Most often we think only about students and the transitions they will be encountering in college. In reality, parents are in a period of transition that can be just as challenging as their student’s. Many of the experiences associated with academic pursuits, vocational aspirations, calling in life, newfound independence, and the development of new friendships are associated with increased anxiety and emotions.
Your student’s first-year experience and subsequent years present a series of unique challenges that center around his/her growing independence and maturity into adulthood. With each passing year, you and your student will make adjustments as each of you learns how to manage independence and your changing relationship.
Going off to college represents a major life transition. Managing time, clarifying values, transitioning into new friendships, learning from mistakes, and developing autonomy will begin to occur when your student first arrives on campus and will continue throughout the college years. Some students may experience few problems while others find the process more difficult. It is expected and completely normal for students to experience some anxiety making the adjustments during each of the years they are in college.
Parents are uniquely qualified and positioned to assist their students in making their transition to Anderson University successful. If at any time you have concerns about your student’s needs, encourage him/her to contact the Counseling Center on campus at 864-622-6078. The Counseling Center is staffed by a licensed professional counselor and administrative assistant trained in assessing students’ needs regarding counseling. Counseling Services are provided by Anderson University to all full time traditional students at no additional cost. Referral and emergency services are also provided at no additional cost to part time and evening students.