Helping With the Transition to Babson

The amount of support and mentoring Babson students receive is one of the true hallmarks of the Babson experience. Resources abound on campus—help is provided from individuals, offices, and resource centers.  In addition to the mentoring we provide, you will still remain that key source of support in your new student’s life.

During the first year of college, you will see and hear a variety of changes in your child. From living in a new place to learning how to meet expectations in this new role as a young adult learner, your child is on “new experience overload.” Multiple levels of learning and adapting occur simultaneously: understanding community expectations, embracing academic and personal independence, acclimating to residence hall living, and for some, even learning how to do laundry.

When your child embarks on the Babson experience, he or she will rely heavily on the values and moral compass that you have instilled through the years. When your child leaves home, you will have to trust his or her instincts and ability to make a positive transition.

It is important for your child to believe that you are confident in his or her ability to be successful at the College.

Even though your child is becoming an adult, he or she will still need your support and guidance. As a parent, you need to ensure that your child knows you are there for the difficult times. However, try to let your child address the everyday obstacles he or she may encounter, such as roommate conflicts, course registration, room selection, disciplinary concerns, or grade disputes.

While the easy decision is to call home and ask a parent to intervene, at Babson we believe that it is an important part of students’ personal development and growth to address problems and conflicts on their own. Should they need them, appropriate College resources are available.

A student who feels trusted:

• Has more self-confidence
• Can stand up for what he or she believes
• Knows that he or she has support back home
• Is better able to say “no” when the situation warrants
• Makes better choices
• Is honest with him or herself, the College, and you

A student who feels mistrusted may:

• Defy authority because it’s expected
• Not communicate honestly or openly about what’s happening at the College
• Look to others to fill that void
• Keep secrets that could be detrimental