Transition

Navigating the first year together

The first year of college is a major transition — for both students and families. Your student is building independence, forming new relationships, and learning to navigate academic, social, and campus systems.

No matter which USF campus your student attends, these key milestones and action items will help families support them as they adjust, grow, and thrive!

From Orientation to the First Day

Now that Orientation is over, the weeks leading up to the first day of classes are focused on preparation and transition. Students are finalizing schedules, reviewing important information, and beginning to picture what life at USF will look like. A few intentional check-ins during this time can help ensure they start the semester feeling confident and prepared.

Action Items:

  1. Confirm your student knows their class schedule and
  2. Review important academic dates, including drop/add deadlines and tuition payment dates
  3. Set up bill pay and verify financial aid status
  4. Complete any outstanding health forms or immunization requirements (if applicable)

Conversation Starters:

  1. What has surprised you the most so far about USF?
  2. Did you meet anyone during Orientation or while exploring campus?

Tips for Families:

  1. Discuss communication expectations with your student (how often, about what)
  2. Encourage independence while letting them know you're available for support
  3. Anticipate homesickness — moving away for the first time can be emotionally challenging
  4. Remind them to explore campus resources early

Entering the First Week

The first week of classes is often exciting, fast-paced, and full of new experiences. As students begin adjusting socially and academically, they are learning how to manage new expectations and routines. Your steady encouragement and reassurance during this time can make a meaningful difference.

Action Items:

  1. Ensure your student has reviewed the syllabi for all of their classes and understands class expectations
  2. First-day attendance is mandatory for all classes; students will be dropped from classes if they do not attend
  3. Encourage your student to check out our Week of Welcome (WOW!) celebrations, which happen the first week of every semester

Conversation Starters:

  1. What are your first impressions of your classes so far? Do any stand out over others?
  2. The first week of college can be a lot; what was your biggest challenge or accomplishment this week?
  3. Have you found any activities, clubs, or organizations that interest you?

Tips for Families:

  1. Celebrate the small wins with your students!
  2. Encourage campus involvement; events can be a great way to de-stress and meet new people
  3. Remind your student to use resources like the Counseling Center or Academic
  4. Success Center if they need additional support

From the First Month to Midterms

As your student gains a clearer sense of college life, academic demands may increase, and social relationships may deepen. This period often brings both confidence and new challenges. Your steady support can help them navigate both successfully.

Action Items:

  1. Encourage students to meet with their academic advisor, especially before their registration opens up
  2. Review major deadlines of their upcoming major assignments (projects, tests, exams)
  3. Encourage your student to attend their professors’ office hours to ask questions, seek clarification on course material, or receive additional academic support
  4. Remind your student of academic resources like the Academic Success Center in case they hit a wall with studying and are looking for a bit more help
     

Conversation Starters:

  1. How are you adjusting to the pace of college work?
  2. Have you been able to make any connections so far?
  3. How are you preparing for exams? How has it been going?
  4. Have you attended any of your professors' office hours?
  5. Have you been able to see your course registration date and time for the semester?
  6. What class has been your favorite so far this semester? Is there one you're looking forward to for next semester?

Tips for Families:

  1. Remind your student of the importance of a healthy school-life balance and prioritizing self-care
  2. Try to listen and validate their experiences, especially when they're stressful
  3. Celebrate their growth and independence as a person

Rounding Out the Semester

With midterms behind them, your student is now preparing for their first finals season. This period often brings increased academic demands and heightened stress. Families can provide valuable support by encouraging balance, preparation, and perspective during this busy time.

Action Items:

  1. Remind your student to review their midterm grades
  2. Encourage your student to begin preparing for final exams and projects early —when multiple classes have assignments due, tackling them gradually helps reduce stress
  3. Check deadlines for housing renewals, scholarships, and financial aid
  4. Encourage reflection on their personal growth during their first semester
     

Conversation Starters:

  1. How are you feeling about your courses as the semester wraps up?
  2. Which accomplishments are you most proud of so far, personal and/or academic?
  3. Do you have any personal goals or plans heading into next semester?
  4. How are you balancing academics, extracurriculars, and personal well-being?

Tips for Families:

  1. Encourage good sleep, healthy meals, and regular stress-relief activities
  2. Celebrate their growth and resilience—not just grades
  3. Normalize challenges and asking for help when needed
  4. Encourage students to utilize campus resources—whether academic, health, or personal support, USF provides services to help with every challenge