University of Alabama Parent Guide
Talking Points
College is a turning point in the relationship between a parent and student. As you and your student transition, we encourage you to use these talking points to start some necessary conversations about your student’s well-being on campus.
Communication
Determine communication expectations together in advance. This can help keep parents connected, while fostering your student’s sense of independence.
Set a predetermined day and time to call or discuss other methods of communication. One or two times a week often works well. Will you also be sending emails? If a long amount of time passes with no word, it’s not a bad thing to check in and make sure everything is going smoothly.
Talk about how often you will visit each other. Will you be in town for Family Weekend? Do you expect your student to come home over three-day weekends? Make sure these visits are planned.
Health & Well-Being
Talk to your student about the Student Health Center—it’s important to know where it is and how services work before she gets sick or need help. Encourage her to learn about the health center charges, as well as the services offered.
Encourage your student to use University Recreation on a regular basis, this can help combat stress.
You may be in the best position to notice and address any difficulties that your student is having so when you talk, ask about their day, challenges they are having and upcoming events.
If your student is feeling overwhelmed, encourage him to visit the counseling center if one or both of you think it is necessary. Reassure him that counseling services are provided confidentially and that you support him as they reach out for assistance.
Talk to your student about your values in terms of sexual relationships and the risks involved. Although this is difficult, students stay true to their values when they have been discussed.
Safety & Good Decision Making
Talk with your student about fostering individual and civic responsibility and practicing safety on a regular basis. Give her tips such as traveling in groups, and locking their doors.
Explain the risks associated with alcohol and your expectations while he is at school. Addressing your academic expectations is often a good way to emphasize that class and assignments always come before social activities.
If your student does decide to drink alcohol, tell her to stop and think about how much she’s had had to drink. Encourage her to always make plans in advance and explore other modes of transportation.
Listen to your student and what he tells you. If something he says concerns you, talk to him about the importance of being safe. Make sure you take time to understand what he is saying so he continues to talk with you and seek your advice.
Encourage your student to think long-term in regards to what her decisions could do to her long-term goals. No matter what- remember that even the best of students fail. Don’t give up on your student.
