Since you are reading this, I hope it means you read all the modules and you are ready to be a parent or family member of a Freshman Cadet!! Well, at least more ready. It is tough to cover everything that you will experience - both highs and lows. Over the next four years you will have some great laughs at your cadets stories and also spend some sleepless nights worrying about them. All this is normal.

What I hope you will take from this Orientation is that it is time for you to begin to change the role you play in your cadet's life. It is time to stop telling them what to do and become someone they come to for advice. I know for some, me included, it is not always an easy transformation. The first thing to remember is that you got them to this point; The Citadel builds on the values that you have instilled in them. If they weren't strong, then they would have never even thought about coming to The Citadel. They love you very much and always will, but it is time to let them start taking on the responsibilities that come with being an adult. Yes, they will fail at something, but it's in how we get back up that's we learn. It is a great feeling to watch - me included - but it takes an effort on your part.

I do hope you will join the Parent Portal and the Prospective Parents of the Class of 2027 Facebook Page. Also get involved with the Citadel Family Association (CFA) and other areas where appropriate. It is a great way to be a part of The Citadel Family and get the most out of your cadet's career!

Feel free to email me at parents@citadel.edu if you have any questions. If not, I look forward to seeing you on campus!

Taylor Skardon
Captain USN (Ret)
parents@citadel.edu