Parents FAQ: New Students
What should I expect?
While in retrospect, the good aspects of college life may stand out to you, it can be very stressful for first year students. There is a lot to juggle. Plus, indecision or poor decisions, insecurity, disappointment, and mistakes can be part of the adjustment period. While your student’s college experience will develop into discovery, inspiration, good times, and friendships, it is important for both parents and students alike to be patient with the process of getting established in college. Campus involvement - academic, extracurricular, and social - are typically the keys to successful adjustment.
My student is homesick, what can I do?
Students experience and express home-sickness in different ways. For those with a mild case, all that’s needed is someone to listen and reassure them they won’t always feel this way. When homesickness lasts too long, encourage them to seek counseling at our Center. If nothing helps, a transfer closer to home is sometimes the best solution. On the flip side, don’t be disturbed if your new college student doesn’t mention how much he or she misses you. The first months of college are filled with new activities and challenges. Even if you do not hear the words, know that you are definitely missed!
What kind of support is available to my student?
Randolph-Macon offers a wide web of support to help your student successfully make the transition. This includes their Orientation Leaders (OL’s), Resident Advisors (RA’s), the Academic Advisor and FYE sections, their faculty, the Higgins Academic Center (HAC), coaches, Student Affairs professionals, and the College’s Counseling Services.
Call 804.752.7270 for more information, or go to the Counseling Services webpage
http://www.rmc.edu/offices/counseling.aspx