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First Year Family Fun
Dartmouth rolls out a big green carpet for First Year Family Weekend, April 27-29. About 1,600 parents and siblings of first years are expected to participate-plus their Dartmouth students.
"Our First Year Family Weekend is a series of great events planned by first-years for their parents," said Eric Ramsey, associate director of Collis Center and Student Activities, who serves as Family Weekend advisor. Some forty first years spend four months planning the weekend. "We turn the keys over to the students and their families and say, 'have a great time.'" Among the dozens of scheduled events are faculty lectures, a capella singing group performances, talent and magic shows, sports, and - they're a Weekend mainstay - barbecues.
Dartmouth has long held its First Year Family Weekend at the end of April. "This gives students the chance to learn about Dartmouth for two terms," said Ramsey. "By spring, they're ready to show their parents what their experience at Dartmouth is like. Besides, in fall it starts snowing-that's not good barbecuing weather."
Visiting parents enjoy meeting Dartmouth President Jim Wright at a special reception, but Ramsey thinks what families appreciate most is getting a taste of the academic environment by sitting in on featured faculty lectures. Student organizers choose professors they consider to be great teachers and invite them to host a lecture during First Year Family Weekend. This gives parents a better understanding of their student's experience - just as the weekend itself helps parents feel that they are part of the Dartmouth community.
Registrations are mailed in February, and families can also register in person the weekend of the event. Registration is $35 (fee may be waived upon request if it poses a financial hardship). Make your reservations early; area hotels fill up quickly. For more information, visit the Class of 2010 First-Year Family Weekend website.