Addressing Common Areas of Concern

Being a parent may be different when your child is in college. First-year students are usually excited about their growing sense of independence, but there can be some anxiety mixed in with the anticipation. Your student will still turn to you when there is a problem, but it may hinder your student’s growing independence if you take an overactive role in resolving the situation. Encourage your student to work toward solving his or her own problems, but know that your student does not have to do it alone. There are staff members throughout the University who can be resources to whom you can point your student.

Below are some common situations and general tips you may choose to use as you guide your student. As an individual your student trusts, you may have the ability to present a different perspective. In addition, in many of these situations, Housing staff can be an initial resource to help your student. Our staff is actively involved in assisting students as they adjust to Western Michigan University. The resident assistants on each floor are trained as peer helpers and are knowledgeable of campus resources. Many times the answer may just be a few doors down the hall.