Parents visit campus for Family Weekend

Special events include workshops and golf tournament

Meredith Schneider / Staff Writer / The USD Vista

Family Weekend is an annual tradition at the University of San Diego that enables families to come and visit students in their everyday environment and experience college life alongside them.

“The most important aspect of family weekend is spending time together and getting a glimpse of my daughter’s life,” Debra LaRoy, mother of freshman Samantha LaRoy, said.

The festivities kicked off on Friday Oct. 31 when students’ visitors were invited to attend classes with their student for the day. A special lunch for families was held in the Camino/Founders courtyard themed with Halloween decorations that included spooky creatures accompanied by eerie music.

Workshops and meetings, including International Studies Open House, Utilizing Wellness for Student Transitions and Graduate School Options, were offered Friday morning for campus visitors.

In addition, the USD Intramural Golf Tournament took place at 11:30 a.m. This event offered drinks, contests, food and prizes and was open to family members as well as students.

Saturday, Nov. 1 began with a family breakfast in the University Center. Organized classes and meetings during the day included Dining Services & Campus Card Information, International Studies forum and Residential Life – It’s Never Too Early.

“Scary Alley” took place directly outside the USD Bookstore. Attractions on the sidewalk included clothing sales, pumpkin decorating, refreshments and face painting. It also offered families the chance to see the newly renovated bookstore.

In regular Torero spirit fashion, the tailgate for the Dayton game took place from 4:30 p.m. and lasted until 6 p.m. in the Alcala Vista parking lot. Food and games were provided, along with a drawing for a room makeover provided by The Container Store.

Families of all faiths were invited to celebrate mass in Founders Chapel on Sunday morning, Nov. 2. Ted and Terri Gosen were presented the “Parents of the Year” award and Liberty Hebron was presented the “Award of Excellence.” Refreshments followed on the patio outside as the weekend festivities ended.

With all of the activities offered during Family Weekend, the experience was a great one for students and families alike.

“I did not feel crowded at all because people were off-campus at different times, Candace said. “I enjoyed meeting everyone’s families. I think it is good to have a family weekend.”