Parents & Families Newsletter April 2024

APRIL/MAY

Dear Parents and families,

Congratulations to your student on completing the Spring 2024 semester! As the semester draws to a close, it's important to ensure your student is prepared for their departure from our residential community. I want to take this opportunity to extend my heartfelt congratulations to all the students who will be graduating this semester. Their hard work, dedication, and achievements are commendable, and we wish them all the best as they embark on this new chapter.

To returning students, we are thrilled to have them continue their journey with us. Their enthusiasm and dedication to academic pursuits and community involvement are truly inspiring. We look forward to welcoming your student back for another exciting semester filled with growth, learning, and memorable experiences.

Thank you once again for entrusting us with your student's residential experience. We are committed to providing a supportive and enriching environment for all our residents, and we can't wait to continue this journey together.

With warm regards,

RichardClark

Executive Director of Housing & Residence Life Old Dominion University

MOVE-OUT DEADLINE

Please remind your student that they must vacate their residential community within 24 hours after their last exam or by 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 4, whichever comes first.

GRADUATING SENIORS

Graduating seniors participating in the Spring Commencement Ceremonies are allowed to check out by 12:00 p.m. on Sunday, May 5, 2024. All other resident access will be terminated.

CHECK-OUT PROCEDURE

To ensure a smooth check-out process, please advise your student to follow these steps:

1. Remove all belongings from their room and common areas.

2. Clean their room thoroughly, including wiping down surfaces, sweeping, vacuuming floors, and taking out all trash.

3. Complete the Pre-Check Out Form available on the Housing Portal, under Housing Forms

4. Visit the community front desk or call the RA on duty to return their room key and formally check-out.

Please note that failing to follow these steps will result in charges for improper check-out ($50) and a lock change ($75)

DONATION AND DISPOSAL

Donation bins for unwanted non-perishable food and non-food items are available in the lobby area until May 12 and large dumpsters for all trash items are in place as well.

SUMMER SCHOOL HOUSING

If your student is attending Maymester or Session One of Summer School and needs housing between May 4 and the start of their classes, please ensure they indicate so in their Summer Housing Application. Otherwise, they'll need to depart as stated above.

Importanttipsforparentsof UniversityVillageresidents:

SUMMER HOUSING CHARGE: PREPARE FOR SUMMER 2024

As a reminder, your student's 2023-2024 Housing Contract includes the Summer 2024 term, with the scheduled departure date set for 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, July 31, 2024. Here are some key details to keep in mind:

Summer School Attendees:

Facilities Management:

The summer 2024 housing charge was applied to your student's account on April 24.

Please note that only those attending summer sessions 2 or 3 will be granted access until August 4, 2024. All other residents will have their access terminated as scheduled on July 31 at 10:00 a.m.

Facilities Management staff may enter your student's apartment throughout the summer for maintenance purposes.

If your student plans to be away for an extended ensure they dispose of all perishable food items

Tips for maintaining communication with your college student during the summer:

As your student returns home from college for the summer, it's important to maintain open and supportive communication. Here are a few tips to help you stay connected:

1. Schedule Regular Check-Ins: Set aside dedicated times to catch up with your student, whether it's a weekly phone call, a video chat, or even just a quick text exchange.

2. Respect Their Independence: While it's essential to stay involved in your student's life, also respect their newfound independence. Allow them space to explore their interests and experiences.

3. Listen Actively: When communicating with your student, make sure to actively listen to their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Offer support and guidance when needed, but also allow them to express themselves freely.

4. Encourage In-Person Time: Plan activities or outings with your student to spend quality time together. Whether it's a family dinner, a weekend trip, or a fun activity, these shared experiences can help strengthen your bond.

5. Be Understanding: Understand that your student may be adjusting to being back home after being away at college. Be patient, empathetic, and supportive as they navigate this transition.

Take time to cherish the moments spent with your college student during the summer break. Reflect on their growth and accomplishments since they left for college and celebrate the person they've become. Seize the opportunity to bond, share stories, and create lasting memories together.