Dear New Macalester Parents and Families:

Welcome to Macalester!  Although only your son or daughter will be moving onto campus this fall, we realize that you are definitely a part of the journey.   The experience that will culminate with Commencement in May 2016 is now underway, and you have an important role to play.

Whether you are able to be on campus during orientation to physically demonstrate your support of your son or daughter, or you will be providing your support from afar, we know that it is important for parents to have an understanding of what lies ahead. Orientation is a very busy time. The students' schedule keeps them very busy preparing to get off to a succesful start. The parent program is equally filled with events for families to attend throughout the weekend as they learn more about Macalester. Please remember that you may have limited time with your son or daughter during orientation, but you still have an important role to play.

We will continue to provide information that is important to understand as your family navigates the transitions of the coming months. On this page, you will find links to several pages on the Macalester website that we think will be helpful while you prepare to send your son or daughter to campus. Please also feel free to review the rest of the Orientation website.  Most importantly, however, we hope you will also bookmark the Macalester Parents and Families webpage and visit it often.

Once again, welcome to the Macalester Community!

Sincerely,

Robin Hart Ruthenbeck
Associate Director for Campus Program

Resources for Parents and Families

View the Orientation Schedule

For general information aimed at Parents and Families, visit the Macalester Parents and Families webpage. Here, you will find information on:

• Parent and Family Handbook
• Tips for Success for your student
• Frequently Asked Questions
• and more!

Visit the Life at Mac page for information on:

• Frequently Asked Questions about Student Life at Mac
• Residential Life - learn what to bring to college and Frequently Asked Questions about moving in
• Student Accounts - learn about important dates and guidelines, health insurance information, board/meal plan information, and more!
• Alcohol and College Life

Visit the Safety and Security website for information on campus safety procedures and regulations.

• Sign up for "Mac Alert"
• Read up on Emergency Procedures

Other information you may be seeking:

• Health and Wellness
  • Insurance Information and Forms
• Academic Calendar
• Area Hotels and Lodging

For specific questions, please email Orientation@macalester.edu. We will continue to post Frequently Asked Questions and their answers here.