Sending Your Student To College For The First Time?

You’ve dropped your student off at college, and now your home feels empty. You find yourself constantly wondering: What are they doing? Did they get up for class? Are they eating their vegetables? Did they make any friends? While your impulse might be to check in by the hour or track their every move, it’s crucial to let them navigate this transition on their own. It’s an important part of their developmental growth. Here are some tips:

Give them space. It’s okay if you don’t hear from your student every day. They need time to adjust to collegiate-level work, make friends, get involved in life outside of the classroom and navigate this new beginning. 

Avoid trying to solve their problems. Whether it’s not knowing how to do laundry, encountering a roommate disagreement, failing a test or getting “written up” for a conduct violation, remind them that you support them, that they are strong, and that you trust that they will be able to figure it out. 

Empower them to seek support. If they have questions or concerns with their classes, their roommate or their overall well-being, encourage them to meet with the appropriate university staff or faculty member who can assist.

Respect your student’s privacy. Social media groups created by parents in your student’s college or class can be a good source of general information and tips, but resist the temptation to share information about their grades, health, roommate challenges or other private matters. 

‍Follow the university on social media. It’s a great way to stay looped in on campus news and activities and will help keep you involved in your student’s college experience without you constantly asking your student. Be sure to read all communications the university sends to parents and families, too, so you don’t miss important information or events.