Undergraduate Admissions

Tips for the Transition

  1. Prepare for move-in day. How will the day go? Will you help your student unpack? Should you stick around to meet the new roommates?  Will your student want you to stay for a while and help buy books or does he/she want to experience independence immediately? Find out what your student wants out of move-in day and then plan accordingly. If he/she wants you to leave upon unpacking the car, do not take it personally.  Learn more about life on campus at residence life.
  2. Develop an agreement regarding expectations on grades, financial matters, financial aid, transportation, visiting home, etc. For example, FERPA (Family Education Rights and Privacy Act of 1974) prohibits the release of student information like grades to third parties, including parents. Talking through these things ahead of time may help avoid surprises down the road. If needed, you can find the parent consent form for disclosing infomation protected by FERPA here.
  3. Experiment with different types of communication. Phone calls are good, but not always the most efficient way to connect with college students because of their busy lifestyles. Try alternate methods like e-mail and text messaging.
  4. Don’t bug your student. Let him/her experience college life and wait a couple of weeks.
  5. Discuss situations and decisions involving alcohol and drugs. Make sure both of your expectations are reasonable and well thought out and that they convey trust and support.
  6. Watch for signs of homesickness. If unusual behavior is sensed, help your student navigate the proper college channels, i.e. academic counseling, personal counseling, wellness center, etc.
  7. Get a lay of the land. Your student’s new home is also your new home for the next four years. Talk to your student about coming to campus for special events such as Family Weekend or Homecoming.  You also can check out our virtual tour online.
  8. Anticipate the empty nest. Give yourself time to adjust to a home without your student. Participate in new things that are just for you.  Enroll in a new community class or experience new hobbies.
  9. Find your support group. It is important to be able to relate and share stories with other college parents. Connect with the St. Thomas Parent Network and utilize others who are experiencing the same feelings you are.
  10. Get a daily dose of St. Thomas. Parents and family members of current students can subscribe to the Bulletin Today, an e-newsletter full of campus news and events.
   
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