Press "Enter" to skip to content

Family Weekend at Rollins College: Bridging Connections and Building Community 

Graphic by Karina Ekholm

Parents attending this year’s Family Weekend 2024, from November 1-3, have one main goal, getting a feel for their child’s college experience, whether that be through checking out sporting events, touring campus facilities, or diving into the campus vibe, highlighting the importance of a positive attitude and being involved in college life. “There was an email sent out to parents back in September with clear instructions. It came through the event site, letting us pick and choose what we wanted to attend—everything from trivia nights to lacrosse games and faculty functions. Plus, the school sent out a QR code that showed me exactly what I signed up for which made planning a breeze,” said Rollins parent Kelly Sigler. 

General Expectations and Emotional Anticipation 

“I wanted to see what it was like for the students and observe their everyday activities. I hope to connect with other families to create ongoing support for one another during our children’s time in college because it’s comforting to know we’re not alone in this journey,” said Sigler. 

This thinking is common among parents, seeing Family Weekend as a great chance to not just bond with their kids but also to meet other families. It’s all about building a support network that makes the college experience a little easier for everyone involved. 

Long-Term Benefits 

Family Weekend really shines when it comes to creating a sense of belonging among students, parents, and faculty. It brings everyone together and builds community spirit that sticks around long after the weekend is over. In fact, a survey by the Higher Education Research Institute published in 2023 found that students who feel supported by their families are 67 percent more likely to graduate on time. 

But the impact of Family Weekend goes far beyond just a few days of fun. Parents hope it sparks lasting friendships and networking opportunities that make the whole college experience richer. This event gives families a chance to connect with one another, as well as with faculty and staff, building a supportive network that helps students throughout their college journey. As these relationships grow, they often lead to more collaborations for future events, keeping that sense of community strong. 

In the end, Family Weekend is about laying the groundwork for a vibrant campus culture that welcomes everyone. As families and students continue to engage, they create a community that not only supports academic success but also makes college more rewarding. 

To find the full schedule for Family Weekend 2024, please stay updated on the college’s website. 

Comments are closed.