For Incoming Freshman Families

A Message from the Director of Texas Parents

Dear Class of 2029 Parents and Families,

On behalf of The University of Texas at Austin, welcome to the Longhorn Family; yes, that welcome is extended to you along with your newly admitted student! You have played an integral role in your student’s pursuit of becoming a Longhorn and now, a new journey will begin for both of you. Over the next four years, you will find an expansive Longhorn Family that includes administrators, faculty, staff, alumni, supporters and fellow parents and families who stand ready to help you support your student.

In the coming months, you and your student may feel like you are straddling two worlds with high school wrapping up and college peeking around the corner. There will be a lot to celebrate in your student’s high school world and our best advice for your family is to focus on those milestones and enjoy the moment.

There is a lot to learn as you prepare for your student’s time on the Forty Acres, but not to worry, you have a guide. Texas Parents is a professionally-staffed department in the Division of Student Affairs dedicated to helping all UT parents and families from enrollment to graduation. Our immediate goal is to equip you with information and resources between now and August that will aid in your student's successful transition to The Forty Acres. We'll accomplish this through the Next Steps monthly eNewsletters April-July, a mailed New Parent Guide (with an electronic version) in May, this website and Family Orientation.

I encourage you to explore the resources listed on this page as well as those found on the Resources for All Undergraduate Families page as they are most often sought out by incoming parents and families. If you do not find what you need, please contact our office; we are happy to assist!
 

I hope you will choose to belong to the Texas Parents Association, the University's official association of parents and families. The Texas Parents department manages the Association, provides benefits to members and is in place to answer any and every question you may have. In short, Texas Parents is the department on campus that is specifically designed to be a resource for you. 

We look forward to getting to know you better as you navigate your Longhorn's first year at the University. You are welcome to contact us with questions at 512-471-2353 or by email at TexasParents@austin.utexas.edu. We can also be reached toll free at 888-690-0012. Our office is open Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. (Central). We are here for you, holding the map while you ride shotgun as your Longhorn takes the wheel. The coming years are a road trip that will change the world.

Sincerely,
Susie Smith
Director, Texas Parents