<p>Since we live so far from Clemson (Boston), my husband and I feel we can only afford one extra trip down to Clemson. My husband is taking our son down to visit this weekend, and will drive down with him in August, but we feel we need to choose between accompanying him to orientation and the fall parents weekend. What would you guys suggest is the better choice?
Thanks.</p>
<p>I would suggest that it depends on your son-is he the type that would more comfortable with a parent around to share the first time he “experiences” Clemson (orientation) or would he rather “show off” his new school to you one month after the semester has started.</p>
<p>As a parent, if I were not able to attend both, I would probably pick the parents weekend. Even the most confident kid in the world enjoys a Mom & Dad fix/dinner out/ being told they are the greatest, getting hand delivered goodies from home, etc. after being away for a month.</p>
<p>For airfares from Boston, I’m told US Air is very reasonable as is Jet Blue from JFK</p>
<p>The primary focus for orientation is getting academic advising from the major department and registering for courses, neither of which parents can participate in (there’s a separate program just for parents while students do their thing). Fam Weekend will be more fun, and considerably less hot.</p>
<p>I guess go to family weekend? Your kid will miss you after one month of school and it’s good time to visit and take him out to dinner and spend a weekend with him. There are parent programs at orientation but those aren’t necessary and your kid will get all the info he needs there.</p>
<p>Good points everyone, thanks.</p>