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There is now a CONTENT FREEZE for Mercury while we switch to a new platform. It began on Friday, March 10 at 6pm and will end on Wednesday, March 15 at noon. No new content can be created during this time, but all material in the system as of the beginning of the freeze will be migrated to the new platform, including users and groups. Functionally the new site is identical to the old one. webteam@gatech.edu
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Atlanta, GA | Posted: March 3, 2021
One week after mid-terms, and we only have nine weeks left. At this point in the semester, students should have a good grasp on the demands of their coursework, their competency, and what they need to do to finish the semester strong.
As parents and family members, what you need to do now is encourage them to the finish line. Especially in this unique academic year where normal opportunities for social engagement and interaction are not really an option for our students as they work to stay healthy and safe, additional check-ins and encouragement may be needed. And please make sure to encourage them to ask for help! The pandemic hasn’t stopped our academic coaching and tutoring opportunities or our mental health and well-being support programs, which are still available for students who may be struggling at this point in the semester. All they need to do is ask and help will be provided.
In March, the Institute has scheduled two mid-semester break days — on March 16 and March 24. We are encouraging students to take these opportunities to step away from their studies and relax, recharge, and reboot. A full schedule of both in-person and virtual events has been planned to provide students with opportunities for self-care, personal development, or just plain fun. Faculty have been asked to not plan quizzes, exams, or other assignments directly following the break days.
I’m happy to share that we are planning a Spring Family Weekend for March 13-16. This hybrid model is admittedly a scaled-down approach to our normal event, which occurs in the fall, but it is still a great opportunity for you to engage with your student either virtually or in person.
I also encourage you to take a look at our “Spring Break in a Box” for those families that can’t visit their student in a safe way at this time. These boxes are a way for you to provide a virtual “hug” and encourage your student while you remain physically distant.
No matter what this academic year has brought us, I continue to be impressed and proud of our students and faculty. This hasn’t been an easy year, and they are reminding us how inventive and resilient they truly are. And if they are struggling, you can also refer them to my office (studentlife.gatech.edu), and we will help them find the assistance they need to be successful!
