Suggestions for parents for the summer preceding college
Set up a bank account that has limited funds and instruct the student on how to use it.
Discuss mutual expectations for the first semester (grades, attendance, spending, use of drugs or alcohol, etc.) and whether a reduced credit load the first semester may be necessary. Perhaps a written contract would be appropriate.
Purchase assistive technology, special alarm clocks, etc., and make sure the student has an opportunity to learn the software well ahead of the first day of classes.
Discuss your family health care plan and how the student might access confidential health services.
Help the student “connect” over the Internet, Facebook, or phone with another new BSC student.
Share and discuss all psychoeducational test data and academic history; make sure the student understands the data and what it suggests. Help him/her articulate expected needs.
If appropriate, arrange contact with a physician in Bismarck to monitor any medication.
Avoid running interference for his/her personal/financial issues over the course of the summer.
Review the catalog and other college materials with the student, highlighting what is important.
Put together a list with names and numbers of possible resources, both on-campus and off-campus, for the student to contact should issues arise.
Explore with the student the policies and procedures on BSC Web pages and in the student handbook.