Taylor Bembery
Blue & White Flash / Staff Writer
Jackson State University wants to alleviate the stress of registration with the “Tie Into Greatness” early registration initiative.
Early registration for spring 2013 and summer semesters started on Nov. 5 but officially kicked off on Nov. 7, with a rally on the Gibbs-Green Pedestrian Walkway. Early registration ends Nov. 30.
The rally started with greetings from Miss Jackson State University Sarah Brown and SGA President Brian Wilkes. Alfred Jackson, the Registrar at Jackson State, was also in attendance to inform students about the importance of registering early and how taking action can help the process be less stressful.
“It’s critical for currently enrolled students to participate in early registration with the advisement process and course selection process coordinated through the academic department so they can have the courses in before we leave for Christmas break,” said Jackson.
Jackson also added some advantages and incentives students can have if they participate in early registration.
“Students won’t have to worry about early registration in January, therefore they have the chance not to have to pay late fees; they can stay on track with their degree requirements, and a whole host of other reasons why it’s an advantage for students that register early,” said Jackson.
Phillip Cockrell, the Associate Vice President for Student Life and Dean of Students said, “Jackson State University implemented the “Tie Into Greatness…Early Registration initiative to encourage all students to pre-register for their 2013 academic courses. This initiative is important because the University is committed to offering academic courses each semester that will aid students in obtaining their degree,” said Cockrell.
To some students registering for new classes means a new balance and a new balance means new stress.
Alvin Perkins II, a junior marketing major from Jackson, Miss., feels that even though early registration is available, the thought of having to complete registration for next year can be stressful.
“JSU has a new process this year basically where you have to pay most of your balance to complete registration, so it is stressful when you are not financially able to pay for school but I still registered early. Hopefully I don’t have the same problem waiting for financial aid and scholarships to kick in so I am able to complete registration on time next semester,” said Perkins.
Harold Johnson, a junior intergraded marketing communications major from Chicago, Ill., explained how he will be taking advantage of the new registration process to avoid problems.
“I will register early but I do not stress as much as other students because I feel financial aid will pull through. I know I had problems registering for this semester that messed up my financial aid that I’m still getting in order today, but registering early is important,” said Johnson.
Students who attended the early registration rally on Nov. 7 were informed about the program and the benefits they can have from registering early.
Dhahran Hall, a senior mass communication major from Chicago, Ill., decided to “Tie Into Greatness” by being prompt at the rally.
“I knew we were having the rally so I do plan on registering before Nov. 30 to avoid late fees. I feel that JSU having this rally is getting students aware of the registration process and graduation requirements so they won’t have any problems next semester,” said Hall.
Students who participate in early registration from Nov. 5 – 30 will be eligible to win one or more prizes. Freshman and sophomore students are urged to contact their Undergraduate Studies academic advisors for course selections. Juniors, seniors and graduate students should contact their major departmental advisor for course selection and a registration access code.
Students who are prepared to pay fees after course selection should proceed to the Business Office on the 2nd floor of B.F. Roberts Hall. For questions, call (601) 979-2300.
