It’s been a long journey getting your almost college student ready for freshman year. You’ve helped and supported through the testing, the college visits, the applications, the acceptance or rejection letters, and the final decision. But you know that your work isn’t done. The summer before that first year of college is a busy and stressful one — for everyone involved. Your student may be focused and organized, or he may seem uninterested in the transition about to take place.
As a college parent, you know that you are going to need to step back and let your student take control of her college experience. Yet, you want her to start of on the right foot — excited and prepared. As always, the key is helping your student prepare. Encourage your student to take the lead, and resist the temptation to handle things yourself. This is your student’s opportunity to become increasingly self-sufficient.
We’ve gathered here some previous posts about things you can do this summer to help the transition go well. Think about how you and your college student can work together to prepare for those first steps during the freshman year.
Your College Student’s Roommate Match
What is a College Summer Bridge Program?
When Is It Too Late to Apply to College?
Can a College Revoke My Student’s Admission?
The Problem With College Placement Exams
Why Has My First Year College Student Been Assigned Summer Reading?
Summer Preparations For Your Student’s Transition to Freshman Year
Helping Your College Student Select a Meal Plan
Why Summer Orientation Is Important For Your College Student
What Is a College Orientation Leader?
Why Doesn’t My College Freshman Want to Attend Orientation?
College Parent Orientation: A Key Beginning
How to Help Your College Student Use the Summer Months Wisely
Five Conversations Parents and Students Should Have Before the First Year of College
Five More Conversation Starters for Parents and Students Before the First Year of College
Eight Life Skills You Should Teach Your Freshman Before He Heads to College
Eight Decisions You and Your Student Should Make Before He Heads to College
Should My College Student Consider Summer Classes?
