Your student’s first year at the University of Lynchburg will be a transition for the entire family. But you are a critical part of your student’s support network, so feel free to use this guide as a resource to help you navigate the first year together.

The first year of college can be emotional for you and your student. Knowing the academic year’s cycle can help you support them through important decisions and challenges.

The First Weeks – A New World

Students are diving into college life for the first time, excited to explore opportunities and connect with others.

Your student may be:

• Excited and apprehensive
• Exploring new freedoms
• Learning to manage new responsibilities
• Feeling homesick and lonely
• Trying to find their place socially
• Anxious about new academic challenges

Mid-Semester – Reality Check

Classes are in full swing, and students receive their first grades, which can be surprising. Social dynamics evolve, and the initial excitement with roommates may fade.

Your student may be:

• Questioning academic abilities and choices
• Adjusting learning styles, study habits, and time management skills
• Wondering if they fit in socially
• Seeking involvement opportunities
• Dealing with the consequences of poor decisions
• Selecting courses for next semester
• Thinking about future living arrangements and roommates

End of First Semester – Information & Stress Overload

As the first semester winds down, students are figuring out how to tackle their first final exams. Many realize that college work is much harder than high school. The pressure is real for those who procrastinated or stumbled early on. Students with jobs or who joined various student organizations may face increased end-of-semester commitments.

Your student may be:

• Anxious about finals
• Struggling with roommate issues
• Overwhelmed by commitments
• Questioning their decision to attend college
• Excited or nervous to head home for break

Home for Break – New Expectations

Students and families eagerly anticipate the first long break. They look forward to home comforts, privacy, reconnecting with friends, and rest. However, tensions over curfews and family expectations can arise. Communicating expectations in advance and maintaining a sense of humor can help families enjoy the visit.

Second Semester – A New Beginning

A new semester is a fresh start but is influenced by the first semester and break experiences. Some students enjoy being home and reconnecting with family and friends, making it hard to return, while others face challenges at home that make them eager to return to campus. First semester grades and confidence in friendships also affect their excitement or apprehension about the new term.

Your student may be:

• Feeling a renewed interest in making friends
• Getting more involved in activities
• Balancing academic, extracurricular, and social commitments
• Contemplating academic interests and major choices
• Exploring internships and summer opportunities