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For many of our families, especially our first-generation college student families, traditions on a college campus may be unfamiliar and can create a bit of uncertainty. They often have catchy names or are described vaguely by students.Family Weekend is one tradition at Baylor University that we want to encourage each and every one of our families to experience for themselves, because it is all about you—family. If you are trying to decide whether or not you should invest the time and effort to come, here are five reasons why I think you should attend Family Weekend, September 28-29 at Baylor University. 

Being a part of this journey: For many families the journey to college was a group effort. Think about all the different ways you were involved: from doing homework together to dropping your students off or picking them up from the 15 different practices, meetings, or events they attended every week, to the campus visits and help with move-in. Family Weekend is a part of this journey. Come to campus and get a feel for the place where your student spends so much time. 

Knowing Baylor University: For an overwhelming majority of student families, Baylor becomes a part of your family. That Good Ol’ Baylor Line will play at weddings someday, “Sic ’em” will be a valid response to many statements and the grandkids will someday be wearing Green and Gold. Invest the time now to learn about this place that will be such a big part of your family’s life going forward. 

Dealing with homesickness: Every fall we survey our new students. Consistently, "homesickness" is among the top issues students report that have a negative impact on their Baylor experience. Having family come visit can be a calming feeling for our students. We know you are proud of your student and that it is hard to convey that pride sometimes in telephone conversations, text messages or even via face-time conversations. Pride will show through when you visit their world here on campus. It helps to see that you are excited and proud of them, and they will see that you can’t help but be proud when you visit. 

Meeting the people in your student’s life: Every day on campus, your loved ones are surrounded by roommates, classmates, professors, and staff, individuals who are impacting their lives. Family Weekend is a time designed for you to meet and interact with them. Take some time to learn more about those who get to spend formative time with your student. 

Enjoying Waco, Texas: As a Waco native, I enjoy praising the city and surrounding area every chance I get. Family Weekend is a time for you to get a small taste of what Waco has to offer. Learn your student’s favorite restaurants or coffee shops, their favorite movie theater or ice cream shop, or explore some new areas of our wonderful city. You will be back. Come for Family Weekend and explore the city so you feel more at home when you return. 

Please take my words as an invitation for you to attend Family Weekend. This is a tradition that is dedicated to you. We want you here for the opportunity to hear from you and interact with you, and we want to share with you how much we enjoy being a part of your student’s life. Visit the Family Weekend website and the weekend’s schedule of events to learn more. To explore Waco lodging, dining and attractions, visit the Waco Convention & Visitors Bureau website. We hope to see you here!