1. Forester First: First-Generation Family Orientation

2. WELCOME & INTRODUCTION
About 15% of Lake Forest College students are first generation
First generation students have the same success as non-first generation students, but the first year can be more of a challenge

3. Top 10 Things That First Generation Parents Should Know and Expect
Learn about the college process – browse the website
Be patient with your student (and yourself) as they transition
Help your student to keep academics the main priority
Forget the idea that your student has to have a particular major

4. Top 10 Things That First Generation Parents Should Know and Expect
Ask your student about how they are doing - get details
Urge your student to get support, and to be involved and engaged
Plan for unexpected financial need
Allow, and even encourage, some independence
Realize that a student leaving for college is an adjustment for the entire family
Be reassured that a College education will not replace “homegrown” values

5. Top 10 Things That First Generation Students Should Know and Expect
Get support and help – Become known
Talk about what you’re experiencing – to anyone
Plan for some stress and adjustment
Address time management
Expect rigorous academics

6. Top 10 Things That First Generation Students Should Know and Expect
Balance social life
Get engaged
Pay close attention to finances (hidden expenses)
Get connected with someone at the College
Don’t give up!

7. The Rhythm of College Life
August/September
Students are adjusting to new responsibilities, new relationships, new roommates and new freedoms…
Critical first six weeks – whirlwind and important decision-making time
Questions to Ask:
Have you met your Resident Assistant (RA)?
Are you going to the Forester Fair?
Have you introduced yourself to your faculty?
Strategies for Parents:
- Don’t overreact to those first frantic telephone calls or conversations. Listen carefully and try to determine how best to address your student’s needs…

8. Financial Aid Update, Helpful Hints, and Tips
Personal process with individualized counseling
Open door policy
Special circumstances matter, now and in the future
Completing the FAFSA
Scholarship renewal
Additional scholarship opportunities
Work-Study
Deadlines are important
So is communication!

9. Center for Academic Success
See the Center for Academic Success website for more information on:
Academic support and tutoring
Writing Center
Quantitative Resource Center
Disability Services
Academic Early Alerts
Academic Probation Support Program
First-Year Student Transition Support Program

10. Questions?