Dear Potential UVA Parent,
We write this letter to share with you our experiences as proud parents of two African American graduates of the University of Virginia. Both of our children decided to attend UVA, and my daughter loved it so much, she is still there getting her master’s degree! My daughter was accepted to every school she applied to, but she would not trade her experience at UVA for any of those schools or all the money in the world!
From acceptance to graduation, we felt supported and valued. My daughter had a wonderful orientation experience, with activities and resources provided for the parents as well. My daughter was also put in contact with other students before she came to UVA–specifically African American students to mentor and support her.
She entered the university at a tumultuous time for the city of Charlottesville, after the violent Unite the Right rally of 2017. It is an understatement to say that we were fearful and questioning if this was the right place to send our daughter, but our fears were unfounded. There were signs of comfort all over campus at move-in that year, including African American Alumni who helped first years move into dorms and let them know they do belong at UVA. Furthermore, the full university community gathered on the lawn to light candles, sing, and peacefully protest, showing us how supportive this community is. There were also important policy changes made after that incident to make all students feel included.
My daughter thrived during her time at UVA. She found her community in Chi Alpha, a Christian organization on campus, or “Grounds”, and became an R.A,, forming lasting friendships. She was so moved by her experience as an incoming freshman, she vowed to reach back out to other students in the same situation, and worked as an Orientation Leader, helped with Spring Fling, and Days on the Lawn. The impact UVA had on her led her to pursue College Administration as a career choice, which is what she is currently studying in graduate school at UVA!
As for parents, UVA kept us in the loop communication wise, in a timely and efficient manner. We get texts, emails, and UVA newsletters pretty regularly. Amidst the pandemic, I have been impressed by the measures the university implemented to keep students safe and parents updated. UVA’s low comparative numbers of cases reflected those strategies. I always felt comforted that UVA truly cared about students and their families.
Overall, we have enjoyed our 9 years total of being connected to this great university, and will miss it. If your family decides your student will attend UVA, you won’t regret it!
Good luck!
Regina & Steven Wright
UVA Parents of Marcellus Wright (Class of 2017)
and Jada Wright (Class of 2021, 2022)
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