Parents to Get Taste of College Life

Now, the Carolina Parents Office hopes to enchant students' families by showcasing the University during the annual Carolina Family Weekend activities taking place this weekend.

Emphasis will be placed on a variety of student opportunities found at UNC, spanning the study abroad program to musical events, during the weekend.

With a strong publicity push for the weekend during this summer's C-TOPS sessions, the CPO has seen the number of families register for the event increase, said Melissa Jessen, chairwoman of Carolina Family Weekend for the Parent's Council. More than 600 families have registered for the weekend, a significant increase over previous years, Jessen said.

"We want parents to enjoy the campus and get the Carolina feeling with their students," said Sheila Hrdlicka, coordinator of parent programs for the CPO.

Families are invited to tour the campus, the Student Union, Campus Y and residence halls to see and experience the University.

"It's a chance for (parents) to see their children and get involved," Jessen said.

"It's reassuring for parents to see their children acclimated. It's easier to see their children away if they can picture them," she said.

Families will be able to enjoy the artistic and cultural expression of students at the University.

Carolina Company theatre will hold a special performance, students in the Slavic languages and literature program will present a variety show, and various musical groups from across campus will perform during the Spectrum of Music Concert.

Many of the entertainment shows are already sold out, Jessen said.

Family Weekend also will feature new events this year. Additions include a Cool Your "Heels" recreation time for the younger siblings of UNC students and early morning aerobics at the Student Recreation Center.

The annual Carolina Parent Association meeting will be held during Family Weekend. The meeting, scheduled for Saturday morning, is a time for parents to hear about campus issues such as the Master Plan and learn how they can make an impact on the University.

All parents become members of the Parent Association when their children enroll in the University. A door prize of one semester's free in-state tuition is another incentive for parents to attend, Hrdlicka said.

Family Weekend participants were encouraged to register with the Parent's Office.

Prior registration or ticket purchase is required for most events.

The 2001 Family Weekend will be based out of the Friday Center instead of the Great Hall.

Families that registered with the Parents Office will be offered a shuttle service from the Friday Center to campus.