Welcome!
Welcome to Boise State! This guide addresses the most common questions new Broncos have, and introduces you to some great opportunities to get involved and be supported in your first year and beyond. What you see here just scratches the surface. Didn’t find what you were looking for in here? Type your interest into the search bar at boisestate.edu, run a simple Google search, or email us at firstyearsupport@boisestate.edu – we’re here to help!
Build a Life that Works
Whether you’re transferring, took a break from college, or coming to Boise State from high school, the transition can be challenging. However, taking some time to considering the following questions can help ensure that you’re structuring a life to thrive at Boise State:
- Whose support do you need to be a solid student this year? Family, mentors, boss/manager, friends who believe in you?
- After you register for classes, when/where will you eat, exercise/move, study, play, sleep, shop for essentials?
- What activities/habits have you enjoyed most in the past few years? Plan to keep doing the things that make you feel good!
- What will I try for the first time now that I am here?
- Take care of the people around you too! What are three comfortable ways I can be excellent to the people around me?
- Being a learner means wins and losses. Doing things that remind you that you’re not along will keep you going. When I have a win, I will share it with who? When I feel deflated, or I’ve suffered a set back, I will share it with who?
- Why are you here? What drives you to earn this degree? Why does it matter to you?
University Foundations
WHAT SHOULD YOU KNOW?
Boise State’s general education program, University Foundations, lays the educational groundwork for all Boise State majors, making up about one-third of every bachelor’s degree. Connecting what you learn about the arts, sciences, mathematics, humanities, and social sciences with your more specific plan of study will do more than make you interesting (though it will certainly do that). It will help you become more flexible, articulate, and creative.
Employers don’t look just for “majors.” They look for well-rounded individuals with a capacity to learn, evolve, and lead.
WHAT CAN YOU DO?
University Foundations courses are designed to boost skills that virtually every employer in the country is demanding:
- The ability to write and speak clearly
- A capacity to work ethically within a diverse team
- A critical eye for solving problems
WHO CAN YOU BECOME?
University graduates earn, on average, more than $1 million more in their lifetime than those without a degree. Why? Because the most skilled graduates haven’t just earned a piece of paper. They’ve become a stronger learner. Once you become a well-rounded, life-long learner you can continue learning long past college graduation. Those who may one day employ you, or promote you – or befriend you – will gauge your ability to continue growing, your curiosity, your purpose, your knowledge, your ability to make connections, think critically and speak clearly.
What you know, what you can do, and who you have become at Boise State can help shape your life far into the future, because you will have become the type of learner who can meet the future, no matter what it turns out to be.
Learn more about the University Foundations
First Year At-A-Glance
Taking time to map out your classes, obligations, and responsibilities each semester help students consider what they need to do to be successful academically and personally. We encourage you to utilize the templates that the Advising and Academic Support Center has put together that can help you map out your semester.
Support from Professors
YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH YOUR PROFESSOR MATTERS
Your professors are an important resource to you in your academic journey. They are your first and best resource in seeking clarification on course concepts and assignments. They can also help you to understand your path at the university, and to make important college and career decisions.
Here are a few pointers to help you connect with faculty (just another word for professors):
Take Advantage of Office Hours
Office hours are regular times each week that instructors reserve for conversations with students: office hours are for you. Faculty office hours are a part of the course, and they are one of your most important academic resources. Your professor’s office hours will be listed on your course syllabus.
During Office Hours you can:
- Ask for clarification on specific assignments
- Check in on the goals of the course and make sure you’re on track
- Admit you’re lost or struggling. Your intuition might be to hide things like this from your faculty and seek help elsewhere, so they don’t know you ever struggled. Starting with your professor is a good idea. This gives them a chance to point you to good resources and to appreciate your effort in improving.
- Make connections that will be important to you for advice, mentoring, and references.
Building Relationships with Faculty
Getting to know your faculty can lead to:
- Recommendations for future coursework
- Research opportunities
- Involvement and scholarship opportunities
- Becoming a Teacher’s Assistant or Learning Assistant
Textbooks/E-Textbooks
INCLUSIVE ACCESS
- Many courses at Boise State use a program called Inclusive Access (IA) to deliver your textbooks and other materials digitally.
- Charges for IA materials will appear on your student account as “etextbook” charges. These prices are typically the lowest available for the materials.
- You can access your materials when the term begins from “Course Materials” links in Canvas for each specific course.
- If you choose to opt out of IA materials, the Student Financial Services office will issue refunds after the add/drop date for the term, usually 2-3 weeks after the term begins. You’ll lose access to materials after that date, and you’ll be responsible for finding materials on your own.
GENERAL TEXTBOOK INFORMATION
- Access your custom book list on your my.boisestate account. The “Buy Your Textbooks” link (in the “Tools and Resources” list) will take you to a list of books and other items for your specific courses. You can buy right from this list, use the provided links to buy other formats like ebooks, or compare prices from other websites.
- If you order books from the Bronco Shop (thank you!), you can pick them up at the Bronco Shop in the Student Union Building. If you choose to have them shipped to you, normal shipping rates will apply.
OTHER STORE OFFERINGS
- The Bronco Shop has a wide variety of computers – Apple and PCs – and all the accessories and cables you need for your tech gear.
- The art and school supply departments have pens, pencils, notebooks, and items like engineering paper and drafting supplies.
- And of course, you’ll find the largest variety of Bronco gear in the WORLD!
Learn more about the Bronco Shop and Textbooks
Housing
The earlier you apply, the more choices you have. Even if you have just moved in, it’s never too early to start thinking about where you will live next year. Room assignments are made on a first-come, first-served basis based on the date your application and deposit are received.
If you apply before the priority deadline, you can select roommates and then your housing assignment for the next academic year. If you are currently living on campus in Sophomore and Above housing you will still need to re-apply for the upcoming academic year.
After the priority deadline, housing options may be limited, but housing will make every effort to help you find a space in these locations or alternative options located close to campus.
Learn more about Boise State’s Housing and Residence Life
Boise State Meal Plans
If you’re a first year student living on campus, you’ll need a weekly meal plan (it’s required).
Meal plans have 2 components:
- Swipes get you into the dining halls, like Buster’s Kitchen and SouthFork Dining.
- Dining dollars can be used like cash at all eateries on campus, including the Markets.
Swipes give you access to fresh, healthy foods that you don’t have to shop for, prepare, or clean up. And the price is set for a full year. Dining dollars allow you to grab a coffee or quick bite to eat with your friends between classes. Keep in mind, Boise State University dining has gone cashless so meals and dining dollars are loaded on your Bronco Card when you’re on campus. To access your Bronco Card account, opt into a meal plan, and view your balance here or visit the Information Desk in the Student Union Building.
COMMUTER STUDENTS
If you’re not living on campus, you’re still welcome and encouraged to buy a meal plan. One swipe at Buster’s Kitchen or SouthFork gives you a comfortable space to study, snack and relax between classes (with no time limit, and all you care to eat).
Choose from four plans designed for you. See your options on our website at dineoncampus.com/boisestate
DIETITIAN
If you have food allergies or follow a special diet for medical, religious, or personal reasons, our registered dietitian will help you find the best foods for you. If you just have a quick question, text us at (208) 205-9964. For more detailed information, email boisestatedining@boisestate.edu.
Boise State Dining hosts about 50 special events in the dining halls each year. Keep up-to-date on Instagram, @BoiseStateDining, or dineoncampus.com/boisestate
Albertsons Library
RESOURCES TO EXPLORE
- Access to computers, printing, and scanning
- Borrowing reading materials (e.g. books, textbooks, journals, etc.)
- Library Instruction
- MakerLab
- Space Reservations
- Technology Loans
Educational Access Center
WHAT IS THE EDUCATIONAL ACCESS CENTER?
The Educational Access Center – or EAC – helps students access accommodations for temporary or permanent disabilities. Access coordinators work with students, faculty and staff to make sure all students have the tools and adaptations they need to thrive at Boise State.
WHO CAN USE THE EDUCATIONAL ACCESS CENTER?
Students who have a diagnosed condition and need accommodations can register with the EAC. They work with students who have learning disabilities, medical conditions, mental health related needs, blindness/low vision, or may be neurodivergent or deaf/hard of hearing.
Common accommodations include:
- Extended time on exams
- Alternate testing environment
- Note taking support
- Accessible text materials
- Accessible audio/visual materials
- Housing and emotional support animals
Qualifying students may also receive coaching and mentoring, specialized social opportunities, and academic skill building support.
HOW TO REGISTER WITH THE EAC
- Start by filling out the accommodation request form at boisestate.edu/eac
- Your request will be reviewed and a staff member will contact you to schedule an appointment
- At your appointment, we’ll create an accommodation plan together
- Then, you can request those accommodations and we’ll reach out to your instructors to get you what you need
Campus Recreation Center
The Rec Center is home to the department of Campus Recreation and is the hub of healthy, active lifestyles on campus. Visit the Rec Center to participate in group exercise classes, explore the climbing gym, splash in the pools, or discover your new favorite workout routine. As a full-time, fee paying student, you have access to the Rec Center at no additional cost.
FACILITIES
The Rec Center is more than just a gym! Inside the Rec Center you will discover an assortment of recreational amenities including:
- The Climbing Gym with over 7,000 square feet of climbable space including a bouldering section
- The Aquatics Complex with three bodies of water including a spa, lap pool, and recreational pool
- Four Fitness Studios that host daily group fitness classes such as Barre, Cycle, HIIT, Kickboxing, Total Body Strength and Yoga
- Three hardwood courts for volleyball and basketball, a weight room, an indoor running track, and a variety of cardio machines
OUTDOOR PROGRAMS
The Outdoor Program is a student-led community that takes participants on trips all over Idaho and beyond. Each trip is complete with gear, food, transportation and instruction. Whether it’s snowshoeing to local hot springs, backpacking in the Sawtooth mountains, or rafting the world-class waters of the Payette River, all students can participate regardless of experience or background.
The Outdoor Program also offers:
- Affordable gear rentals for skiing, snowboarding, rafting, camping and backpacking
- Access to a climbing gym in the Rec Center
REC SPORTS
Continue your love for a sport while you’re at Boise State, and participate in Intramural Sports and Club Sports.
Learn more about Intramural Sports
Paying for School
BUILD YOUR BUDGET
The Bottom Line Estimator helps you calculate if you’ll owe money or get a refund after receiving your financial aid for the semester. You can enter your housing choices, enrollment, and individual information, then automatically subtract the financial aid you are scheduled to receive.
HOW TO PAY FOR SCHOOL
Access Transact, our third-party payment processor, through myBoiseState to view charges, make payments and set up payment plans. Produce an official invoice on letterhead with the Term Summary Report.
Note: Financial aid will not show here until it pays to your student account 10 days prior to the start of the semester.
APPLY FOR AID YEARLY
It’s important that students know that they will need to apply for scholarships, grants and loans annually. Make sure to complete the FAFSA application, the Boise State Scholarship Application, and apply for private scholarships throughout the year.
Learn more about Value, Scholarships, and Financial Aid
STUDENT EMPLOYMENT
Check out Handshake for on and off campus jobs, work-study jobs, internships, and post-graduation positions. Work-study is available for many students. Check your financial aid offer, or contact the Financial Aid Office for eligibility.
ALTERNATIVE STUDENT LOANS
Alternative loans are loans from private companies that specialize in student loans. Terms and conditions of these loans can vary from lender to lender and we recommend shopping around if going this route. The Alternative Loan Tool can help narrow down the loan type you are looking for.
PARENT PLUS LOANS
Parent PLUS loans can be used by parents of a dependent undergraduate student. Offered through the federal government and payments can be deferred as long as the student is enrolled at least half-time (6 credits). Credit contingent and parents must apply each academic year in May at studentaid.gov. Dependent students can request additional unsubsidized loans if their parent is denied.
Explore the Financial Wellness Program
University Health Services
Providing convenient, accessible and high-quality health care to the campus community.
- Medical
- Counseling
- Wellness
- Walk-ins Welcome
Learn more about University Health Services
Crisis Support
Boise State provides on-campus and off-campus resources to support the safety and well-being of all students. Anyone can make a report at anytime, even to self-report. Your report will be handled with as much confidentiality and sensitivity as the situation allows.
ON-CAMPUS RESOURCES
All resources are no-cost unless otherwise listed.
- University Health Services (Confidential Resource)
- Gender Equity Center (Confidential Resource)
- Office of Title IX and Institutional Equity
- Department of Public Safety
OFF-CAMPUS RESOURCES
All resources are no-cost unless otherwise listed.
- Ada County Victim Services Center (Confidential Resource)
- The WCA (Confidential Resource)
- Ada County Non-Emergency Dispatch: (208) 377-6790
BASIC NEEDS SUPPORT – OFFICE OF THE DEAN OF STUDENTS
The Student Outreach and Assistance team provides case management and connection to campus and community resources, tailored to promote your wellbeing and academic success.
Learn more about the Student Outreach and Assistance Services
The Opposite of Crisis is Wellness
Prioritize your everyday wellness to maintain balance and optimize your learning! Explore the 8 different dimensions and the opportunities you have to invest in them here at Boise State.
Getting Around Boise
No need to bring a car to campus! Navigating campus and downtown Boise is easy with our Boise State shuttles, a bike, long board, or electric scooter.
BOISE STATE SHUTTLES AND CITY BUS
When it’s rainy, or you’re a little late to class, hop on a shuttle. Boise State’s shuttles take students through campus and even into downtown Boise. You can easily see where the nearest shuttle is using the Shuttle Tracker. As a Boise State student, you can get a free city bus pass as a sticker on your Bronco Card. This is a great option to get to the mall, the Boise airport, or other amenities throughout the Treasure Valley. Use the Valley Regional Transit website to map out routes.
CYCLE LEARNING CENTER
The Cycle Learning Center bike shop is the hub of cycling on campus, selling affordable bikes, parts, and accessories; repairs for everything from flat tires to suspension; and rentals from a day to a year. The CLC also offers bike maintenance classes, commuter ride skills education, and a free self-service workstation.
Learn more about Bikes On Campus
PARKING PERMITS
If you do bring a car to campus, you’ll want to look into parking permits available to students. There are several to choose from, and they range in price depending on where you want to park.
Explore the Parking Permit Options
Veteran Services
If you have served, are serving in the U.S. military or are a dependent of someone who served, we have services and opportunities for you. If you are using GI Bill benefits, we will facilitate payment for you from the VA. We refer students as applicable to:
- Veterans Upward Bound
- Veteran Student Support Services
- ROTC and Military Programs – all separate from Veteran Services
Learn more about Veteran Services
Student Caregiver Resources
If you’re a student AND a caregiver, it takes extra effort to balance it all. Here are a few things to remember:
- The Family Caregiver Navigator (FCN) is a pilot project of the Idaho Caregiver Alliance, a coalition of individuals and organizations that have been supporting caregivers since 2012.
- The Dean of Students office can connect you to a number of campus and community resources – like financial support, the campus food pantry and free legal assistance – that can help you overcome the challenges of balancing school and caregiving responsibilities.
- Albertsons Library has a family study room for students who parent. The space is complete with computers, toys and books for children 12 and under.
- Health Services offers medical, counseling and wellness support for dependents of students, so lean on their services for doctor visits, health screenings, immunizations and mental health support.
- Boise State’s Children’s Center provides care for children aged six weeks through five years old. It’s fully accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). And as a student, your child will receive priority enrollment.
Get Involved
We offer over 200 clubs, from academic clubs to interest groups that help you get involved, meet other students, have fun and pursue your passions. Boise State is also home to 23 different fraternity and sorority chapters, each guided by academic achievement, leadership development and service.
Additionally, we have several organizations or programs, like Alternative Breaks, Service Saturday and our LeaderShape Institute experience, that provide opportunities to lead and serve.
Explore all of the Clubs and Organizations
Preparing for What’s Next
You’re coming to college to prepare for life beyond Boise State. Own your Boise State experience to make your career goals a reality. Here are steps to take in your first year to keep your career plan on track.
WHERE ARE YOU NOW?
- I’m feeling lost – This is your time to explore, learn about what you want, and get information about your options. Start by taking PathwayU, and make a Career Services appointment to interpret your results and get next steps.
- I have ideas – Look for experiences to test out your ideas. Use PathwayU to see how each of your options might fit you, then make a Career Services appointment. Find alumni on BroncoLink working in those careers to talk to about their jobs.
- I have a direction – Confirm it with PathwayU. Make a Career Services appointment to start building your career preparation plan. Find alumni in your career field on BroncoLink to advise you on the types of experiences to seek out.
USE THESE CAREER TOOLS YOUR FIRST YEAR
- Pathway U – This career assessment will help you find a direction that fits who you are.
- Career Services – Meet with Career Services right away to have a better college experience and easier time achieving your career goals.
- BroncoLink – Find alumni and professionals who can answer your career questions and give you advice.
LOOKING FOR A JOB?
An on-campus job is more than a paycheck – it’s preparation for your success Beyond Boise State. With so many different types of jobs available, find one that relates to your career goals, one that will let you explore an interest area, or one that will give you opportunities to develop transferable skills needed for your career.
FINDING A JOB
- Handshake – Search for on-campus jobs, off-campus jobs, internships, and career opportunities.
- Part-Time Job Fair – On and off campus employers will be ready to meet you. Coming August 2023, during Welcome Week.
- Career Services – Need help with your resumes, cover letters, or interviewing skills? Make an appointment.