Dear Parents & Families,
I think most of us were hoping the groundhog didn’t see his shadow earlier this month - much of the east coast has had an unusually harsh winter, and here on campus it was no exception. However, thanks to the tireless work of our facilities staff in the Office of Physical Plant, our Office of Public Safety, our dining services staff and many others on campus, we were able to keep your Seahawks safe and warm during the recent snow and ice storm. We did lose a few days to closure, but our faculty were able to pivot to virtual classes, and most of all, our students responded in the St. Mary’s Way - by looking out for one another (and taking advantage of the “snow days” to have a little fun, as well)!
We did hear from a number of you and, as always, there are lessons to be learned from this kind of event. Rest assured, our Campus Emergency Response Team has made note of changes to procedures that will help us be even better prepared for the next major weather event. I want to reiterate that our lines of communication are always open. The Seahawk Family Liaison can be contacted at (240) 895-4388 or email families@smcm.edu; you can also leave messages for me on my website.
Sincerely,
Rhonda G. Phillips, Ph.D, FAICP
President
St. Mary’s College of Maryland
Navigating Changes Your Student May Face
College is designed to challenge students and help them grow. As they learn more about the world, they also gain a deeper understanding of themselves. During that time, your role shifts from “directing” to “providing” - providing your support, guidance and wisdom. This helps your student become a more confident, independent adult.
Check out Navigating Changes Your Student May Face for some practical tips on supporting your student as they grow through their college experience.
Eating Disorder Awareness
Eating Disorder Awareness Week takes place the last week of February. This annual campaign seeks to educate the public about the realities of eating disorders. It also brings visibility and hope to individuals and loved ones impacted by eating disorders.
Eating disorders are serious medical conditions that tend to get worse over time and can become life-threatening. These disorders include anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa and binge eating disorder. Eating disorders can appear in adolescence and young adulthood, with college students being particularly susceptible.
The most important tool in your arsenal is awareness. Learn how to identify the signs of an eating disorder and protect your student with this special February article, Eating Disorders: Awareness is Key.
Why the Numbers Matter
College success is shaped by habits, engagement and timely-decision making. There are some key numbers and calculations that students need to understand in order to be successful in their college career: the average number of credits they need to earn per semester to graduate in four years, how a GPA is calculated and why a “W” is better than an “F”.
Read Why the Numbers Matter to learn more about the key numbers your student needs to know.
Upcoming Family Webinars (Free)
Please join staff members from the Office of International Education and the Office of Student Success Services for two free virtual family webinars, coming up in March and April.
March’s webinar, “Passport to Possibilities: A Guide to Study Abroad at SMCM,” will focus on your student's potential academic adventure abroad! April’s webinar, “The Year-End Boost: Helping Your Student Finish Strong and Plan What’s Next,” will provide practical strategies for helping your student wrap up the spring semester.
Visit Upcoming Parent and Family Webinars to obtain the Zoom link.
Missed the Last Webinar?
The Wellness Playbook: Navigating Health & Counseling Services at College provides information on campus medical care, mental health services, preventive resources and after-hours options for students.
The Importance of Vaccines
Vaccines are one of the most reliable ways to defend against serious illnesses. For students heading to college and their families, understanding which vaccines are needed can feel overwhelming amid endless headlines, online opinions and social media advice.
Starting college means students take on more responsibility for their own health and make medical decisions independently for the first time. Families, meanwhile, may receive conflicting advice about what vaccines are recommended and when. This can make it hard to know what guidance to follow.
Caring for our Campus: Why Vaccines Matter will help you and your student navigate important vaccinations throughout their college career.
1098-T Information
IRS 1098-T forms were mailed to the permanent address in your student’s file and were also uploaded to your student’s portal. The 1098-T is an IRS form entitled “Tuition Statement” that assists students in determining if they qualify for certain education-related tax credits under the Taxpayer Relief Act of 1997 (TRA97).
Review the full 1098-T announcement and reach out to studentaccounts@smcm.edu with any questions or concerns.