Making the Transition

SUPPORTING YOUR STUDENT

Choosing to attend college is a big decision, one that some students don’t always make for themselves. For many, college is the next logical step. For others, the decision is life-changing, especially if the student is a first-generation college student. The bottom line is that there is no “typical” college student, and no matter their background, there will be transitions ahead.

Transitions are not limited to the first few weeks. While no list is all-inclusive, the following are a few areas you may want to consider when talking with your student throughout the year.

August

Freshmen generally experience an overall excitement, along with feelings of being homesick, initial roommate worries, abuse of freedom, multiple calls, visits home and other changes. Transfer students will be adjusting to a new academic system and may also be facing their first time away from home. Most financial aid and scholarships pay to their Bursar account the first week of fall semester.

September

The first bursar bill is issued Sept. 1. Financial planning coaches are available for guidance on personal finances. In addition, the first set of tests generally come in the fourth or fifth week of each semester. Other concerns can be possible roommate challenges, finding ways to get involved with student groups and initiating friendships.

October

Six-week grades for freshman- and sophomore-level courses are posted. Some may experience the results of poor time management related to school work. There may be issues with fitting in and establishing an identity.

Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for the

upcoming year opens Oct. 1.

Finals week, last projects, money issues, as well as more mixed feelings about going home for winter break and family traditions might be of concern.

January

It’s a new semester! Decisions and adjustments regarding fall semester performance will need to be made.

February

Some students may be upset about Valentine’s Day, some miss home, some are relieved to be back at school and some just want winter to end.

March

Spring break, making choices for the next school year, such as deciding to keep current majors or consider new ones, midterms, summer employment or internships may mean stress.

April

As spring returns, the end of the semester is coming fast. Questions of “Am I in the right place? Am I heading in the right direction?” become apparent.

May

Final exams, last-minute summer planning, choosing to stay or go home, feeling upset about leaving friends, overwhelmed that the first year at OSU is over, wondering if they accomplished what was attempted can all cause questions.

November

Fall illnesses, tests and papers due, enrollment for the next semester, apprehension and excitement about going home or not for Thanksgiving and family holiday traditions can cause anxiety.

December

First Year Family Insights is a monthly newsletter sent to emails on file for families of first year freshmen. Each newsletter during the fall and spring semesters will focus on specific resources and information to help you encourage and support your student through the typical needs for each month of the freshman year.