Setting Students Up for Success When Sending Them Away to College: Tips for Parents and Families
Sending your child off to college is a milestone filled with pride, excitement, and often a fair amount of anxiety. College brings newfound independence and opportunities, but it also comes with challenges; academically, emotionally, and socially. As parents, you can help set your child up for success by ensuring they are prepared not just for classes, but for all aspects of life on campus.
Below are some key areas to focus on before move-in day.
Ensure Continuity of Mental Health Services
The transition to college can be stressful, and having consistent mental health support is crucial, especially for students who already have established care.
- If your student is staying in-state: Many clinicians can continue seeing students virtually, provided they are licensed in the same state. Confirm with your child’s current therapist or prescriber whether this is possible.
- If your student is going out of state: Look into the university’s counseling and health services. Typically, therapy is offered through the university counseling center, while medication management is handled through the student health center. However, this setup can vary. Parents should contact the university ahead of time to understand what services are offered, what the wait times might be, and whether outside referrals are necessary.
Pro Tip: Encourage your student to schedule an introductory session with the campus counseling or health center early in the semester—before stress or mental health needs become urgent.
Establish a Budget and Financial Plan
College life often brings the first real test of financial independence. Work with your child to outline a realistic budget, covering essentials like groceries, transportation, books, and discretionary spending. Discuss:
- How much financial support will you provide each month or semester?
- Expectations around part-time jobs or managing credit cards.
- How to handle unexpected expenses or emergencies.
Providing clear guidelines now can help your child avoid financial stress and make smarter spending decisions.
Set Family Communication Expectations
The shift from daily in-person interaction to sporadic updates can be challenging for both parents and students. Decide in advance how often and in what ways you’ll check in.
- Weekly calls or video chats can help you stay connected without overwhelming your student’s schedule.
- Encourage open communication, but also give them space to develop independence and problem-solving skills.
Discuss Sleep and Substance Hygiene
Healthy habits can be challenging to maintain in the college environment, but they’re essential for academic success and emotional well-being. Have an open conversation about:
- Sleep hygiene: Encourage consistent bedtimes, minimize late-night screen time, and create a restful environment.
- Substance use: Discuss the impact of alcohol, marijuana, or other substances on both mental health and academic performance. Frame the conversation around safety, self-awareness, and responsibility, not just rules.
Encourage Self-Advocacy and Resource Awareness
Students should know how to navigate campus resources, including academic support, career counseling, and student organizations. Teach them how to ask for help when needed, whether from professors, advisors, or mental health professionals.
Promote a Balanced Lifestyle
Remind your child that college is about more than academics. Encourage them to explore activities they enjoy, maintain regular exercise, and stay socially connected. A well-rounded approach reduces stress and improves overall well-being.
Final Thoughts
Your role as a parent may shift when your child heads to college, but your support and guidance remain just as important. By helping them maintain mental health continuity, build financial and lifestyle skills, and foster independence, you’ll equip them with the tools they need to thrive in this next chapter.
