The University will be closed from Dec. 23 through Jan. 2. J-Term begins on Jan. 3. Enrolling in J-term is not required. Spring term begins on Feb. 5. More details can be found on the 2023-2024 Academic Calendar.
We wish all families celebrating Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwanza a joyful celebration with their loved ones.
As the fall term concludes, please keep in mind the following dates:
Any unused meal swipes and dining dollars expire at 2 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 22.
Students who have run out of meal swipes and dining dollars for the fall can purchase an Add-On Block 20 meal plan, add eXpress by logging into their account, or use a credit/debit card at food venues.
J-Term meal plans are now on sale. Students can log into CardCenter to purchase a meal plan.
Students received information about signing up to stay on campus for break and/or J-term; preparing for pre-break cleanliness and safety room checks; canceling their on-campus housing if studying abroad spring semester, moving off campus or leaving the University; and roommate change preparations. Current students are preparing to select housing for the 2024-25 school year. Please visit Current & Returning On-Campus Housing for more information.
Many campus resources are available and designed to support your student(s) throughout their time at St. Thomas. You can share the complete list with your student(s) found on the Student Resources webpage.
To help students prepare for finals, the O'Shaughnessy-Frey Library will extend their hours on Dec. 15 and 16. The library and the Center for Student Achievement will sponsor Focus on Finals, on Dec. 17, an event where students can study in a cozy, relaxed environment in the library while enjoying holiday treats. As always, librarians will be on hand throughout the week for any last-minute assistance. More details are in the library blog.
Encourage your entrepreneurial student with a business idea to apply to the Business Plan Competition for prizes up to $10,000. Social ventures can vie for an opportunity to compete at the Fowler Global Social Innovation Challenge held in San Diego in May with prizes up to $25,000. Submissions are due on Feb. 8, and the gALPHA program offers free help. Direct general competition questions to Billy Mzenga or gALPHA questions to Megan Baniecke.
Your support can play a critical role in helping your Tommie identify and prepare for a study abroad experience. The holiday break is a great time to check in on any study abroad dreams or plans! Early planning gives students the flexibility to study abroad during any year or term, earn major/minor or core credits, and stay on track to graduate. Our website has different program options and advice on how to get started.