EUGENE–Leaving home for college is an exciting time for students entering campus life–but it also can be an anxious one for students and their families.

The University of Oregon Office of the Dean of Student Life has some advice for families and students: get involved, educate yourselves and communicate.

"During our summer ‘Letting Go’ presentation, we talk about the college transition as similar to others in the parent-child relationship," says Tris O’Shaughnessy, UO assistant dean of student life. "This means parents should expect changes in themselves, their children and the way they relate to each other."

O’Shaughnessy says parents should anticipate changes such as homesickness, new perspectives and even changes in their child’s appearance.

"We recommend lots of communication between families and students, especially during the first three to six weeks on campus," says O’Shaughnessy. "We encourage parents and siblings to send reminders of home in the form of notes, newspaper clippings, e-mail, care packages and even pictures of the family pets. Also, campus counseling services are available for students who are struggling with the transition."

The UO encourages families to get to know the university so they can be a resource for their student and also helps them do this with regular newsletters, university websites and university-sponsored family weekends.

One example of academic approaches to help ease the transition is learning communities, in which new students have the opportunity to interact with faculty mentors in areas of mutual interest.

"Basically, it’s all about getting connected with the university," says O’Shaughnessy. "We spend a great deal of time and effort to help students find positive ways to enhance their academic experience."

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