Parents & Families at Aquinas College

For Parents & Families

Resources for parents and families at Aquinas College in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Welcome to the AQ Family

At Aquinas College, your student's success is our shared mission. We believe that engaged families are essential partners in the college experience, and we're committed to keeping you informed, connected, and involved throughout your student's journey.
Whether your student is a first-year finding their footing or a senior preparing for graduation, this page is your hub for resources, updates, and opportunities to stay connected to the Aquinas community.

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Get monthly updates on campus events, important dates, student resources, and stories from the AQ community delivered to your inbox.

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For more information, contact the Office of Alumni & Community Engagement
Abby Zelenka, Director of Alumni & Community Engagement
Email: zelenkaa@aquinas.edu
Phone: 616.632.2822 

 Join other engaged families in supporting current students and strengthening the Aquinas community. Council members help plan family events, provide feedback on college initiatives, and serve as ambassadors to prospective families.

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From career sports events to campus projects, there are many ways to give your time and talent to Aquinas. Commencement, move-in, athletics, and homecoming are just a few ways you can be involved. 

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Learn about giving opportunities that directly impact student scholarships, campus programs, and facilities.

Learn more about supporting AQ

 

Academic Resources

 

Understanding Your Student's Academic Journey

  • Course Information & Schedules
    • Full course descriptions and academic schedules are available through the Registrar's Office. 
  • Academic Calendar
    • View important dates including registration periods, exam schedules, breaks, and commencement.

 

Supporting Your Student's Success

Writing Center             Tutoring Services           TRIO           Accessibility Services

 

Navigating the College Experience

Starting college is exciting and challenging. Here's what to expect as your student adjusts to college life:

College coursework requires more independent study and critical thinking than high school. It's normal for students to need time to develop new study strategies and time management skills.

Building community takes time. Encourage your student to attend campus events, join student organizations, and participate in residence hall activities. 

Living with others requires compromise, communication, and patience. If conflicts arise, resident assistants are trained to help students navigate roommate agreements and find solutions. Sometimes the best learning happens when students work through differences.

College life requires balancing academics, social activities, work, and self-care. Help your student think about priorities and make intentional choices about how they spend their time and energy.

 

What Your Student Wants You to Know

  • They're figuring things out and may feel uncertain sometimes
  • They want you to ask about more than just grades
  • They need to make their own decisions, even if mistakes happen
  • They're learning responsibility, and that's a process
  • When they call with bad news, they already feel bad, lead with love
  • Sometimes they just need someone to listen without fixing

 

Important Information for Families

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) protects student education records. You need your students permission to access grades, billing information, and academic records.

Understanding FERPA

Access billing statements, set up payment plans, and manage your student's account through the parent portal.

Student Accounts

The mission of the students of concern (or CARE) committee is to identify and respond to students that are of a concern to the campus community. 

Learn More

24/7 campus safety resources and emergency contacts.

Learn More

Questions about housing assignments, residence hall policies, or room changes?

Residence Life Office

Aquinas College virtual Tour

Virtual Tour: Aquinas College

 

Would you like to learn more about where your student will be attending classes? Where will your student watch home Saints games? Or would you like to gain a better understanding of the campus layout and what Aquinas has to offer? Check out the Aquinas College virtual tour to find out!Aquinas College Virtual Tour