Dear Parents and Families of Students in the Class of 2029:
Our campus is excited to start the spring semester. Residence halls reopen at 10am on January 18 and classes start on January 22. Whether your student used the winter break to rest, work, or participate in academic pursuits such as an internship or winter classes, I hope they took some time to reflect on how much they accomplished their first semester. If you don’t think your student has had a moment to reflect, please encourage them to review the message I sent at the conclusion of the fall semester.
You may notice a change in your student from the fall to spring semester – many students feel more comfortable now that they have a semester of courses completed. The transition to college is not something that happens overnight or even over the span of a single semester, so please continue to encourage your student to utilize campus resources.
Students can connect with resident assistants for support with peer mediation and living in community. Professors and liberal arts advisors are available to discuss course work and major inquiry. Students are encouraged to use the support resources provided by the Office of Student Academic Resources early in the semester to get ahead of their work. Remember, seeking help early is a sign of strength and good planning.
Appointments are offered to students by Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS), WesWell, and our staff in the Office of Religious and Spiritual Life to discuss various issues that may arise as they continue to navigate the college transition. We also encourage students to stay connected through campus clubs, organizations and social events that help build community and belonging.
The spring semester is filled with many experiences – a new set of courses, spring break (March 7-22), fall housing and course selection, and conversations about potential majors and study abroad. I will host a major declaration program on March 31; please encourage your student to attend. Even with a full spring semester, your student may already be thinking about summer plans perhaps with a desire to work, enroll in summer classes, volunteer, take on an internship, and/or participate in research.
The Gordon Career Center has declared January as Wesleyan Career Month; your student may find it helpful to attend the virtual events offered in the Wesleyan Summer Spotlight series to explore opportunities and begin planning for the summer ahead.
I’ll write to you again before the end of the semester. If your student hasn’t had the chance to meet me yet, please encourage them to schedule an appointment to check in. I hope you enjoyed having your student home this break (if applicable) and appreciate the support you provide during their college journey.
Take care,
Kelly Dunn, Ed.D.
Dean for the Class of 2029
kmdunn@wesleyan.edu
https://classof2029.blogs.wesleyan.edu/