TOP 10 “DO”s AND “DON’T”s

1. DO: Demonstrate excitement and enthusiasm for their new adventure.

DON’T: Be anxious or worried. If your student is feeling apprehensive, he/she will feed off your emotions.

 

2. DO: Discuss expectations, both yours and your student’s, regarding college.

DON’T: Wait until the end of the semester.

 

3. DO: Encourage independence in your student.

DON’T: Encourage your student to return home every weekend.

 

4. DO: Encourage your student to seek help early.

DON’T: Contact offices/depts./professors on your student’s behalf.

 

5. DO: Stay in touch with your student.

 DON’T: Ask if he/she is homesick.

 

6. DO: Visit your student.

DON’T: Relocate with the motor home and the family pet.

 

7. DO: Expect your student to change.

DON’T: Worry about the change; he/she is basically the same person.

 

8. DO: Expect “meltdown” moments. Be supportive.

DON’T: Worry too much; usually by the next morning life is back to normal.

 

9. DO: Ask questions.

DON’T: Ask too many.

 

10.  DON’T: Be sad.

 

DO:

Congratulate yourselves on a job well done and enjoy the journey!