Merrimack Parents Blog

The Graduation Whirlwind

Andrea DeAngelo — Tue, 15 May 2012 15:22:33 +0000

Having two graduation ceremonies a few weeks apart has me feeling like I am in a whirlwind. Marc is on his way home and Anthony is getting ready to leave.

The latest to-do/decision for Anthony is to rank his preference of residence halls at Merrimack. Our only suggestion was to try to get a few different opinions from current students. The Resident Assistants (R.A.’s) are great and are available to help. If you have any questions regarding dorm information, check the Merrimack website or call Residence Life (978-837-5507) for assistance. Another factor in the housing experience is living with a roommate. That is a personal choice. Some students prefer to live with someone they know while others are…

Merrimack to Host NEACAC College Fair on Monday, May 14

Merrimack — Tue, 08 May 2012 17:58:15 +0000

Attention parents of high school sophomores and juniors! Merrimack College is hosting the Spring 2012 New England Association of Admission Counselors (NEACAC) College Fair, showcasing over 200 colleges and universities from New England, The United States and Canada. Check out the full list of schools attending. NEACAC is the number one resource in New England for college admissions professionals.

Monday, May 14, 2012
Two sessions: 9:00 – 11:00 a.m. and 7:00 – 9:00 p.m.
Volpe Athletic Center

Various schools will attend the morning session from 9 – 11 a.m.; local students and parents are encouraged to attend the evening session from 7 – 9 p.m.

If you have any questions, please contact Admissions Counselor Carolyn…

The Second Time Around

Andrea DeAngelo — Thu, 12 Apr 2012 21:05:06 +0000

The Accepted Student Reception at Merrimack was both informative and enjoyable. Although it was easier to travel around the campus because we were familiar with our surroundings, I still found myself fixated on Anthony’s reaction throughout the day- the same way I fixated four years ago when we attended the reception with Marc. What I noticed both times was a sense of calm and comfort which made me happy because although I loved many qualities of Merrimack I hoped they would notice those same qualities without me mentioning them first.

When we sat in the Rogers Center listening to the speakers – Anthony was attentive and when I suggested we sit in on one of the academic sampler classes I…

Decisions…Decisions…

Andrea DeAngelo — Wed, 14 Mar 2012 12:57:23 +0000

Whether it is big or small, not a day goes by that we are not faced with making a decision or two. Now that the majority of seniors have some idea of the post-graduate plans, it is important to start the planning process. Assuming that appropriate research has been done, maybe you’ve taken a tour, shadowed a class or even had the opportunity to enjoy an overnight stay; all this information should be helpful in deciding your future plans.

As I have mentioned previously, it is okay to get a second opinion, collaborate, have fun in the decision making process. This should be an exciting time for you and your child. I am not saying that it will be stress…

Accepted!

Merrimack — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 15:22:07 +0000

The holidays appeared to be a bit merrier as the early acceptances arrived for Anthony and his friends. It was only one month ago parents and students were so quiet about their college choices and now they can’t wait to share the news. Everything seems to be getting “back to normal”. The holidays are over, midterms are in full swing and the last semester of senior year is fast approaching.

Now it will be time to think about attending accepted student days and possibly shadowing a student at the college or university and that can be arranged through Admissions. There may even be some students that were not happy with their early acceptance and will have to start the application…

Is your student undecided about a major? Here’s some helpful advice!

Merrimack — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 18:21:00 +0000

Dr. Heather N. Maietta, CDFI
Director of Career Services and Cooperative Education
Career Services works closely with undecided students, looking at their interests, values, and abilities, and then together we explore options with the student that would be a good overall fit. It is about targeted, purposeful decision-making. Entering college undecided is not uncommon – many students who declare a major end up changing within first two years. Being undecided is exciting, but important for the student to work with an advisor to identify option early in their academic career so this purposeful planning can begin.

Sara Quagliaroli
First Year Academic Counselor, Center for Academic Enrichment
Undecided students should find a mentor early to help explore your options. A…

One Semester Down – One More to Go

Andrea DeAngelo — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 02:25:39 +0000

Over the Thanksgiving holiday when we were all together as a family I made a comment to my two seniors - “OMG (I teach fifth grade – they love when I speak in code) I just told my class the other day that I can’t believe that December is fast approaching and we are almost half way through the school year – while you will be on your way to middle school my two sons who are both seniors will be graduating!” All of a sudden, they stopped what they were doing, looked at each other and made one of those fake gulping faces – ugh!

I am not sure if it was the OMG or the fact that reality…

How to throw a great holiday bash & enjoy it!

Merrimack — Tue, 22 Nov 2011 17:45:38 +0000

The holiday season is upon us! Plan and prepare…don’t over think your holiday entertaining.

Holiday hosting should be fun, not exhausting and draining. Incorporating a thought-out strategic plan can easily eliminate stress and anxiety out of the season. Here are easy and simple entertaining ideas to have the best party with the least effort. Be a part of your party and not left hostage to the kitchen!

Many thanks to Nick Segretario, Sodexo Catering Director, for his expertise!

Plan and prepare…don’t over think your holiday entertaining
Holiday hosting should be fun not exhausting and draining. Incorporating a thought-out strategic plan can easily eliminate stress and anxiety out of the season. Here are easy and simple entertaining ideas to…

Handy infographic on Financial Aid

Merrimack — Fri, 18 Nov 2011 17:02:57 +0000

Online video chat tonight!

Merrimack — Wed, 09 Nov 2011 17:55:09 +0000

We’re getting Mark Barrett and Pete Sison together from the admissions office to spend some time with you for a live video chat. Mark and Pete will be answering any and all of your questions about Merrimack. Academic programs, athletics, clubs, dorms… ask away!

We’ll also have great give-a-ways, and a few students on hand to give you an inside look at life at Merrimack. The chat is from 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. EST tonight, November 9th at www.merrimackchat.com. We hope to “see” you there!