Seasonal Issues Your Student May be Facing this Month

• Students are adjusting to new responsibilities, new relationships, new roommates and new freedoms. The first six weeks of college are a challenging time for new students who are trying to make these adjustments all at once. They may express of a whirlwind of emotions from excitement and joy to anxiousness, fear and frustration.
• They are insecure about fitting in, being as smart as everyone else or navigating unfamiliar surroundings (both campus and the local community).
• They may feel overwhelmed with all of the options for them to be involved with in terms of clubs and organizations, campus programs and events.
• They are unsure of what to expect academically as they start classes with new professors.
• They are working to establish a new schedule and managing their time.
• For students living on campus, they may experience homesickness.
  Commuter students may experience frustrations with commuting to campus.

Questions to Ask:

• Have you met your Resident Assistant or Commuter Assistant?
• Are you planning to go to the Student Involvement Fair to learn about getting involved?
• Are you using a planner?
• If you are choosing to work, did you attend the Student Employment Fair and are you looking for jobs on campus?
• How is it going with your roommate(s)?
• Have you personally introduced yourself to your faculty members?
• How is it going with meeting your "neighbors" and/or making new friends?
• Have you used the campus shuttle service yet?
• Are you attending campus events on the weekends?
• Do you want us to visit for Family Weekend?
• Are you excited for the upcoming Homecoming events?
• Do you know where the Wellness Center is located?
• How is your sleep? Your diet? Are you getting any rest/relaxation/quiet time?

Strategies for Parents:

• Don't overreact to those first frantic telephone calls or conversations. Listen carefully and try to determine how best to address your child's needs. Be there as a parent but also refer them to campus resources to help with the situation.
• Help your child solve problems on their own- don't try to solve them for them. Brainstorm options with them, break large problems down into manageable issues, and refer students to campus support systems for more help. Help empower your child to take control of the problems they are facing.
• Ask open ended questions to keep communication open. Try not to sound as if you are preaching. Remember that listening is part of communicating. Being a good sounding board is an important part of the process. How to respond to the things your child shares will affect how comfortable he or she will feel about sharing things with you in the future.
• Be open and honest about your values and expectations on sensitive subjects such as alcohol, drugs and sex.
• Keep in mind that your child is struggling for independence and autonomy. They may seem standoffish as they learn how to balance their new independence with their family connections.
• Take some extra time to communicate your support and encouragement. Positive feedback is especially important for your child at this time. A care package is a great way to brighten any student's mood.
• Review with your child the campus security measures and services. Encourage them to use the shuttle, escort service and to not take any risks with personal safety.