Parents: What to expect at New Student Orientation

Orientation-tips-for-parents.jpg

Orientation-tips-for-parents.jpg

With New Student Orientation just a few days away, you probably have a few questions about what to expect. Whether it’s your first time to take a student to college orientation or you’ve been several times before, orientation can be a little overwhelming for parents as well as students. With that in mind, we’ve compiled a list of a few things you should expect as you plan for the weekend.

1. Expect to NOT spend every second with your student.

Several times throughout the weekend, you’ll go to a session for parents while your student will head to an entirely different activity. Expect to be separated for these events. Your student needs to make his or her own connections on campus, so let him or her do so. Orientation is a good time to let your student exercise some freedom while still showing your support. Also use this time to connect with other parents. Learn more about orientation here.

2. Expect a time to ask questions.

Orientation isn’t just about sharing a lot of information with students; it’s also about making sure parents have all the information they need. Make sure to take part in Trevecca’s parent workshops (2:45 p.m. on Friday, June 16) and the Q&A with Trevecca's president, Dr. Dan Boone (8:15 p.m. on Friday, June 16). There will be ample opportunity to ask questions and talk with representatives from the Office of Financial Aid, housing, the Center for Leadership, Calling and Service (CLCS), as well as get info about dining, TNU health clinic and more. Check out the schedule here.

3. Expect to explore campus.

Your child is about to spend the next few years of his or her life on Trevecca’s campus, learning how to be a servant and leader in this world. Take some time to get to know the place your student will be living. Eat a meal in the dining hall. Check out the residence halls when your student checks in. Sit in a classroom and imagine what it will be like for your child to live here. Trevecca is about to come a very important part of your student’s life, so take the time to learn a little more about what it’s like. Here’s a map of campus.

4. Expect to take notes.

Orientation is a busy couple of days, filled with all kinds of information and insight. You’re not going to remember it all. So, come prepared to jot down a few notes. Make sure you have the names and contact information for representatives in important offices on campus, like financial aid or residential life. Pay attention to the on-campus resources available to students so when your child texts you with a crisis, you’ll know how to guide them to appropriate help.

5. Expect to be nervous.

Sending your child to college is a big deal, so you’re going to feel nervous or emotional. That’s OK, but also make an effort to trust the process. As your child makes decisions about classes and clubs, residence halls and more, strive to let him or her make those decisions without interference. College can be an important part of a student becoming a self-sufficient adult, so orientation offers the perfect opportunity for your student to practice that independence.