registrations are provided to all bicycle owners by UMPD? To register your bicycle and receive your free bicycle lock, simply bring in your bicycle and your ‘Cane Card to UM Police located on the ground floor of the Flipse Building. If your bicycle is ever lost, stolen, or confiscated for non-compliance with the University bicycle guidelines, registration […]

Keep in mind that Miami is not only a college town but also an exciting and vibrant, major tourist destination, so there is a vast selection of hotel options. There are different things to take into consideration when booking.

This Means Plenty of Retail Therapy! There is plenty of retail therapy in Miami – may be too much – and although your student is up there for school, there is always something that they will need, particularly at the start of the first semester. It’s a good idea to order some things online or at your home store and have them waiting for you at a store in Miami. This can be done at Target, Walmart and Bed, Bath and Beyond, and can be extremely time-saving as well as freeing up space in your vehicle or if your student is flying into town, making shipping far easier and less expensive. I found my daughter, and many of her friends, have ordered many last-minute supplies on Amazon. They will deliver right to the dorm, and with their FREE student Amazon Prime account, there is very little waiting time. There are many other […]

Take Your Pets (Dog or Cat) to College Every time I head down to UM to see my daughter, she asks that I bring our dog. Let’s face it; the pup is everyone’s favorite family member. How do you manage pets at school? Personally, I would rather travel with a dog than have our daughter adopt one of her own that may eventually become mine too, so I often oblige. The good news is that is becoming rather common for people to travel with their pets. Pet-friendly restaurants near UM: Many restaurants that allow dogs require them to be on a leash and be outdoors. Fritz & Franz Bierhaus Cafe at Books & Books John Martin’s Villagio Restaurant George’s South Miami Le Provencal Villagio (Merrick Park) Sawa (Merrick Park) Tap 42 Moon Thai Monty’s Coconut Grove Greenstreet Cafe (Coconut Grove) Town Kitchen Lulu (Coconut Grove) Wall’s Old Fashioned Ice Cream Pet-friendly Hotels […]

Searching for your new roommate? At the University of Miami, the process of finding a roommate is not as stressful as a high school senior might think.  The search process is tied in with the housing application which can be found on CaneLink. Once you click on the “Housing Application Process” under UM Housing, it will take you to the Housing and Residential Life Portal.  Once you get to this screen, click on “Housing Application / Apply for a Meal Plan”. Then select the Academic Year in which you will be moving in from the range of options. For incoming freshmen, they should make sure to select “Academic Year 2018-2019”. Once this is selected and you click “Save and Continue” this will take you to the screen where you will complete your housing application, which includes finding and choosing a roommate. The first part of the search process is creating your profile. […]

When it breaks it is such an issue…Phone or Computer! My daughter has dropped her phone more times than I care to admit; so much so that even the insurance for accidental damage is used up. And, heaven forbid the phone stops working completely. The day my daughter’s phone broke, and she thought the world would come to an end, was nothing compared to when her computer stopped working. I have to admit, now that I no longer have a landline phone, I could not live too long without a phone, but when a computer malfunctions and all the work you did previously can’t be accessed, or worse, may have been lost; it may feel like the world is coming to an end. The good news is that it isn’t. There are plenty of (more competent than I) repair services available right near campus for those moments. I do, however, highly recommend […]

Where is a Safe Spot at College? Safe, Sane, and happy, is that possible? As colleges are doing their best to come up with ideas as to how to keep our students safe and healthy as they reopen campuses, we can only hope that our students will adhere to those rules when they leave their classrooms. Let’s face it; it is not easy to enforce social distancing among a population that has a tendency to want to gather. Isn’t one of the best parts of college, socializing? We realize we can’t replace a good frat party or tailgate, but there are alternatives to fun near campus and since outdoor fun appears to be the safest alternative these days, we have come up with open-air ideas. Given that we are living under such unprecedented circumstances; we always recommend double-checking on hours, etc. before heading out as activities may be modified or limit the […]

Mid-Day Munchies – what’s for lunch? The best part of lunch is the break it gives you in the middle of the day! But it’s even better when you’re enjoying the meal as well. Like any city, there are literally hundreds of dining options in Miami from fast food to fast-casual, from family-style to fine dining. The more time my daughter spends there, the more places to eat we have discovered. Food is a big draw for us, can you tell? Your lunch choices will often depend upon whether you are touring with a prospective student or making a visit to your established Cane, who will undoubtedly be clamoring for a good meal. Some things to consider beforehand are price and time. It is not unusual for there to be a considerable wait at some of the more popular lunch spots – even with a reservation – during a game weekend, official […]

You may be surprised at how one can transition a mass-produced, industrial-looking dorm room into a warm and inviting room/suite. And there is plenty of help out there to spur ideas and help you organize.

Fun stuff to do! It’s entertaining and almost silly to write about things to do when visiting your student at UM. Based on the fact that our kids are literally going to school in one of the state’s – and the world’s – most popular vacation spots. Yet, entertainment doesn’t need to just be about the beach when you visit. To begin with, if it is football season, get ready to cheer on those Canes. Actually, there is often a sport worth watching on campus somewhere. Check out our blog on UM Sports to find out more about the Hurricanes traditions and pertinent info about the stadium, etc. More than football… Undoubtedly a good meal is going to be in the plan, but beyond that, there is plenty to do not far from campus. If your entertainment tastes run toward films, you can catch a movie at the Movies at Sunset Place […]

The Flu ends with “U” It’s that season again – and I don’t mean hurricanes. Flu season is generally from October through May; peaking in December. Given that the flu is easily spread by coughing, sneezing, and close contact, and what gets closer than dorm life and classrooms, your student may want to consider getting vaccinated. UM makes it incredibly easy and it is free too. UM’s Student Health Service in Miami is open Monday, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Thursdays from 9 am to 5 pm and Sundays during Fall and Spring semesters 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. During summer, Thanksgiving, Winter, and Spring Breaks they are open Mon- Fri from 8:30 am to 5 pm and closed on all University holidays; however, due to Covid-19, students should check hours or get an appointment before going at 305-284-9100 or UM’s Student Health Services online appointment portal. […]

What Every Freshman Should Know As a sophomore looking back at my freshman year, I can easily think of advice that I would give my freshman self. Freshman year in college can be stressful, but with some strong guidance, this uncertain feeling can be reduced. Here is the best advice that I could give my freshman self: Get involved and take advantage of the many student resources on campus, including clubs, professional help, and tutoring. Read our blog on getting involved. There is an abundance of student clubs and organizations on campus. Getting involved allows new students to meet and interact with people that share a common interest. Make as many connections and network as possible. You never know where one of your college relationships could lead in life, so getting your name out there is the first step in finding an internship or job. Do not be afraid to fail.  It […]

Get Ready For A Fun Day! I have to admit that I hadn’t heard of the term, pregame until I heard my daughter mention it before attending her first college game.  Now, it’s become a part of the game experience along with tailgating and celebrating the win (hopefully). Assuming that you are of the drinking age, there are some fun places that offer great deals for college students on game days.  The RAT on campus is always a great first stop to get your Canes spirit pumping! Near the University of Miami, Titanic on Ponce has great happy hour specials as well as daily specials for UM students. Duffy’s Tavern on 57 Ave, Sports Grill South Miami, Buffalo Wild Wings at Sunset Place, and Yard House at Merrick Park are hot spots right near campus as well as many other sports bars and restaurants throughout Miami. Since UM plays their home games […]

You’ll Need to Do This. What is the Entrance Counseling? In July of 2016, the U.S. Department of Education made it a requirement that, in order to have student loans disbursed, all students must complete Direct Loan Entrance Counseling. This counseling includes information needed to successfully repay the federal student loans they will be receiving to help pay for college costs. If you have not previously received a Direct Loan or Federal Family Education Loan (FFEL), the federal government requires you to complete entrance counseling to ensure that you understand the responsibilities and obligations you are assuming. You must complete entrance counseling before you can receive the proceeds of your first Direct Loan. If you are completing entrance counseling to borrow as an undergraduate student, then the entrance counseling will fulfill counseling requirements for Direct Subsidized Loans and Direct Unsubsidized Loans. If you are completing entrance counseling to borrow a loan as […]

Students Share this Camp Kesem Volunteer Opportunity Kesem is a nationwide community, driven by passionate college student leaders, that supports children through and beyond their parent’s cancer. Kesem’s flagship program, Camp Kesem, operates free summer camps for children who have been impacted by a parent’s cancer. Founded at Stanford University in 2000, Camp Kesem has since expanded to 116 chapters in 42 states across the country. Camp Kesem is a year-round support system  We fundraise all year and have many exciting events that culminate into one weeklong, cost-free summer camp for these kids to just be kids. It’s empowering and inspiring, you really find a family in Kesem. UM has around 130 active members on our campus. Involvement is what you make it; however, there is required training to be a counselor and attend camp, as well as a minimum of two street collections and you personally have to take the time […]

More Exams Prep Time. It may like you just finished studying for the ACT/SAT’s and left for college, but before you know it, graduation will be looming and many students will be preparing for graduate school exams and continuing their education. Getting familiar with the vast amount of degrees and programs out there would be the first step. If you are considering graduate school at The University of Miami, check to see if there is an open house. Consider visiting other colleges as well. This will give you the opportunity to meet professors and ask questions about the program. Start talking to your advisor early to be sure you have all the correct prerequisites, shadowing, or research hours you will need for exams. Whether you are preparing for Medical or Law School or a specific graduate program, researching the continuation of your education may feel overwhelming. Finding the right concentration for you […]

You Really Do Want To Eat More Veggies! Slowly, but surely, more and more young people are going vegan or vegetarian. I can’t blame them. Sometimes the choices on or around campus just aren’t that healthy. So more veggies, please! My daughter became a vegetarian in 6th grade and continued to eat that way until her Sophomore year. The dining plan was so limited in her choices that she was tempted (and tried) introducing chicken and fish back into her diet. Thankfully a few new vegetarian options opened closer to campus so she was able to make some healthier choices. There are many vegan and vegetarian options in Miami including some great grocery stores nearby with many vegan options as well. Here are a few favorites close to campus: Amsterdam Falafel Shop, 5835 Sunset Drive. Whether you are vegan, vegetarian, living a gluten-free life, grew up on Middle Eastern food, or just […]

Here Is What You Get Free! The vision of the University of Miami’s Information Technology (UMIT) department is to be the best information technology organization in higher education and healthcare; recognized for strategic leadership, innovation, and collaborative partnerships in achieving the University of Miami’s academic, clinical, and research goals. HaveUHeard that Microsoft Office 365 and the full Suite of Adobe products are free for all enrolled UM Students?  Students also receive a box.com account that offers free storage space. All software can be found through your Canelink account. This gives you all the technology you need! While the computer of choice for many students is trending toward Macbooks, before you head out to get a computer for your student, some of the colleges have specific requirements that differ from general recommendations. For the individual college and degree program hardware and software requirements as you may find that a Dell, Microsoft Surface Pro […]

Blackboard and Lockdown Technology has changed the way students take tests. My daughter was able to extend one of her holiday breaks by scheduling her exam at home. Some instructors deploy tests in Blackboard and specify that students use the Respondus Lockdown Browser to complete the test. This increases the security of test delivery. Once students have installed Respondus Lockdown Browser on their computers, it will make them close all other applications before they can launch it and take the test. They will have to submit the test before they can quit the browser. Teachers will use Lockdown Browser for online tests and for those tests that are completed at home, to ensure that no one cheats by using the internet to look up answers while taking the test.  Once you are using Lockdown Browser, you are unable to access the internet unless you leave the session before completing the test which […]

The Future Is So Bright You’ll Need Shades! SEE END OF BLOG FOR CHANGES EFFECTIVE WITH THE 2020-2021 ACADEMIC SCHOOL YEAR Bright Futures has been a great source of financial aid for many Florida Students and is now shining even brighter. Summer 2018 was the first-year Florida Academic Scholars received 100% tuition and summer 2019, 75% of tuition is available for Florida Medallion Scholars. The $300 college-related expense stipend is still only available for fall and spring semesters. The requirements for summer are as follows Must be enrolled in a minimum of 6 credit hours across all summer sessions. Students with less than 6 credit hours required for graduation, may receive FAS and FMS by submitting a memo on letterhead from an academic advisor indicating less than 6 hours are required for graduation. Graduate-level hours may be approved by the student’s academic advisor.  Students taking graduate-level courses must submit a memo from […]

Once your student has been given their move-in date and dorm or residence assignment, the process of handling what can be a stressful, labor-intensive and often expensive process begins. The moving in scenario. 

Have fun in the sun, it’s nature!!! If you have a child attending the U, start compiling that Miami bucket list as soon as they have accepted! Nature abounds and the outdoor activities available to locals and visitors alike are endless.  Everyone knows about the beaches in Miami and Ft. Lauderdale. There are probably well over 100 miles of beaches if you include South Beach, Miami Beach, Key Biscayne, Matheson Hammock, Crandon Park, Hollywood Beach, and Ft. Lauderdale. Some of those beaches you can rent chairs and umbrellas, Jet Skis, Paddleboards, BBQ grills, and even bring your dog (on certain days). People take their beach seriously in these parts; just make sure to wear sunscreen! Aside from the beach, there are countless outdoor nature activities to do here to explore and get away from it all. Road biking and yes, mountain biking are year-round activities. There are many bike shops and city […]

We love this sport! With football season already three games in, if you are planning on coming down to Miami for a game, you should be looking at hotel room rates now. In case you don’t already know, at UM, football is a big deal. I have been going to Miami Hurricanes football games since I was 10 years old.  My dad had season tickets and back then the ‘Canes played in the Orange Bowl where we sat on the 50-yard line. I can actually (sort of) follow what is happening on the field and definitely love the hype and excitement that saturates the stadium. Note: the Miami Hurricanes play in Hard Rock Stadium, which is the official NFL stadium of the Miami Dolphins. I don’t always know which opponents are the big rivalries, but friends and my kids fill me in (ie: Notre Dame/FSU/Virginia Tech) and which games should be sleepers. […]

No Student Hungry Much like the national campaign No Kid Hungry®, there are many students at colleges throughout the United States that are barely getting by, some putting their nourishment behind paying for college and all of the expenses that go along with college; tuition, books, rent, utilities, to name a few. The USDA average monthly cost of food for a college-age student for a moderate-cost food plan, following the recommended Food plans, is $223.55. According to Education Data, in 2018: Nearly 25% of high school students considered middle class indicated they were not planning to attend college because of the expense In 2018, an average of 45% of students experienced frequent food insecurity Over 50% of students from 2-year institutions and 44% of 4-year students worried about running out of food Nearly 50% of students could not afford balanced meals Students who are struggling just to keep up with the cost […]

Volunteering with passion is key. When you first go off to college, you will find that there is no shortage of opportunities to participate in social activities, sports, the arts, and recreation.  It can be overwhelming trying to figure out where you fit as a Cane but have no fear; you will find your place and meet amazing people. That being said, please be sure to take advantage of the many volunteering possibilities that the University of Miami offers.  Volunteering truly changes a person. There is so much to gain from helping others and it speaks to your character as well. Giving back to the community is important!  Let’s face it we all have had some form of help along the way in our journeys in life.  So, why not give back your time, effort, money, or just your listening ears to those who need a little help.  Plus, volunteering looks great […]

We Still Love to Visit Our Canes Let’s face it, these are odd and crazy times! Things look very different at UM this semester but one thing is still for sure; we all still love to visit our Canes and they love visits from us. There are plenty of different food options that offer outside and patio seating, are operating at 50% capacity indoors, and others provide pick up or delivery to adhere to and cater to potential COVID-19 related concerns. Check out some of these places to eat. Dining Bombay Darbar Bulla Gastrobar Cafeina Wynwood Lounge Cibo Wine Bar-Coral Gables Garcia’s Seafood Grille & Fish Market Havana Harry’s Coral Gables Hillstone Restaurant Jaguar Ceviche Spoon Bar LoKal Perricone’s Marketplace & Café Rosa Mexicano Seasons 52 Sports Grill – South Miami SUGARCANE Raw Bar Grill Talavera Cocina Mexicana The Butcher Shop The Cafe, at Books & Books WHISK Gourmet Food & Catering Yardbird […]

Get your Ommmm On! All through high school, my daughter would accompany me to a Saturday morning restorative yoga class. Sometimes we stayed for another class of hot yoga, which was both intense and immensely satisfying. Learning breathing techniques have helped her manage stress and an overall feeling of well-being. Yoga is one of the oldest techniques for stress management. Its ability to improve the body’s strength and flexibility, as well as relieve chronic pain and muscle tension make yoga a great option for college students. There are many choices in and around The University of Miami starting with the incredible resources at the Patti and Allan Herbert Wellness Center, which are included in your student fees. The Wellness Center is listed as one of the nation’s top collegiate wellness centers by College Consensus. HaveUHeard that The Patti and Allan Herbert Wellness Centers is one of the nation’s only student-led recreation centers […]

Making The Hardest Chore Easier! (Laundry!) I tried to teach my daughter how to do the laundry before she left for college. Really. I did. Yet, somehow when she went away to school, she managed to do it very rarely. At last count, she had well over 50 pairs of underwear so she could procrastinate with this particular chore as long as possible. It helps that at UM the students do not need money to use the washing machines as this is covered in their student fees. There have been many laundry-associated stories throughout the years that range from having clothes stolen (do not leave them unattended for too long) to finding the perfect place to study (the whirr of all the machines can be used to block out all other distractions).  My favorite involves the time my daughter thought she was picking up her own clothes from the dryer, only to […]

Here’s How to Manage Your U-Miami Campus Living At the University of Miami, with on-campus housing, what you see is what you get. Students are only required to live on campus for their freshman year, so there is not enough housing for everyone to stay in dorms for all four years. The Housing and Residential Life website provides a pretty good overview of on-campus options, but here are some of the details that you can’t find from Student Affairs: Hecht & Stanford Residential Colleges Both Hecht and Stanford dorms are exclusively for freshman students, both with classrooms on the first floors and resident faculty members as resources for all UM students. The differences between the two are purely aesthetic, and they share the same dining hall. Hecht has two towers, Pentland and McDonald, which are identical to Stanford’s two towers, Walsh and Rosborough. Freshmen have the opportunity of living in substance-free housing, […]

Updated New Living Environments Coming To UM Have you seen the housing? Freshman housing is the one area that most students can agree on, needs improvement, but new is on the way. When my daughter moved into UM freshman housing, we knew it was going to be a learning experience. Going from a nice comfortable family home to an old-fashioned desk area, the communal bathroom, nothing says freshman housing like a cinder block dorm room. To be honest, it wasn’t all that bad, but compared to other schools where her friends were attending, the UM dorm space was somewhat outdated. Granted, the view from the dorm room overlooking Lake Osceola was nice and the convenient location on campus, more than made up for the ultra ‘minimalistic’ décor. The great news is that now UM on-campus housing is getting a complete overhaul!  Brand new construction and a major facelift on existing buildings. To […]

Media Details Seems media is firmly planted n our everyday lives. Students are typically too busy to watch television, but they do have their favorites. From reality shows such as Keeping Up with The Kardashians to This is Us (oh, wait, that’s me) to catching up on the news or watching sports, here is a breakdown of the television stations they will become familiar with. And then, of course, there is binge-watching which has been proven to be an excellent method of procrastination or release after many days of studying. If you are visiting from out of town, click on the links below for Miami’s radio and television stations. Television UMTV is the University of Miami’s Emmy Award-winning, student-run cable TV station. Guided by SoC faculty, UMTV produces weekly newscasts and a variety of programming, including a live newscast, a weekly sports show, a late-night comedy show, and a Spanish-language news program. […]

Books, they STILL use them! A lot has changed since I was a student in college, but the one thing that has not is that textbooks are expensive. Sure the format is different, but the cost for books and supplies is soaring. From January 2006 to July 2016, the Consumer Price Index for college textbooks increased by 88 percent.  But students today have many different options than we did including rentals. Deciding which is the most a) cost-efficient and b) the easiest way for your students to use it are important factors. Textbooks can cost as much as a few hundred dollars each. (Please note that some professors will insist on the newest edition of a textbook simply because it is how they make money; therefore last year’s edition may not be considered sufficient; regardless of the fact that the changes in its material may be minuscule and a used edition may be […]

The University of Miami takes safety very seriously. Technology has changed the landscape of how they impart information to students through texts and emails, and social media platforms. The University of Miami Police Department (UMPD) is a professional campus police department that maintains a safe and secure environment on the Coral Gables campus. The department employs more than 30 police officers, supplemented by security officers, administrative staff, and student aides.  UMPD works hard to prevent crimes on campus. The University offers two safety escort options. U Guardian is a free safety app for smart-phones, with options for virtual safety escorts, pre-registration of information for emergency assistance, and a one-touch button to call UMPD or 911. UMPD 24/7 Safety Escort Service: UNIVERSITY POLICE  305-284-6666 A U.M. Police employee or security officer will make sure students are free to walk the campus safely anytime and on any day, holidays and during school breaks included.  One […]

Your Next Steps. So you have a student ready to spend the next four years at The University of Miami? That means you will undoubtedly be visiting once or twice (hopefully more). If you have never been to Miami, you may have a preconceived idea of this vibrant city from watching movies, TV, Social Media and online. Or you may know very little. Miami is one of the state’s – and the world’s – most popular vacation spots. Like any big city, there’s so much to do and explore. From the tree-lined streets of Coral Gables to the warm sandy beaches of Miami Beach to the hustle and bustle of downtown and Brickell, there is a neighborhood and activity for everyone! Take a little drive and you can even explore a National Park. Like many colleges in a big city, here you will find almost every major box store, almost every chain […]

There is a Place For Everyone The first thing to know about transferring schools is that there is a place for everyone. When we are in our senior year of high school, it’s almost impossible to know exactly where we should spend the next four years of our lives. Many students choose to transfer to the University of Miami and the community welcomes all students with open arms. Now that you’ve chosen the U, it’s time to get started! It’s important to know which of your credits count toward your UM degree when choosing your classes for your first semester. I recommend applying by the priority deadline, April 1, so that you have plenty of time between when you receive your acceptance and the start of classes to figure everything out and communicate with your advisor. Pay attention to scholarships that are available to you. Miami even offers transfer student scholarships! The […]

You’ll Want to Memorialize the Day with Photography The last four years (or so) probably flew by and commencement is around the corner. There is no doubt that graduation is a big deal and one you will definitely want to memorialize. It should be celebrated and remembered! College graduation is a very special day in one’s life, and the desire to celebrate and remember that accomplishment is one that is usually commemorated by senior image photography. The University of Miami’s campus is so beautiful, so most students choose to walk around with a photographer, taking photos in red and black outfits and then their cap and gown. Students get photographed in popular places on campus (definitely the “U” and if you can arrange it, a photo with Sebastian), as well as places that are specifically special to them. Most people tend to use the same photographers that are local to Miami, and […]

UM Sorority Recruitment: What to Expect & What to Wear Tips & Tricks You are going to want to know what to wear for recruitment, University of Miami’s sorority recruitment occurs during the last week of winter break so when planning your December vacation, make sure you check the school calendar if recruitment is on your list of things to do during your college experience. If you are planning on going through recruitment at UM, we have all the tips and tricks to ensure you are prepped for the week. Though we won’t be with you during the process, you’ll have a recruitment counselor who is referred to as your Rho Gamma. This woman has gone through recruitment from your side so it is sure to have plenty of advice should you need it. Prior to the start of recruitment, you’ll need to attend a meeting on campus where you will be dubbed […]

Gotta Earn Some Cash? Some students have to work to pay for college, some consider their school-work their only job and others choose to work while at school to supplement their spending. Whatever the reason, it is rarely a negative when a student gets a job, whether it is to pay tuition or housing, plan for their spring break trip (see our spring break blog for more information on that) or to backpack through Europe after graduation; working, while in school, is nothing new. The University of Miami will help students get working, to find jobs, summer internships, and post-graduation employment through Toppel Career Center. There is also a Part-Time Job Fair held each fall and spring for the purpose of connecting local employers, both on and off-campus, with the University of Miami students. Students can also check on CraigsList, Indeed, SimplyHired, Snagajob, Monster, and WayUp for possible opportunities. Check out what […]

Mom…I’m sick… I’m sick…It’s bound to happen. At some point, the phone will buzz and your independent college student will cry “I don’t feel well, I’m sick.” Hopefully, their illness will be a result of their new-found independence that includes lack of sleep, exercise, stress, an unhealthy diet, and hygiene habits that don’t embrace enough hand-washing and can be cured quickly and easily. I sent my daughter to college with a “things you may need that Mom thought of just in case” box, just in case you get sick. Inside were a thermometer; vitamins, the medicines for a cold; sinus infection; stomach ache, and other common ailments. Sometimes they need care beyond your box. In my experience, my kids and I have had great results taking Source Naturals Wellness Formula. It has been a strong herbal defense supplement in fighting an illness that was recommended to me by a local natural health […]

Alumni Weekend & Homecoming November 1-3, 2018 is a campus-wide event that takes place once a year on the Coral Gables campus, and is a time that all alumni and friends come together to celebrate being a ‘Cane!

It is a lot different than being in a dorm! Living off-campus has its own challenges, here are some suggestions. Just a few months in from your freshman starting college and they bring up the subject of where they want to live the following year. By December, they have figured out who they want to room with (even if they are staying in the dorm) and they are ready to sign a lease. It is hard to imagine making a decision so early; however, the demand for living in certain areas is driving the need to sign early. You will hear them mention specific apartments yet all you want to know is the rent amount, is the area safe, how close is it to campus. There will be questions you may not have thought to ask. When Students Become Neighbors Your students will be renting apartments in a real city (as opposed […]

Easy-peasy get your pantry staples! Whether your student lives on campus or off, they will need groceries. Miami has plenty of places to shop right near UM in this regard. For those new to Florida, let me first introduce you to Publix. Publix is a Florida-based supermarket with every department found in most grocery stores including produce, pharmacy (some locations), deli, meats, canned goods, seafood, frozen foods, flowers, bread, soda, and stationery, candy, dairy and so forth. There are several Publix supermarkets close to campus. The other major chain supermarkets you will find nearby include Sedano’s, Whole Foods, Milam’s, and Trader Joes (TJs).  TJ’s is a retail unique grocery chain selling a range of grocery items, including produce, meat & dairy, and some organic foods at discount prices. They have a wide variety of frozen entrees (single serving) and unique chips, dips, salsas, and snacks. The Whole Foods philosophy is to use local, […]

When You Need Fun Electives As students at the University of Miami, we spend days leading up to class registration seeing what times and sections are available in CaneLink and searching ratemyprofessor.com. We all seem to want the same thing: not too early meeting time, reasonable length of time, and most importantly, a class we won’t spend dreading all semester. Electives are the classes that can make your semester more fun. Use the following list to finish up your credit requirements, or build your cognates around. ARH 131 & 132: Art History, Survey of Western Art I & II. 3 credit hours.With Joel Hollander, all tests are take-home including the non-cumulative final. Both of these classes can be taken with an optional writing credit. CLA 220: Greek and Roman Mythology. 3 credit hours. For an easy A, all you need to do is go to class and pay attention. In-class quizzes, a […]

We completed the drop. We unloaded the car in the treacherous Florida heat and we set up their rooms. The bed was made, everything had been put away and it only took two trips to Target for things we didn’t realize we would need. We said our see-ya-laters and shed the appropriate amount of tears. It was when I got into the car without our new college freshman, all the advice we meant to give them about those first few weeks lay dormant somewhere between the big lump in my throat and my empty heart. Forgive me if I sound dramatic, but the truth is there is a great deal to be said at that time. Whether or not they take to heart is another story. Perhaps starting the conversation a few weeks before drop-off is a better idea. Getting Started Those first few weeks of college are a crucial time for […]

UM Relay for Life Supporting the American Cancer Society Even though things are not ‘normal’ many charities need help now more than ever. UM participates in a an event called Relay for Life. Relay for Life at UM is a carnival-like event with teams selling food and drinks and multiple events. These events include races, dance parties, and raffles. All the money raised is donated to the American Cancer Society to help cancer patients with transportation, care, and research. Closer to the end of the event, there’s a ceremony to honor people who have had cancer. UM’s club has 30 current members, however, anyone can join at any time. There is an e-board made up of seven club members. During the fall, the club meets bi-weekly to discuss goings-on and fundraisers. In the spring semester, the club meets weekly to plan for the official Relay for Life event, typically held in April. […]

We’ve Got The Scoop On The Best Rentals! Everything you need to know about our favorite rentals, right here. My daughter lived on campus her freshman and sophomore years but many of her friends chose to move off-campus, after the mandatory freshman year requirement, into apartments and houses near campus. Each option offers a variety of pros and cons and each student should weigh those issues when it comes time to signing a lease. Does your student have a car, if not, how close is the apartment or house to the metro rail, bus stops or convenient and safe biking lanes? In Miami, the housing choices are plentiful. Below are some of the more popular apartment complexes students live in near UM. Some have facilities that rival a fancy hotel (pools, bus shuttles, hot tubs, exercise rooms, lounges); some provide reserved parking spots for a fee, some have washer/dryers inside the unit, […]

Yep, there’s an App for that! Remember when you were in college and everything was easily accessible via an app on your phone? No? Well, me either. Our kids, however, do live in this world and there are literally apps that provide things like food delivery, tutoring services, or finding a parking spot.  Below are some I thought were most useful. UM and College Studying Apps U Guardian – I am listing this first because we always want to know our kids are safe.  It is a free, personal safety service valid to the University of Miami students that rapidly provides information about an individual to UM police during an emergency. Students set a safety timer when heading to an unfamiliar location, meeting someone he or she does not know or any other situation in which he or she would like someone to check-in. If their timer expires and their guardians see […]

When Will My Financial Aid Money Disburse? The time has come to pay for your college costs and money panic may set in.  I remember that first tuition bill when my oldest started college. While I was fortunate to have Florida Prepaid, I soon realized there was more to take into account in regard to paying for college. I also found that her bank account did not reflect her Bright Futures Scholarship funds right away. So, when does this money get disbursed? Can financial aid cover books, living accommodations, and even travel until the disbursement comes? Since UM is a private university, things work a little differently than they might at another state of Florida schools. Here are some financial specifics to keep your bottom line in line: Financial Aid Financial aid at Miami occurs through a few different programs. The first is gift aid in which scholarships and grants provide financial […]

Perhaps It’s Time to Consider Majors that are Sustainable in Tough Times Students usually choose a major over a period of time. I have always been a fan of taking a variety of classes until you find the ones that you enjoy most and choosing a major around that. Every school, including UM, has its more popular majors as well. However; in these unprecedented times, students might want to take recent events into consideration when choosing or changing their major. As with any major event, such as a recession, war, or, in this case, a pandemic, there is a shift in what type of degree a student may want to consider pursuing. Certainly, the job market will look different in the future. Contemplating what jobs were sustainable throughout the pandemic may also help in the decision-making process. For instance, public health which can include hospital management, infectious disease, and clinical research, among […]

As with other college campuses, the amount of burger, pizza, and fast food restaurants at the University of Miami and the surrounding campus is a big reason for the Freshman 15. This is no surprise considering so many students live on a tight budget.

Health Insurance, Everyone needs it! Students at many colleges today must have a health insurance plan that meets their University’s minimum requirement. And, if you forget to submit a waiver if your student is covered under your medical plan, the University will purchase an insurance plan for your student. Knowing this, my daughter still forgot to submit a waiver. When I spoke to someone at the university, they assured me that my daughter had received many, and I mean many, reminder emails. This oversight cost us a penalty to have it canceled. All University of Miami domestic students actively enrolled in six or more credit hours per semester or considered full time are required to obtain adequate health insurance coverage (exceptions list). All international students, regardless of credit load, are required to be insured under the policy. Deciding on which health insurance plan your student should be on may require a degree […]

Need to Stay on a Budget? Be Thrifty! Are you thrifty? Being a college student, it can be stressful to be thrifty and stay on budget throughout the semester. There can be interviews, social events, and many occasions for a new outfit. In between, living in a rental, I like to redecorate my room and living space with my roommates. Spending money at the mall, popular house décor stores, Target, or discount stores, such as Homegoods, can add up quickly. Fortunately, I have discovered the various thrift stores located in Miami. No matter what type of item you are looking for, these stores have it. From clothes, bedroom decoration, or appliances, they have it all. Buying second-hand allows students on any budget to get everything they could possibly need for class, their living space, and professional events. Thrifting isn’t just a hot trend right now. It’s an amazing way to stay in […]

Join to Enrich The way to feel more included is to join one of the many groups and organizations. The beauty of the University of Miami is that there are more than 16,000 students from around the world, and is a vibrant and diverse academic community focused on teaching and learning. Set in Florida’s most tropical playground, the University of Miami can feel intimidating to some and very welcoming to others. Yet there are many ways to make this university in a big city feel smaller. Some students will choose to rush a sorority or fraternity (see our blogs about that here and here), but others will not find Greek life their cup of tea. No worries; there are so many valuable and fulfilling ways to get involved on campus. Some of you may believe that your student’s first job is school, and I couldn’t agree more. That said; being involved in […]

Let’s do breakfast? Who doesn’t love breakfast? It is the most fun you can have at the weekend! There are plenty of options and here are our favorites. Bagel Emporium – Decent bagels directly across from Campus. Take the newly installed pedestrian bridge to cross over US1. Bachour  – World-renowned pastry chef Antonio Bachour’s restaurant, bakery, and pastry shop. The menu is Contemporary American and features a full-line of viennoiserie, egg-based dishes, tartines, sandwiches and salads as well as Bachour’s petite-gateaux, macarons, and bonbons. 2020 Salzedo St, Miami, FL 33134 Deli Lane Cafe – To me, Deli Lane is a staple breakfast spot in the 305. Nice outdoor dining, pet-friendly, consistent breakfast options for the health-conscious and the hungry traveler. 7230 SW 59th Ave., South Miami, FL 33143 Greenstreet Cafe – “Almost everyone I knew was Instagramming their Nutella french toasts and hashtagging brunch” 3468 Main Hwy, Coconut Grove, FL 33133 Honeybee Donuts […]

Getting That Last Spot! You sent them to college with a car and they are grateful. However, although it will make a weekly Publix run easier, no one really thought about the fact that parking at UM can be pretty inconvenient and tends to be a problem every year. There are not enough spots for as many students live on or drive to campus. Permit sales for the 2018-19 school year will start on July 9th for returning students and July 16th for new students. To find the cost and eligibility for each level for 2018-19 permits click here. It sounds simple enough, but somehow students occasionally get in trouble and unpaid violations can result in towing, booting and/or the delay of registration for a new semester. Paying, appealing and more information here. Visitors, events and disabled parking information. Remind your students to be diligent about proper parking. Unpaid parking fines will hold […]

Here Are The Guidelines You Should Consider… It is inevitable. Sometimes your student will register for a class and, for a myriad of reasons, will need to drop it. We spoke at great length before our daughter even started school what our rules and guidelines were for dropping a class. (and how many we were willing to “pay” for). Those rules are very personal and vary greatly from family to family. We all know college is a time for the kids to try new things, in real life they don’t get too many “do-overs” but we knew there would come a time when she needed one. This is an important discussion to have and it is one that is often overlooked. Dropping it… That being said my daughter needed to drop a math class during her spring semester, freshman year. She was a Communications major with a minor in Political Science; suffice […]

Transition Can Be A Challenge. At the University of Miami, once you’re a ‘Cane you’re a member of a special family that cares for its flock! In addition to the myriad of counseling services offered at the U, there are additional ways to receive comfort on campus to help make that transition to independent living an easier one. They really do care. My daughter got involved very early in several clubs during club rush and then in the spring joined a sorority. For her it was the start of many great friendships, making connections on campus as well as a path to leadership opportunities. For some students getting their sea legs, Club and Sorority/Fraternity rush can be daunting. For those students, The University of Miami has a wonderful mentorship program called CaneBuddy. CaneBuddy does Care! CaneBuddy facilitates the transition of new ‘canes to UM and South Florida. Experienced and knowledgeable upperclassmen will […]

Learning To Live With Others… For many students entering college, this may be their first time away from home for an extended period of time. While dorm living can be an enriching and wonderful part of the college experience, it can also be a source of great stress and discomfort if the roommates are not a good match. Granted, the fit does not have to be perfect, however, the students do need to be able to comfortably and safely co-exist in their shared living space. Teach your student before leaving home what it means to be a good roommate. Oftentimes kids make selfish decisions that they are not even aware of.  My daughter was so fortunate to have found a really good fit (through the school Facebook page roommate finder) during her freshman year and has continued living with the same girl all through school.  She heard many stories from friends about […]

LGBTQ Campus Support and Resources College can be challenging for all students, therefore finding ways to make connections with others who identify similarly can make a big difference. The American College Health Association estimate that at least 10% of college students identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual, trans, asexual, pansexual, or questioning. Although LGBTQ PRIDE is becoming more prevalent, the LGBTQ community often face additional pressures or concerns. UM, and its surrounding community offer resources and information to both help LGBTQ students navigate the college environment and make connections in a group setting. The first place Cane LGBTQ+ students should check-in is the Student Affairs LGBTQ Center, at 1306 Stanford Dr. in the Whitten University Center, room 2300K for a place to hang out, feel connected, or get involved. You can check out their calendar or visit Facebook, Instagram, & Twitter. If a virtual connection is more feasible; check out UM’s LGBTQ Virtual Resources […]

What to do When Dad Comes to Visit Time for some dad bonding time down in Miami! Here are activities, locations, and restaurants ideal for any visiting father and student to have some fun. Crandon Park Beach– Located on Key Biscayne, Crandon Park is great for a low-key beach day. Away from the hustle and bustle of South Beach, Crandon Park is a great alternative for some fun in the sun. This expansive stretch of coast provides a crowd-free atmosphere. An awesome beach for playing frisbee or spike ball. Little Havana– Little Havana is the center of Cuban culture in Miami. Little Havana is filled with delicious restaurants and cool galleries, as well as being the No. 1 place to buy Cuban cigars. Try some Cuban coffee while you enjoy live Latin music! Miami Hurricanes Baseball Game (Seasonal)- From February to May, the top-ranked UM baseball team plays multiple games a week […]

It Is Possible To Save Money! I have experimented with various approaches to teaching my daughter to live on a budget. She needed to be eating on a budget. When she lived at home, she was expected to learn how to save the money she received as gifts and earned at her part-time job. Once she each left for college, the discussion about budgeting took on a more serious tone. Perhaps your student is actually able to keep to a budget. My daughter needed more guidance and I thought she struggled at the beginning, she eventually got it. She had to learn the hard way after overspending and undersaving and not having enough money to participate in things when her friends were going out. I admit, it was hard telling my daughter, as I watched her monthly allowance dwindle, that she better be a bit more cautious or stock up on peanut […]

Who doesn’t love a Hurricane? I love going to Hurricane football games- there is nothing like game day. HaveUHeard how UM got its colors? In 1926, UM, chose its colors based on the Florida orange tree – the orange was chosen to symbolize the fruit of an orange tree, the green represents the leaves and the white, the blossoms. I’m all about the Orange & Green on game days but I am also about fashion. I want to be comfortable, especially on those Florida humid days when it’s more than 90° out and the humidity is stifling. As Game Day gets closer, UM will announce what colors students are expected to wear. For example, they may announce that a game will have a “green-out” or an “orange-out.” Want to know the actual primary colors- UM gives you the graphic versions. We think the best in authentic college clothing, accessories, and fan gear […]

Weekend Fun and Games! Parents Weekend 2019 begins at approximately 3:00 pm on Thursday, Oct. 3, 2019, and runs through Sunday, October 6, 2019. As a Hurricane Alum as well as a UM Parent, anytime the opportunity presents itself to be able to share in some Hurricane football with my daughter, I am there. Each year family weekend occurs within the first 1-2 months of school which involves some great programming for students and their families as well as a home football game that families are encouraged to attend. Be sure to check our blog on hotels to help find the best accommodations for your family. Registration Registration for Fall Family Weekend typically opens in the summer. For more details and bookmark the page for the most up to date information. What to do at the Weekend There will be an entire schedule of events for the family weekend which in the […]

A guide to all the meal plans Note: Residential dining and retail locations are expected to resume regular schedules for the fall 2020 semester. Each facility will have limited seating capacities, distancing requirements, enhanced cleaning protocols, visual signage to help guide students within the spaces, and expanded outdoor seating. In addition, a dine-in and take-out dining program providing nutritious and healthy options will be available for both residential and commuter meal plans. All-you-can-eat will continue, however, there will be no self-serve stations. Visit the UM Dining website for the latest updates. Otherwise… The start of college is right around the corner and many of you might be envisioning your student’s diet as burgers and pizzas and fries, oh my? Sure, we have been making meals for our kids for as long as we can remember. And yes, some of our kids know how to cook or even enjoy cooking but most have […]

Consideration for Providing Accessibility for Everyone For students with a disability, the Students with Disability Services office can help.  Whether it’s ADHD or physical impairment, the University of Miami provides great care and consideration for providing access to all. The Office of Disability Services (ODS) provides academic accommodations and support to ensure that students with disabilities are able to access and participate in the opportunities available at the University of Miami. Information is available to prospective and enrolled students, their parents and/or sponsors. The Office of Disability Services (ODS) is located in the Camner Center for Academic Resources at Whitten University Center 2400. ODS staff can be reached at 305-284-2374 (Voice) or 305-284-1999 (Fax). Office hours are 8:30 am to 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday.  Individuals may email the office staff for quick responses to questions. Meeting with the ODS office can help to eliminate fears and unanswered questions pertaining to everything […]

Getting Settled UM’s move-in day has come a long way since my daughter moved in freshman year. Gone are the days of endless trips back and forth to the car.  The University of Miami now partners with University and Student Services (USS) to provide a convenient and stress-free move-in experience. As the exclusive provider of “Cruise Ship Move-In” on college campuses, USS will bring all your students’ belongings from your car directly to their room. This gives you more time to focus on what’s important, getting them settled in their room. Once the big event is complete, be prepared for a trip or two to the store for the inevitable forgotten or an overlooked item, like an extension cord long enough to plug in the mini-fridge. I will not get into the emotional goodbyes at the end of the day, but I will say that large sunglasses to cover my watery, red […]

Keep Yourself Stress-free. Stress.  It happens to all of us, including our kids. As though balancing a full schedule, the welcome distraction of football season, joining news clubs and student organizations, adjusting to college, and trying to maintain a social life is not enough, our students had the added bonus of an uninvited guest, Hurricane Irma. Now students are getting near mid-terms. Fortunately, The University of Miami is on top of it, offering various programs, workshops, training, and suggestions; most of which are free to our Canes. Students can even sign up for a 30-minute massage chair session! Creating and maintaining a healthy, psychologically-minded student population is the purpose of the UM Counseling Center outreach efforts. The help students achieve academic success, and personal and social empowerment through awareness and knowledge. Outreach includes connecting with students through consultations, workshops, events, informational tablings through their COPE program. That is not to mention the […]

Our first mother-daughter weekend in Miami was such a wonderful, memorable experience. We took a long walk around the campus, strolling around Lake Osceola, through the Arboretum and had a picnic lunch out on the green.

Manage That Weird In-Between Gap Time. Although it feels like you just moved your students into their dorms, you now have to move them out. The worst part, aside from the grueling heat, is that some may be returning in just a few weeks to move back in somewhere. The dreaded gap! And, if they have to be back early in August, whether it be another dorm, fraternity house or an apartment, having to schlep their stuff back home to return in just a few weeks seems a little silly. I know how many carloads it took to get our daughter moved in and, frankly, I am not prepared to rent a U-Haul to get her home and back again. I recommend your students start bringing things home if they are making any trips home between now and the end of the semester or if you are visiting, bring some items home. […]

If two nights and two days can make your head spin, these might be the two. It’s not a bad thing, of course; it is just the amount of information can get a bit overwhelming. They need to orient themselves to their new life.

This is a budget lesson that will serve you in the future! I have experimented with various approaches to teaching my daughter to live on a budget. When she lived at home, she was expected to learn how to save the money she received as gifts and earned at her part-time job. Once she each left for college, the discussion about budgeting took on a more serious tone. Perhaps your student is actually able to keep to a budget. My daughter needed more guidance and struggled at the beginning. She had to learn the hard way after overspending and not saving by not having enough money to participate in things when her friends were going out. I admit, it was hard telling my daughter, as I watched her monthly allowance dwindle, that she better be a bit more cautious or stock up on peanut butter or ramen noodles for her next few […]

A lot going on at once. Moving out can be almost as hectic as moving into the dorms and apartments. You are typically assigned a move out time to keep the flow smooth. Students are expected to check out of their rooms and University Village apartments no later than 24 hours after their last final examination. To avoid fines and charges, please check out properly and follow the required checkout process. Failure to follow the checkout procedures will result in a $100 fine. For complete instructions on move-out procedures as well as information about moving back into a dorm if your student is living on campus for the summer. All students are required to leave their residences in a clean and orderly condition, and follow the proper checkout procedures set forth by the Department of Housing and Residential Life Office. HRL does not provide storage for student belongings. Goodwill Industries South Florida will […]

Campus Guide to Resources for Multicultural Students Campus diversity amongst students has grown considerably over the years and UM vies to maintain an inclusive atmosphere; allowing all students to gain exposure, perceptions, global awareness, and a willingness to collaborate peacefully and freely. Whether serving as a forum for communication, helping minority students build strong social networks, or simply in pursuit of a welcoming space amongst other students of color; UM undoubtedly has a place where you will find your connections. United Black Students serves to unite, empower, and uplift African Americans through cultural, professional, and personal events and initiatives. They can be found through Engage or followed on Facebook for upcoming events. Among the organizations, clubs, and groups on campus; students may also be interested in joining one of the sororities or fraternities. The following are part of the Multi-cultural Greek-letter fraternities and sororities. Delta Epsilon Psi Phi lota Alpha Lamba Theta […]

Let’s talk about it. Now you have your college student moved in and they are ready to embark on a new independent life. Counseling services are available. For the past year (probably longer), the focus has been on how to get your student into college, not how to cope once they arrive. The truth is that many new college students are not properly prepared for the realities of college life. I know mine needed some guidance during that first semester away from home. As a parent, even if you are not a helicopter parent, it may be difficult to drive off. For me personally, while I miss my daughter immensely, I am also confident that I have given her the tools to succeed. The leash was loosened back in high school allowing her to make adult decisions while I was still around to offer my guidance. They are going to experiment perhaps […]

Our favorite meal! We love desserts! Sometimes, we think the best part of the dinner is the dessert, here are some of our favorites! (Note, several neighborhoods represented here) Azucar Ice Cream Company – Good idea to go if you’re dining at Versailles. This will take you into one of the coolest most unique ethnic neighborhoods in all of Miami. Tropical fusion Miami flavors must try! 1503 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33135 Chill-N Nitrogen Ice Cream – Owned by 2 UM alumni, best ice cream in town! 8271 SW 124th St, Pinecrest, FL 33156 Chocolate Fashion – I love the authenticity of this quaint French cafe. Incredible pastries and desserts. 248 Andalusia Ave, Coral Gables, FL 33134 Dough Miami – Raw cookie dough concoctions just like a Sundae! No raw eggs in the batter, safe to eat. 9351 SW 56th St, Miami, FL 33165 Fireman Derek’s Pie Back Shop – I could go on and […]

Our favorite places for dinner. Yes, there are tons of restaurants where you can eat your dinner…here are just a few of our favorites! Gables / South Miami / Coconut Grove Bulla Gastrobar Inspired by Madrid’s tapas scene, it’s a gastropub atmosphere that’s totally fun, totally Miami. 2500 Ponce De Leon Blvd, Coral Gables, FL 33134 Cibo Wine Bar-Coral Gables Gorgeous inside! Great wine selection. Decent Italian food, great prices. 45 Miracle Mile, Coral Gables, FL 33134 Havana Harry’s Coral Gables Craving Miami’s best & most innovative Cuban food, HH is Miami’s premier Cuban Fusion restaurant. 4612 S Le Jeune Rd, Coral Gables, FL 33146 Hillstone Restaurant An essential stop for locals and visitors for nearly 15 years. Superb service, food, and atmosphere. 201 Miracle Mile, Coral Gables, FL 33134 Lan Pan Asian Cafe Great fusion / Asian food with creative, super fresh sushi. Don’t be fooled that is in the same […]

Food Glorious Food! Like any big city, there are literally thousands of dining options from fast food to fast-casual, from family-style to fine dining. You will find your burgers, pizza, Cuban, Mexican, Chinese, barbecue, sushi, salads, Mediterranean, Indian, Caribbean, basically a restaurant from every continent, for every palate and every price point. Just like with hotels, Miami has many local and national chains, those are super easy to find and are of great comfort when you do not know where to eat. I’m letting you know about the cool spots, the places the locals go to get their fix. Try a new restaurant, Miami has many talented chefs and is the melting pot of our great state. Trust, me, if you enjoy dining out, you are going to eat some great meals while you are visiting here over the next four years! When coming to Miami to visit your student or tour […]

Keep up the Tradition For many students, being able to continue to worship, pray, and adhere to their religious beliefs is extremely important. For those students, it is important for them to be able to follow their faith and connect to their spirituality in a meaningful way while still being a student. Having a place to worship on or near campus allows them to meet other students and have a Rabbi, Minister, Bishop, or Priest to turn to should they need spiritual guidance. The University of Miami is a very diverse campus. At or around UM, there are places to worship, regardless of your students’ faith. Shortly after my daughter began school, the first of the most important Jewish holidays were approaching (think the equivalent of Good Friday and Easter Sunday).  We had always gone to services together and had large family gatherings with the entire extended family. Since the holiday fell […]

OH NO…It Happened! It’s Lost. We have all had the misfortune of losing something really important. My daughter’s roommate was doing study abroad in London. She had the unfortunate luck of losing her wallet on a train, which of course contained all of her vital ID’s, money and other valuable keepsakes. Thankfully her passport was back at her flat which would have been a huge hassle to fix while away from home. She tracked her credit and debit cards and eventually canceled them. Luckily, her bank had locations in London and she was able to obtain temporary cards while still abroad. Losing It… My other daughter loses more sweatshirts and calculators than any other student I know! Conduct a search on the student UM page, and you will see daily posts for lost keys, wallets, cell phones, ID’s and so forth. And, while clearly my kids are not the only ones who […]

If You’re Worried, Just Call Admissions. My niece recently called me wondering why she had not yet heard from the University of Miami although she had sent in her new SAT scores and first-semester senior grades. “How long do we have to wait?” she pleaded. I told her to call the admissions office directly. Read here for a list of admission FAQ’s and here for information on being waitlisted. Often we are apprehensive about calling the admissions departments of any college for fear of somehow being blackballed for phoning. Then, when lack of patience gets the best of us, we find out that the new scores never did actually arrive or they are there but haven’t been sent to the proper parties. It is not uncommon for this to occur, so if you are feeling uneasy about not having heard, there is nothing wrong with placing a call (or rather having your […]

Look Your Best! It’s not just for fairy tales, getting the beauty treatment makes her happy. As the mother of girls, I know all too well that not being able to go to get their hair cut, nails done, eyebrows waxed, is something they really miss when they are away at school. Several of my daughter’s’ guy friends are the same way. Guys also want to and need to look their best so finding a good barber is important! Now before anyone gets ready to jump all over the “beauty is skin deep” bandwagon, let me just say, when your student is away for an entire semester, being able to get a hair trim or eyebrows waxed may be important to them. And for special occasions (Greek formals, university banquet, a job interview on campus), they want to make certain their nails look polished. So where are students to go for hair […]

One more thing to worry about, is their stuff safe? When they were at home you knew the valuables were safe, but now? Right up there with the call from my college daughter that she lost her phone, keys, student ID, (fill in the blank), is the call you get when they tell you someone took their cell phone, watch, or whatever valuable item your child has had stolen.

There’s A Knock At The Door! Whether students just want to take a break from the dining hall or if parents want to send their students food or birthday treats, the University of Miami has a variety of different food delivery service options to choose from. Delivery Services: Amazon – Signing up for Amazon Prime as a student allows the student to use Amazon’s feature of grocery delivery free for 6 months and then after that it is a discounted fee that the student. Bite Squad – There is a chat option if you would like to review your order or ask why your order is taking so long. You can schedule a delivery for later in the day and check the order status. Gift cards are available. DoorDash – More food delivery at your fingertips. Some say it is more efficient than UberEats too. Use the app or the website. Doorstep […]

Your Student got in trouble, now what? You send your student off to college with the best intentions. You’ve had the discussion about budgets, walking alone at night, binge drinking, hazing, and drugs and still you may get the phone call every parent fears. Your student got into trouble now what do we do? The first thing you should do is breathe and remain calm because most likely your child is freaking out. Yes, they may have done something very stupid and immature, but let’s remember they are still navigating their way around adulthood. This may be a very good time for some growth and maturity to happen, let’s always think of a silver lining. Besides we ourselves may have been in their shoes. At the University of Miami, there are several avenues in which an issue may be resolved. The Division of Student Affairs engages, supports, and develops students and the […]

Everyone wants to be a Miami Hurricane! Students transfer schools for a myriad of reasons. Hopefully, your student will finally feel at home once they become a Cane! If you’re a student transferring from another school, here is where you can find pertinent and up-to-date information regarding application deadlines. Here is a full explanation of all necessary transfer student information. Keep in mind, transfer students have different deadlines for applying. Your application deadlines are determined by the semester you’re applying for. Students choose from two application options: Fall and Spring Semester. Fall Semester Deadlines: Common Application and Supporting Documents PROFILE, Priority Deadline is April 1 FAFSA, Final Deadline is June 1 2016 Federal Tax Return (with all schedules) and Employer W-2s Admission Notification, Early April Enrollment Deposit of $500, May 1 or four weeks after the date of admission letter Music transfer applicants must apply by January 1 for fall admission. International […]

Rushing Sorority or Not? Is Recruitment The Way? For parents of incoming freshmen, you are probably starting to hear whispers about the sorority rush. The way rushing is handled for sororities are very different than fraternities. Talk to any parent at any school, and you will not find too many who love the process.  But like the process or not, sororities and fraternities do have their advantages, especially when your child is far from home. In order to participate in Sorority recruitment, you must be enrolled in 12 or more credits for the Spring 2020 semester and have earned a 2.5 or better cumulative GPA and 12 or more credit hours already earned as a full-time college student. No exceptions will be made regarding these eligibility requirements.  Your GPA will not be rounded-up, therefore a 2.499 will still not be considered eligible. It is in your best interest to remain aware of […]

Congratulations if your daughter has found a place to call home. Being in a sorority opens the door to so many wonderful experiences. My daughter made some of her greatest friends when she was in a sorority at The University of Miami.

Students who attend The University of Miami, no different than many other highly sought after colleges, will be faced with challenging classes taught by respected and renowned professors. This is not high school where a student can often coast by; succeeding at UM requires taking classes seriously.

We all know by now the advantages of staying fit, exercise, stress relief, healthy heart, maintaining weight (or losing if those freshman 15 do start to creep up) and so on. The question is will our students work out when they get to school.

Fraternity Truth, Is It Really like The Animal House? Going back to 1978 with the release of “Animal House”, which became one of the most successful fraternity comedies of all time, to 2014 with the release of “Neighbors,” fraternities have been portrayed as groups of Neanderthals that do nothing but party, drink alcohol and abuse drugs. Fraternities have been called out on national television for purported participation in horrific activities. Certainly, if a fraternity house is engaging in behavior that crosses the line, they should, and will, end up either on suspension or maybe even kicked off-campus. But talk with many of the young men in fraternities at UM, and they will speak of brotherhood, a lifetime of friendships and access to leadership positions on campus. The University of Miami currently has 18 National or International fraternities, 7 of the 18 have houses on campus, the other 11 have suites in the […]

Everything you’ll need to know about UM football and sports! Way back, when your student was deciding on where to go to college, attending Miami Hurricane sports probably came into play. It’s just what we do. And it’s fun…even if you don’t know what’s really happening on the court/field. (Who me?) The important part is to know when to cheer when to Throw up the U (Throwing up the U is taught at orientation and if you missed that class, it’s pretty easy to catch on, but I will describe later) and when it’s a good time to run out and get a drink (I mean water. It gets extremely hot on some game days.) The key is learning where to sit in the stadium based on time of game and shade. Student Sports Tickets Did U know…UM, students get into all Hurricane athletic events, including football with their paid student activity […]

The First Time Getting There… Transportation to college is not as complicated as it used to be. That first time you drop your student off at a college, you will probably want to go with them and get them settled. Many of you will drive and many will fly into town. There are many transportation options when it comes to getting to Miami. The key is, that as time goes on, you most probably won’t be delivering and picking your student up very often. Here are some ways to get to them or get them back to you. First, we are so lucky, because we have an (international) airport just 20 minutes from UM. Students have also been known to fly into Ft. Lauderdale and even West Palm Beach and drive, uber, carpool or super shuttle down the last leg of the trip. This makes flights plentiful and it is often easy […]

Maid, It Might Be The Best Solution… I never thought I would be saying this, but sometimes it is a good idea to hire a maid for your students’ apartment or dorm. Hear me out…I think most kids are perfectly capable of keeping a cleanroom. With flu season and virus’ going around; wouldn’t it give you peace of mind knowing their living space was germ-free? Some students simply don’t have the time and are often searching for affordable cleaning help. Or perhaps your student is moving out of a dorm or apartment that really needs a professional cleaning service so that your student does not lose their deposit or get charged fees for not putting the residence back in the same condition it was given to them. Here are some of the cleaning services many students turn to: Dorm Mom– Purchase laundry or cleaning plans to fit your budget Crystal Clean Miami […]

First Applicants Find Substantial Assets, FAFSA of course! First Applicants Find Substantial Assets, of course! FAFSA is the national Free Application for Federal Student Aid but, based on how aid is distributed, it may as well stand for First Applications Find Substantial Assets. Because aid is distributed on a first-come, first-serve basis, every student that hopes to receive aid for college must fill out this form to even be considered. Every college has its own deadline. UM’s school code is 001536. UM’s priority deadlines are November 15th each year for fall Early Decision/Early Action applicants and January 1st  for Early Decision II / Regular Decision. After December 15, applications are reviewed in the order they were received.  Of course, if your student did not know if they were accepted back then, but they can speak with the Office of Financial Affairs to update their application if your circumstances have changed substantially from […]

You Can Dance If You Want To Perhaps you have seen the Facebook posts from your student or friends’ kids that say #FTK or #ForTheKids. Maybe even fundraising pages for an event called CanesTHON.  Or maybe you have never even heard of CanesTHON. If you have a student at UM, you will definitely want to know about this event, donate to this event, and encourage your student to get involved in this event. This is college philanthropy at its best. The purpose of CanesTHON is to provide financial and emotional support to families and children of Nicklaus Children’s Hospital. CanesTHON hopes to raise awareness and strives to engage and empower students and the community to build relationships and heighten social awareness by raising funds in a creative, energetic, and inspiring manner. “Dance the Night Away” at this year’s CanesThon will take place on TBA, at the Shalala Student Center from 4:00 – […]

Young Jewish Students Trip. What is Birthright Israel? It is the gift of a free, 10-day trip to Israel designed for young adults of Jewish heritage, aged 18–32. Our Mission at UM Hillel is the foundation for Jewish life on campus. Our mission is to enrich the lives of Jewish students at the University of Miami so they will enrich the Jewish people and the world. Our vision is to inspire every Jewish student to make a meaningful and enduring commitment to Jewish life, learning, and Israel. This is the trip you go on with your friends from college or to meet new people from your campus. Ten extraordinary days experiencing the enriching, inspiring and exhilarating sights, sounds, and soul of the country. Hang out with Israelis your age, hike beautiful trails, catch breathtaking views, learn history, taste new foods, ride a camel, swim in the dead sea and so much more. […]

UM Honor Societies What are the Honor Societies and how do they work? When it came time for my daughter to make the final decision and choose her school she really weighed all the pros and cons of each school, including honor societies. Ultimately, the University of Miami won over all the other schools because of the combination of many things but mostly because of their quality of professors, opportunities for research and internships and because of the caliber of student she would be engaging with both in and out of the classroom. General Honors General Honors are the University-wide honors program established in 1957. There is no separate application for the General Honors program. The College invites incoming freshmen with a minimum 1400 on the SAT or 32 on the ACT and who graduate in the top 5% of their high school class to join the program. To learn more click […]

Support, Empowerment, and Connection for Hispanic-Latino Students The University of Miami’s campus diversity amongst students has grown considerably over the years and UM vies to maintain an inclusive atmosphere; allowing all students to gain exposure, perceptions, global awareness, and a willingness to collaborate peacefully and freely. Whether serving as a forum for communication, helping students build strong social networks, or simply in pursuit of a welcoming space amongst other Hispanic or Latinx students; UM undoubtedly has a place where you will find your connections. UM students have the opportunity to enroll in the College of Arts and Sciences Latin American Program to study the politics, economics, cultures, and societies of Latin America and the Caribbean. Students may want to choose a major, minor, or just enroll in some classes in this realm. There is also a fellowship and honors program associated with the Latin American Studies Program. UM proudly supports various organizations for […]

Read This Before You Shop! If you haven’t started shopping for what to bring for your incoming freshman yet, whether for things for their dorm or clothes; we are here to tell you that you probably shouldn’t bother. My daughter did a very thorough job of depleting me and her grandmother of our savored stack of Bed Bath and Beyond coupons, only to find several items purchased were just a waste of time and money. Hint: Keep all of your receipts; oftentimes these stores will accept returns and exchanges. What we want to share is that there are a few things you really do not need to purchase for freshman move-in. Here, in our experience is what you do and don’t need to bring. For instance, do not purchase a printer. The University of Miami has implemented UPrint. This is the student printing solution (included with your student’s fees) at the University […]

Just Need A Quiet Place, Right? If you’re a student that enjoys studying outdoors, there is no shortage of open green spaces and lush tropical corners to hide away and get to the books.

Good School, Great School. That is understandable; U.S. News & World Report ranks the University of Miami #57 on their 2018 “Best College List”. The University of Miami is a remarkable university with its deep-seated traditions and picturesque campus, to their stellar research and world-class medical school, UM is filled with opportunity. The question is how does your son or daughter get in? Back in the day, UM was known as Suntan U. While many students attend the U because of our luxurious city and warm weather, that moniker has expanded greatly to attract very high-achieving students from all over the world, in an extremely competitive, academic environment. Today, UM is extremely selective; they do not want only top grades and test scores but actively seek students who demonstrate academic talent, a strong college preparatory curriculum, personal integrity, and seriousness of educational purpose. Record High for Cane Applications Applications reached 38,893 this […]

Now It’s Time To Find The Right One! When our kids were small, we always knew to pay for college was something we envisioned, and were fortunate enough to plan accordingly. As soon as the first acceptance to college came in, so did the idea of actually having to pay tuition and room and board.  Many University of Miami students live in Florida so their parents have invested in a Florida prepaid plan and have been encouraged throughout high school to qualify for Bright Futures Scholarships. The Florida prepaid plan works differently at a private university than a public university, so check here for the rules about disbursement of your funds to the University of Miami. If you are a recipient of an outside scholarship, you are required by the U. S. Department of Education to notify the Office of Student Financial Assistance and Employment (OSFAE). Please submit all information from the […]

Taking Success To The Next Level! As they get closer to graduation, one of the greatest changes our students are about to experience is abandoning their shorts, t-shirts and yoga pants, as they begin to dress for success in their new roles, or as my older daughter stated, for adulting. Dressing for success can be daunting in different ways, but the one that stands out most may very well be its cost. Starting with the career and internship fairs students are attending, students need to put look professional. For the young men, this may mean a suit and tie and for the young women, while they have more options, it may mean a suit, pantsuit, skirt, and blouse or dress. That’s not to mention shoes. For students who may not have the means to go and purchase a new outfit, UM has Sebastian’s Closet, a lending service where students can rent professional clothes […]

Learn this now! I can vividly remember being in college and having to make the dreaded call home to ask my mom for money. I was the last of 3 kids she put through college, so she had heard it all. This was before cell phones (think wall corded phones) and, dare I say it, before the internet. Banking required you to wait for the statement to arrive in the mail. My mom would go through each statement to see exactly how I was spending my money. She used to joke all the time about that funny college saying “How can I be overdrawn I still have blank checks”…. Since we pretty much only spoke once a week (On Sunday night when rates were cheaper, again, no such thing as texting, emails or cell phones), having to mention needing money was not exactly what I wanted to talk about. During college breaks, […]

Celebrate with a New Community Generally, our kids get to come home for Thanksgiving and Christmas, but for those who celebrate the upcoming Jewish High Holidays, it may be your first one without your students at your holiday table. While it may feel strange having that empty seat, it can feel better to know that they are celebrating the holidays with a new community of their peers. There are options for Jewish students at the University of Miami. You may want to let them know they exist and then hope that they will choose to participate. Time Off Not all colleges give days off for every holiday and it doesn’t look like UM is any different. Students must inform their professors, in writing, well in advance of their absence for the holiday, but chances are class will go on and they will be responsible for any work. Even if they do get […]

Who doesn’t enjoy getting a package delivered? We know you really care, you care a lot about your student and want them to be happy. Whether it is for a birthday, a little something to ease the stress of midterms or finals, a pick me up when they are feeling sick, holiday treats, or congratulations on a job well done; there are many options that will surely bring a smile to your student’s face. Sometimes it is nice to go with the local shops; most all deliver. Then again, there are some excellent national choices too. We have given you plenty to choose from– all of which our kids, interns, or we like. All you have to do now is decide what to send. There is variety there too. For instance; if you are looking for sweets (and who isn’t?) for a birthday, pick me up, Halloween, Valentine’s Day, religious holidays, or […]

Our Florida Hurricane Weather. Having moved to South Florida as a teen, I have gone through more than 35 Hurricane seasons. I prepared for my first major Hurricane in 1992 when Hurricane Andrew made landfall about 10 miles south of the University campus. I was living with my parents not far from Coral Gables, and our home sustained major Hurricane damage. I know what it’s like to lose power for a week, it’s tough in those hot summer months. I know what it takes to prepare and survive a hurricane and like most natives (or almost natives like me), we take a potential threat to our community very seriously. We had the old-fashioned hurricane panels that had to be screwed in and it took about five hours to put all of the shutters up.  Hurricanes, or the potential for a direct hit, are frightening. The 24-hour news cycle and social media do very […]

Feels Like A Really Big Decision! Choosing a major is not only a big decision, but it can also be a difficult one for some students. For assistance in selecting a program of study, the University of Miami has resources to aid in student’s decision making. Because of the size of the UM undergraduate population, students have the opportunity to communicate and meet with their advisors regularly throughout their time at the U. If necessary, each semester students can work with their advisors when choosing their courses to keep on top of prerequisites and to help steer them in the right direction. My daughter has developed a terrific relationship with her advisor who will quickly answer an email or have a quick chat when she needs help. Her advisor was the first person she called when deciding to drop a class. Oftentimes, advisors can be a lifeline for your students. UM advisors […]

You Can Change Your Mind! The University of Miami boasts 11 Schools and Colleges and offers more than 180 academic programs and majors. Many students begin college with an idea of what they wish to study, but it is not uncommon for a student to change majors. My own daughter changed her major early on from Communications to Political Science.  Changing is not always viewed as a poor decision; oftentimes an advisor or dean will encourage the change because it means the student found a career path that better interests them. Many of my friends have told me that their kids decided against a career in medicine after a few chemistry classes which, in turn, meant a major change as well. Major Change! Changing and choosing a major isn’t always easy. There are several ways you can support your student as they are trying to decide or as they consider possibly changing […]

Coffee, Cup of Joe, a Cuppa, Java Caffeine is king for most college students and, while generally the most economically savvy way of getting it is making it at home, most students choose to obtain their “bean juice” via more expensive and more social ways. I, for one, am a huge coffee lover and typically have a cup in the morning from my trusty Keurig, as well as a shop cup later in the afternoon. Since coffee shops are peaceful and quiet, they are my top choice of study spots in Miami. They are also common places for dates, meetups, and hangouts due to the ease of conversation that seems to flow while drinking a dark roast or a cappuccino. It seems there’s a shop on every corner in Miami which is great because you’re bound to find at least one that matches your vibe or scene. Whether you have a hard […]

Going to UM, students have plenty of Halloween events to choose from. Halloween also coincides with Homecoming this year – students can check out Homecoming Spirit Day at Lakeside Patio.