Orientation - For Parents

WELCOME PARENTS!

Congratulations on your student's admission to Nassau Community College!  We look forward to meeting your student at NCC's New Student Orientation program in August.

Many parents want to know how they can help their students succeed in college. Though there’s no magic "formula" for academic success, here are some suggestions worth keeping in mind.

Emphasize the Value of Education

Behind almost every successful college student is a family that values education and that recognizes its importance to the quality of young people’s lives. Remind your students that their education matters as much to you as it does to them. Encourage them to make college a priority.

Think of College as a Full-Time Job

Though college classes don’t meet as often as high school classes, students are nevertheless expected to devote a great deal of time to their studies. This often means making adjustments in other areas of their lives—especially outside employment. Working may be important and perhaps necessary, but so too is college.

Remember that College is Different from High School

For many college students, adjusting to the pace and expectations of college can be a challenge. If your student seems concerned about making this transition, you might suggest an appointment with a counselor or an academic adviser. Both will offer helpful advice.

Be Flexible About Family Schedules and Responsibilities

Between attending classes and preparing for them, college students have many demands on their time. As a result, their schedules are sometimes hectic and unpredictable. You can make life less stressful for your student by being flexible about family schedules and responsibilities. Your understanding and cooperation will help a great deal.

Encourage Career Exploration

The College believes career exploration to be an important part of every student’s education. It encourages students to be open to a variety of career possibilities, to investigate areas of interest, and to participate, when possible, in career-related internships. Similar encouragement from you would also be very helpful.

Encourage Involvement in Campus Activities

Campus activities—cultural events, lectures, clubs, and sports—are an important part of students’ college experience. They complement students’ classroom education and offer participants opportunities to learn about themselves, others, and the world at large. Encourage your students to take advantage of this valuable resource.

Be Accepting and Supportive

College years are a time of change for many students. They are a time when students make decisions not only about their education and careers but about their values and beliefs. While you may not agree with every one of these decisions, it’s important that you continue to support your children and remain a vital presence in their lives.

To learn more about Nassau, be sure to browse the various links that are part of our New Student Orientation site. 

Again, welcome to NCC!