University of Akron Parent Guide
Tips for Parents
Helpful Hints for a successful transition:
- Increase your tolerance for your student’s mistakes
- Shift from an authority/parental role to that of a mentor
- Encourage independent decision making and explore the potential consequences (good and bad) of certain options with your student
- Use good listening skills and ask open-ended questions that show interest in your student’s experience.
- Avoid judging – students are sensitive to any hints of disappointment or criticism
- Express your pride in words- although you may express your pride in your student’s accomplishments through monetary and material rewards, saying the words “I am proud of you” can have a far more positive impact
Common issues or concerns of first-year students:
- Choosing a major or career
- Increasing a sense of independence through working a part-time job, spending money, choosing new activities and friends
- Forming new relationships and worry about fitting in with particular groups
- Dealing with conflicts (e.g., roommates, classmates, professors)
- Feeling overwhelmed with academic workload, finances, and possible work schedule
Commons issues and concerns of the parents of first-year students:
- Safety and healthy lifestyle
- Changes in your family relationships
- Students not staying in touch much
- Financial concerns
How to know when your student has made the successful adjustment to collegiate life:
- They try to use their residence hall room key to unlock their bedroom door.
- They dial “9” when they call from the house.
- They go nuts looking for the quarter slots on the washing machine.
- They make junk food runs at 11:30 p.m. at night.
- They make popcorn just because they miss the smell.
- They order pizza every Friday night.
- They wear the same outfit for days in a row to avoid doing laundry.
- They get up 5 minutes before they have to leave the housing thinking that they are late for class.
