Parent Services
Commuter students are juggling a lot, including making a place for themselves academically, socially, and involvement-wise on campus. Connecting to campus life can be challenging, and if not successfully addressed, leave a commuter student feeling isolated from the rest of campus. Remember, campus life is not just for residential students! It's for commuters and their families, too.
Encourage involvement
Engaged students tend to stay and finish their degrees. Encourage your student to attend that special event or get involved in a club or organization. Trying things outside the classroom can help students feel more a part of campus life - a sense if belonging.
Don't expect to see a lot of your student
Chances are that your student has a full plate with school, work and other involvements. If she doesn't come home for dinner, maybe it's because a classmate invited her to the dining hall that night. It is important that all students make connections.
Consider adapting current household rules
Consider collaboratively determining new household rules. Adapting rules related to curfew, chores, meals and visitors might afford him more freedom to stay longer on campus to study, catch dinner with a friend or feel free to bring a study group home.
Promote an on-campus job
If your student is looking for a job, encourage her to consider an on campus job. It will ensure regular engagement with staff and students; involve her in the campus communication loop; and create a natural and safe "home" for her on campus. The first place to start is by attending the Job Fair held each semester.
Provide a quiet, comfortable study space
College studies require much more time and effort than high school studies ever did. To be successful your student will spend several hours of study time for every hour that he is in class. He'll need time and space to study effectively - without interruptions.
Suggest that your student connect with another adult on campus
Finding an adult mentor, whether it's a coach, advisor, professor or some other staff member can help your student feel more connected to campus.
Stay involved
Get to know more about VU. Read the literature that comes from campus, check out the
website and sign up for the Parent & Family e-newsletter. Also visit the
VU Facebook page. Show your support. Don't miss our Family Weekends - a great time to visit campus with your student.
