Like many parents, I’m asking the same question I asked last year, “Where did the summer go?” It’s hard to believe that we are days away from beginning yet another academic year. The start of an academic year is a new beginning, always exciting and full of hope.

Over the summer I met many of you who are sending your first child to college — to Georgia Tech (a very wise choice). For other parents, it is the start of a new year at Tech where your student continues to explore their options through their involvement in both curricular and co-curricular experiences.  And for some parents, it is the start of your student’s last year (hopefully!) toward earning their degree. No matter what stage you are in, it is all exciting!

Personally, I always enjoy the start of a new academic year — it is a time filled with emotion and fanfare. It is easy to get caught up in the excitement of seeing newly enrolled students and their families move into the residence halls and attend New Student Convocation. Our returning students come back to campus with stories of their adventures studying abroad, co-op or work experiences. It is also a time to reconnect with faculty or meet new faculty and staff who have recently arrived at Georgia Tech.

For some parents it is potentially a time filled with emotion and some worry — a very normal response. Rest assured there are support services for both you and your student. The reality is we are only a telephone call or email message away. I recommend that parents take advantage of all the services, programs, and support Georgia Tech offers, particularly our Parents Program (www.parents.gatech.edu). Being involved with our Parents Program is one of the best means to stay informed about life at Georgia Tech, important deadlines/dates, and ways that you can become more involved in the Tech community.

All of our students will experience many new and wonderful things over the next few months and academic year. As parents, I ask that you encourage them to take advantage of all that Georgia Tech has to offer, both in and out of the classroom. If you and/or your student feel that they could benefit from the support services offered at Georgia Tech, please advise them to seek help quickly. Identifying and addressing issues early on offers students a greater opportunity to succeed.

Georgia Tech is a wonderful place filled with great opportunities and challenges, and the Office of the Dean of Students is here to serve you and your students. This summer we welcomed new staff to the Office of the Dean of Students. Peter Paquette joined us as an Assistant Dean/Director of Student Integrity. Jonathan Delgardo will join us on the first day of classes in his new role as our Finance and Accountant, Julius Cave is our newly appointed JumpStart Coordinator within the Office of Leadership & Civic Engagement. I am very excited to welcome all of our new staff. Please do not hesitate to contact me with a question, feedback, or just to let me know how your son/daughter is enjoying their Georgia Tech experience. I can be reached at john.stein@vpss.gatech.edu or by telephone at 404.894.6367. Go Jackets!

Sincerely,

John M. Stein
Dean of Students