SUPPORTING YOUR STUDENT
Facts on campus adjustment

As a parent, you will observe some maturation in your daughter or son. Parental support is one of the most powerful tools for encouraging students to be more responsible for themselves.

Points to remember:

• There is a wide range of what is "normal" or "OK" out there. Allow your student to find out how he or she fits in.
• Students often change their minds. That's OK. Remember: It is a time of transition. The average student changes majors three times. Your son or daughter may fail at something. That "F" in one course does not mean that she or he is a failure in anything else. Instead, look at the amount of effort, aptitude, and interest your student put into the class.
• Attempt regular communication, but don't be concerned if your student isn't always responsive. Remember, asking about what's going on at the University is a good way to show interest without seeming critical or meddling. Everyday conversations may reveal specific points of concern. Expect some tough times. Learning to cope with new people, responsibilities, and ideas may cause confusion and discomfort. These are normal growing pains.

Avoid:

• Too much advice
• Too much supervision
• Solving their problems
• Second-guessing their judgments

What if things didn't go according to plan?
Many students will be pleased with their academic performance for the fall semester. For others, it may seem like the end of the world, but it isn't.

If your student is not satisfied with his or her first experience at Purdue, now is a good time to examine some of the reasons for that dissatisfaction:

• Grades may not meet expectations
• Time somehow slipped away
• Work provided less time and energy for study
• The less-structured environment of college compared to high school may have been a difficult adjustment
• Too much time may have been spent on social activities
• Changing relationships with family and friends may have been stressful
• An initial major choice may now seem unsatisfactory
• Goals and motivation are unclear

How does your student feel? How do you feel as a parent of a new college student? Even though the first semester may have been somewhat disappointing for you and your daughter or son, there are still chances to succeed. January marks the beginning of a new semester. The constructive action a student takes now can enhance the likelihood of a satisfying and successful second semester.

It is important for a student to:

• Identify the steps needed for improvement
• Commit to taking these steps
• Put the necessary steps into action

What can you do as a parent to support your student during the beginning of the next semester?
Recognizing nonperformance in your student is a challenge - especially from a distance. One of the most important things a parent can do for a college-age student is to demonstrate interest. Being interested is different from being demanding. It is more "I'd like to know" than "You owe me this information." The parental role shifts from "What you do is my business" to "What you do is your business, but I am interested and I care."

If at any time you are concerned about the well-being or safety of your son or daughter, do not hesitate to contact the Office of the Dean of Students or any other resource listed in this handbook. And remember, there are many resources available.

For further wellness and safety information, see the Student Wellness section.