We’re pleased to welcome you to the UMass Amherst family. We’re here to partner with you to support your student’s undergraduate experience. As a new member of the UMass Community, there is a lot of new information to learn. We put together this list so you can begin your journey as a UMass family member as smoothly as possible.
Help Keep Your Student On-Track
We encourage our new students to check their UMass email and SPIRE accounts regularly so they can stay informed about important To Dos before they start their first semester. We also offer a Student Checklist to keep them a step ahead of the game. Encourage your student to check their UMass accounts often and be aware of any approaching deadlines.
Sign-up for and view our Parent/Family Electronic Newsletter
We know you play an important role in your student's transition to UMass Amherst and beyond, so we want you to stay informed about developments on campus. During the school year we send out a monthly electronic newsletter that includes important dates and deadlines as well as a brief snapshot of what is happening on campus. You can sign up to receive our newsletter and view past issues here. If you register for Ready for the U, you will also be registered to receive the electronic newsletter.
Make plans to attend Family Weekend
Don’t miss out on Family Weekend! Family Weekend will include an exciting array of virtual events for you and your students!! Registration will open in the fall. Visit our Family Weekend website for more information.
Like us on Facebook!
We have a page and a group just for families:
Like the UMass Amherst Parents page, managed by UMass staff, to stay up to date.
Join the UMass Amherst Family to Family group, administered by current families, to connect with other UMass families, ask questions, organize activities, lead discussion topics, and much more.
Learn about the UMass Amherts Parents Advisory Council
As a new parent/family member of a fulltime undergraduate student, you are eligible to apply to become a member of the Advisory Council. Learn more about the Council and how you can become involved here.
Check out the UMass Amherst Family to Family blog
The blog is designed specifically for family members like you to provide pertinent information so that you are better prepared to offer advice and support to your student. Members of the Advisory Council manage the blog and update it regularly. Current blog articles include health and wellbeing, study abroad, living off campus, second semester admits, academic advising, communicating with your student, and much more.
