Parents and Families

Destination Kent State is an immersive introduction to academic and campus life at Kent State.

DKS isn’t just for students — parents, families and supporters are encouraged to attend as well. You play a significant role in the success of your student and we can give you the tools and resources to help you and your student succeed!

During DKS, we highly recommend that you attend the "Parents, Families, and Supporters as Partners" session. This session, co-hosted by University Orientation & Visit Experience and the Office of Parents and Families Engagement, features presentations on services, educational and engagement opportunities for parents, families and supporters, while helping you understand the transitionary period your student is experiencing and how to best support them.

Program Information for Parents and Guests

If your student is starting classes in the fall:

• Your student must register you to attend DKS when they register for DKS in FlashLine. You can also request to stay overnight on campus in one of our residence halls. Orientation for parents and guests runs from approximately 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. on the first day and 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the second day.   

• A light breakfast, lunch and dinner are provided. An additional $35 fee is charged if you wish to stay in the residence halls. Parents and guests will be separated from students in the residence halls.

If your student is starting classes in the spring:

• Your student does not need to register you to attend DKS. Simply arrive with your student at check-in.

• Orientation runs from approximately 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. for both students and guests. 

• A light breakfast is provided and you will have an opportunity to eat lunch with your student in our dining halls.

To learn more about what to expect, what to bring and what to know before arriving on campus, check out our DKS Information webpage.

Traveling from a distance? Check out hotels in the area!