Welcome Back: From the Vice President for Student Life and Dean of Students

John M. Stein, Vice President for Student Life and Brandt-Fritz Dean of Students Chair

Like many of you, I’m asking the question “where did the summer go?” It’s hard to believe that we are days away from beginning yet another exciting academic year. The start of an academic year is a new beginning, a time filled with hope and possibility. 

Throughout the summer I virtually connected with many through virtual FASET Orientation. For returning parents, it’s the start of another year … maybe the second, third, fourth, or fifth. For everyone, new and returning, each year presents many opportunities for your student to explore his or her options through involvement in both curricular and co-curricular experiences. 

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 in to the residence halls and put all the pieces in place to start their new experience. Our returning students come back to campus with stories of their study abroad adventures, co-op, internship, and 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. This is 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 away. I recommend that parents take advantage of all the services, programs, and support Georgia Tech offers, particularly our Parent & Family Programs(parents.gatech.edu). This is one of the best means to stay informed about life at Georgia Tech, remember important deadlines/dates, and become more engaged with the Tech community. 

All of our students will experience many new and wonderful things during the academic year. I ask that you, as parents, encourage your student to take advantage of all Georgia Tech has to offer, both in and out of the classroom. And if you feel that your student 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.

Please do not hesitate to contact me with a question or feedback, or just to let me know how your student is enjoying the Georgia Tech experience. I can be reached at john.stein@studentlife.gatech.edu or 404.894.6367. Go Jackets!

Sincerely,

John M. Stein
Vice President for Student Life and Dean of Student