 Parents are always welcome on campus, and many choose to visit frequently. We especially recommend that you try to attend Family Homecoming Weekend in the fall because of the special programs offered and the opportunity to meet other parents and alumni. Due to limited accommodations in the Waterville area, it is a good idea to book hotel reservations well in advance of this and any other weekend when special events are scheduled, especially Commencement. A list of hotels and bed-and-breakfast inns can be found on Colby's Web site. Please refer to the academic calendar for this year's important dates.
Colby and the Student Government Association jointly fund five free guest meal passes per semester per student. These can be used in any dining hall by any guest (including parents) of a current Colby student.
Orientation includes a welcome to Colby called “First Steps.” The students leave for their COOT2 trips early the next morning. A tentative schedule is sent in July for students arriving in August and another in December for mid-year arrivals.
During the fall, families of students are invited to a special weekend filled with faculty lectures, athletic events, a reception with the president and faculty, social gatherings for families and students, cultural events such as music, dance, or drama performances, and open forums on financial aid and financing options. Detailed information and registration forms are mailed approximately a month in advance. The 2011 Family Homecoming Weekend is Oct. 28-30.
In addition to the commencement ceremony on Sunday, Colby plays host to a number of related events for graduates, their families, and guests, including the baccalaureate service, the president’s reception, and a commencement ball, all held on Saturday. Special festive meals are part of the celebrations, beginning with the lobster bake on Friday evening. The 2012 Commencement Weekend is May 19-20. | |
