Marlene McGlensey: a Duck Parent

Marlene McGlensey
Fullerton, California

Marlene's daughter Melissa is an English major at the UO.

How did Melissa decide the UO was right for her?
We worked with a college counselor who helped Melissa decide what majors and school environment she was interested in. The UO had it all!

Did you visit the UO campus with your daughter?
She attended the Duck Days spring campus visit with her father, and we all attended registration at IntroDUCKtion. While at IntroDUCKtion, Melissa, her father, and I attended a variety of sessions and then compared notes at night.

What is your overall impression of the UO?
The school environment is exactly what Melissa was looking for – a bigger school with a small feel, a place that cared about the students and was a lot of fun, and that was socially and environmentally conscious.

Can you describe your experience as the parent of a first-year college student?
Melissa is our youngest so our house is certainly more quiet—but Melissa is so happy at Oregon that it makes it easier.  We came up for Family Weekend and an Oregon vs. Arizona game weekend. Before we knew it, Melissa was home for the holidays.

How have you stayed in contact with Melissa?
We talk on the phone every few days, and I get to see pictures on Facebook.

Any words of wisdom for parents of freshmen?
Melissa has really thrown herself into the opportunities Oregon has to offer. She is playing intramural sports, was in a couple of school plays, has gone hiking and skiing through the UO Outdoor Program, and is studying abroad in Ireland – not bad for a freshman! I would advise parents to encourage their students to take advantage of this opportunity to spread their wings and try new experiences.