Grandparent University
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is Grandparent University?
A: Grandparent University (GPU) is a unique 2 day intergenerational learning event sponsored by the OSU Alumni Association. OSU welcomes legacies, ages 7-14, and their grandparents to campus for a taste of college life. Participants choose their “major,” stay in the halls, learn in OSU classrooms and graduate with a certificate of achievement.
Q: Who can participate in Grandparent University?
A: Fully registered OSU legacies, ages 7-14 on the date of March1, are invited to bring their grandparents to campus for GPU. Grandparent University is a member benefit of the OSU Alumni Association. The person registering the legacy must be a current member of the OSU Alumni Association. Please note that a person does not have to be a graduate of OSU in order to be a member. We have many members who are “friends” of the university and just want their children and grandchildren to consider being a Cowboy.
Q: What does being “fully registered” mean?
A: A fully registered legacy has the following information on file with the OSU Alumni Association information services department: full name, the date of birth, social security number. The person registering the legacy may be the parent or grandparent and should be the person holding the Alumni Association membership.
Q: How do I know if my child or grandchild’s record is complete?
A: Contact the Information Services office at the OSU Alumni Association at 1.800.433.4678.
Q: How do I register a legacy or update a legacy record?
A: There are several ways to register your legacy (s), online at orangeconnection.org and click on the “Legacy Program” button or call the Information Services office with the OSU Alumni Association at 1.800.433.4678.
Q: How do I join the Alumni Association?
A: There are several ways to join your Alumni Association, online at orangeconnection.org and click on “Join Today” button, call the Information Services office with the OSU Alumni Association at 1.800.433.4678 or stop by the ConocoPhillips OSU Alumni Center.
Q: What are the dates of GPU this year?
A: GPU 2007 was held Thursday, June 21 and Friday, June 22 with the option to come on Wednesday, June 20 in the evening, to spend the night in the hall. This is a good option for those coming from a long distance.
Q: What are the majors for this year?
A: GPU 2007 majors were: Architecture (all ages), Art (all ages), Athletic Training (all ages), Aviation (11-14), Broadcasting (11-14), Fashion Design (all ages), Interior Design (all ages), Introduction to Child Care (all ages) and Veterinary Medicine (7-10). Majors are subject to change each year depending on availability of Faculty and facilities.
Q: What is the cost?
A: The cost of GPU 2007 was $185 for each grandparent and $85 for each grandchild. This price is subject to change contingent on campus costs. The price includes a nights lodging, two lunches, a dinner and a breakfast, t-shirts, transportation to classes, registration materials and all workshop supplies for each participant. The optional Wednesday night early bird arrival is $40 per person.
Q: How soon can I register for GPU?
A: Registration for 2008 GPU opens on April 7 and closes when the program reaches full capacity or on June 5. Registration is available on-line, by fax or phone, and by mail.
Q: Can more than one grandchild attend?
A: A grandparent can be accompanied by 2 grandchildren. Likewise a grandchild can be accompanied by 2 grandparents. All must be enrolled in the same major.
Q: My grandchild just turned 7. Can he/she still enjoy the experience?
A: It really depends on the maturity of the child and on the choice of major. Each parent/grandparent will need to decide if the child can handle the attention span required and seek to enroll in a major that would hold interest for the child. For example, if the child likes science then one of the science based majors would be the best choice. See the major descriptions on the registration page to learn more about the activities planned in each major. Also discuss how the child handles being away from home overnight.
Q: Can a parent and a child attend, rather than a grandparent and child?
A: Really, no. This event is designed to bridge the gap between the generations. In the event that no grandparents are living or in good enough health to participate, consider including a great aunt or uncle or very close friend of the family of the grandparent generation.