Tips for First-Year Students & Parents
Twenty tips for incoming college students and their families adjusting to college life.
Don't let the fear of looking "stupid" consume you and don't hold back!
If a friend is threatened by your happiness, they aren’t your friend. Surround yourself with people who make you feel seen, supported and heard.
There’s nothing wrong with wanting to redefine yourself once you get to college, but don’t lose yourself. Make your life about what you want, NOT about being wanted.
It doesn’t matter where you live on campus or who lives there, always lock your door when you leave your room for the day. Be smart and safe about where you keep your stuff and always remember it’s always a priority for you to be safe.
The ultimate roommate rule is this: respect each other’s differences and make rules before you need rules. Creating boundaries will only help you and your roommate thrive in a shared living space.
College is an exciting time and through it all you’ll be faced with situations that allow you to use your voice. Your professor and your peers want to hear what you have to say, be confident and remember that your voice truly does matter!
Switch your perspective from, “Everyone else knows what they want to do already.” to “I have lots of things I can and want to try and I trust that I will find something that I love!”
You are only making the material, tests, papers, and finals more difficult than they need to be. If you do miss, for whatever reason, talk to your professor during office hours or after class the next time you go to get caught up.
Set aside time to study or do homework during your day. Ask your professors and peers questions and ask for help before you’re failing!
Be kind to yourself and believe in yourself and your capabilities. You got this, and you’re going to have a great year!
Go at your own pace but keep in mind that your child is maybe overwhelmed. Try checking in with them throughout the process, a "Hey, how are you feeling?" could go a long way!
They're the ones living with them! It's important to acknowledge that this is a formative time in your child's life. Decision making and college go hand in hand, and they'll need to get comfortable making their own choices for the next four years and onward.
Once your child gets their class schedule, set up a calling schedule with them to avoid calling during times they set aside to study, decompress, or do homework.
It's important to know that they'll lean on you, so be patient, and try not to wait by the phone.
You are different people, and this can invalidate whatever your child is feeling and or going through. Instead make sure they know that everyone approaches college differently and it’s their time to believe in themselves, their choices, and their path!
While your child may appreciate your advice on choosing a major keep in mind that college has changed a lot. They will find what they love! Trust them and trust the process! Give them the compassion and space to try and try again! They’re juggling a lot.
No,that doesn’t mean a bad grade on a test or a failed first attempt at a college essay. This is an opportunity for your child to meet with the professor and take accountability for their education and improve their work ethic, which can be a great motivator and confidence booster.
The rest is up to them. While it’s easier said than done, it really all does come down to trust and patience!
There might just be other people who might be able to relate to them a bit better! If anything, this is a sign they have people they trust on campus who help them feel like they aren’t alone, which is a wonderful thing!
Just loosen the grip a bit. Most importantly, know that you are going to be learning and growing as they do. So, enjoy the journey, and remember to hold onto what matters, being what your child needs from moment to moment. You got this!