New and Current Student Parents

Going to college is a major adjustment, not only for the student, but for parents and other family members as well.  Assisting your student in the college transition process will be invaluable to their college experience.  Parents can be the biggest asset to their student when they understand University policies and can help refer students to the appropriate resources when needed.   

 

Academic Success and Families            

Adjusting to the rigors college level coursework can be difficult for new students to manage.  Here are some helpful tips on ways to encourage your student academically.

 

Ask a Parent

Use this link to see how other parents of current students answer questions like, "How often should you contact your student?"

 

 

Family Connections Newsletter

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The Family Connections Newsletter is distributed via e-mail five times a year.  Click on the link provided to learn more about what the newsletter has to offer.

 

Family Weekend

Held annually in the first half of the fall semester, Family Weekend is an opportunity for families to re-connect with their student and enjoy a leisurely weekend on the campus of Minnesota State University, Mankato.

  

Frequently Asked Questions 

Find answers to common questions about academics, campus involvement, and student life.

 

 

Graduation Information

 Information about commencement schedules, hotel accomodations and important deadlines.

 

 

Homesickness

Every student misses home every now and then.  Use this link to find information to help your student overcome these feelings.

 

 The College Transition

No matter how prepared students think they are, starting college is the beginning of something new.  Understanding your student's new way of life and being available to listen and make suggestions, if asked, is important to your student's new way of life.  Your continued support is important to your student's adaptation to the college experience.

 

 

Maverick Lingo for Parents

 You may find that your student has adapted a new vocabulary while away at college.  The Maverick Lingo for Parents link provides a glossary of commonly used campus terms.

 

Pre College Conversations

You may want to explore the expectations and assumptions that you and your student have about the roles they will play and the choices they will make as a part of the campus community.  This list of issues will be helpful as you begin to discuss the transition to college with your student. 

 

 

Sibling Suggestions

When a student goes to college the entire family is affected, including younger siblings.  Read about ways to help younger siblings deal with the brother or sister heading off to college.

 

 

Understanding Your Student's Data Privacy Rights

The protection of a students personal and academic information is mandated by Federal Law known as the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (or FERPA).  Click on the link above to find out more about how this affects parents access to student information .