Welcome!
Hello Amazing Parents and Guardians!
Deep breath. Your baby is going to college. (Yes, we know they're 18 (or older) and will roll their eyes at being called your "baby," but we get it!)
Whether this is kiddo #5 and you could pack a dorm room blindfolded, or this is your first (and maybe only!) college send-off and you've been stress-researching everything since March…we see you, and we've got you.
Here's the thing: this is a BIG moment for your student, but it's also a big moment for YOU. And if you're feeling a mix of pride, excitement, and maybe a tiny bit of "wait, who approved this?!" Please know that's totally normal.
Let's talk real talk for a second:
I'm not just saying this as the director, I'm also saying this as a mom who has two young adults navigating college and grad school, both living with disabilities. Professionally? I know the system works. I know there are incredible resources. I know your student will thrive.
But as a parent? I also know that it doesn't always quiet the 2am worries or the "are they really ready for this?" thoughts.
So here's what I want you to know: Your kiddo is more ready than you think. And on the days when they're not? We'll be right there. Our office isn't just a resource, it's a safe place to land on rough days. The Disability Cultural Center isn't just a location on campus, it's where students find their people and their place to belong.
About Helix:
Think of the Helix pre-orientation program as your student's "soft launch" into college life. They'll get:
An upperclassman mentor (who's been there, done that, and has the stories to prove it)
A built-in friend group of incoming students who totally get it
Activities, insights, real answers to real questions, and support that extends way beyond orientation week
And here's something important: If your student decides Helix isn't the right fit for them—that's completely okay. College is all about students making choices that work for them, and this is one of those choices. There will be plenty of other opportunities to learn about accommodations and connect with our office once they arrive on campus. Every student's path looks different, and we support whatever journey feels right for yours.
Bottom line: We're here for your student's entire four years at Connecticut College. And we're here for you, too, because we know that supporting them sometimes means supporting the people who love them most.
Welcome to the Conn family. We're so glad you're here. Please visit our Parent Frequently Asked Question page for more information on parenting a college student with disabilities.