Certain times in the academic year tend to be universally challenging to students. Parents who understand the ups and downs of the first college year are better able to help their students negotiate the challenges of transition to college. Below are some typical adjustment issues faced in September and October.

• Excitement
• Testing new-found freedom
• Frequent calls and visits home
• Campus familiarization
• Homesickness and loneliness
• Anxiety about roommates, professors, classes
• Students question “Do I fit in here?”
• First assignment/test grades returned
• First midterm exams
• Love relationships from home remain strong
• Consequences of decision-making experienced
• Roommate problems may begin to arise

Try to check in with your student over Fall Break (October 5-8) to see how they are doing in these areas. Understand that often a listening ear is a good place to begin in steps forward.

Source

Article adapted from SeattleU.edu.  Please Note: Missouri S&T does not endorse or have a relationship with SOURCE and articles are provided for information purposes only.  Missouri S&T and SOURCE do not assume responsibility for error or omission in materials.  

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