Welcome to Parent's Orientation!
Going to college or university is a BIG STEP for both students and you, their parents! It is a time of new beginnings and new opportunities for everyone. A time of excitement, anxiety and challenge! You may be wondering how you as a parent can adjust to these changes and at the same time help your student be successful.
Here are a few ideas to help:
- Take the view that university is just another milestone. Raising children is a never-ending series of milestones. Remember that you and your child have passed previous milestones successfully.
- Express belief that your son or daughter will succeed at FPU.
- Listen to your student's concerns and express faith that he or she will be able to work things out.
- Don't rush in and save the day. Encourage your student to work through the inevitable adjustments every student has to make.
- Keep the lines of communication open: write letters, email, telephone and send care packages. Keep in touch! Remember that there are many resources available at FPU to help your student succeed: mentors, professors, coaches, resident assistants, residence directors, commuter services, disability related services, counseling, the Health Office and many others!
Questions? Contact Student Life!
(Acknowledgements: Beymer, Lawrence and Nelson, Richard (1990), Parenting a College Student: Do's and Don'ts for Making Effective Choices, A self-development booklet. West Lafayette: Nelson Communications.)
