Starting the first year at university is a major step in a student’s journey to adulthood. To help ease this transition for both parents and students, there are a number of things that should be considered and planned for before the start of classes.
Living Arrangements
Make sure that living arrangements are appropriate for your student. While residence provides the best opportunity to meet other students, easier accessibility to classrooms and academic support programs, many students would prefer the independence and freedom of living off-campus. Being away from home for the first time is not easy so talk with your student about what situation would make them most comfortable. If your student is planning to live at home, you should plan to renegotiate expectations around household routines to better support your student’s growing independence. Even if your student lives at home, they may be forming new peer groups with students who do not live at home and who will experience greater freedoms.
Finances
With the costs of going to university escalating, it’s important that you discuss finances with your student and agree on a plan. Will you be able to help financially and if so, how much? Have you considered spending money or talked about your student having a part-time job? If your student is on scholarship, what happens if they lose their scholarship? Have you set up a budget for the school year? These are all questions that should be answered so that your student does not experience a financial crisis part way through their academic year.
In terms of part-time employment, there is no set rule on whether students should or shouldn’t work during the school year but if your student is going to work and be a full time student, it should be a modest number of hours, 5-10 per week. Some students thrive with a busier schedule and learn important money management skills that they wouldn’t learn if someone else writes the cheques. For others, their academic load is challenging enough that a part-time job will only detract from their academic success. Ultimately, students need to put academics first so talk with your student about what would be reasonable for their particular situation.
Academics
Encourage your student to become familiar with the university rules and regulations. Even though there are numerous offices and programs designed to help your student with their academic decisions, ultimately it is their responsibility to adhere to deadlines and follow the progression requirements of their program.
Be Realistic! It is critically important for you to recognise that the academic adjustment to university is sometimes difficult. On average, first year students’ marks drop approximately 15% from high school. If your student sees a similar decline, please reassure them that this is normal and that these marks will rebound by second year. You can also support your student by reminding them of the numerous programs and services available to help them succeed.
Extracurricular Involvement
Stress the importance of getting involved and exploring the hundreds of opportunities to join clubs, student government, athletics, volunteering and many more. Campus involvement helps students manage their time and helps them not only define themselves but make a connection to this university community.
Career Options
Students enter university with a very limited exposure to possible career opportunities. Once at ACAD, students will be exposed to a wider array of career possibilities. We encourage this. Parents should therefore encourage students to explore these new opportunities and support changes from their original career choices.
