黑料网

College Green (黑料网/Matt Burkhartt)

As dean of students at 黑料网, I know that college is a time of growth and change for everyone. Students develop independence, discover new interests, and build confidence. At the same time, parents and families begin a new relationship with their student鈥攐ne that gradually shifts from directing to fostering independence while continuing to support.

As a college administrator, I help shape an environment where students and families can find the support and resources they need. Here are tips for navigating move-in, parent-student relationships, and the emotional and developmental journeys that accompany college life.

Move-in day
The days leading up to move-in can be emotional for everyone, so expect variability. Students may feel excited, nervous, overwhelmed, or uncertain, all of which is normal. 

How to make move-in day go more smoothly:

• Try not to focus on small details or disagreements about how to unpack or organize the room. 
• If tensions rise, give everyone space while exploring campus or the community.
• Parents, don’t be surprised if your student wants to spend time
  meeting new people and building their campus community.
• Keep goodbyes simple. Long farewells can often be more difficult. 
• Take time to recognize this milestone. Your relationship is not ending; it is changing.

Relationship transition
One of the greatest gifts parents can give is confidence in their student鈥檚 ability to solve problems. Before stepping in, ask what they鈥檝e already tried and what campus resources are available. Students grow by working through challenges.

Communication often changes. Some students call or text every day; others become immersed in campus life and communicate less frequently. Discussing communication expectations before the semester begins can help establish a routine agreeable to everyone.

Parents may wonder how involved they should be, and students may struggle to balance independence with asking for support. Too much involvement can limit growth, while too little can leave students feeling disconnected. Finding the right balance, built on trust, communication, and mutual respect, is an ongoing process.

The student journey
Homesickness, loneliness, stress, roommate conflicts, disappointing grades, and uncertainty are common experiences for many students. Returning students may also face new academic pressures, changing friendships, or questions about their future.

Students will benefit from maintaining healthy routines, getting enough sleep, staying connected with supportive people, and finding time for activities they enjoy. Challenges can be difficult, but they are also opportunities to develop resilience, confidence, and independence. The College provides many resources鈥攊ncluding聽academic support,听counseling services,听health services,听case management, and聽student organizations鈥攖o help students succeed academically, socially, and emotionally.

Beyond everyday stress
Most students adjust with time and support from family, friends, and campus resources. Occasionally, however, concerns extend beyond the typical challenges of college life.

Signs a student needs additional help include:

• persistent hopelessness
• severe anxiety or depression that interferes with daily life
• thoughts of self-harm
• substance misuse that places a student’s safety at risk

Students are encouraged to reach out for help early. Parents and family members can support that process by expressing concern without judgment and encouraging students to connect with resources. 

Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Learning when to seek support is an important part of becoming an independent adult. Parents, if you have an urgent concern about your student’s safety, call the University Police Department at 585-245-5222 or 911.

Parents, take care of yourselves
Parents and family members, remember to care for yourselves. The weeks after a student leaves home can feel surprisingly quiet. Reconnect with hobbies or spend time with friends and family. Supporting your own well-being allows you to be fully present when your student reaches out.

I look forward to partnering with students and families as students transition to college. If you have questions, please reach out to me at kmach@geneseo.edu.