Today@Sam Article

Bearkat Family Weekend Brings Students’ Support Systems To SHSU

Sept. 1, 2021
SHSU Media Contact: Hannah Crandall

Bringing families to campus to interact with their students and the university, Sam Houston State University will continue the tradition of Bearkat Family Weekend Oct. 8-10. The deadline to register is Sept. 24.

The weekend-long event gives parents, families and supporters a glimpse into life on campus beyond a typical tour or visit. Taking place roughly two months after the time students move-in for fall classes, it also creates the perfect opportunity for families to reconnect and spend time with their Bearkat.

“I tell parents that this is the best time to come back and see how your student has adjusted to college life, meet their new friends, see the activities and programs they are involved in, and let them show you all they have learned,” said Chelsea Smith, Senior Associate Dean of Students. “It’s different from move-in weekend, and New Student Orientation. Now their students have been accustomed to college life, and it’s really a great way to see how they’re doing.”

Some activities being held during this event include discounted golfing, a FAFSA and Scholarship4Kats workshop, bingo, family feud, a block party, a car show, free rec sports access, tailgating, a football game, two soccer games and a volleyball game. There will also be a BBQ picnic, country style breakfast and honors college parents’ luncheon.

This year, families will see more flexible pricing and customized scheduling. Through ‘a la carte’ registration options, Bearkat Family Weekend guests can now choose which activities interest them most.

“Through our survey assessment, we listened to what the parents wanted in terms of flexibility,” Smith said. “Prior to this, it was kind of one-size-fits-all, but it wasn’t as flexible. So, for this year, we looked at what we could do to make this more affordable, efficient and flexible for our families.”

T-shirt and wristband access is $10/person and will include a Bearkat Family Weekend t-shirt, food access at the block party, car show, bingo and family feud. To enter a vehicle in the car show, registration can be completed for $10/vehicle. Both BBQ picnic and breakfast tickets can be purchased for $12/person, and registration can be completed online. Sporting event tickets should be purchased through the Bearkat Athletics website.

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