Family Spotlight- William Grubb and Tamara Hartless
Do you ever worry about your student while they’re on campus for the semester? It can be common to wonder if your student is happy, healthy and keeping on track, and the urge to check in and help them can be hard to ignore.
Stepping back and letting your student make their own decisions can be difficult, but for William Grubb and Tamara Hartless it was a necessary step. They encouraged their daughter Payton, a Business Management major in the Class of 2022, to conduct her own research into the universities she wanted to attend.
“We made sure to be there for her for questions and guidance, but ultimately it was going to be her life experience.”
After being offered several opportunities, Payton chose Virginia Commonwealth University for its diversity and location. As a VCU alumna, Ms. Hartless was familiar with the area, and both she and Mr. Grubb have previously worked in Richmond. For those not acquainted with VCU or Richmond, Mr. Grubb and Ms. Hartless recommend attending Ram Camp because it is a great way to get a feel for the area and receive helpful information to guide both you and your student.
The Hampton, Virginia residents have enjoyed several events at VCU, especially Ram Week and Family Weekend. They loved learning Payton’s favorite things about VCU and hearing her adventures throughout the first semester and were delighted to hear how much she enjoys her UNIV 112 class with Professor Thaddeus Fortney where she has been able to grow and express herself.
“As parents we never stop parenting, however these new experiences for our kids are their own and they are entering the adult world,” said Mr. Grubb and Ms. Hartless. “Just love them, listen to them and guide them when they ask.”
Want to see your family in an upcoming Family Spotlight? Send your stories and pictures to ramfamilies@vcu.edu for a chance to be featured!
Categories Family Highlight