A fresh start: Supporting your Hokie in the spring semester

Dear Hokie Families,

As we welcome a new year and the start of the spring semester, I hope this message finds you well. January is a time of fresh starts, not only for us but also for your students as they return to campus with renewed energy and focus. Whether this is their first spring semester or their last, it is an opportunity to reset, establish new routines, and continue their journey of growth and learning.

Missing Your Hokie: Staying connected from afar

As your students settle back into campus life, it is natural to feel the void left behind after having them home for winter break. For many families, this transition back to university life is bittersweet. You have had weeks of togetherness, only to return to the rhythm of calls, texts, and updates from a distance.

The good news is that staying connected is easier than ever. Regular check-ins, whether through phone calls, Facetime, or even a simple text, can go a long way in maintaining your relationship and showing your support. Many students appreciate a handwritten note or a care package — something that reminds them of home and lets them know you are thinking of them.

If you are looking to feel more connected to the Virginia Tech experience, I encourage you to explore the resources available to Hokie families. Through the Hokie Family Hub, you can receive tailored updates about campus happenings, upcoming events, and important academic deadlines. Following Virginia Tech’s social media channels is another great way to stay informed about campus life and cheer on our Hokies from afar.

Off-campus living: Supporting a new chapter

For families with students living off campus — or planning to move off campus in the future, this can be a pivotal time. We recognize the unique challenges and opportunities that off-campus living presents. To better understand and address these needs, we have launched a working group focused on the off-campus student experience. This initiative aims to ensure students living off campus feel supported and connected to the broader Hokie community.

Encourage your student to explore resources like our Off-Campus Housing website, which offers guidance on leases, roommates, and budgeting. If they are already living off campus, remind them to stay engaged with campus events and activities — it is a great way to stay connected to the Virginia Tech community.

We know this semester will bring new challenges and triumphs for your Hokie, and we are here to support them every step of the way. Thank you for being a crucial part of their journey and for all you do to strengthen the Hokie community.

Warm regards,