Breadcrumbs
The transition to university
When they enter university, your son or daughter will take on new responsibilities – they will become responsible for taking a proactive approach to learning, managing their study/work/social schedules, forming new networks and friendships, and pursuing a career goal. This time can be as daunting for parents as it is for students – it can be hard to recognise what level of involvement you should now have in your son’s or daughter’s tertiary education.
Tips for easing the transition
Recognising a successful transition
Tips for easing the transition
- Keep the lines of communication open. Ask questions about their studies – it’s all about being supportive and interested.
- Recognise that your son’s or daughter’s university experience is a balance between studying and socialising. Give them gentle encouragement about managing their time productively and how to plan ahead.
- Allow them to manage their own administrative issues. Don’t contact the University on behalf of your son or daughter unless in exceptional circumstances or in an emergency, as the University protects its students’ privacy and cannot disclose information to parents.
- Encourage them to develop new friendships. They’ll benefit from getting to know other first year students, and remembering that they are not alone.
- Go to Courses for Careers Day. Once you have visited the University and heard first-hand about the courses, you will have a better understanding of what your son or daughter is doing.
- Recognise that the responsibilities that come with university study rest with your son or daughter. Remind them that experienced University staff are there to help and provide them with advice.
- Step back – but be there for them.
Recognising a successful transition
Sometimes it can be hard to encourage independence and still keep in touch with the changes that are occurring in your child’s life. Here are some signs to help you recognise that your son or daughter has made a successful transition from school into university:
- they openly communicate with you about their studies and experiences
- they take a proactive approach to contacting the University and dealing with academic and administrative matters
- the course is well-matched to your son’s or daughter’s expectations and career ambitions
- they interact with people on campus and are making new friends
- they are striking a good balance between study, work and social activities
More information
Contact the Student Access Officer in Student Services for more information. Please telephone for an appointment on +61 7 5456 5038.