1. Academics 101/LU CAREs How to provide support for your first year student

2. …programming unique to First Year Students helps them become part of our learning & living community New Lancer Days First Year Common Reading (FYRE) Longwood Seminar – General Education, Goal 1 Introduction into the habits of the mind that characterize an educated person. Help students make the transition to college life at Longwood.

3. …all students change & experience transition High SchoolCollege “Parent/Teacher” directed support“Student initiated” support Less formal interaction with teachersMore formal interaction with teachers Teachers test frequently, providing re-takes and makeup Teachers give fewer tests & may not allow for make-ups or retakes Structured blocks of time during “school” day managing time in a more unstructured context Homesick….or not? Living with others Transitions @ home

4. …being involved on campus & in the community enhances in-class learning & vice versa

5. …it is important for family members to create their own connection to LU Parents Association—membership is automatic and with no fee. Talk to a member of the Parents Council today. Meal plan use Longwood website, Facebook Family Weekend will be September 21-23, 2012.

6. …experiencing diversity helps prepare students for the 21 st century world Course work/majors/minors Residence Hall programming Office of Diversity and Inclusion Office of International Affairs

7. …the more you know, the better support you can offer Follow the school’s academic calendar and offer support during times you know will be stressful for them, such as mid- terms and finals.academic calendar Undergraduate catalog

8. …challenges create opportunities for growth Don’t panic at the first sign of an academic related problem. Give them a chance to work it out on their own. – Professor/advisor – Department Chair – Dean The Skinned Knee Effect

9. …students can exercise their independence & be connected to their families Support their major decisions. Encourage exploration into internships and/or independent studies Consider study abroad Help process living off campus/on- campus decisions

10. …it is important to have difficult dialogues with your student If you are assisting with paying for your student’s college education, negotiate expectations upfront about things like grades, spending money, etc. Financial Aid Discuss important family issues before they leave for college

11. … you should trust your instincts If you think that something is wrong….CONTACT us.

12. … your relationship will change Be open to the possibilities. – New phase in your relationship. – Communication expectations – Trust that they are getting good advice. – Know enough to recommend that they ask more questions.

13. Your questions…