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Sept. 27, 2002-- Do visit! And remember to ask if they need anything important from home. This may include favorite CDs, an item of clothing or those special cookies that they love.
- Don't ask when their next exam is, if they are doing their homework or if they are studying enough.
- Do ask about their adjustment to their academic work, to living on their own, to their roommate and to a new place.
- Don't rearrange the room, comment on the laundry they obviously need to do, or start folding the clothing that is in their laundry basket.
- Do ask them to show you their classrooms and where they hang out. Take a tour of the campus. Even if you are familiar with the University, students enjoy playing the role of hosting you.
- Don't tell them too many stories about what it was like when you were in college here or elsewhere.
- Do take them out to eat alone, or with their roommate/friends. Students like a break from the routine.
- Don't engage in many public displays of affection.
- Do leave all family issues and conflicts at home. Be present for them here and give them a break from family squabbles.
- Don't forget to tell them how much you love them (many times), how proud you are of them, and how excited you are about this new time in their lives.
–Jonathan Lewis, senior psychologist, Center for Counseling and Student Development
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