Students
sometimes have difficulties adjusting to college life. What can parents do to
help a student get the most out of their experience? Each year brings on new challenges and
concerns for students and below are some common issues we see for freshman.
Self
esteem needs
Many times students, although excited about
going to college, feel like they won't measure up. Parents can help by
encouraging and supporting their student to help them maintain a positive self
image.
Academic
adjustment
Many students have done very well in high school
with little outside work. MSOE is very fast paced and students take many
credits each term and sometimes they are overwhelmed. Encourage your student to
think of MSOE as a full-time job that requires about 40 hours per week of class
and study time.
Conflicts
Many freshmen are "black and white" thinkers
and have little tolerance for grey areas and hence they sometimes get into
conflicts with others. Try to demonstrate tolerance to your student and also
encourage greater interpersonal skills.
Reaction
to freedom
Students need to develop some independence at
this age and students who have not had much freedom prior to attending college
may not know how to react with their new found freedom. Parents can help by
reminding their son or daughter about time management skills and positive peer
relationships.
Problems
with parents
Sometimes
parents are too overprotective of their student and do not allow students to
become more independent. Allow students
to make some mistakes and do not do everything for your student. You can give
them resources but let them solve problems on their own. In this digital age, parents are even more connected to their children in college. This is a helpful article from Inside Higher Ed about how parents are communicating to their kids, and what consitutes a healthy amount of interaction.
Homesickness
It happens to all of us at one time or
another. Your student will miss all his or her past relationships and
comfortable surroundings. A new beginning brings on stress and anxiety and a
longing for the past. Rest assured that this also passes as students become
more familiar with their new friends and environment. Encourage your student to
get involved.
Roommate reaction
Initial reaction to a new roommate may be
negative. However, usually after a couple of weeks the problems get resolved
and they might even become friends. Encourage your student to take the time to
get know their roommate and maybe even invite the roommate home for a weekend.
If this doesn't clear up, have your student talk to his or her RA.