Before Sept. 11, student concernsespecially those with military responsibilitieswere not focused on academic withdrawals or financial refunds. Today, especially in light of Sundays (Oct. 7) U.S. military strikes in Afghanistan, those issues are at the forefront of many West Virginia University studentsand employeesminds.

During a campus forum for those facing military call-up last Thursday (Oct. 4), WVU officials assured those called to serve in the National Guard and Military Reserve Units that they will remain in good academic standing and receive full refunds in most cases.

Provost Gerald Lang said those students called up to serve more than three-quarters into the semester may receive full credit for their courses as long as they have passing grades and have essentially completed the course materials. It is likely, he said, that students will receive the grade earned at that time or, if it is a competency-based course, the instructor would award a grade of”I”and work with that student to develop a plan to complete the course at a later time.

Lang said those entering the armed services before the 12th week of the semester will be withdrawn from classes and receive a full refund.

Federal student education loan borrowers who are enrolled this fall will have their loans kept active, according to Janet Trump of WVU ’s Financial Aid Office, and not be subject to repayment for up to three years of military service.

“Further, students who currently have a loan and are in an in-school status, in-school deferment or grace period will retain that status for three years,”Trump said. For student loan purposes, Trump said students are considered”enrolled”during their time of service.

Trump asks that veterans with VAEducational Benefits contact her prior to their departure at janet.trump@mail.wvu.edu or by calling 293-5242. Students with Perkins Loans or other institutional loans should speak with Joyce Aitken in Student Accounts, 293-2809, or joyce.aitken@mail.wvu.edu

Amir Mohammadi of WVU Housing and Residence Life said military personnel being called to active duty could be assured of immediate 100 percent room and board refunds, or credit, upon return from active military duty. For assistance, Mohammadi can be contacted at 293-4491.

Teaching assistant slots and internships will also be guaranteed, Lang said. Arrangements should be made through individual school and colleges.

Both Lang and Tom Sloane of the Office of Student Life said they want students and employees to know that University officials in all units, whether it be academics or finances, will be responsive in these uncertain times.

“Its stressful, we know, so we want to assure those facing military duty that support and guidance are available,”Sloane said.

In addition to the military forum, a session for international students was held on campus Oct. 1 to help students from other countries deal with various issues ranging from fear of personal retaliation to an understanding of Islamic religion. An English Department-led forum held late last month was another outlet for students to express their opinions about war and world religion.

The University community also came together Sept. 14 for a campus memorial service to honor the fallen and to openly express its grief.

A military breakfast for those who served or will serve in the armed forces will be held Tuesday, Oct. 9, and the University is planning a fall colloquium series led by faculty experts on such topics as Islam, the psychology of terrorism, the history of the Middle East and the balance between security and civil liberties.

A heightened state of security remains in effect on campus, and counseling services continue for both students and employees. A call for calm and non-violence continues to be issued by University administrators to discourage any retaliation against innocent individuals.

WVU also continues to stay in touch with students through student list serves and the student web site and with concerned parents through the Parents Helpline (1-800-WVU-0096) and a subscriber e-mail service.

Blood drives and fund-raising efforts are ongoing as well.

Public displays of patriotism by the University include flying flags at half-staff in the days following the tragedy and special performances by the Mountaineer Marching Band at the last two home football games.