Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I make photocopies?
There are University Copy Centers in the International Affairs Building (401 IAB, 854-3797) and in the basement of the Journalism Building (106 Journalism, 854-3233). Village Copier, who is one of our vendors, is another option.

How do I obtain access to computer permissions for my group's e-mail alias and Web page?
You will have the option of signing up for a club e-mail alias or Web page during the club registration process. Contact your advisor for more information. If you have specific questions about your e-mail alias, you can email postmaster@columbia.edu. For specific questions about your Web page, you can e-mail webmaster@columbia.edu.

How long does it take to process a check?
It can take anywhere from two weeks to a month, depending on the time of year and whether the University has previously paid the vendor. Make sure to include all information including the tax ID number of the vendor and a detailed contract or invoice in order to expedite the process. You can choose to have the check mailed directly to the vendor or held in SDA for pick-up.

The speaker for my organization’s event is arriving by car. Can I arrange for temporary parking on College Walk?
You can try, but parking is very hard to come by at Columbia. SDA has parking request forms that must be filled out and faxed to the parking office. You will need to know the make, model and color of the vehicle, the license plate number and state, the driver’s name, and the expected arrival and departure times. Remember to confirm the cost, budget for the expense and fill out an e-form.

Who makes those cool banners hanging in Lerner? How can I have mine hung?
Ernie Weber is Columbia's "banner man." He can make them inexpensive and simple or elaborate and pricey. He can be reached at (973) 773-2342. You must submit a space request form to Lerner administration specifying the banner's dimensions. Lerner Hall staff will hang and remove your banner.

Where can I find a vendor for customized give-a-ways, posters for cultural months, etc?
SDA has many resources for your organization. You can stop by and visit your advisor to look through various
catalogues and give-a-way books. Vendors that we use frequently are:
Silver Screen Design
Ultimate Impressions
Imprint Products

Where can I find kosher food?
Barnard Dining Services provides kosher catering. They can be reached at 212-854-6653. In addition, there are several kosher caterers on the Upper West Side. Ask your adviser for specifics.

If I am ordering something on-line, what are my options for payment?
You can (1) obtain an invoice from the vendor and request a check from financial services. (This must be done at least 3-4 weeks prior to the time you actually need the items if the vendor wants the check before shipping), (2) ask the vendor if they will accept a purchase order, or (3) pay for the goods with a personal credit card.
Whichever option you choose, you will need to submit an invoice from the vendor in order for financial services to process the check request. If paying by credit card, please submit a copy of your credit card bill as well. Remember that you cannot be reimbursed for tax.

How can I obtain a list of vendors that accept e-forms as a method of payment?
The vendor list is updated yearly and details all businesses and companies that will accept an eform in lieu of cash/check/or credit card. SDA encourages all groups to take advantage of these vendors (many of which are in the neighborhood). The list is located in the SDA on the 5th floor.

How do I go about sending a voicemail to all students? How much will this cost?
SDA has voicemail request forms that must be submitted to Communications Services at least five working days in advance of your message distribution. The cost is $375. If you want to record your own message, please make an appointment by emailing OCS at ocs-design@columbia.edu or by contacting Corrine Hoch at 212-854-2897. Remember to keep your message short and to the point.

How do I go about stuffing student mailboxes?
Columbia University Organizations will be given the opportunity to stuff all student mail boxes with notifications and postings. The IKON Mail Services Center must receive the request to perform stuffing, either via email or telephone, two weeks prior to the actual date. It is required that a Mail Stuffing Authorization Form be completed and signed by all individuals stuffing the mailboxes. Organizations will be charged a $500 stuffing fee. All requests must go through the site manager for approval.

Student groups may avoid this fee if they perform the mail distribution themselves and no overtime staff is required. Two days a week will be provided to all Columbia University Organizations to perform the stuffing:

Friday 3-5 pm
Saturdays 9-11 am

In order to arrange a time for the mail stuffing contact Anthony Wheeler, Manager of Lerner Mail Services at 854-0101, aw2151@columbia.edu. Please note that recognized student groups must request permission for mail stuffing. ABC groups should ask their advisor in Student Development and Activities. Once approval is obtained, contact Anthony Wheeler, Manager of Student Mail Services at 854-0101, aw2151@columbia.edu to schedule a time for the stuffing.

Visit www.columbia.edu/cu/studentservices/mail/procedures.html for further information on this policy.

My group wants to have a spring barbecue. Where can I rent a grill?
Grill rentals are available from Broadway Party Rentals 269-2666. Please contact them for details about price, delivery or pick up. Remember that you must submit a space request form to Lerner Hall staff to reserve outdoor space.