Dear Parents,
It’s hard to believe we are halfway through the last week of classes! Final exams, Commencement and student move-out will all take place in the next two and a half weeks. To help you and your student prepare, we’ve collected everything you need to know about the end of the semester.
Supporting Your Student During Final Exams
Final exam week starts on Thursday, May 5 and runs through Tuesday, May 10. Exams can be stressful, but there are ways families can help. Try some of the following conversation starters to support your student:
- What’s your plan for studying in X class?
- How much sleep are you getting?
- What questions do you think may be on the exam? Can you write these down?
- How much time are you spending studying X?
- Do you have some study partners?
You can also encourage them to eat by sending healthy snacks!
If your student is overwhelmed, encourage them to access on-campus support. The Wellness Center accepts walk-ins, Monday- Friday from 1-3 p.m. Students can speak with their academic adviser or a faculty member. They can also stop by the Office of Student Success Services in 230 Glendening, or call (240) 895-4388 for an appointment.
Preparing for Next Year
There are five things families can do to help their students prepare for the fall 2022 semester:
- Have your student log into the portal so you can see their balance and pay any outstanding bills. If you have questions, contact the Business Office at (240) 895-4306
- Encourage your student to apply for a job through HireSMCM. They can also contact the Center for Career and Professional Development at (240) 895-4203 or careercenter@smcm.edu.
- Ask your student to log into the portal and show you what courses they are registered for. Make sure they are taking at least 16 credits for full-time status. (Seniors will take 8 SMP credits that won’t show up yet).
- If your student is taking a summer course at another institution, make sure they complete the pre-approval credit transfer form. St. Mary’s College also offers summer courses, both in-person and virtually.
- Summer moves fast, so mark your calendars for the first day of classes on Monday, August 29! Move-in will occur on Saturday, August 27 and Sunday, August 28.
Moving out of campus housing
You and your student can review the move-out schedule and steps for moving out on the Residence Life website. Here is the timeline for moving out:
- Graduating seniors living on campus must check out of residence halls and suites by 3:00 p.m. and out of apartments and townhouses by 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 14.
- All students who are not graduating must check out of campus housing by 5 p.m. on Tuesday, May 10 OR 24 hours after their last final (whichever comes first).
- Students staying on campus over the summer (special approval required) will transition to summer housing on Sunday, May 22.
Commencement
Commencement is on Saturday, May 14 at 10 a.m. All graduates will assemble at the MPOARC Arena no later than 9:15 a.m. dressed in their caps and gowns. The ceremony will be held rain or shine under a large tent on the Townhouse Green. Tickets are not required, and seating is first-come, first-served. (Seating reservations may be made for guests with disabilities). For more information on parking, seating, accommodations for guests with disabilities, local hotels and more, please visit the Commencement website.
A Commencement rehearsal will take place on Friday, May 13 at 11 a.m. If your student cannot attend, they should contact the Office of the Registrar at (240) 895-4336 to report their absence.
You can also take advantage of two family activities to celebrate Commencement with your student. Enjoy 10% off dinner at participating local restaurants starting at 5 p.m. on Friday, May 13, or sign up for breakfast at the Campus Center Great Room from 7:30 a.m. - 9 a.m. on Saturday, May 13.
Summer Events
St. Mary’s College hosts a number of events over the summer. These include the Mulberry Music Festival: Jazz on Friday, June 17, Chesapeake Writers’ Conference from June 19-25, and the highly acclaimed River Concert Series (five Fridays from June 24 - July 22). Check your May and June parent newsletters to stay engaged with SMCM over the summer!