Are you ready? The spring semester awaits!
January tips for families from Mark Sikes, Dean of Students
As the Dean of Students, I am keenly aware of the emotional journey our families undertake as their students return for the spring semester. This period often brings a mix of nostalgia and excitement as your student transitions from home back to their life on campus in Blacksburg.
The return from the winter break is also a poignant time for families — it is a moment of realization for you of the significant steps your student is making as they become more independent and grow.
However, you are not alone in these thoughts as students often share with me how returning home brings a flood of memories and emotions for them too. The comfort of their childhood rooms and the joy of reuniting with family and friends juxtapose with the challenges of readjusting to life away from college. This time allows them to reconnect with their roots, appreciate their support systems, and reflect on their growth since starting college.
Once your student departs, the silence at home contrasts with the renewed vibrancy and energy of campus life in Blacksburg. The start of the spring semester is a time for your students to reconnect and re-engage, and they often quickly settle back into their college routines.
Each spring, I am impressed by the adaptability of our students as Blacksburg becomes their second home. Their ability to balance their lives between two homes is a testament to their growing independence. For families, witnessing these transitions can be a mix of pride and wistfulness as these are significant milestones in their journey to adulthood. It's a gradual process of letting go, allowing them to embrace their independence while still providing support and guidance.
As parents and family members, it is your role to celebrate their achievements and support them through the lows and highs of this journey. It's about creating a safe space for open communication, fostering pride in their accomplishments, and understanding the complexities of their growth. Supporting your student through this transition is a shared and invaluable experience. As a fellow parent, I understand the evolving nature of our roles as our children reach new milestones. Embracing these changes alongside them is a part of our own growth journey.
The return to college is more than just a physical transition; it's a significant chapter in personal growth and self-discovery. It's about reconciling newfound independence with established roots and preparing for future adventures. This re-departure from home offers an opportunity for families to celebrate growth and strengthen bonds across distances.
Please remember, my team and I are here to support your students in connecting with campus life and finding their sense of belonging in their 'second home' here at Virginia Tech.
Mark Sikes, Ph.D.
Dean of Students
smsikes@vt.edu
540-231-6272
The Dean of Students Office knows Virginia Tech. Encourage your student to get to know this caring and talented team of mentors and advocates! They can point your student in the right direction, be a sounding board, and assist with personal, social, and academic challenges. They want to get to know your student so they can walk with them along the way and cheer them on in true Hokie fashion!
