As with most transition periods the first year of your child's college career can be challenging for both you and your child! It's important to acknowledge the emotional challenges inherent in stressful periods like this and to trust that your child may also be overwhelmed. Remember, you play an important role in helping your child succeed academically and socially. Here's what you can do to support your child and to help us do the same.
We treat our residents as adults. While we have built supportive systems to help our residents navigate the social and academic world of PSU we also prepare them for life after college by expecting them to take responsibility for their choices. We respect our residents' privacy but we will always step in to assist during any potentially life-threating situations. Please encourage your child to utilize the vast network of resources available to them at Portland State University. Support your child's problem-solving skills by allowing them the space to address the issues in their life. This makes for amazing learning opportunities, and we are here to help!
Let your child know that you support them by being inquisitive without being intrusive. Your child needs space to learn and grow, but it's also important for them to feel supported and loved while they are away from home. You could send care packages (everyone loves getting mail!) and call or email regularly. Make sure to let them know if something important or exciting is going on at home so they can continue to feel like a part of the family even while they're away at school. Discuss any expectations you might have, especially around communication and academic or financial issues, but respect that your child may have expectations of their own.
Help your child stay healthy. Speak with your child about the importance of maintaining physical and mental health. The first year of college can be exciting, full of change and just a little overwhelming. Encourage your child to get enough sleep, to eat well and to honor their emotional needs by connecting with campus resources. Homesickness, anxiety and depression are all issues that should be taken seriously. Your child is well-supported at PSU - make sure they know that! Empower your child to say "no" to any situation that doesn't feel right, especially those involving drugs, alcohol or sexual consent.
Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act While the University Housing Office is committed to working with residents to ensure the best possible housing experience, parents of students should know that certain information pertaining to your child's University Housing account is protected under FERPA, a federal law designed to protect the privacy of education records, and can not be divulged to anyone other than the resident. Information that we may only reveal to the resident can include: specific University Housing contract, assignment and PSU student account details.
For more about what information is protected under FERPA, please click here. Residents may sign a Consent for Release of Student Information form at the University Housing Office on the second floor of the Broadway building. After your student has filled out the form we will be able to discuss FERPA-protected information with you.
Some helpful things to discuss with your child before they arrive at PSU 1. Medical Issues - Does your insurance cover your child while they are at school? If so, what hospitals in Portland accept your insurance? 2. Insurance Issues - Is your child's vehicle insured? Does your homeowners insurance cover their unit at PSU? If not, they should look into purchasing homeowners insurance, as the University does not assume liability for students' personal property. 3. Financial Issues - Who is taking care of all the bills - tuition, housing, food etc.? Does your student receive financial aid? If so, do they have their paperwork in order? Do they know who to speak with if an issue arises? Have you discussed your child signing up for a credit card? Does your student understand the difference between good and bad credit? Credit scores and interest?
For more information and support check out the College Parents of America's Resource Page!
