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, tutoring, counseling 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.)

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