Supporting Your Student

Setting Communication Expectations  

As your student prepares for their first year at KU, it’s a good idea to begin discussing how you’ll communicate with each other and how often. While some students may prefer daily check-ins, especially in the first few days or weeks, others may be working hard to establish their independence and networks and might find daily communication overwhelming. Similarly, some families might feel that going a week without hearing from their students feels too long. 

Take the time to have an open conversation about how often you'll stay in touch and through which channels—phone calls, texts, emails, social media, or even letters. All of these can be great ways to connect without taking up too much of your student’s time. It’s important that both you and your student agree on a plan that works for everyone. 

Remember, it’s a good idea to revisit this plan periodically, especially as the semester progresses and your students settle into their new routine. Both of you may find that your communication needs to change over time. 

Navigating the Transition Period 

The first year of college is a time of significant transition for both students and families. Your student may be feeling a bit overwhelmed by all the changes—the campus environment, unfamiliar services, different policies, new roommates, and, of course, fewer familiar faces. At the same time, changes at home may also bring concerns for you and the rest of the family. This period of adjustment can be a lot for everyone, but staying in touch through phone calls, emails, text messages, or even letters can help make the transition smoother for all involved. 

With all the new challenges your student is facing, they may be more conscious of staying in touch with home than you expect. It’s important to show genuine interest in what your student is experiencing and to express that you value this new chapter in their life. Let them know you are thinking of them and supportive of their efforts to adjust to their new environment. 

If your student encounters personal struggles, whether it’s with a roommate, professors, or navigating academic challenges, your instinct may be to “fix” the situation. However, it’s essential to encourage your student to handle these issues independently, whenever possible. Suggest they make use of the campus resources available to them, such as their Resident Assistant (RA), Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS), or the Center for Academic Success, which offers tutoring services. This not only helps them develop problem-solving skills but also demonstrates your support in a way that fosters their growth and independence. 

Focusing on Health and Wellness 

By now, your student will likely have settled into college life. They’ve probably made a few friends, discovered their favorite classes, and begun exploring campus and the surrounding community, especially during nights and weekends. Amidst the busy schedule of coursework, socializing, and financial concerns, it’s important to carve out time in your regular conversations to check in on your student’s overall health. 

While you’ll naturally discuss academics, relationships, and finances, take the opportunity to talk about their physical and mental well-being. This includes not only whether they’re feeling sick but also broader aspects of a healthy lifestyle, such as alcohol use, sleep habits, exercise, nutrition, and stress management. The transition to college can be stressful, and maintaining a healthy balance is essential for success. 

At the University of Kansas, there are plenty of resources to help your student sustain or start a healthy lifestyle. From nutritious dining options to on-campus counseling services and fitness programs, KU prioritizes student well-being. Encouraging your student to take advantage of these resources can make a big difference in helping them stay healthy and succeed both academically and personally. 

Encouraging Involvement and Engagement 

Students who participate in at least one student organization are more likely to feel connected to their peers, achieve higher grades, experience fewer issues with alcohol and drugs, and be better prepared for life after graduation. A significant amount of learning, personal growth, and skill development happens outside the classroom, and these experiences can have a lasting impact on your student's college journey. 

With the wide variety of student organizations at the University of Kansas, there’s something for everyone. Whether it’s a club that aligns with their academic interests, a recreational group, or a community service organization, getting involved provides an opportunity for students to meet new people, explore new passions, and gain a sense of belonging on campus. Encouraging your students to explore these opportunities not only enriches their college experience but also helps them build valuable skills for the future. 

Managing Stress and Time Management 

Where did the time go? As midterm tests and projects wind down, your student’s focus will soon shift to the final projects and exams that are just around the corner. This is often the time when any earlier procrastination can catch up with them, papers, projects, and exams may all seem to be due at the same time, adding a significant amount of pressure. 

There’s a lot of stress during this period, fueled not only by personal expectations but also by the pressure they may feel from you as a parent. Additionally, with campus life events and end-of-semester activities vying for their attention, balancing academics with social obligations becomes even more challenging. 

Encourage your student to stay focused and prioritize tasks, breaking down larger projects into manageable steps. Let them know that it’s okay to reach out for help, whether it’s speaking with professors, using tutoring services, or simply taking breaks to recharge. Your support during this stressful time can make a big difference in helping your students stay organized and manage their stress. 

Preparing for Finals and Adjusting to the Holidays 

As the holidays approach, your student may be feeling the true pressure of campus life. The end of the fall semester brings academic deadlines, upcoming exams, and holiday plans that can all contribute to stress. Take the time to check in with your students and ensure they are prepared for final exams. Encourage them to make use of available resources, such as study groups, professors’ office hours, and campus tutoring services, to help them feel ready. 

Once final exams are complete, many students head home for winter break. However, this transition can come with its own set of challenges. Your student may have concerns about re-adjusting to family routines and may have changed during their time away. It's important to discuss expectations for the break before they return home. Be mindful that the student who returns may not be the same person you sent off to college. It may be helpful to renegotiate curfew hours, family responsibilities, and other household dynamics to account for your student's newfound independence. 

For some students, staying in Lawrence over winter break to work or saving money might be an option. If this is the case for your student, make sure to have a conversation about their plans and the reasons behind their decision. 

If your student does return home for the break, enjoy the time together! Use this as an opportunity to reconnect, share experiences, and support each other. Remember, the holiday season is a time of adjustment for everyone as your family grows and changes. 

Reflecting on Academic Goals and Career Paths 

Now that your students have completed their fall semester, they may be considering a change in their major. This can be a source of worry or concern for both you and your student, but it's important to remember that changing majors is a normal part of the college experience. Choosing a major can be a difficult process, and many students don’t have it all figured out right away. 

This can be a great opportunity for your student to explore different interests and determine what they really want to study. Encourage them to take advantage of academic advising, career counseling, and discussions with professors to help clarify their path. Internships, volunteer work, or part-time jobs can also offer valuable insights into potential career options. 

It's essential to keep in mind that students are more than their majors. The best way to prepare for a career is not just by choosing a major, but by getting a well-rounded education. Encourage your student to focus on developing leadership skills, gaining career-related experience, and becoming involved on campus through clubs, organizations, and community service. These experiences can be just as valuable as coursework in preparing them for life after graduation. 

Embracing Exploration 

At the University of Kansas, the importance of understanding and appreciating different backgrounds is central to college experience, and KU provides many opportunities for students to engage with and learn from people who are different from themselves. 

Encourage your students to make the most of their college experience by actively seeking out opportunities to broaden their understanding. This could include studying or interning abroad, enrolling in a class focused on global perspectives, attending cultural programs, performances, or lectures, or getting involved in a club or organization that promotes belonging.  

These experiences not only enrich their education but also help foster empathy, broaden their worldview, and develop skills that are invaluable in both personal and professional life. 

Staying Motivated and Managing Mid-Semester Challenges 

By March, your student is likely to feel the weight of the semester. Midterms are behind them, but there’s still a lot of work ahead with final exams, projects, and other commitments. It’s common for students to experience mid-semester fatigue, as the initial excitement of the year fades and the pressures of coursework start to build. 

Encourage your student to stay focused and motivated. Remind them that it’s normal to feel tired or overwhelmed at this point, but staying organized and setting realistic goals can make all the difference. Help them break down larger assignments into smaller, more manageable tasks and encourage them to stay consistent with their study habits. 

March is also a great time for your students to re-evaluate their time management and study routines. If they feel that their current methods aren’t working, it might be a good time to try new strategies, such as seeking academic support, attending study sessions, or utilizing campus resources like tutoring centers. 

This is also an opportunity to encourage balance. Taking breaks, engaging in physical activity, and getting enough sleep are all crucial for maintaining mental and physical health. Remind your student that staying healthy and finding time to relax is just as important as keeping up with coursework. 

Wrapping Up the Semester and Celebrating Achievements 

As the semester ends, your student may feel pressure from assignments, group projects, and missed class notes, all while balancing end-of-year events like banquets and formals. This excitement can lead to stress, and sleep often suffers. Encourage healthy habits, such as maintaining a regular sleep schedule, eating well, staying active, and taking breaks. 

As your student navigates these final weeks, remember that their path to independence is gradual. Your support and encouragement will help them build confidence as they manage both academic and personal responsibilities. 

Wrapping Up the Semester and Preparing for Summer Transitions 

As finals wrap up, your student may be feeling a mix of emotions—leaving friends and campus life behind or perhaps staying in Lawrence for work or study abroad. They might worry about maintaining relationships over the summer or adjusting to life at home again. Encourage your students to focus on finishing strong and help them navigate the transition. 

Summer with a returning college student may require some adjustments for the whole family. Discuss expectations for curfews, responsibilities, social activities, and any other family matters. Clear communication and flexibility will help everyone find balance. 

For those graduating, May is a time to celebrate accomplishments and look forward to new adventures, whether it’s a first job, grad school, or another exciting next step. 

Adjusting to Summer Routines and New Opportunities 

Just because the spring semester is over, doesn’t mean your student won’t face transitions and adventures over the summer. For first-year students, returning home after a year may take some adjusting. They may feel caught between being independent and returning to family life. While things may have changed at home, keeping communication open and setting clear expectations will help your student gradually readjust. 

If your student enrolls in summer classes at the University of Kansas or abroad, they’ll quickly get back into the grind. Summer courses are often more fast-paced and demanding, with less time to complete assignments. Remind your student to manage their time wisely, balancing both summer fun and academic responsibilities.