Transition From High School

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.

Getting off on the right foot in college can sometimes require tough love! If your student is living on campus, move in day is exciting, but can also be hot and stressful. First, just bring the basics. It's unlikely we'll have a snowstorm in August so the winter clothes can come later. Second, if you don't already own it, it might be better to wait until you arrive and let the roommates shop together, especially for common area items.

This article explores the complicated feelings of saying good-bye, while also providing you, the parent, tips on how to help your student be successful in the first chapter of their adult life.