Homecoming Invitation

The following is a post written by Kaia Larson, a junior studying Public Relations and Coaching, and the captain of the Women's Basketball team for Northwestern.
 
Well, here we go! Another school year is already underway. My parents have always told me that the older you get the faster time goes. I didn’t really believe them… until now. It’s true, parents do know best. :) Considering how fast the summer flew by, I just know Homecoming will be here before we know it! 

Speaking of Homecoming, this is the perfect time to come back to campus and visit your student. Even though they may say that they are enjoying their independent lifestyle, they really do miss you J Homecoming is a great way to get caught up on the current happenings at Northwestern. 

We have lots of exciting things planned this year for Homecoming. For those parents that have students involved in the Music Department here at Northwestern, our Showcase! event would be a great one for you to attend. It will be held on Friday, September 28 at 7pm in Maranatha Hall and features Northwestern music ensembles and is followed by a dessert reception. If this is an event that interests you, make sure to purchase your ticket through the Northwestern College Ticket Office. For our sports fans out there, the Homecoming football game is an event you won’t want to miss! The game starts at 1pm on Saturday, September 29 at Reynolds Field, but prior to the game there will be plenty of fun activities for the whole family to enjoy! The field activities will start at 11:30am. On Saturday evening at 7pm Phil Wickham and The Royal Royal will be performing at Maranatha Hall for the Fusion Concert. That is sure to be a great finale to a wonderful weekend! Tickets can be purchased through the Ticket Office for this event as well.

So, let’s just pretend for a minute that I’m your student… consider this your invitation from him or her to come to Homecoming: 

Mom and Dad,

Will you please come visit me during Homecoming weekend? I am loving Northwestern, but I love you more and I really want to spend some quality time with you J I hope you can come! If you have any questions just take a look at the Homecoming 2012 schedule!

Leaving the Nest

The following is a post written by Jim Bender, Director of Alumni & Parent Relations for Northwestern.

Leaving the nest.

Well, the boxes are slowly getting packed, last minute shopping is occurring, and the family is taking those final summer trips.  It is hard to believe but in the next few weeks, many of your families will be headed down the "off to college" road.  My wife and I remember taking our oldest son, Justin to college for the first time. Our family was so excited but that excitement turned into sadness when we hit the freeway headed home. For many of you, the feeling is going to be the same.  For others, the emotions my be totally different.  The point is you will experience emotions.  It is so important to remember that God created us with emotions (men, believe it or not, that includes you too).  As I thought about some practical things to share with you about preparing for your student to leave the nest, I thought of three things:

1.  Put together a plan.  This includes a financial plan which encourages your student to understand budgeting.  Plan for those first few visits home during the school year.  We encourage your student to stay on campus for at least the first several weeks before coming home.  This will help your student transition to college life.

2.  Talk.  Yes, just talk.  Talk about your feelings.  Talk about what this life transition looks like for your family.  Talk with your student about expectations while attending college.  Talk about possible career options after college.  Families can never talk too much.

3.  Pray.  This should actually be number one.  Bathe all of your families transition in prayer.  Pray for your student's college experience.  Pray for their new roommates.  Pray for Northwestern College and pray that God will be close to your family.  Pray that God will do a great work in the life of your student.

Preparation for your child leaving the nest is a much better experience if you have a plan, if you have open dialogue, and if you pray.  If our office can be of any assistance to you, please do not hesitate to call or email.  

Jim Bender

Director of Alumni & Parent Relations

Northwestern College

651-631-5493