Hi Parents of First Year Students,

I'm Susan Ristau, licensed professional counselor, and I work in the Counseling & Psychological Services area of Student Success Services at Kennesaw State University. Our office is located in Building 1, Kennesaw Hall, 2nd floor. I met many of you during orientation, and you might remember that I'm also the parent of a sophomore here at KSU. I thought perhaps some of our growing pains and adjustments to college life might be useful for you and your student. As the mother of an only child (daughter) who lives on campus - I have had to find a balance between too much and not enough. Whether your son or daughter lives on campus or commutes to KSU, many changes are taking place in your home for you and your family. During orientation, some useful information was provided about this being a transition for all, but sometimes we really don't realize how it's going to feel until you move your student onto campus or see your commuter student heading off to class daily.

The move from University Village Suites to University Village went much more smoothly. Some words of wisdom for your students - less is more! My daughter learned the hard way that you really don't need all that stuff in your apartment at KSU. I'd say that my daughter took about half as much with her this time as compared to her first year at KSU. If your student is a commuter, then you will probably have heard about the benefits of leaving for class EARLY to get the best parking space and have plenty of time to get to class on time.

My daughter went from a one bedroom apt. on campus to a four bedroom apt. so adjusting to having 3 roommates is taking place. Today, the roommates meet with their Resident Assistant to work out the roommate contract, which covers things like quiet hours, sharing of food, kitchen tools and common area equipment, like tvs, stereos, etc. Learning to get along with 3 strangers can be challenging and requires some diplomacy. If your student is a commuter, encourage them to not become a PCP kid - Parking Lot, Campus, Parking Lot. Studies show that students who get involved in the University's various activities and organizations make better grades and are much more satisfied with their overall college experience.

What's new this semester? The Commons Dining Hall has opened and it's fabulous! The choices are endless and the value is good! Your student won't get bored even if they eat in the Dining Hall all the time because of the variety. It's also a great gathering place for students to have meetings, study sessions or just meet new friends.

Working part-time on campus, my daughter has learned to balance her time and energy, as well as make new contacts. It is suggested that first year students ease into working while they are adjusting to college life. If possible, your student should try to wait until their first semester is over or limit their work hours so their grade point average doesn't suffer.

In closing, I want to say that I think I have a good idea what you're going through right now, whether your son or daughter lives on campus or commutes to KSU. This is a big transition for parents and students. If you are having a tough time with the transition, talk to friends who have the shared experience of sending their student(s) off to college. It can be very helpful and validating.

Please remember that KSU, despite its large enrollment, has the feel of a much smaller, friendly campus. There are many places for your son or daughter to get assistance, advice, emotional support and see a friendly face if they are homesick or confused. Counseling & Psychological Services is just one of those places. We can be reached by calling 770.423.6600. Come take your son or daughter to lunch on the weekend, but encourage them to stay on campus and not return home every weekend. Or better yet, let your student take you for a meal at The Commons where you will see all the great food choices it offers. And, don't forget--there are many activities that Residence Life and other student groups/organizations offer your student to get plugged in to campus life.

And, hey, let them do their own laundry! Have a great fall semester!

Susan