We are excited to welcome you and your student to the Buff Family. Our team of professional staff members and student Journey Leaders are here to support you and your student as they get started at CU Boulder. Here are some tips for a smooth start to the semester.
Letting go vs. letting grow
Navigating the transition to CU can be challenging and emotional - but don’t think of this as letting go! You are an integral part of your student’s success at CU and we hope to partner with you on their academic journey. As a family member, it’s important to help your student problem solve while at the same time letting them grow and learn from their mistakes. And don’t forget, we’re here to help along the way.
Communication planning
Make a plan before your student gets to campus - how often will you talk, text or FaceTime? Having clear expectations from the start can help you and your student feel at ease. Your student will be busy at the start of the semester getting to know campus, their instructors and fellow Buffs, so make sure to plan for flexibility as they adjust to their new schedule.
Setting expectations
Talk to your student about any expectations you have about their time at CU, and make sure to ask them about their own expectations. Think about topics like grades, budgeting, alcohol and other drugs or how they will use their free time when they aren’t in classes.
Health and wellness
As your student experiences things like homesickness, stress, managing their time or feelings of loneliness, remind them to connect with Health and Wellness Services. From Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS) to Medical Services to Health Promotion, your student will have plenty of support while they are here. Remind your student that it’s completely ok and normal to ask for help!
Getting involved
Getting involved is a great way for your student to connect to fellow Buffs. Encourage them to check out Buff Connect to find a student club or organization through the Center for Student Involvement that interests them, sign up for intramural sports through the Rec Center or to volunteer in the community with the Volunteer Resource Center. CU has something for everyone.
Academic exploration
What’s your major - this is a question your Buff is going to be asked often and it can lead to a lot of stress. Encourage your student to explore the many academic paths available at CU Boulder, and remind them to talk to their academic advisor often. It’s ok if your student wants to change their major - it’s actually really common. Your student can also connect with Career Services to learn more about finding a major that aligns with their career goals. Don’t worry if your student doesn’t have it all figured out in their first semester - give them time to find the path that’s right for them!
Goal setting
Setting goals can be overwhelming - encourage your student to take it one step at a time. While at CU, do they want to study abroad, join a sorority or fraternity, get a job on campus, participate in research or do something else entirely? Work with them to create realistic goals that meet the expectations you’ve already discussed. Goal setting can help your student make the most of their CU experience.