Dear Parents & Families,
This being a year of firsts for me, just as it is for our first-year students, I’m particularly excited to talk about some events that are new to me but are becoming increasingly a part of the fabric of SMCM.
The first of these was held on Wednesday, Nov. 5: LiveWell. A product of The Rising Tide strategic plan, LiveWell is a campus-wide day devoted to health and wellness – physical, mental and spiritual. Your students had the opportunity to participate in a wide variety of activities across campus.
On November 14, I will take part in my first Sacred Journey – our annual observance of the Commemorative to Enslaved Peoples of Southern Maryland. Perhaps you have walked past the mirrored, cabin-like structure on your way to Jamie L. Roberts Stadium. I hope you have had a chance to stop and reflect on it during a campus visit. This award-winning example of public art is the College’s way of recognizing the lost voices of the enslaved persons who once lived, toiled and died on our grounds. The Sacred Journey is a solemn and moving event that unites us all in bringing to light our shared history.
Each day I am reminded about these and other things that make SMCM a distinctive and special place. I hope you are seeing these experiences reflected in your student’s life.
Sincerely,
Rhonda G. Phillips, Ph.D, FAICP
President
St. Mary’s College of Maryland
ALL ABOUT ACADEMIC ADVISORS
Academic advisors are valuable members of your student’s support network at SMCM. They can serve as advocates, provide guidance, help craft personal statements, share tips and set up your student for success.
Students should have already met with their advisor to discuss courses to take next semester. It’s a good idea to ask your student what they discussed with their academic advisor. Before you do, be sure to check out The Role of the Academic Advisor on the Parent & Family Resource website!
SELF-ADVOCACY FOR STUDENT SUCCESS
Going to college is a big change. For many students, it’s the first time they are living away from home. They have to take care of themselves, keep up with schoolwork, make new friends and manage their time. This can be exciting - and hard.
One of the most important skills a student can learn is self-advocacy. This means being able to speak up, ask for help and take charge of their own needs. College students who learn this valuable skill often feel more confident and perform better in school and life.
As a parent or family member, your support can make a big difference. Instead of solving problems for your student, you can help them learn how to solve problems on their own.
In our latest article, Student Self-Advocacy for Academic and Personal Success, we share simple ways you can help your student grow into an independent adult—starting now.
NOVEMBER FAMILY WEBINAR (FREE)
On Tuesday, Nov. 18 at 7 p.m., join Executive Director of the Center for Career and Professional Development Cindy Greb ‘87 for SMCM’s November family webinar, “Pathways to Purpose: Supporting Your Student Through Career Uncertainty.”
Whether it’s choosing a major, exploring internships or envisioning life after graduation, college life often brings excitement mixed with doubt about future directions. In this empowering webinar, we’ll discuss common challenges students face, all while highlighting practical strategies to help your student pave a rewarding professional path forward.
Visit Upcoming Parent and Family Webinars to grab the Zoom link for this free virtual resource.
LET'S TALK MENTAL HEALTH
This time of year, college students often make their way back home for an extended visit. During this time, it may be helpful to check in with your student - not only in regards to their academic progress, but also about their mental health.
In our newest Parent & Family Resource article, Helping Your Student with Mental Health and Self Care, we discuss a few tips for navigating conversations about your student’s wellness.
HEALTHY MINDS STUDY (HMS)
The Healthy Minds Network is conducting a campus-wide HMS survey about student health and well-being. Your student’s input can impact how SMCM addresses mental health issues on campus and help improve our college’s support systems, creating a healthier environment for everyone. Plus, your student has a chance to win some great prizes!
Your student should watch for an email from healthyminds-SMCM@umich.edu for the invitation to participate in the HMS survey.
GIVING TUESDAY CHAMPIONS
Is your student passionate about a particular academic program, student club, varsity sport or scholarship at SMCM? If so, encourage them to become a Giving Tuesday Champion!
Giving Tuesday Champions will compete for a share of $30,000 towards their favorite SMCM cause or fund. Some pretty fun prizes are up for grabs for your student, too!
Students can visit the Alumni Council Challenge website to learn more and sign up by Monday, Nov. 10.