Amidst roommate squabbles, mornings enhanced with shots of espresso and frustratingly intricate science labs, Parents’ Weekend was a break that helped new students put into perspective what the Carolina experience is about.
As freshmen take their parents on vicarious walks of their lives in the dorms and the paths between classes and extracurriculars, members of the Carolina family enjoy a golden weekend of reflection and reconnection.
Kimberly Yates, a freshman from Greensboro, introduced her parents to her crew at a special Parents’ Weekend program for rowers. She also introduced them to her suitemates at the Tar Heel Barbeque in the Pit. Even though her parents live about an hour away, this was the first time they visited.
“We didn’t want to intrude on the college experience,” her mother said. “She’s happy here, so there was no reason to come.”
This weekend was also the first time Austin Shepard, a freshman biology major and naval science minor, saw his parents. Nicole and Art Shepard, from Charleston, S.C., said they drove through the night because they didn’t want to miss anything.
“For us it’s a big deal because we haven’t seen him since we dropped him off in August,” Art Shepard said.
Freshman Michael Stock, who is studying business and statistics, received the Alumni Legacy pin on his lapel under the green cover of McCorkle Place, a ceremony sponsored by the General Alumni Association.
“We would have been here no matter what because of the Legacy Pinning,” his parents said.
In addition, they also went to the open house for the business school and Late Night with Roy, and they sat with the marching band at the football game. Even though they had to consider the economics of flying from Florida to see their son, ultimately, they decided it was worth it.
“We are a family and we wanted to support Michael,” they said.
What do you think? Did your parents visit you this weekend? Let us know in the comments below!
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