Supporting Your Student Starting a Conversation

There are many ways that you can support your student as they begin this exciting new journey in their life. Salt Lake Community College recommends that you begin with a simple conversation.

Some suggested conversations to have with your student are:

Paying for College

Do they expect parents to pay?
Have they started applying for financial aid or scholarships?
Do they need your help with applying?

A Plan to Balance Responsibilities

Do household responsibilities need to be altered or talked about?
Do their work hours fit their class schedule? If not, can the work or class schedule change?
How will their personal life look while attending college, such as friends and hobbies.

Empower Your Student to Make Sound Decisions

Don't do it all for your student. Guide them on how to make a decision. Let them be responsible for making an appointment and registering for classes.
Give them the tools and suggestions but let them make the decisions then support them in their decision.
If your student makes a mistake, reaffirm with them that mistakes can be learned from.

Embrace the Social Changes in Your Student

Career choices.
Major choices.
The way they talk.
Some of their beliefs.
Encourage them to explore this new world and new ideas they are being introduced to.

Bruin Tip: Ask your student how their classes are. Some questions could include: What they are learning? What is their instructor like? Is there an assignment that’s currently on their mind. Then, if time allows, ask them to teach you. This not only helps your student study but helps you know what they are learning and be a part of their journey.