university recognition: frequently asked questions
General
Q: When can I begin the University Recognition Program?
A: Most employers hire students during their sophomore through junior/senior year. Some companies will consider students during the second semester of their freshman year to work for the following summer or fall. (NOTE: You must have at least 24 credit hours, 12 must have been at K-State)
Q: Where will I live while working?
A: Many employers try to pair up with students to help share housing expenses, some help you find appropriate housing, and some may give you a housing allowance or provide housing. You should find out specifically from the employer what housing opportunities are available.
Q: Do I have to work for the employer when I finish my experience?
A: No. You are under no obligation to work for the company after your work experience unless you have signed an agreement to do so. However, if the experience is positive, the employer may offer you a full-time position upon graduation.
Q: I interviewed for an engineering co-op. Can they make me do two work assignments?
A: With the salary that accompanies these assignments, some companies ask that you participate in two work experiences if you accept their offer. This is usually done in two alternating semesters with possible summer employment. Although it may set back your graduation date, it will provide salary dollars and demonstrate a commitment by the employer and the student. Valuable training and job placement may also occur as a result.
Q: I have an opportunity to work with an organization for the summer. Will I qualify for the University Recognition Program?
A: To qualify for the University Recognition Program, your employment must be a career related experience, working for at least 480 hours per semester, and be approved by your Faculty Liaison.
Q: What happens if I do not turn in the documentation to CES?
A: If there is a reason your paperwork is going to be late, let CES know immediately. Failure to send in the documentation materials on time strikes the experience from your transcript and takes away your full-time student status. Loan deferment may also be jeopardized.
Enrollment and Classes
Q: Will I have a problem scheduling classes away from campus?
A: You will be able to complete enrollment with your peers using the iSIS system. Your advisor should be able to assist you with any problem you may encounter scheduling classes.
Q: I have enrolled in Fall/Spring classes, but I am going to be out on the University Recognition Program. Should I drop my classes?
A: Yes. You will need to drop your classes before the beginning of the semester to avoid any fee penalties.
Q: I am participating in the University Recognition Program in the Fall and am not enrolled in any classes for that semester. I would like to be able to purchase athletic tickets. How can I do so?
A: Eligibility for purchasing tickets will be handled on a case-by-case basis as determined by the Athletics Ticket office. Students should contact CES to make arrangements to purchase tickets through Athletics.
Financial Aid/Scholarships/Services
Q: I am participating in the University Recognition Program and will not be enrolled in any classes. Can I use Lafene Health Center for medical needs?
A: You may use Lafene Health Center by paying a student fee for the semester. Contact Lafene’s business office before seeking treatment. This same fee allows you to use Recreational Services.
Q: I will be in the Manhattan are and would like to use Recreational Services. Am I allowed to do this while participating in the University Recognition Program?
A: Because you retain your full-time status, you will be able to access Recreational Services by simply paying a student fee for the semester. This same fee will allow you to utilize Lafene Health Center.
Q: Can I still use my K-State email account while I am away on the University Recognition Program?
A: Yes. Your K-State email account will remain live and active while you are participating in the University Recognition Program.
Q: What happens to my student loans while I am gone? Do my loans become due?
A: If you are participating with the University Recognition Program, you are recognized as a full-time student. If you have loan, your loan payments are deferred and you do not use you 6 month grace period. It is always a good idea to contact Financial Aid (785-532-6420) about your University Recognition opportunity before you begin working. If you are contacted by your loan company let CES know. We will work with Financial Aid to keep your loans deferred for the term of your work.
Q: I have received scholarships. What happens to them if I participate in the University Recognition Program?
A: Contact the scholarship donor directly or Financial Aid (785.532.6420) prior to doing your internship/co-op. CES will write a letter confirming your full-time status, however; it is up to your donor as to whether they choose to award the scholarship or have it deferred.
Q: I qualify for financial aid. Can I receive it while I am on a University Recognition assignment?
A: If you are enrolled in at least 6 credit hours while participating in University Recognition Program, you may be eligible for financial aid. If you are not enrolled in classes and are not paying fees you are not eligible for financial aid that semester. Financial Aid will prefigure your financial aid package for the semester you return to credit classes. It is always a good idea to check with Financial Aid (785-532-6420) before you begin working.
Academic Credit
Q: How do I get academic credit for my internship/co-op experience?
A: Policies vary by department and you must explore the option of academic credit with your faculty and advisor. Academic credit is obtained through your department. The University Recognition Program at CES allows you to receive “University Recognition”, meaning the experience is placed on your transcript, with the term and company name. The University Recognition is a zero credit program; participation allows you to maintain your full-time status with the university.