The leaves in Druid Hills begin to turn, painting the Emory University campus in hues of gold and crimson, signaling not just the arrival of autumn, but also one of the most anticipated events on the academic calendar: Parents Weekend. Far more than just a chance to share a meal with your student, Emory Parents Weekend is a meticulously curated experience designed to offer families a profound immersion into the vibrant intellectual life, spirited community, and unique culture that defines the Emory experience. It’s an invitation to step beyond the brochures and truly understand the environment your student calls their academic home.
For many parents, this weekend marks a pivotal moment of reconnection. It’s an opportunity to witness firsthand the growth, independence, and burgeoning passions of their college student. It’s a chance to meet the professors who are shaping their minds, the deans who oversee their well-being, and the friends who form their newfound support system. From the moment you step onto the historic quad, through the bustling halls of the Dobbs University Center, to the quiet contemplation within the Michael C. Carlos Museum, Parents Weekend promises a tapestry of events that cater to every interest, offering both structure and ample time for spontaneous family moments.
This comprehensive guide aims to illuminate the typical rhythm and rich offerings of Emory University Parents Weekend, providing a detailed, day-by-day itinerary to help you navigate the myriad opportunities and maximize your time on campus. While specific events and timings may vary slightly from year to year, the core spirit and structure remain consistent, promising a memorable and enriching experience for all.
Friday: Arrival, Welcome, and Academic Immersion
Friday sets the stage for the weekend, balancing official welcomes with initial glimpses into Emory’s academic prowess and campus life. The air crackles with anticipation as families converge, eager to reunite with their students and begin their campus journey.
Morning & Early Afternoon: Registration and Welcome to the Nest
- 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM: Parents Weekend Welcome & Registration (Woodruff P.E. Center or designated hub)
- Your first stop will likely be the central registration point. Here, you’ll pick up your official Parents Weekend packet, which includes a detailed schedule, campus map, event tickets (if applicable), and perhaps some Emory swag. Volunteers and staff are on hand to answer initial questions and guide you. This is also often where you’ll find information booths for various campus departments, from Career Center services to Student Health and Counseling.
- 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM: Welcome Reception & Light Refreshments
- Often held concurrently with registration, a casual welcome reception provides an informal setting to mingle with other parents, faculty, and university administrators. Light refreshments are typically served, offering a perfect opportunity to decompress after travel and begin soaking in the Emory atmosphere.
Afternoon: A Glimpse into the Classroom and Campus Life
- 1:30 PM – 3:00 PM: Open Houses & Departmental Spotlights
- This is a cornerstone of the academic experience during Parents Weekend. Various academic departments across the university – from the Goizueta Business School to the College of Arts and Sciences, the Rollins School of Public Health, and Candler School of Theology – host open houses. These events offer a chance to:
- Meet Department Chairs and Faculty: Engage directly with the educators who are shaping your student’s academic journey. Learn about their research, teaching philosophies, and the unique opportunities within their fields.
- Explore Facilities: Tour state-of-the-art labs, art studios, performance spaces, and specialized classrooms that may be integral to your student’s studies.
- Understand Curricula & Research Opportunities: Gain insights into specific programs, majors, minors, and the undergraduate research opportunities available to Emory students.
- This is a cornerstone of the academic experience during Parents Weekend. Various academic departments across the university – from the Goizueta Business School to the College of Arts and Sciences, the Rollins School of Public Health, and Candler School of Theology – host open houses. These events offer a chance to:
- 3:30 PM – 5:00 PM: "A Day in the Life" Faculty Lectures / Sample Classes
- Experience the intellectual rigor and engaging teaching style that defines Emory. Faculty members often host special lectures or condensed "sample classes" designed to give parents a taste of the classroom experience. These sessions cover a wide range of subjects, from cutting-edge scientific discoveries to explorations of classic literature, offering intellectual stimulation for all.
- 4:00 PM – 5:30 PM: Campus Tours (Student-Led or Self-Guided)
- For those who haven’t fully explored the campus, or wish to see it through their student’s eyes, student-led tours often depart from central locations. These tours offer not just architectural insights but also anecdotes and personal perspectives from current students, highlighting their favorite spots and hidden gems. Self-guided tour maps are also readily available.
Evening: Arts, Culture, and Social Connection
- 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM: Dean’s Welcome Reception & State of the University Address
- A more formal welcome, often hosted by the Dean of the College or the Provost, where university leadership provides an update on campus initiatives, achievements, and future directions. This is a valuable opportunity to hear directly from those at the helm of Emory’s academic and strategic vision.
- 7:30 PM Onwards: Arts Performances & Cultural Events
- Emory’s vibrant arts scene often takes center stage on Friday evening. Look for:
- Theater Productions: Performances by student drama groups in venues like the Schwartz Center for Performing Arts.
- Musical Concerts: Showcases by student ensembles, choirs, or the university orchestra.
- Film Screenings: Special screenings organized by film studies departments or student groups.
- Michael C. Carlos Museum: Often hosts a special late-night opening or a guided tour of its impressive collections, ranging from ancient Egyptian artifacts to classical Greek and Roman art.
- Emory’s vibrant arts scene often takes center stage on Friday evening. Look for:
- Dinner: Explore Emory Village or Campus Dining
- Many families opt for dinner with their student. Emory Village, adjacent to campus, offers a charming selection of restaurants, from casual eateries to more upscale options. Campus dining halls, like the Dobbs Common Table, often offer special Parents Weekend menus, providing a taste of the student dining experience.
Saturday: Deep Dives, Student Life, and Eagle Pride
Saturday is typically the busiest day, packed with opportunities to delve deeper into specific interests, witness the breadth of student life, and celebrate Emory’s community spirit.
Morning: Academic Enrichment and Career Insights
- 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM: Faculty Spotlight Series / In-Depth Academic Panels
- Building on Friday’s academic introductions, Saturday often features more focused academic sessions. These might include:
- Panel Discussions: Faculty from different disciplines discussing interdisciplinary topics or global challenges.
- Student Research Presentations: Undergraduate students showcasing their research projects, often in collaboration with faculty mentors. This is a fantastic way to see the practical application of Emory’s research-intensive environment.
- Pre-Professional Advising Sessions: For parents of students considering careers in medicine, law, or business, sessions with pre-health, pre-law, or career center advisors provide crucial insights into preparation and pathways.
- Building on Friday’s academic introductions, Saturday often features more focused academic sessions. These might include:
- 10:45 AM – 12:00 PM: Career Center & Internship Fair / Study Abroad Expo
- Understand the resources available to your student beyond graduation. The Career Center often hosts an open house or a mini-fair, highlighting internship opportunities, career counseling services, and alumni networking programs. Concurrently, the Study Abroad office may host an expo, showcasing the numerous international programs available to Emory students.
Midday: The Pulse of Student Life
- 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM: Parents Weekend Family Picnic / Lunch Options
- A highlight for many, the official Parents Weekend Picnic often takes place on the Quad or a large green space. It’s a festive, casual affair with delicious food, music, and a chance for families to relax together. Alternatively, many families choose to explore more of Emory Village or venture into Atlanta for lunch.
- 1:30 PM – 3:00 PM: Student Organization Showcase & Involvement Fair
- Witness the incredible diversity of student life at Emory. This fair brings together representatives from hundreds of student clubs and organizations – academic, cultural, service-oriented, recreational, and more. It’s a vibrant display of student passion and engagement, offering a glimpse into how your student might be spending their time outside the classroom. You might even discover new interests for yourself!
- 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM: Residence Hall Open Houses (Optional)
- While many parents have already seen their student’s dorm room, some residence halls may host open houses, allowing families to see different styles of housing and common areas. Student Resident Advisors (RAs) are often on hand to answer questions about residential life.
Afternoon: Athletics, Arts, and Campus Exploration
- 3:00 PM Onwards: Emory Eagles Athletics Game Day
- Show your support for the Emory Eagles! Depending on the season, there might be home games for various NCAA Division III sports – soccer, volleyball, cross country, or swim and dive. Attending a game is a great way to experience the energy of Emory’s athletic community and cheer on student-athletes.
- 4:00 PM – 5:30 PM: Additional Arts Performances / Music Recitals
- More opportunities to enjoy Emory’s talented students. This could include dance performances, chamber music recitals, or open rehearsals for upcoming productions.
- Throughout the Afternoon: Explore Atlanta (If Time Permits)
- For families with more flexible schedules or those seeking a change of scenery, Atlanta offers countless attractions just a short drive away: the World of Coca-Cola, Georgia Aquarium, Centennial Olympic Park, Piedmont Park, or the BeltLine for a walk.
Evening: Signature Event & Farewell Festivities
- 6:30 PM – 9:00 PM: Parents Weekend Signature Event (e.g., President’s Gala Dinner / Family BBQ / Cultural Celebration)
- The Saturday evening signature event is often the highlight of the weekend. This could be a formal gala dinner with university leadership, a lively outdoor BBQ with live music, or a themed cultural celebration showcasing Emory’s global diversity. It’s a wonderful opportunity for a final, large-scale gathering, often with student performances or presentations.
- 9:00 PM Onwards: Student-Organized Socials / Open Mic Night
- Some student groups or campus departments might host informal social events for students and parents, such as an open mic night, a coffee house gathering, or a board game session, offering a relaxed conclusion to a busy day.
Sunday: Farewell, Reflection, and Future Horizons
Sunday is a day for a more relaxed pace, allowing for final moments of connection and reflection before departure.
Morning: Brunch, Spirituality, and Final Questions
- 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM: Farewell Brunch (Dining Halls / Specific Venues)
- A leisurely brunch is a popular way to cap off the weekend. Many campus dining halls offer special brunch menus, or you might find designated brunch locations with extended hours. It’s a perfect time for unhurried conversation with your student and perhaps their friends.
- 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM: Spiritual Services (Optional)
- For those who wish, the Office of Spiritual and Religious Life often hosts interfaith services or opportunities for quiet reflection, offering a moment of peace and gratitude.
- 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Open Forum with Student Affairs / Q&A Session
- A final opportunity to ask questions. Representatives from Student Affairs, Housing, or Health Services might host an open forum to address any lingering concerns or provide information on support services available to students throughout the academic year.
Early Afternoon: Departure and Cherished Memories
- 12:00 PM Onwards: Last-Minute Souvenir Shopping & Departure
- Before heading home, many families make a final stop at the Emory University Bookstore for souvenirs, apparel, or last-minute essentials. It’s a chance to take a piece of the Emory spirit home with you.
- The remainder of the afternoon is dedicated to saying farewell, with promises of future visits and phone calls.
Beyond the Schedule: Practical Tips for Parents
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable Parents Weekend, consider these practical tips:
- Register Early: Parents Weekend events, especially popular ones, can fill up quickly. Register as soon as the portal opens to secure your spots.
- Book Accommodations in Advance: Hotels in the Emory/Druid Hills area and throughout Atlanta book up rapidly. Plan your lodging well in advance.
- Transportation & Parking: Parking on campus can be challenging, especially during peak event times. Utilize ride-sharing services, campus shuttles, or public transportation (MARTA) if feasible. Detailed parking information is usually provided in the Parents Weekend packet.
- Dress Comfortably: You’ll be doing a lot of walking across campus. Comfortable shoes are a must. Dress in layers, as fall weather in Atlanta can be unpredictable.
- Balance Structure with Spontaneity: While the schedule is packed, don’t feel obligated to attend every single event. Prioritize what’s most important to you and your student. Leave time for informal meals, a quiet coffee, or just relaxing in your student’s dorm room.
- Engage with Your Student: This weekend is about them! Let them guide some of the activities. Ask about their classes, friends, and challenges. Listen more than you talk.
- Embrace the Unexpected: Some of the most memorable moments might be the impromptu conversations with other parents, a chance encounter with a professor, or discovering a new favorite spot on campus.
- Stay Hydrated and Energized: With so much to see and do, remember to take breaks, drink water, and fuel up.
- Download the Campus App: Many universities have a dedicated app that can provide real-time updates, maps, and event schedules, which can be invaluable.
Emory University Parents Weekend is more than just an event; it’s an affirmation of the strong partnership between families and the university in fostering student success. It’s an opportunity to truly see where your student learns, grows, and thrives, to meet the people who enrich their daily lives, and to feel the palpable energy of a community dedicated to intellectual discovery and personal development. As you depart, you’ll carry not just souvenirs, but a deeper understanding, a renewed sense of pride, and cherished memories of your time immersed in the vibrant world of the Emory Eagles. Welcome to the family!
