Communication Tips
As a parent or guardian, you probably already know that the college years are a time of change and discovery for your son or daughter. With that in mind, you might be wondering what you can do to help as he or she goes through a lot of new experiences. Good communication is key, so we’ve put together some questions to help you do that.
Questions To Ask Your Son or Daughter:
- Do you know who your adviser is? Have you met with him or her?
Tip: If your son or daughter does not know who his or her adviser is, please have them visit the Academic and Career Services Center. - What classes do you like the most (or least)? Why?
- Which professors do you enjoy the most (or least)? Why?
- How much homework do you have? Is it more or less than you thought it would be?
- What do you think about getting a tutor or joining a study group?
Tip: Tutoring is free for all students. - Have you decided on your major?
- Are there other majors or minors that interest you?
Tip: Most majors require a minor or an additional major. - Have you found a way to schedule everything so you aren’t overwhelmed?
Tip: Many students struggle to balance athletics, classes, homework, sleep, socializing and/or work. Encourage them to set and maintain priorities. - Are you getting enough sleep?
Tip: Don’t accept, “Mooooom, I’m in college now” as an answer. Sleep is important! - What events or activities have you gone to?
Tip: Look up DWU’s event calendar to find specific current events your son or daughter could attend. - Are there groups on campus that interest you?
Tip: Encourage your student to join a club or activity in their interest area, even if it is not directly related to his or her major. - Have you made friends? Who do you spend your time with? How are you getting along with your roommate?
- Are you enjoying yourself?
Questions To Ask Yourself:
Yes, you can even ask yourself some questions to make sure you are doing what you can to help your son or daughter have a great college experience.
- Do I allow my son or daughter to solve his or her own problems, or do I “come to the rescue” when I sense trouble?
Tip: college is a time for exploration and developing independence; give your son or daughter the opportunity to learn how to confront and overcome problems. - Is my son or daughter feeling pressured to choose a major, or to choose a specific major? Where is that pressure coming from?
- How does my son or daughter respond to peer pressure, both positive and negative? Am I concerned that could change in college? Why?
- Does my son or daughter have good study skills and time management experience?
Tip: Encourage your student to spend time and collaborate with friends who have good study skills and time management abilities. - Is my son or daughter acting in ways that seem out of character? (For instance, a social butterfly “not making any friends.”)
Tip: If your child is reporting or exhibiting behaviors that seem incredibly unusual, please contact the director of student life or the campus counselor immediately.