Dear Parents of………

Enclosed is a letter I recently sent all new freshmen entering Cal Poly’s College of Science and Mathematics. As you can see, I emphasize studying and learning and earning a degree in a timely manner. We deeply care about our students at Cal Poly and want them to be successful. We know that success isn’t automatic and we will assist your student in any way we can. But we also know the responsibility is that of the student. In addition to the enclosed letter, the package I sent included a booklet on academic success, some “25-35” materials, a study monitoring grid, a list of offices that can assist students at Cal Poly, and a memo on alcohol abuse.

Most freshmen entering the College of Science and Mathematics have great high school grade point averages (the average is around 3.8-3.9), but claim they studied only 3-5 hours per week outside of class in high school. If they triple this at Cal Poly, they are studying more than they ever have in their lives and feel an understandable, but false sense of pride and confidence. In fact, in most cases, the total of time in class and studying is less than 30 hours per week. We want to encourage a greater commitment.

Some years ago I developed and initiated Cal Poly’s “25-35” program. In the College of Science and Mathematics, the number of students on academic probation at the close of fall quarter decreased and those on the Dean’s Honor List increased. We ask our students study 25-35 hours a week; with time in class, the total is equivalent to a 40-50 hour work week. We ask our students to devote some time each weekend to their academics; those that go home frequently often do not reach their academic potential and some end up on academic probation. Academic success is all about effort; all of our freshmen are capable. Some of our top incoming freshmen end up on academic probation; some on the other end of the scale earn a position on the Dean’s Honor List.

May I ask you to help your student start thinking about academic success at Cal Poly by placing the enclosed “25-35” magnet on your refrigerator and asking if you could take a look at the materials I sent. Thank you. I really want our students to get off to a good start, as I know you do. I hope to see you and your student during parent’s orientation in September. My best wishes to your family in this exciting and important transition.

Sincerely,

Philip S. Bailey, Dean

College of Science and Mathematics