St John's University Family Weekend 2023

Hey there, future (or maybe past!) Red Storm fanatic! So, you’re thinking about, or maybe remembering, St. John's University Family Weekend 2023? Let me tell you, it was a vibe. Think cozy sweaters, crisp autumn air (sometimes!), and enough maroon to make you see it in your dreams. Seriously, did anyone else have maroon-tinted vision for a week after? Just me? Okay, moving on… 😉

But in all seriousness, Family Weekend at St. John’s is more than just a sea of red. It’s a chance to reconnect, to see what your favorite Johnnie (or future Johnnie!) is actually doing with their life besides, you know, allegedly studying. Plus, it’s a great excuse to finally see the campus without being rushed and stressed about orientation. Remember that? Ah, good times (or not!).

So, what went down? Buckle up, buttercup, because I’m about to spill the tea (or should I say, the Red Storm coffee?).

The Main Events: More Than Just a Brochure Suggests

Okay, so the official schedule probably looked something like this: lectures, tours, maybe a sporting event. And yeah, all that stuff happened! But let's be real, Family Weekend is about so much more than just ticking boxes on a schedule. It's about those in-between moments, the shared laughs, and the "Oh, that’s where you spend all your time?" revelations.

Academics with a Twist (of Lime?)

Let's talk academics. Now, I know what you're thinking: "Lectures? On my vacation time?!" But hold on a sec! These weren't your average, snooze-fest classes. Many departments put on special presentations specifically designed to be engaging for families. Think interactive demonstrations, Q&A sessions with professors who are surprisingly funny (who knew?!), and a chance to actually understand what your student is learning. Trust me, it's a far cry from trying to decipher their mumbled explanations over Thanksgiving dinner.

And the tours! Forget the rushed orientation tour with 50 other bewildered parents. This was a chance to really explore the campus at your own pace. Did you finally find the secret garden everyone keeps talking about? Did you get hopelessly lost in the library (again!)? These are the memories that make Family Weekend, well, family weekend.

Sports, Spirit, and So. Much. Maroon.

What’s St. John’s without a little Red Storm spirit? A very important part of the Family Weekend experience, no matter which sport is highlighted! The energy is infectious, the fans are passionate (to put it mildly!), and the maroon merch is… well, it’s everywhere. Did anyone not buy something maroon? I dare you to raise your hand.

Even if you’re not a die-hard sports fan (gasp!), it’s hard not to get caught up in the excitement. Plus, let’s be honest, cheering on the Red Storm is a great excuse to eat stadium food and yell at the refs without feeling too guilty. It's a win-win, right?

Beyond the major sporting event, there were usually other opportunities to show your Johnnie pride. Maybe a pep rally, a tailgate party, or even just a casual game of catch on the Great Lawn. It's all about soaking up the atmosphere and feeling like you're part of the St. John's family – which, by this point, you basically are.

Food, Glorious Food! (and Maybe Some Caffeine)

Okay, let's get to the real reason everyone loves Family Weekend: the food! (Don't deny it!) From the dining halls to the local eateries, there was no shortage of delicious options to fuel your weekend adventures. Did you snag a coveted slice of pizza from that famous place near campus? Or maybe you indulged in a late-night study session snack run with your student? Ah, the memories (and the heartburn!).

And let's not forget the caffeine! Between the early morning lectures (yes, they still happen on weekends!) and the late-night chats, a steady supply of coffee (or tea, if you're fancy) was essential. Did you discover your student's favorite coffee shop? Did you finally understand why they need that extra-large iced coffee, even in November? These are the important questions, people!

Pro-tip: Always pack snacks. You never know when a sudden craving for chocolate or a desperate need for a sugar rush will strike. Plus, sharing snacks is a great way to bond with your student (and bribe them into telling you the truth about their grades).

Beyond the Schedule: The Real Moments That Mattered

Okay, so we've covered the official events, but let's be honest, Family Weekend is about so much more than just following a schedule. It's about those little moments, the unexpected conversations, and the genuine connections that make the weekend so special.

Dorm Room Revelations (and Cleanliness Assessments)

Visiting your student's dorm room is a rite of passage. It's a chance to see how they're really living, to assess their organizational skills (or lack thereof), and to maybe, just maybe, offer a gentle suggestion about cleaning up a bit. Did you find any hidden treasures under the bed? Did you discover a surprising collection of ramen noodles? These are the things you'll be laughing about for years to come.

But beyond the clutter and the questionable smells (let's be real!), visiting the dorm room is also a chance to connect with your student on a more personal level. It's a glimpse into their daily life, a chance to see their friends, and a reminder that they're growing and changing in ways you might not always see from afar.

Late-Night Talks and Heart-to-Hearts

One of the best things about Family Weekend is the opportunity for uninterrupted conversations. No distractions, no schedules, just you and your student talking about… well, whatever comes to mind. Did you stay up late sharing stories, offering advice, or just listening? Did you learn something new about your student, or about yourself? These are the moments that truly matter.

Maybe you talked about their classes, their friends, their future plans. Maybe you reminisced about old memories, shared some embarrassing stories (on their end hopefully), or just enjoyed each other's company. Whatever you talked about, those late-night conversations are a chance to strengthen your bond and to remind your student that you're always there for them, no matter what.

Exploring the City That Never Sleeps (or at Least Naps Occasionally)

St. John's is in Queens, hello! (And Staten Island! But that's another adventure...). Family Weekend offered a perfect excuse to venture off campus and explore the amazing city that surrounds it. Did you finally take that trip to Flushing Meadows Corona Park? Maybe you grabbed some authentic cuisine somewhere new, or just walked around window shopping? This is also a chance for them to show off "their city" a little bit. 😉

Exploring NYC together is a chance to create new memories and to experience the city through your student's eyes. It's a reminder that they're not just a student, but also a resident of one of the most vibrant and exciting cities in the world. And who knows, maybe you'll even discover a new favorite restaurant or museum along the way!

Family Weekend 2023: Was It Worth It? (Spoiler Alert: Yes!)

So, was Family Weekend 2023 worth it? Absolutely! Despite the sometimes-crowded dining halls, the occasionally awkward conversations, and the inevitable maroon overload, it was an amazing opportunity to connect with your student, to experience their college life firsthand, and to create memories that will last a lifetime.

It's a reminder that even though your student is growing up and becoming more independent, they still need your love and support. And it's a chance for you to show them that you're proud of who they are and excited about who they're becoming.

So, if you're thinking about attending Family Weekend in the future, don't hesitate! Just be prepared for a weekend of maroon, memories, and maybe a few surprises along the way. You won't regret it!

Final Thoughts:

• Pack comfortable shoes. You'll be doing a lot of walking!
• Bring a sweater or jacket. The weather in October can be unpredictable.
• Don't be afraid to ask questions. The faculty and staff are there to help.
• Most importantly, have fun! This is a special weekend for you and your student.

Until next time, Go Red Storm!