For Parents & Families
Ensuring that your student has an exceptional college experience is our top priority. We’re here to partner with families to provide the resources you and your student need to make a Smith education a powerful, lifelong investment.
The Big Picture
Helpful Information
Take Care
Be there for them even though you can’t be here for them. Many parents and family members enjoy sending care packages to their student—especially during finals or other high-stress times—to provide some comfort and a sweet pick-me-up (or two!). We’ve compiled a short list of local vendors (including our very own bookstore!) and options for sending a hug to your favorite Smithie.
Family Orientation
Orientation isn’t just for new students! On move-in day—August 29, 2024—parents and families are encouraged to explore the campus and meet some of the staff and faculty who will help to shape their student’s college experience. Families spend the morning with their students as they check in, move into their rooms, eat lunch, and hear the first presidential address of the year. In the afternoon, while students are getting filled in on the essentials of campus and academic life, families can partake in walking tours or one of several sessions tailored to their curiosity or concerns from 2–5:30 p.m. For a full list of events and sessions open to families, please see the Family Orientation schedule below:
The fall 2024 Family Orientation schedule will be posted in early August.
Academic Services
Regardless of your student’s academic interests, Smith has the resources and tools necessary to help them thrive. With several tutoring centers on campus, staffed by both faculty members and peer advisers, each student receives the support they need, when they need it—whether that’s group study sessions or individualized tutoring appointments.
The Jacobson Center ▶ Writing
The Spinelli Center ▶ Math & Science
The Lazarus Center ▶ Career Advising
Class Deans ▶ Academic Advising
Is the Area Safe?
Smith and Northampton are significantly safer than most medium- or large-sized cities. Still, we are extremely cautious. Students are briefed on personal safety and have access to self-defense courses. Houses are always locked and have intercoms for identifying visitors. We offer nighttime escorts and shuttle buses, emergency alarm boxes across campus, and our security officers patrol 24 hours a day.
We have a campuswide emergency notification system to quickly communicate news to the entire community, and Campus Safety coordinates responses to all emergency situations.