Making the transition to university is an important and sometimes stressful experience for parents, family members and students. There are so many ways to support your student while they are studying at university. Remember, you still play an important role in your student’s life! Here is some advice on how to provide positive support to your student through their transition.

Transition issues

Although you will not be able to solve your student’s problems for them, you can provide valuable assistance throughout the academic year.

Self-managed Learning

  • Help your student to learn good time management skills
  • Encourage your student to check out the Ten Tips series for tips on procrastination and time management

Unsatisfactory Grades

  • Remind your student to sign up for study skills workshops offered through Learning Support Services
  • Encourage your student to get feedback from academic advisors, professors and teaching assistants
  • Remind your student that you believe in him/her. Do believe that your student will succeed – and tell them!
  • Encourage your student to visit his/her professor during office hours to discuss assignments, class readings and lectures.
  • Give your student the freedom to learn how to cope with the new environment, to succeed or fail, and to take responsibility for their education.

Health-related concerns

  • Remind your student to visit Health and Counselling Services located on campus
  • Encourage them to use the resources on campus like Athletics and faith groups
  • Ask your student how things are going, spend time listening, offer support and show you care

Financial Concerns

  • Encourage your student to apply for bursaries through the Awards and Financial Aid Office
  • Help them plan out a budget
  • Warn your student about the dangers of debit and credit cards

Homesickness

Helpful Hint: Do not ask your student if they are homesick. The challenge of meeting new people and adjusting to new situations takes time and energy. Sometimes, unless reminded (by a well-meaning family member) they will probably be able to escape the loneliness and frustration of homesickness. Even if your student doesn’t tell you during those first few weeks, he/she does miss you!

Learning is a full-time job

  • Remind your student to set small, measurable goals every day
  • Encourage your student to establish a routine which includes time to relax
  • Remind your student to take advantage of the support services available

Meeting new friends

  • Encourage your student to get involved in a club or society or join an intramural team
  • Remind your student to stop by the Student Experience Office to find out about programs and activities that he/she can get involved in

Questioning program choices

  • Encourage your student to make an appointment with an academic advisor to discuss his/her options
  • Remind your student that most students change their major at least once before graduation
  • Allow your student to make mistakes and choices even if it is not your desired result
  • Remind your student that this is a time for discovery, to determine interests so spend time listening, offering support and showing that you care.
  • Encourage your student to visit the How to Choose a Major website for tips, suggestions, resources and ideas to help them decide

Resources