Helping your child make a successful transition to university
UTAS offers broad suite of services and programs to assist students
The first few months of university life can be quite a daunting and stressful experience for many students. There is a lot to become familiar with in a relatively short time.
Dr Tony Mordini, Associate Director, Student Experience at the University of Tasmania, believes that parents can play an important role in assisting their child make a successful transition to university. “At the University of Tasmania we have a broad suite of services and programs to assist students, however, in the information overload that often occurs during orientation activities students may not fully comprehend the many resources available to them.”
If parents have an understanding of what challenges may be ahead as their child transitions into higher education and they are familiar with the support that is available on campus and online then they can play a much more informed and supportive role.
Obviously, different people will face different challenges but most will have to make some adjustments.
Some of the common themes that occur when students make the transition to university include:
Academic
Even students who have been very successful in their senior years may find the academic transition quite challenging. The university environment requires greater self-regulation, the ability to source information independently, referencing skills, and a level of academic writing that for many is a considerable step change.
It may take a semester or two to really consolidate the writing skills required to present really sound academic papers and reports, and to feel comfortable with referencing and writing styles.
Geographic and physical
Universities are large, often multi-site campuses. Classes may be in different buildings and on different sites or areas of the campus. It will take time to become familiar with the new environment.
Administrative matters
Universities are complex administrations with many policies, procedures and rules. Often these are derived from the legislative frameworks that underpin university operations. It will take time to understand all the structures and terms. However, it is important to read any official documents carefully and to seek clarification if required.
Rules around enrolment and exams need particular attention. Missing a key date could mean having to wait a semester to enrol in a unit or sit an exam.
Social and personal
Making new friends can be hard at the outset. Even students in the same course may be in different lecture or tutorial groups.
Financial
University can be financially stressful especially for students who have had to move out of home to go to university. Many juggle part-time jobs to off-set expenses but this can add pressure when it comes to completing assignments.
What can parents do?
Being aware that the transition will be challenging on some of these fronts is important. Where possible, try to ascertain how your child is going. Provide support and encouragement if he/she is finding the first few week difficult. Explain this is normal and that many students experience some difficulties initially.
Importantly, remind them that there are resources available. The University provides a range of resources including counselling and disability services, student learning skills advisors, peer-assisted study and student advisors. Furthermore, it is important to seek assistance early. The academic year moves quickly and students who fail to get assistance early can fall behind.
There is also an active student union on campus providing activities, clubs and societies and a range of services including advocacy and housing services. Getting involved in the Union’s activities or joining a club or society is good way to make friends and build social networks.
Encourage your child to seek out the Learning Skills Advisors and to make use of the services they provide.
The academic journey can be a little daunting at the start. However, experience tells us that once these initial challenges have been conquered; university studies can be very rewarding, opening the door to many opportunities. Parents may feel that the success of their child is not within the ambit of their experience or expertise but even they can play an important support role.