{"id":4358,"date":"2024-10-17T15:00:58","date_gmt":"2024-10-17T19:00:58","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/sites.miamioh.edu\/student-life\/?p=4358"},"modified":"2025-10-01T15:35:07","modified_gmt":"2025-10-01T19:35:07","slug":"7-tips-to-make-the-most-out-of-family-weekend","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/sites.miamioh.edu\/student-life\/2024\/10\/7-tips-to-make-the-most-out-of-family-weekend\/","title":{"rendered":"7 Tips to Make the Most Out of Family Weekend"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Family weekend is one of those rare opportunities where you get to show your parents or other family members how you are doing at college\u2014while also sneaking in some free food and bonding time. It\u2019s an opportunity for them to put faces to the names in the stories you\u2019re sharing with them, or for them to see the places you talk about in those stories. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Whether it’s their first visit since dropping you off or they\u2019ve become regulars on campus, making the most out of this weekend is key. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

So, how do you make sure it\u2019s memorable for everyone? <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Here are some tried-and-true tips!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Plan Ahead (Seriously, Do It!)<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n
\n
\"Colin<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

You know how campus events fill up fast, so don\u2019t leave this weekend to chance. Check out Miami\u2019s Family Weekend schedule<\/a> and RSVP (if applicable) for events that are interesting. Whether it’s a RedHawks game, a show, or something else, get tickets early. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Another important thing to think about is parking. Parking on campus will be free throughout the weekend, except for by Millett and Yager. <\/strong>So if you plan on attending the comedian on Friday night or the football game on Saturday, you may want to purchase parking ahead of time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Balance Group Events with Free Time<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Family Weekend is packed with events, but it\u2019s important to also schedule some chill time. Maybe a quiet brunch off-campus or a walk in a nearby park? These quieter moments are often when the best conversations happen. Plus, it\u2019s a good break for your family, who might not be used to all the campus hustle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Showcase Your College Life<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Your family likely wants to see how you\u2019re doing, so let them experience a slice of your college life. Invite them to a club meeting or introduce them to your roommates or friends. It\u2019s a fun way for them to understand your world (and get to know the people you talk about when you\u2019re home).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Take Advantage of the Freebies!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n
\n
\"Mom<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

Family weekend usually means free meals, activities, and maybe even some swag. This is your time to snag those extra perks! Tell your families and take them there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Be Flexible<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

As much as you want to control every minute of the weekend, try to go with the flow if things don\u2019t go exactly as planned. Maybe the weather\u2019s terrible or your family would rather explore the town than stay on campus\u2014adjust and enjoy the moment. You\u2019ll create fun memories either way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6. Give Your Parents a \u201cBreak\u201d<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

On that note, family weekends can be just as overwhelming for your parents as they are for you. If they need a little downtime, let them have it. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Suggest they take a break at a local caf\u00e9 or explore campus on their own for a bit while you catch up on work or socialize with friends. It gives them a breather and allows you to recharge too, making the whole weekend smoother.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

7. Say Thank You<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n
\n
\"Student<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

Your family is probably excited to spoil you a little, so let them! But make sure you express gratitude. A simple \u201cthank you for coming\u201d and \u201cI appreciate you\u201d will go a long way in making them feel valued, and it\u2019s a good reminder that you don\u2019t take them for granted (especially now that Thanksgiving is just a little more than a month away).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, Family Weekend is about more than just free meals and extra hugs\u2014it\u2019s a chance to reconnect with the people who support you through thick and thin. Follow these tips, and you\u2019ll have a weekend that helps both you and your family make the most out of this time together!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Chi Truong | Class of 2026<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

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