Many of you might be out purchasing last-minute items in preparation for your new student’s move to campus, and at the same time watching time slip away as your student engages in goodbyes with their high school or lifelong friends that are starting their own adventures. We know this time can be an emotional rollercoaster.
You are proud of your student. You are excited for them. You may also be wary about how they will make this big transition to college. You may wonder how often you will hear from them or if they will reach out when they are homesick. Please remember that it is entirely normal for new students to take some time to get adjusted.
As you get ready to bring your student to campus this week, we have some lessons learned and advice we can share to help you prepare:
- Take some time this week (even on your way to Syracuse) to have a conversation about communication, your expectations and theirs, and a way that they can let you know if they are struggling.
- Encourage your student to participate in Syracuse Welcome events and programs. It is critical for them to learn more about the campus community and to meet other people. There are some mandatory components too, like residence hall meetings and academic meetings. Suggest that they set alarms or place those items on a personal calendar so that they don’t miss out on important information.
- Much planning has gone into move-in, and there will be plenty of people around to help, but know that not everything has to be done today. Don’t plan to unpack your student’s entire room. Encourage them to turn on fans and make their bed (they will be tired later), but leave some of the set-up and unpacking for them to do when they are bonding with their roommate or when they don’t have plans and need something on which to focus.
- Give them some time on their own (and for you, too!). Take a walk on the Quad, attend a Family Orientation session, or visit the Campus Store to find that Orange item of your dreams. You may need a moment to cry, too.
Never hesitate to call us at 315.443.1200 or e-mail us at parents@syr.edu. We know what the resources are and can provide you with information to share with your student.
You’ve got this, Orange Family!