Bearing in mind there will always be homesickness and separation
issues when a child leaves home for the first time and takes their
first steps toward independent living we offer the following
suggestions for making it a much smoother transition.
Tip #1
Talk with your student about adjustment problems that they may
experience during the college transition. Reassure him/her that
these problems are typical and absolutely normal.
Tip #2
Call your first-year student to listen and provide needed
reassurance.
Tip #3
Encourage your student to join recreational sports and
Residence Hall sports leagues and visit the gyms in Carnesecca
Arena on the Queens campus and at the Fitness Center on the Staten
Island campus.
Tip #4
Remind your student that class attendance and participation are
crucial. Your student should always talk to his/her professors
about expectations of the class.
Tip #5
Remind your student they should be going to class regularly and
keeping up with assignments. Reassure your student that being
overwhelmed is normal, that adjustment takes time and is not always
smooth.
Tip #6
Encourage your student to use the student planner (provided by
Orientation) to manage their time.
Tip #7
Talk honestly with your student about the family and its successes
and failures while the student is at school. Avoid making him/her
feel guilty for leaving home.
Tip #8
Encourage them to visit the Freshman Center, a place
specifically geared toward helping the first year student not only
survive, but also thrive in the St. John’s Community.
Tip #9
Encourage your student to speak with a Resident Assistant regarding
problems with room and/or roommates.