From Laramie with Love

1. The Cowboy Community is so welcoming

When I first came to UW, everyone told me “You’ll find your people.” And I didn’t really believe them until it actually happened. Students here look out for each other, whether it’s holding the door for you when it’s snowy and cold outside or taking someone to their first Wyoming football game. Your student will meet mentors, friends and supportive staff faster than you think. They’re not doing this alone and will probably make lifelong friends along the way. 

2. Care Packages can be an immediate mood booster

I’ll be honest, nothing turns a stressful week around quite like opening a box from home. Even something small like homemade cookies or a snack you can’t get in Laramie makes a huge difference. And don’t worry, sending packages to the dorms is super easy for you and your student. Getting a package from your parents makes you feel like a little kid on Christmas. 

3. There are so many great dining options

Parents sometimes worry that college students live off cereal and ramen noodles. At UW, that’s not the case. The dining halls are very good and offer a variety of options that will fit every student’s dietary needs. There are also several dining options available throughout campus, including my personal favorite, Chick-Fil-A. Laramie’s local restaurants are also great options and are delicious no matter where you eat.  

4. The weather can change on a dime, pack layers

Laramie weather can change within an hour, so your student will learn the value of layers very quickly. It is also windy more days than it's not, but your student will adapt quicker than you imagine. Encourage warm layers, a trusty coat and shoes that are warm and waterproof. And once they get used to it, they’ll be bragging to out-of-state friends about surviving their first Wyoming winter. 

5. Roommates can become family

Moving in with a total stranger was one of the scariest parts of my freshman year. But after a few late-night talks, sharing my favorite snacks and laughing about random things, my roommate became one of my favorite people. Give your student space to adjust; it might take time, but those relationships can become something really special. Residence halls have lots of resources for roommates, also to aid in the transition. 

6. Campus Resources are readily available 

One thing my parent’s loved hearing was that there is so much support here. Tutors, counselors, advisors, career mentors, you name it and UW has it. Sometimes students hesitate to ask for help, so a little nudge from you to go check it out can really push them in the right direction. 

7. Encourage Your student to get involved

Every student I know who joined a club or tried something new ended up feeling more connected here. Whether it’s outdoor programs, student orgs, intramurals, Greek Life or campus events, involvement makes the biggest difference in how quickly a student feels at home. Any support from you to go and try something new goes a long way.  

8. Family Weekend is one my favorite weekends of the year

As someone who’s experienced it, seeing your parents walk around campus, meet your friends and join in on the game day experience during Family Weekend is the best feeling. Your student will be so excited to show off Laramie to you (and maybe score a free meal or new clothes from the bookstore). 

9. Your Student Will change, in the best way

College turns us into stronger, more confident versions of ourselves. You’ll see your student grow in ways that might surprise you, in independence, in maturity, in resilience. It’s a good thing, even if it tugs at your heart a little. 

10. You are still part of the journey

Even from hundreds of miles away, your encouragement matters. Sending a quick text asking how their day is or a funny picture from home can make us feel supported and seen. We might not always say it, but we carry your love with us every day here at UW. 

No matter how far away you are, you’re one of the biggest reasons we feel confident taking on this new chapter. Your support doesn’t fade just because we unpacked in our dorm room, it shows up in every encouraging text, every call on a tough day, every reminder that you believe in us. Life at UW is exciting, challenging and full of growth, but having you in our corner makes all the difference. So thank you for cheering us on, trusting us and walking this journey with us even from afar. Here at the University of Wyoming, we’re not just building our futures, we’re making you proud along the way.