In the months before college begins, parents who help freshmen develop basic skills for independent living can make the transition easier. Ensure they know how to do laundry, cook a few dishes and negotiate conflicts. It's also helpful to give them a bit more independence so that the transition to college doesn't feel like a total shock. This also enables them to get their first taste of independence with your helpful guidance and supervision. School administrators can plan activities for college freshmen in the summer before they enter college. This gives them an opportunity to meet roommates and to make a few friends before school starts.
Professors interact with students regularly and can be a first line of defense against potential problems. If you notice that a student is missing class, coming to class disheveled or drunk or that her grades are slipping, talk to her. Find out if there's anything she needs help with and, if necessary, refer her to the college counseling center to get additional help.
If a freshman confides in you that she doesn't like college, her roommate or her classes, don't minimize her concerns. A momentary panic doesn't mean she's going to drop out of college. Instead, listen and provide a sounding board for her concerns without trying to take control of the situation. If she says she wants to leave, ask her to make it through the end of the semester or just to try one more week. Oftentimes, the feelings will subside within a few days.
Parents who notice that their children are struggling should encourage them to reach out to their school counseling center, which can provide support, academic skills training and assistance finding activities that might make the transition easier. Resident advisers and campus administrators can ease the transition by planning activities that encourage students to be social and get to know one another. College freshmen sometimes feel isolated and may struggle to make friends in the first months, so opportunities for socialization and support can ease the transition.
Parents should send a few reminders of home, such as a favorite book, photos or even an old quilt, because these can help your freshman feel a bit more comfortable at school. Try sending her a care package with her favorite foods from home, a few items from her old room or even just a surprise present. Particularly if your freshman is homesick, being able to access some of the comforts of home from far away can help to ease the pain.