The First Semester Carnegie Mellon supports first-year students and their families with robust and individualized resources and a strong ethic of care. We are here to help your student thrive during their Carnegie Mellon journey and to help you provide support for your student. The transition to college life will include learning and excitement, challenging moments and uncertainty, highs and lows, and everything else in between. There are some areas where family support is helpful, especially during the first semester.
Adjusting to the Pace and Rigor of College Courses Many CMU students graduate at the top of their class and excelled in their high school academics. Even so, the academic demand at Carnegie Mellon can be an adjustment. Students may experience “imposter syndrome” or the feeling that they aren’t meant to be here, that their acceptance was a fluke or that they aren’t “cut out” for CMU. Imposter syndrome is common among college students at academically rigorous institutions.
In these moments of doubt, assure your student they were admitted to CMU on their own merit and that both you as family members and Carnegie Mellon believe they can be successful here. Remind them also that it takes time to adjust to new academic expectations. Encourage your student to connect with the Student Academic Success Center, which offers academic support and skill building opportunities including tutoring, supplemental instruction, communication workshops, and academic coaching for study skills and time management.
Navigating Newfound Independence First-year students are meeting new people, experiencing increased responsibility for decision-making, and exploring independence and new boundaries. There is a lot of excitement and growth in building new community and connections, but students are also adjusting to the changing relationship dynamic with high school friends, family members and significant others.
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