Parent Guide 2012

IDS

A N INDIANA DAILY STUD E NT S PECIAL PU BLICATI O N —

BY ST UD EN TS, FO R PA RE NTS

+How to

NOT become a

helicopter parent . . . and other ways to keep sane when your child leaves the nest.

2012

PARENTS’ SURVIVAL GUIDE

2

Parents’ SurvivalGuide 2012

FOR THE NEXT FOUR YEARS. . . your student will be involved in numerous academic, athletic, religous and extra curricular activities and organizations such as the ones seen below.

TABLE OF CONTENTS and Help Your A Guide to 4 Tips 6 8 Tricks for an Student from Visiting your Easy Move-in

Miles Away

Student

LOTUS FESTIVAL

REC SPORTS

Sending the 13 How to Not 10 Keeping 12 Perfect Care Students Become a

IU ATHLETICS

Safe on Campus

Package

Helicopter Parent COVER ILLUSTRATION BY MATHEW NEW | IDS

EDITOR’S NOTE GREEK LIFE

LITTLE 500 BIKE RACE

E

ven though my parents had already gone through the kid-going-off-to-college thing with my older sister, when it was time for me to go to IU, I can guarantee they wished they’d had someone there to help them.

That’s what we hope this guide will do. From tips on moving in to where to stay and eat in town to lists of resources for parents, we’ve got it all. Let the Parents’ Guide help you get on your way as a Hoosier parent while you help your student get on his or her way at IU. Hopefully, we can help make the next four years a little bit easier.

-Caitlin Peterkin, Special Publications editor

SINGING HOOSIERS

RELIGIOUS ORGANIZATIONS

The Parent Survival Guide is a special publication of the Indiana Daily Student.

NEWS OPINION

PHOTOS HOUSING

EVENTS REGION

ARTS

BUZZ

SPORTS

Jake New Editor-in-Chief

MUSIC TWEETS

Vol. 4 © 2012

www.idsnews.com

Newsroom: 812-855-0760 Business Office: 812-855-0763 Fax: 812-855-8009

Aliya Mood Art Director Tim Beekman, Caity McNicholas Advertising Sales Managers

The Indiana Daily Student and idsnews.com publish weekdays during fall and spring semesters, except exam periods and University breaks. From May-July, it publishes Monday and Thursday.

CAMPUS

HOOSIER HYPE BLOG

Colleen Sikorski Managing Editor

Part of IU Student Media, the IDS is a self-supporting auxiliary University enterprise. Founded on Feb. 22, 1867, the IDS is chartered by the IU Board of Trustees, with the editor-in-chief as final content authority. The IDS welcomes reader feedback, letters to the editor and online comments. Advertising policies are available on the current rate card.

Readers are entitled to single copies. Taking multiple copies may constitute theft of IU property, subject to prosecution.

Stay current. Stay connected.

Paid subscriptions are entered through third-class postage (USPS No. 261960) at Bloomington, IN 47405.

Download the Indiana Daily Student app today.

120 Ernie Pyle Hall • 940 E. Seventh St. • Bloomington, IN 47405-7108

3

Parents’ Survival Guide 2012

W

Tips from a parent Wouldn’t it be nice to hear a parent’s ďŹ rst-hand perspective about the ďŹ rst year at IU?

e talked to Kevin New, father of the Indiana Daily Student’s summer editor-inchief, Jake, about his experience that first year. Below is his advice on everything from moving in to visiting Bloomington.

What were your feelings on Jake choosing to go to IU?

Jake’s first year here?

KN My biggest worry was Jake, being from a small town and a very small high school, that he would have trouble fitting in.

How was the moving in process like? What advice would you give to parents about move-in day?

Kevin New I was born in Bloomington and spent my teen years around IU and always hoped my kids would go there. So I was very happy for Jake’s decision to go there.

KN Our move in went smooth mainly because we are local.

I would tell incoming parents to come for a visit early and see the town and where the kids will be living. It will save you some worry and sleepless nights.

What was your biggest worry about

How was your communication the

first year (frequent, phone calls, etc.)?

KN The first year was actually the best year.

He was doing so much and wanted to tell us everything. After that be prepared for your kid to get their own life and not have as much time to call home as you will want.

Did your relationship change a lot with Jake?

KN Of course it will change. You will see your little boy become a man and not need you as much to take care of things. You just have to step back and be proud and hope for that occasional call saying, “Could you help me with this?�

We’re on campus, online, and now we’re in the palm of your hand.

Mobile Banking makes it easier than ever for you to manage your account on the go!

IU Credit Union members enjoy: t 0OMJOF MPBO BQQMJDBUJPOT t 0OMJOF #BOLJOH .PCJMF #BOLJOH t "QQT GPS "OESPJE™ BOE J1IPOF™

Did you visit IU the first year? If so, when?

What times of year would you suggest parents visit, and what would you suggest they do with their student?

KN Once again, being within an hour from Bloomington we got to visit a lot. I would tell parents to let the student decide when to visit. There’s nothing worse than planning on spending time with your kids and being told, “I have class all day and a test to study for.� But when you are here for a visit you must tour the campus - it’s one the most beautiful schools in the world. And then head downtown and

experience the life in Bloomington (not the night life). A perfect day trip to Brown County or the lake would be a nice visit.

What is your number one piece of advice for parents?

KN The number one thing for new IU parents is to let go and let them make decisions. This is going to be hard for some parents, but you have to let go and watch them grow. This will be a sad time for some of you but as time goes by, you get to watch them become the adults you dreamed they would be.

Open your account in the IMU or online at

www.iucu.org

t .PCJMF XFCTJUF BU m.iucu.org t 5FYU .FTTBHF #BOLJOH t "OE B XIPMF MPU NPSF

JODMVEJOH J1PE 5PVDI™ BOE J1BE™

We started a credit union and created a community.

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4

Parents’ Survival Guide 2012

Mastering move in Tips from the experts about how to get in and get settled

BY JILLIAN RANEGAR | jranegar@indiana.edu

The long awaited anticipation meets reality each year as freshmen officially join the IU campus community on Residence Hall Move-In Day.

JAKE WRIGHT | IDS

ALEX FARRIS | IDS

ALEX FARRIS | IDS TOP David Highbaugh begins to help his daughter Mariah Highbaugh

move into Read Center.

MIDDLE Randy Cole helps his daughter, Natalie Cole, move into Collins Living-Learning Center. Natalie moved into Collins because she hopes to study in Germany during the spring semester and wanted to live in a tight community.

BOTTOM Police officers from the BPD direct traffic during official move-in day along 10th St. near Teter Quad.

While the residence halls make the process as smooth as possible, these experts tell you how to avoid being caught in chaos by being prepared and organized.

“We recommend packing in bags or boxes that can be managed by one person,” said Pam Sprong, assistant director of communications and marketing at RPS. Packing in laundry baskets and plastic tubs also make for easy trips to the car. These storage containers can stay in the room to store out-ofseason or bulky clothing in the overhead closet compartments or under the beds.

“I lived on the third floor, and we didn’t have an elevator, so making many light trips was better than struggling with heavy loads,” junior Ryan Bays said.

Doors officially open at 8 a.m., but it is expected to be busy throughout the entire day.

“The longest lines will probably be the traffic getting to campus,” said Melanie Payne, associate director of the Office of First Year Experience Programs and director of New Student Orientation. “In recent years, mid-morning seems to be a good time to plan for. Arriving into town the night before is often a good plan, to be ready to

start and already be close the next morning.”

Arriving students are to check in at their residence hall’s center desk, show their student ID and receive their keys.

From there, vehicles are directed to curbside parking adjacent to specific buildings for a 15-minute unloading allotment. After everything is unloaded, vehicles can be moved to a nearby parking lot, and items can begin to be carried inside.

While some rolling carts are available to check out, there is not an ample supply.

“Rolling carts could be beneficial to bring, hence, everyone is trying to claim one when there are only seven or eight of them,” twotime Resident Assistant Wendy Pitts said. “If people brought their own, they could get done a lot sooner.”

Another helpful hint is to avoid moving in at the same time as your student’s roommate.

While it is exciting to meet the roommate for the first time, two families moving nine months’ worth of stuff into a dorm room can be stressful. Give your student time to unpack and get organized.

To end the day, students and families are encouraged to attend

“We recommend packing in bags or boxes that can be managed by one person.”

Pam Sprong, assistant director of communications and marketing at RPS

the Freshman Induction Ceremony, an IU tradition and the ceremonial “welcome” to their new academic home.

“That’s a great event to do together before parents then leave for home,” said Payne. “Students will have required orientation meetings that night and lots of Welcome Week events to help them adjust, so the Induction Ceremony and picnic is a perfect time for parents and students to say their goodbyes.”

The official move-in day is Wednesday, Aug. 15. However, it is possible to sign up to arrive as early as Sunday, Aug. 12, and pay a $30-perday charge. To register for early arrival, visit the Residential Programs & Services website.

For more information, dates for standard move in and the link for early move in registration, visit the online Move In Guide at http:// www.rps.indiana.edu/ mig.cfml.

MORE MOVE-IN TIPS Pack in small manageable containers or bags.

Bring personal rolling cart if space in your vehicle allows.

Dress comfortably — it is August in the Midwest.

Avoid moving in at the same time as your student’s roommate.

After receiving your student’s room key, have them get in the habit of keeping it in a convenient place (a lanyard or keychain can be helpful).

If moving onto a high floor, use stairs when possible but be patient when waiting for elevators.

Keep updated on the possibility of construction delays at http://www. indiana.edu/~bypass/ index.shtml.

Plan on attending one of two Freshman Induction Ceremonies at either 2 p.m. or 4 p.m. Students and parents can RSVP at www.iu.edu/~induct.

For more information, dates for standard move in and the link for early move in registration, visit the online Move In Guide at http://www.rps. indiana.edu/mig.cfml.

Keep updated on Welcome Week with the IU First Year Experiences Program’s Facebook page: http://www. facebook.com/iufye.

You are joining a first-class institution that values and promotes excellence. It’s a community of scholars and learners committed to do their very best—to address big issues, to have influence, to answer questions, and to create new theories and ways of understanding.

The generosity of donors contributes to the greatness of this university. Welcome to Indiana University Bloomington.

Photo by Heather Brogden, University Communications

iufoundation.iu.edu

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Parents’ Survival Guide 2012

How to deal

Helping your student from miles away

BY KIRSTEN CLARK | kirclark@indiana.edu

Things don’t always go according to plan. Grade-point averages miss the mark, parking tickets wind up on windshields and students make bad decisions.

In high school, you were always there to bail your students out. Now, they’re away from home and have to figure out solutions on their own.

We’ve provided the answers to a few common college dilemmas. So, when you receive a phone call from your student asking for advice, whip out this article and help point them in the right direction.

ACADEMIC PROBLEMS Problem Your son gets his first mid-term grade back in economics, and he’s failing. Or maybe he finds out the first week of school the class that sounded so awesome over the summer isn’t so awesome after all.

Solution Instruct your son to make an appointment with his adviser (which can be done online at https://starnet.indiana. edu). Dropping classes can then be done online via OneStart.

Dropping a class during the first week of classes won’t show up on the transcript, but a fee will

be charged to the Bursar. Classes dropped after the first week, however, will result in a W for withdrawal on the transcript.

Problem Your daughter realizes that the standard five-paragraph essay that got her through high school might not cut it in college.

Solution Send her to Writing Tutorial Services, which can provide her with a free 50-minute session with a peer tutor. She can call 812-855-6738 to make an appointment.

HOUSING PROBLEMS Problem Your freshman calls home after the first week. She is convinced that if she continues living with her current roommate, it’s going to be a very long year.

Solution Your student should go to her Resident Assistant first. If the conflict still cannot be solved, students can request a roommate change after the second week of school. To get the process started, students can go to their residence hall’s center desk and fill out a roommate change request form.

LEGAL PROBLEMS Problem Your student received a court summons (we won’t

speculate why).

Solution IU Student Legal Services, located across from Dunn Meadow on 7th Street, offers students who have paid the Student Activity Fee complimentary legal advice and if necessary, legal representation with their staff of four full-time, licensed attorneys and about 25 second- and third-year IU law students. Have your student call 812-855-7867.

HEALTH PROBLEMS Problem Your student wakes up with a fever of 104 degrees or breaks a finger playing intramural volleyball.

Solution The Health Center, located on the corner of 10th Street and Jordan Avenue, staffs nurse practitioners who can help.

For more serious situations, the IU Health Bloomington Hospital Emergency Department, located at 601 W. Second St., can be reached at 812-353-5252.

Problem You can’t quite put your finger on it, but your student hasn’t been himself lately.

You’re concerned he might be depressed.

Solution Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) is

located within the Health Center and provides counseling as well as psychiatric consultation and treatment. Encourage your student to make an appointment by calling 812-855-5711 or stopping by for a walk-in appointment.

EMERGENCY CONTACTS Although we hope your student never has to use them, it is always helpful to have local emergency contact information on hand.

If students find themselves needing one of the following phone numbers, here’s what to tell them.

Indiana University Police Department Available 365 days a year, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call 812-855-4111, or dial 911 for emergencies. Located at 1469 E. 17th St. Bloomington Police Department Located at 220 E. Third St. It can be reached at 812-339-4477 or 911 for emergencies Bloomington Fire Department: Located at 300 E. Fourth St. It can be reached at 812-332-9763 or 911 for emergencies.

University Lutheran Church &

812-855-9737 www.iuyearbook.com

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The Arbutus yearbook covers it all.

Call 812-855-9737 to order today or have your student add it to the bursar bill.

Make sure your student is a part of the book by getting a free portrait. Look for portrait dates starting this fall.

7

Parents’ Survival Guide 2012

Help your students find their way

BY ALLISON BERRY | alcberry@indiana.edu

Navigating through campus can be one of the most intimidating things for your child. Luckily, we’re providing you with all the information on how you can help them get going safely, even from far away.

BRINGING A CAR It can be convenient for your child to have a car on campus, but he or she should also be aware of IU Parking Operations and the regulations for on-campus parking.

In general, “D” permits are required to park in the parking lots near the dorms, and they require placement on a waitlist in advance of moving in.

E LOR EXPusing options your ho ar. t ye for nex

Is the stress

of college

DAY

ONE E PLAC

We can help.

BIKING Known as a bicycle friendly town, both Bloomington and the IU campus offer bike routes in certain parts of town and bicycle parking at numerous locations, including outside most academic buildings, residence halls, the Indiana Memorial Union and the Student Recreational Sports Center.

Indiana University Parking Operations requires all bicycles to be registered through their office and for a valid permit to be displayed on the front fender of the bike at all times. For more information, visit the Parking

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GETTING TO THE AIRPORT For students planning to go out of town, IU and Bloomington offer a variety of options for travels.

There are two cab companies located in Bloomington, White Cab and Yellow Cab, which offer rides anywhere students need to go. A cheaper option is the shuttle services that run through Bloomington.

Both Bloomington Shuttle and Star of America Shuttle offer $15 one-way trips from Bloomington to the Indianapolis International Airport. For more information, visit www.soashuttle.com/ or www. bloomingtonshuttle.com/.

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RIDING THE BUS IU and Bloomington Transit both offer bus routes that travel in all directions of campus and around Bloomington.

IU buses are free to all riders, with five routes that travel through campus. Bloomington Transit bus routes are free to students when they present their Indiana University Student ID upon boarding the bus.

The most popular route is the 9, which takes students to College Mall, where they can meet almost any need. Other routes travel around the city of Bloomington, downtown and even to Wal-Mart.

Campus bus schedules can be found at www.iubus.indiana.edu/

campus_bus/bus_schedule.html, and city bus schedules can be found at www.bloomingtontransit. com/.

getting to you?

ONE

ON

Students can also purchase an “E” permit, which allows parking at the football stadium parking lot, as well as on North Jordan Ave. Cars in the stadium lot do have to be moved for game days, though, so be aware.

Parking Operations has seen it before, and chances are students will return to their cars to find a fine up to $50 if they try to break the rules (yes, even just for five

minutes). For more information, visit www.parking.indiana.edu/.

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Parents’ Survival Guide 2012

8

9

Parents’

GUIDE

to Bloomington and IU Your student is all settled into his or her dorm, and you’re driving home in an unloaded minivan. All you can think about is when you’ll get to see your new college student again.

Don’t worry.

It’s not too early to start planning your next visit.

Here are some suggestions to get you started.

IDS FILE PHOTOS

Biddle Hotel and Conference Center

Where to Stay

Mother Bear’s Pizza

Siam House, a restaurant located on Fourth Street

Where to Eat

BIDDLE HOTEL AND CONFERENCE CENTER Want to be in the center of all the IU action? The Biddle Hotel and Conference Center is located oncampus inside the Indiana Memorial Union. The 189 guest accommodations are an easy walk to the IU Auditorium, Kirkwood Avenue and more.

900 E. Seventh St. 800-209-8145

MOTHER BEAR’S PIZZA If you have to choose one pizza place, make it Mother Bear’s. Named “One of America’s Top Nine Pizzerias” by People Magazine, diners can choose from 15 gourmet pizzas or create one of their own.

Salads, wings, pasta and subs are also available.

1428 E. Third St. 812-332-4495

RUNCIBLE SPOON CAFÉ AND RESTAURANT The warm and inviting Runcible Spoon is just a stone’s throw away from Kirkwood and has been a Bloomington favorite for more than 30 years. Vegan dishes are available, as is all-day breakfast and coffee roasted on-site.

412 E. Sixth St. 812-334-3997

HOLIDAY INN BLOOMINGTON Less than a five minute drive from Memorial Stadium and Assembly Hall (without game-day traffic), this is a great place to stay when you’re in Bloomington for the big game. It offers guests an outdoor pool, an exercise facility, a full service restaurant and more.

1710 N. Kinser Pike 812-334-3252

FOURTH STREET Feeling adventurous? If international cuisine is your thing, Fourth Street is your go-to location, with restaurants ranging from Ethiopian to Vietnamese to Turkish. We suggest Anyetsang’s Little Tibet, a colorful little eatery that specializes in Tibetan, Thai and Indian cuisines. Not sure what to try? Go for one of the mo-mo dishes.

415 E. Fourth St. 812-331-0122

HARTZELL’S Those with a sweet tooth won’t be able to resist this locally-owned ice cream joint. With many different flavors of homemade soft-serve, there is plenty to choose from.

107 N. Dunn St. 812-332-3502

GRANT STREET INN A welcoming bed and breakfast in close proximity to all that Bloomington has to offer, Grant Street Inn is just a 10-minute walk to the Fourth Street restaurants or the IU campus. All rooms come with a private bath and wireless Internet, and breakfast is included.

310 N. Grant St. 812-334-2353

NICK’S ENGLISH HUT With its distinct cottage-like exterior, this pub and eatery has been a Bloomington tradition since 1927.

Nick’s offers a wide selection of burgers, salads, pizza, stromboli and more, and it is sure to be packed after home games.

423 E. Kirkwood Ave. 812-332-4040

For more suggestions on dining in Bloomington, visit www.idsnews.com/dining

Oliver Winery

IU Football

What to Do OLIVER WINERY Even if your child is not of legal drinking age, this Bloomington attraction is fun for anyone interested in the history and process of wine-making. Opened by IU law professor William Oliver in 1972, the winery is Indiana’s oldest and largest winery. Go behind-the-scenes on a free tour of the establishment, and then, if the weather permits, buy some cheese and crackers to enjoy on the beautiful patio or lawn.

8024 Indiana 37 812-876-5800 IU ATHLETICS If your student is going to a Big Ten school, checking out the athletics is a must. If you can’t score tickets to a men’s basketball or football game, take advantage of the many other free sporting events year-round. Check out the IU Athletics website for schedules and more information. www.iuhoosiers.com/

THE COMEDY ATTIC The Comedy Attic sees a host of stand-up comedians throughout the year. Past performers include Doug Benson, Ben Bailey and the Sklar Brothers, as well as local performers. The venue also has a free open mic night every Wednesday.

123 S. Walnut St. 812-336-LAFF GRIFFY LAKE NATURE PRESERVE Whether your family is full of outdoor enthusiasts or is new to hiking, Griffy Lake Nature Preserve is perfect for anyone who wants to take advantage of the beautiful southern Indiana landscape. With hiking trails, fishing, boating and even picnicking, Griffy Lake has stunning scenery to enjoy any outdoor activity, and is located just minutes from downtown.

3500 N. Hinkle Rd 812-349-3700 For more suggestions on what to do in town, visit www.idsnews.com/news/Directories/happenings/.

Parents’ Survival Guide 2012

10

Student life

It doesn’t have to include partying, drugs

BY CAITLIN RYAN | ryancj@indiana.edu

Indiana University was once named the “No. 1 Party School” in the nation by the Princeton Review, based on student reporting of alcohol and drug use, number of hours spent studying outside of class and the presence of sororities and fraternities on campus. Five years later, in 2010, IU ranked 15th on the list.

Despite the lower ranking, parents might still worry that exposure to partying, alcohol and drugs is a part of many students’ college experience. At IU, however, it doesn’t have to be that way.

“This school is diverse in many ways, and the character of its students is one of them,”

said 2012 graduate Danny Alexander. “There are plenty of students who do not engage in drinking and partying while still having fun.”

Alexander pointed to the variety of clubs, sports and activities available on campus as evidence that there are students out there with other interests.

He suggested new students look for ways to get involved on campus as a means of meeting new people and finding alternatives to drinking.

“There are many things to do on campus and around Bloomington that don’t involve

drinking,” he said. “Join a club or become a part of a community floor in a residence hall. I personally like to go to Rachael’s Café on Third Street and enjoy free music.”

Junior Lauren Knueven said she also believes IU has a lot to offer to students who aren’t interested in drinking or partying. She noted the sheer number of students enrolled at IU. “There are over 30,000 students that attend IU,” she said.

“Whether or not a student gets involved in partying and drinking is largely dependent on the individual student and whom they become friends with. You can

party if you want to, but you don’t have to.”

Like Alexander, Knueven advised new students to take advantage of the variety of other events occurring both on campus and in Bloomington.

“There are free movies at the Union,” she said. “And sometimes IU sponsors cultural events on weekend nights.”

Both students emphasized the importance of finding good friends at the beginning of the year, since this is when the majority of new students establish the habits and relationships that will last through their first year.

Junior Bryn Schweda said she agreed.

“There are plenty of students who do not engage in drinking and partying while still having fun.”

Danny Alexander, IU 2012 graduate

“No matter what school you go to, there will always be a few students who drink and do drugs, but I think it’s a lot smaller number than people think,” Knueven said. “Most of my friends that I have met at IU don’t do any of these things, and I’ve never felt pressured to do so here.”

In most cases, it’s the number one concern for parents of incoming students: Will my student be safe on campus?

IU provides many measures

to keep students

SAFE on campus

BY CAITLIN RYAN ryancj@indiana.edu

At Indiana University, there are a number of measures that have been put into place to ensure the answer to this question is “Yes.” Residence halls are equipped with a key card entry system and locks on individual dormitory doors. To enter most residence halls, students must swipe their IU ID card and use their personal key to get into the room.

ID cards only work for the residence hall where the student lives. Additionally, residents are urged not to allow others in who do not have a key card. If a student is without his or her ID or can’t get into the dorm, he or she will need to contact a Residential Programs & Services staff member at the center desk of their residence hall.

There are also cameras in and around the residence centers to monitor who is entering and exiting the halls. Similarly, students can

expect to see Resident Assistants and IU Police Department officers on rounds regularly within the halls, circulating the dormitories to ensure that residents are safe at all hours.

While rounds are not intended to “get students into trouble,” students should be aware there are consequences for students found participating in illicit activities in the residence halls.

Outside the dormitories, the campus infrastructure is designed to keep students safe en route to classes, campus buildings and the dorms. Campus sidewalks and parking lots are well lit and equipped with emergency stations. These stations flash a blue light when a button is pressed and alert IUPD there is an emergency in the area.

For students who do not feel safe walking at night, the IU Safety Escort Service provides safe rides to and from campus buildings and student housing, both on and off campus.

IDS FILE PHOTO

Blue light safety posts have a red button that when pushed calls the IU Police Department. IUPD always responds to the scene, whether the call is an actual emergency or not.

Students who wish to utilize the free service should call 812-855-SAFE and a safety escort van will meet them. They must then show their student ID before boarding.

Finally, the campus is equipped with the IU-Notify Messaging System, which serves to notify students and faculty of emergencies.

Students can sign up to receive text messages, phone calls and emails from the system, and the notifications are also posted online and on campus and cable television. Warning sirens are posted outdoors as well to notify residents in the event of an emergency.

Parents’ Survival Guide 2012

12

Make your student feel at home while away from home

BY RAVEN CARPENTER | ravecarp@indiana.edu

F

or many students beginning their college years, there is the concern of how to make their new home away from home actually feel like home.

It can be a difficult process, but with the right guidance from parents, it doesn’t have to be too painful.

Different things such as visits, care packages and learning about resources on campus are great ways to make students comfortable.

Bill Shipton, director of Student Programs and Services, said parents should be there to help students feel comfortable without overwhelming their child.

“It’s difficult for parents to understand the difference between supporting and rescuing,” he said.

While many Indiana students agree that parent visits can be great, 2012 graduate Brittney Little said if a parent

WHEN TO VISIT YOUR STUDENT

arrives unexpectedly, it can cause more trouble than help.

Many other students agreed with Little.

Students said parents should come during the day and during more slow-paced weekends when there isn’t much going on. They also said they should give their student plenty of heads up.

Little said visits — parents heading to Bloomington or students heading home — should be short and not too frequent so as to allow students to adjust on their own without becoming overly dependent.

Little explained that her own parents had her wait at least 6 weeks before they visited.

Another great way for students to feel at home while on campus is having their parents mail items to them from home such as favorite foods and letters in the form of a care package. Care packages are great to send, or planned.

Junior Britni Farace said receiving a care package during the holidays or randomly throughout the year is an excellent way for parents to get students what they need and a little piece of “home sweet home.” The more personal the care package, the more effective it will be for students, Farace said.

It is also a good idea to help first year students adjust to campus by parents educating themselves more about the help resources on campus, said Melanie Payne, associate director of First Year Experience Programs. Parents should learn where they can encourage students to go when they need help.

“The beauty of IU is that no matter what the problem is, someone here can help,” said Payne. “Parents should not be the person rescuing the students, but instead helping to empower students.”

FRESHMAN FAMILY WEEKEND (SEPT. 14 - 16)

What is there to do at IU? Come find out. Tours will be running all weekend for families to come see what their freshman is up to. The IU Visitor Information Center will be open to families as the “Official Front Door” of IU. Families can take tours of the Herman B Wells Library, the Wylie House, the Lilly

BY KEVIN KNIGHT Library, the Student Recrekevknigh@indiana.edu ational Sports Facility and School of Health, Physical Education and Recreation (which will allow families to use athletic facilities for free when accompanied by

a student).

Different academic buildings will open for viewing, and the Bloomington’s Farmers’ Market will be open to give visitors a taste of locally grown produce.

The IU football team will then take on Ball State, and a Freshman Family Weekend Hospitality tent will be at the game.

Call ahead for specially priced tickets. Visit http:// studentaffairs.iub.edu/parents/ for a complete schedule of all IU has to offer this weekend.

IDS FILE PHOTO

BUILD THE PERFECT CARE PACKAGE Something to encourage students Cards, posters, books.

Something familiar Photos, stuffed animals.

Something edible Treats, coffee.

School supplies Pens, notebooks.

Something practical Toothpaste, shampoo.

HOMECOMING WEEK (OCT. 1 - 6) This is one of the biggest events in Bloomington, especially if you’re an IU alumni.

There is usually a parade, and the IU football team will play on Saturday.

More information on Homecoming events will be posted as they become available. Check back at http:// alumni.indiana.edu/together/homecoming/index.html for details.

PARENTS WEEKEND (NOV. 2 - 4) Stay at the Indiana Memorial Union, the heart of Indiana University, for this weekend that is specially geared toward you. Tours are going on at IU’s landmarks, including the Lilly Library, Wylie House, Wells Library, Kinsey Institute and IU Art Museum.

The IU Football Team will face Iowa, and there will be a Parents Hospitality Tent. Reservations are encouraged, especially with IMU events. See http://studentaffairs.iub.edu/ parents/ for complete details and schedules.

YEAR-ROUND PERFORMANCES The IU Auditorium, Jacobs School of Music and the Department of Theatre and Drama have events and performances going on year-round. Attractions come in from all across the country and abroad. Check their respective websites for details and dates. Attractions get added all the time, so check for some of your favorites and make plans to visit.

13

Parents’ Survival Guide 2012

Helicopter parents

Access issues can create tension in families

BY LAUREN MCCONNELL | ljmcconn@indiana.edu

College allows a lot of freedom compared to high school. But before freshmen can get used to curfew-free lives, they have the freedom of deciding how much access to give their parents to their college lives.

OneStart has a third-party access setting that students can assign to any person, like a parent or guardian.

It grants that person access to the student’s information including grades, unofficial transcripts, class schedules and personal information such as addresses and phone numbers.

Students can assign thirdparty access to as many people as they wish, so both Mom and Dad can keep tabs on their child’s grades.

But some students might choose not to allow third-access to anyone - and that can create tension.

Junior and environmental science major Kate Drass said her parents left the decision to her, and while she allowed them access, she kept her grades private.

“With grades specifically, it’s about letting go of control,” she said. “It’s the kid’s

responsibility now.”

Drass said keeping that information inaccessible to her parents has actually helped with communication about academics.

“They’ll ask, but we have that communication that I can say I might not be doing so well in one class,” she said. “I feel more willing to talk about it with them. If we have that communication rather than them having direct access to my grades, it’s better for us.”

Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) has similar advice for parents when dealing with letting go of complete access

to their child’s life.

Regular communication about expectations can make it easier to avoid tension with your child, according to the CAPS website.

If parents assume their child will want to give them access to every financial and academic detail but their child assumed that access stopped at high school graduation, communicating why each party felt that way can help.

“Parents need to realize their kids are in college now,” Drass said. “It’s all about growing up and becoming responsible.”

“With grades specifically, it’s about letting go of control.

It’s the kid’s responsibility now.”

Kate Drass, junior environmental science major

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14

Parents’ Survival Guide 2012

Important resources

Have a question? Contact one of these offices.

BY LAUREN SEDAM | lesedam@indiana.edu

There are many resources for students on campus, but there are plenty of organizations that are there for parents, too. These are some of the important numbers and resources that might be helpful.

The Parents Association is one of the primary resources for you on campus. Important information is available on their website at studentaffairs.iub.edu/parents/.

A place for you

Parents Association seeks to help

BY LAUREN MCCONNELL | ljmcconn@indiana.edu

Suzanne Phillips is the director of the Parents Association, an organization meant to connect parents to IU. We spoke to her about what this important resource can do for parents of IU freshmen.

What is the Parents Association?

Suzanne Phillips It’s an affiliate group of the Alumni Association and is a nondues-paying association that links parents to the campus. We hold the Freshman Family Weekend and Parents Weekend in the fall, too. There’s a parent board representing 25 families that meets twice a year, and parents are automatically members when their kids go to IU.

How does a parent join?

SP All parents are automatic members. We used to send out a letter but had to stop last year because of costs so now we do email. The problem is, we don’t get the parent’s email, so they should give us their email so they can get the newsletter, Campus Link. They can email mykidis@indiana.edu, which will get to me, with their information.

Why should parents join?

SP They can email mykidis@ indiana.edu with any questions they have, and we’re looking to be on Twitter and Facebook soon.

Those will actually go to me, and I’ll be the one answering.

Does the association offer anything special for parents of freshmen?

SP The Freshman Family weekend will be the weekend of Sept. 14. The tentative schedule can be found online at http:// studentaffairs.iub.edu/ parents/, and there will be a tailgate tent before the game.

What events should parents look forward to through the association?

SP We host the Freshman Family Weekend and also the Parents Weekend for all other parents, and that will be the weekend of Nov. 2.

The tentative schedule for that weekend is also online, and a tailgate tent will offer refreshments before that game, too.

IU PARENTS ASSOCIATION Indiana Memorial Union M088 900 E. Seventh St. 812-856-1626 mykidis@indiana.edu This office provides a link between parents and the IU campus and sends two newsletters per year via email. Sign up for the newsletter at mykidis@indiana.edu.

FIRST YEAR EXPERIENCES (FYE) Wright Residence Center (MidMay to mid-July) 501 N. Jordan Ave. Franklin Hall 228 (Mid-July to mid-May) 601 E. Kirkwood Ave. 812-855-4357 fye@indiana.edu This office is geared completely toward orienting and supporting students in their first years, but it can be a helpful resource for new college parents as well.

BURSAR Franklin Hall 011 601 E. Kirkwood Ave. 812-855-2636 bursar@indiana.edu If you’re paying the bills, the Bursar is certainly an important contact. The office handles all University billing and payments.

IUPD CRIME ALERTS http://www.indiana.edu/~iupd/ crimeAlerts.html This site provides updates of all crime and alerts on campus.

COUNSELING AND PSYCHOLOGICAL SERVICES 600 N. Jordan Ave.

812-855-5711 http://www.iu.edu/~health/ departments/caps/caps_links/ caps_parents.html CAPS can be a great counseling resource for students, but it also provides tips for parents on how to support a student leaving for college.

OFFICE OF ADMISSIONS 300 N. Jordan Ave. 812-855-0661 http://www.admit.indiana.edu/ parents/index.shtml This office’s website has information about adjusting to college, campus safety, overseas study and more.

There is also a link to their Parent Facebook page.

IU HEALTH BLOOMINGTON 601 W. Second St. 812-353-5252 If your student has an emergency, IU Health Bloomington, Bloomington’s only hospital is always open and prepared to deal with anything.

ALUMNI ASSOCIATION 800-824-3044 http://alumni.indiana.edu/ Even if you’re not an alum, encourage your child to participate in the association’s events, traditions and leadership opportunities while at IU. It even offers scholarships and great networking opportunities.

DISABILITY SERVICES FOR STUDENTS 812-855-7578 http://www2.dsa.indiana.edu/ dss/ Parents can find information on how their student can receive disability support services as well as academic and other support on campus.

FINANCIAL AID 812-855-0321 http://www.indiana.edu/~sfa/ The Office of Student Fi-

nancial Aid provides information and links about earning aid, federal loans and managing money.

GAY, LESBIAN, BISEXUAL & TRANSGENDER STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES 812-855-4252 http://www.indiana.edu/~glbt/ The GLBT SSS is a resource for both the campus and community on news, events and organizations advocating the GLBT community.

HEALTH CENTER 600 N. Jordan Ave. 812-855-4011 http://healthcenter.indiana.edu/ index2.html If your student has a cold, needs to fill a prescription or even wants nutrition or smoking counseling, direct them to IU’s on-campus Health Center.

MONROE COUNTY CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU 812-336-3681 http://www. bloomingtonconvention.com/ This is a great place to find information on visiting Bloomington, from hotels to transportation to weather.

RESIDENTIAL PROGRAMS & SERVICES 801 N. Jordan Ave. 812-855-1764 http://www.rps.indiana.edu/ RPS covers all housing information, including residence hall living and meal plans.

STUDENT LEGAL SERVICES 812-855-7867 https://www.indiana.edu/~sls/ If your student should stumble into any legal trouble, Student Legal Services will provide professional counseling for any issue presented.

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