🎓 Supporting Your Student’s Transition to College: A Parent’s Guide

    As students prepare for their first semester away from home, parents play a vital role in helping them navigate the transition to college life. That first semester can feel like a whirlwind—academically, socially, and emotionally. Students often face a range of challenges, including:

    • Adjusting to increased academic rigor

    • Managing a varied class schedule

    • Navigating roommate dynamics

    • Making new friends

    • Facing social pressures (alcohol, drugs, relationships)

    • Deciding which extracurriculars or clubs to join

    • Maintaining a healthy lifestyle

    By addressing these topics before students step onto campus, families can build confidence and lay the foundation for a smoother, more successful transition.

    A few years ago, Dr. Andrea Malkin Brenner—college readiness expert and co-author of How to College—shared practical insights during a national conference session with her colleague Jodi Glou, titled "Co-Piloting a Smooth Take-Off and Soft Landing to College." Below are several key takeaways from their presentation.


    📦 Managing Drop-off Day Expectations

    The college drop-off is a significant milestone for both students and parents. While students may be eager to dive into their new lives—meeting roommates, exploring campus, or grabbing lunch with new hallmates—parents often imagine a more sentimental farewell, complete with a final family meal or photo.

    To avoid disappointment or misunderstanding, discuss expectations ahead of time. Agreeing on a flexible plan can ease emotions and set the stage for a healthy, respectful send-off.


    👯 Fitting In and Making Friends

    Even the most outgoing students can feel overwhelmed by the social transition. Meaningful friendships take time—research shows it can take around 50 hours to move from acquaintance to casual friend, and 150 hours to develop a close friendship.

    Encourage your student to get a head start:

    • Connect with future classmates through social media

    • Research clubs and organizations in advance

    • Attend the Student Activities or Club Fair early in the semester

    • Consider Greek life thoughtfully—joining immediately may not suit everyone

    Remind your student that authentic relationships take time and effort to grow—and that it’s okay if connections don’t happen overnight.


    🏠 Coping with Homesickness

    Homesickness is a common and natural part of the first-semester experience. A recent study by CollegeData.com found that rouhgly 75% of student experienced homesickness in their first semester at college. Students can ease the transition by bringing comforting items from home and setting a plan for staying in touch.

    One important step: make sure your student knows where the campus mental health center is—and consider visiting it together. This can reduce stigma and make it easier for them to seek help if needed.


    🛎️ Tapping Into Campus Resources

    Two key campus allies for first-year students are the Resident Assistant (RA) and Residence Hall Director (RHD). These individuals are trained to support students with everything from roommate challenges to emotional well-being.

    Students should introduce themselves early and feel comfortable reaching out. Parents can also contact the RHD if they have serious concerns—the RHD serves as a valuable connection to on-campus support systems.


    📘 There’s More to Learn…

    There’s far more to cover than one article allows! For deeper insights and actionable guidance, I recommend How to College by Dr. Andrea Malkin Brenner and Laura Hope Schwartz.