The BIS department would like to welcome all BIS students for the Spring 
2009 semester.  In order for you to have a smooth start, our offices would 
like to bring the following deadlines and “BIS Survival Tips” to your 
attention.  

** Changes to the Spring 2009 Academic Calendar **

Due to the cancellation of classes on Tuesday, January 20, the Academic 
Calendar for the Spring 2009 semester will be modified as follows:

•  Full-semester classes that were scheduled to meet on Tuesday, January 
20, will be made up on the Reading Day – Tuesday, May 5.  There will be no 
reading day for Spring 2009 and exams will be begin as previously 
scheduled at 7:30 a.m. on Wednesday, May 6. 

•  The Last Day to Add full-semester classes will be extended by one day 
to Wednesday, February 4.

•  The Last Day to Drop with NO TUITION LIABILITY will be extended to 
Wednesday, February 4.

•  For adjustments to add deadlines for courses that meet less than the 
full semester, please refer to the add/drop chart for non-standard 
courses - http://registrar.gmu.edu/calendars/200910_nonstand_upd.pdf

•  Please refer to the Registrar’s Office website 
(http://registrar.gmu.edu ) or Student Accounts website 
(http://studentaccounts.gmu.edu ) for additional information.

** Tips to Survive in the BIS Program **

Below are some of the key steps to staying informed and having a 
successful experience in the BIS program and at George Mason University:

1.  Check GMU email regularly (http://mail.gum.edu) ** If you prefer to 
use your personal email, please link it to your GMU account; ALL 
University, Departmental and course communications are sent to your GMU 
account.
2.  Use the BIS website (http://bis.gmu.edu) as a resource
3.  Know how to use PatriotWeb (http://patriotweb.gmu.edu)
4.  Take advantage of the student resources on campus 
(http://www.gmu.edu/mlstudents/) 
5.  Be aware of University policies and procedures explained in the 
University Catalog and through the Registrar’s office
6.  Maintain a BALANCE between life, school and work
7.  Make regular appointments with academic advisors to discuss your 
degree progress
8.  ASK QUESTIONS

From all of the faculty and staff at the BIS department, we wish you all 
the best this Spring semester!