Opening Day - Thursday, August 22, 2013
Opening Day events will include the University Welcome, meetings for parents and students with both Academic Colleges and Orientation Counselors, Parents Info Sessions and Resource Fair, Family Picnic and Opening Mass. The parent programs will end Thursday evening after the Family Picnic. New students will continue with the Orientation program Thursday night through Sunday evening.
Orientation officially begins at 1:15 pm with the University Welcome.
PARENTS RESOURCE FAIR 9:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Stop by the Parents Resource Fair and meet campus administrators and staff from a variety of offices to learn more about the University and its services.
PARENT INFORMATION SESSIONS
9–9:45 a.m. Academics at Villanova: Challenges and Resources
Connelly Center, Villanova Room
New Students are making a big educational transition from high school student to college student. The expectations are different, but Villanova has a lot of resources to help students make the adjustment. This workshop describes the issues students face, the services available to help them and what parents can do to support their student.
9–9:45 a.m. Peaks & Pitfalls of the 1st Year: How Parents Can Help with the Transition to College Life
Connelly Center, Cinema
New Students are suddenly faced with a whole new world. How do they adjust to their new surroundings? How might they handle new people, new habits, new diet, and new challenges that they will face as a college freshman? How can they get involved on campus? This workshop addresses how parents can support and encourage their children through the transition to college life. *Most beneficial for first-time parents of a college student.
9–9:45 a.m. Staying Safe on Campus
Connelly Center, Presidents’ Lounge
Villanova University is concerned about the safety and welfare of its students, faculty and staff, and visitors, and is committed to providing a safe and secure environment. This workshop will discuss some of the policies and procedures in place that are designed to help protect students on campus. Presenters will also discuss some of the precautions and everyday things students can do themselves to ensure their own safety and the safety of their belongings.
10:15–11 a.m. Augustinian Connections
Connelly Center, Cinema
This dynamic and lively presentation describes the history of Villanova and its Augustinian Heritage. Parents will learn more about how the teachings of Saint Thomas of Villanova and Saint Augustine are reflected in campus life today.
10:15–11 a.m. Majors and Careers
Connelly Center, Villanova Room
New students have questions about academic and career choices and frequently turn to their parents for guidance. Decisions and timing can make a big difference in defining and achieving success. This workshop offers some perspectives on majors and careers, a four year plan, professional development services, and how parents can support their students.
10:15-11a.m. Parents’ Panel
Connelly Center, Presidents’ Lounge
What better way to learn about being a parent of a Villanova student than from other parents! This panel discussion will feature parents of current students sharing their own stories about being a part of the parent community at Villanova.
11:30 a.m.-12:15 p.m. Philadelphia Slide Show
Connelly Center, Radnor/St. David’s Room
“Out of Towners” and native Philadelphians alike will enjoy this overview of the many wonderful attractions and activities available on the Main Line and in historic Philadelphia. *New Students will see the presentation with their Orientation Group on Thursday evening.
11:30 a.m.-12:15 p.m. Leaving Home: An Emotionally Challenging
Time for Freshmen AND Parents
Connelly Center, Villanova Room
When a son or daughter goes off to college everyone in the family is impacted. Being available and supportive, while also encouraging the college student’s growing independence, can be a challenge, especially when parents are going through their own adjustment process. Counseling Center staff will describe the normal range of reactions that parents may experience when a daughter or son leaves home. We will suggest strategies that help both parents and students negotiate this important family life transition.
11:30 a.m.-12:15 p.m. Health Services at Villanova
Connelly Center, Cinema
The college years present an opportunity for students to learn about how to maintain optimal overall wellness. This workshop describes common challenges students encounter with regard to making healthy lifestyle choices and addressing medical concerns. We will acquaint parents with campus resources, with a focus on the Student Health Center and Health Promotion.
11:30 a.m.-12:15 p.m. Academic Advising and Leadership & Professional Development
for Undeclared Liberal Arts & Sciences Students
Driscoll Hall, Room 132
The Office for Undergraduate Students in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences will provide information supporting incoming students as they transition into college, the academic advising process and the new 1-credit advising course, Explore & Experience. Parents will have the opportunity to ask seasoned Faculty Advisors questions and learn about specially designed courses, workshops, and internships offered by Leadership and Professional Development.
