Welcome to RISD! New and exciting things will come your way here and it all begins on September 12, 2009 at Orientation — a series of programs designed to welcome you, give you an overview of things you should know and make you feel comfortable as you begin your creative journey here.

This section of the website provides a range of information about RISD and Providence — from directions to campus, a campus map and list of accommodations to a guide to life at RISD and the city of Providence. We hope it helps you prepare for your RISD experience. Please note: Before you arrive at RISD, make sure you have sent in all the forms and completed the contracts on this page.

REQUIRED FORMS
Counseling · Enrollment · Parental Grade Release · Health · Special Needs · Student Accounts · Transfer Students Consent to Release Medical Records

Staying Healthy During Flu Season
According to federal and state health officials, H1N1 flu has, to date, been similar to regular seasonal flu, relatively mild, and responsive to treatment. Their primary focus has therefore been to urge individuals to take normal precautions, to monitor reports of illness, and to encourage appropriate steps to mitigate the further spread of illness when and where it occurs. We have been consulting regularly with the Rhode Island Department of Health [RIDOH] and following its recommendations in this regard.

Nevertheless, because the H1N1 virus continues to circulate in Rhode Island (and around the world), and because officials do anticipate that the rate for H1N1 will increase this fall flu season, RIDOH recommends that all Rhode Islanders take steps to be prepared and protect well-being. While RISD Health Services is always available for students, we recommend that each incoming student bring their own hand sanitizer, tissues and a thermometer.

You can also assist in this effort by continuing to follow the Centers for Disease Control recommendations:

* Wash your hands frequently with soap and warm water. If soap and water are not available, use alcohol-based hand gel.
* Cough and sneeze into your elbow.
* Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth unless you have just washed your hands.
* If you experience any flu-like symptoms - fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills, and fatigue - seek prompt medical attention.
* Stay home from work or school if you are sick.
* People under the age of 24 are encouraged by the CDC to get the H1N1 vaccine once it is available.

The CDC is also recommending that students get the seasonal flu vaccine. RISD's seasonal Flu Clinic will be held October 24. Details on signing up for the Clinic will be made available to students in September.

In addition, if you experience any flu-like symptoms - fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills, and fatigue - seek prompt medical attention. Being proactive in seeking assistance should greatly diminish the severity and length of illness and help prevent its further spread.

RISD Health Services
Homer Hall (The Quad)
401.454.6625
Monday thru Friday: 8:30 am to 8:30 pm
Saturday: 9:00 am to 4:45 pm

» Rhode Island Department of Health

» Centers for Disease Control