08/26/2026
NEW CAL POLY PARENTS….after having two kids go through Cal Poly, living locally and working here as a real estate agent, here are 10 tips for your first week as a Mustang parent!
🐴 Join the Cal Poly SLO Mustang Parents Facebook group. Almost everything you need to know is here!
📅 Don’t feel obligated to visit on the busiest parent weekends. A quieter weekend may mean cheaper hotels, less traffic and more time with your student.
🎟️ Attend campus events when you can- rodeo, soccer, concerts, theater….Go, go, go!
💚 Grab your Mustang swag. Wear it anywhere and you’ll be amazed by how many Cal Poly connections you make all around the world!
🎁 Support Cal Poly Made. Students produce chocolates, jams, sauces, cheeses, wine, ice cream, plants and more. They all make great gifts!
🏡 Have your student start planning for third-year housing early. The best locations and homes go fast. If you plan to buy an investment property don’t shop during the “rush” the off seasons will save you $!
📍 Don’t miss the local highlights: Thursday Night Farmers’ Market, a sunrise hike up Bishop Peak, a beach walk at Montaña de Oro and pink champagne cake at the Madonna Inn.
🙋 Encourage your student to advocate for themselves. If an advisor can’t help, department heads and deans are often very accessible.
✈️ Book flights and hotels early. Remember that Paso Robles, Avila Beach, Pismo Beach, Morro Bay and Cayucos are also wonderful places to stay.
⏳ Enjoy every minute. These four years will be over before you know it.
Feel free to reach out if you have any questions! Have the best time, and good luck to your Mustang! 💚💛
