Student Life & Activities

A well rounded schedule of extra-curricular activities endeavors to make available many types of events for enjoyment and relaxation.

Class Organization

Class officers are elected early in the year so that each class might work together as a team and with the other classes enrolled. Under their leadership, the class plans many functions that are enjoyed by the entire student body. Many of the classes have worked collectively to make civic contributions and to help the underprivileged.

Pi Sigma Eta Fraternity

The honorary Mortuary Science Fraternity represented at the College is Pi Sigma Eta. Admission is based on scholastic standing and is subject to the rules and regulations of the Supreme Council.

Allied Trade Activities

Various firms associated with the funeral service profession provide out-side entertainment as well as adding to the funeral service education through trips, guest lecturers, and other type activities.

Student Counseling and Guidance

The College feels that the students should mature in all areas, not just scholastic areas alone. With this in mind, the counseling of students is held at regular intervals. A student is provided a counselor and can expect to find individual counseling and assistance in arranging financial matters, forming good study habits, making social adjustments, and in solving any other personal or scholastic problem. It is hoped that the student will confide in a counselor whenever necessary, with the assurance that each student's problem is held in strict confidence. Other members of the College staff, including the President, are available to assist with such needs whenever necessary.

Living Accommodations

The College does not maintain resident halls or dormitories for incoming students, but assistance is offered to students in locating suitable housing. It is more satisfactory for students to make their own selection of housing accommodations because their choice will be determined by the rental cost, the availability of public or personal transportation and the number of people who will occupy the facilities.

Student Employment

The College is often in contact with employers who are looking for part-time employees. These positions are in local firms, some of which are funeral homes. Upon arrival of the student, the college will make every effort to help the student find part-time employment, although, the College cannot guarantee student employment. Generally, student jobs can only be obtained by the student in person upon arrival in the city, and cannot generally be reserved by mail prior to arrival. Students seeking funeral home employment should plan to make such arrangements two or three months prior to enrollment, as there are many more students than funeral home jobs available.

The student is to be reminded that the primary goal is to complete the educational requirements. As such, the College recommends that the student pursue his/her studies for a few weeks to determine his/her ability to handle the academic load before seeking employment. The student should be in a position to place studies above all else.

Dress Code

Since funeral service students are associated with the funeral profession, their classroom dress and appearance will be expected to reflect professional dignity. Male students must wear shirts with collars and dress or casual slacks. Female students must wear dresses, skirts or slacks with blouses. A more detailed dress code is in the Student Handbook.

Mature and Returning Students (MARS)

MARS is an organization created in response to the special needs and contributions of returning, non-traditional students. MARS enhances a student's sense of belonging while networking with other returning students and sharing experiences, frustrations, and successes. The group offers guidance and encouragement, plus a special warmth and friendliness with free seminars designed to help an older student deal with the challenges of college life.

Placement Service

A placement service is maintained by the College for both employers and employees. Whether a student is seeking employment upon graduation, a former student wishes to find new employment, or a firm needs an employee, the College placement service is constantly striving to aid graduates with their placement needs.

Numerous job opportunities are filled each year by our graduates, and the College has been successful in placing the majority of graduates. However, the College cannot guarantee placement upon graduation.

Alumni Relations

Each year the College hosts an Alumni Reunion in the Spring to foster camaraderie among the graduates of Gupton-Jones College of Funeral Service.