For Parents & Families
Ensuring that your student has an exceptional college experience is our top priority. We’re here to partner with families to provide the resources you and your student need to make a Smith education a powerful, lifelong investment.
The Big Picture
Helpful Information
Have you forgotten when finals start but don’t want to ask your already-stressed-out Smithie for the 10th time in a week? Planning a trip to campus and want to scope out what’s on offer at the Campus Center Café ahead of time?
Take Care
Be there for them even though you can’t be here for them. Many parents and family members enjoy sending care packages to their student—especially during finals or other high-stress times—to provide some comfort and a sweet pick-me-up (or two!). We’ve compiled a short list of local vendors (including our very own bookstore!) and options for sending a hug to your favorite Smithie.
Academic Services
Regardless of your student’s academic interests, Smith has the resources and tools necessary to help them thrive. With several tutoring centers on campus, staffed by both faculty members and peer advisers, each student receives the support they need, when they need it—whether that’s group study sessions or individualized tutoring appointments.
The Jacobson Center ▶ Writing
The Spinelli Center ▶ Math & Science
The Lazarus Center ▶ Career Advising
Class Deans ▶ Academic Advising
Is the Area Safe?
Smith and Northampton are significantly safer than most medium- or large-sized cities. Still, we are extremely cautious. Students are briefed on personal safety and have access to self-defense courses. Houses are always locked and have intercoms for identifying visitors. We offer nighttime escorts and shuttle buses, emergency alarm boxes across campus, and our security officers patrol 24 hours a day.
We have a campuswide emergency notification system to quickly communicate news to the entire community, and Campus Safety coordinates responses to all emergency situations.
“When I arrived on campus as a first year student nearly 40 years ago, I was told that I would make friends for life, which as a 17 year old I found difficult to imagine, never mind believe. Today, I can attest that those college friends are truly life-long sister-friends who have accompanied me through all of life's trials and tribulations.”