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Family �Straight Talk

Sue Nowlan, Dean of Students

Erin Placey, Counseling Center

Lauren Gray, Counseling Center

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Ground Rules

We are going to endeavor to discuss topics that may be important and meaningful for you and/or your student.
We are going to be honest (good and bad) so we can help with the transition to college.
We see ourselves as partners with you. Our goals are often the same.
Whatever we do not cover, know that we are here.

Family Participation: �From Now to Move In

Raise your hand if:

Your student has NOT shared a bedroom/bathroom.
You are worried that your student does not know how to do their laundry.
You are worried that they will not take their academics seriously.
You are worried about how a current relationship will affect your student getting connected and doing well here.
You’re worried about your student finding the right friends.

How you can help them prepare

Allow them to be in control of their lives for the next few weeks.
Reach out to offices to proactively discuss any known worries/challenges.
Have an open conversation about family and campus expectations – including about alcohol and other drugs and healthy relationships.
Talk with them about being aware of their surroundings, their friends, their decisions.
If playing a sport, keep encouraging them to work out.
Talk about how you will stay in touch/connected – and do it!
Prepare for social transitions and living with a roommate.
Balance preparation of things and emotions.

How Springfield College can help

We are here to answer questions. Please ask.
We will be in communication (please have your students check their Springfield College email!).
The SOAR website is a great guide on the “to-do’s” before you arrive and important dates.
We are prepared for them to change their ____________
There are more virtual summer sessions with important information:

Family Participation: Move In and New Student Orientation

Raise your hand if you are:

How you can help when they are here

Be ready for “roller coaster” moments.
Encourage them to get engaged with a variety of people.
Expect that the first few days may be overwhelming. It will be okay.
Prepare to shift from “fixer” to coach.
Normalize what they’re feeling.
Think about how much you want your student to be connected to what is going on at home.

How Springfield College can help

Family Participation: �The first semester

Raise your hand if:

You earned one (or more) bad grade in college or high school.
You are in a career that was not your focus in college/high school.
You are worried that health and/or psychological issues may impact your student.
You are worried your student may eat alone in their room.

How you can help them

Stay in touch directly; evaluate use of Life 360/tracking
Listen more, intervene less. Allow your relationship to evolve
Have them lean into awkward/uncomfortable
Help avoid avoidance
Help them seek out resources
Familiarize yourself with academic policies and regulations - know that not all assignments/grades are of equal value
Review our community standards and discuss our (hopefully shared) expectations
Remember that failure can lead to success

How Springfield College can help

Academic info is on Brightspace
Midterm grades
Semester-long orientation class (Springfield College Seminar)
Campus Activities, Intramurals, Clubs, Jobs, Spiritual/Religious Clubs/Services, Community Service
Lots of people available to support
We try to decrease their avoidance by having real conversations
We are prepared for “mistakes” and “questionable” judgment
We will hold students accountable

If You Remember Nothing Else

Campus Partners