Housing Information for Parents and Families

Student Independence

When your student leaves home, they learn skills that will lead not only to a successful education and career, but also to a satisfying life. As the student becomes more self-sufficient, their reliance on you will begin to change.

You may find others are replacing you as a source of influence and advice. Your college student needs the freedom to create their own personal goals and plans, and seek the counsel of professors and friends. Admittedly, this can be challenging, but your ability to be flexible while providing the security of home will be a steadying influence on their change.

It’s as important as ever for you to remain involved in your student’s life for their success! Some recommended ways to remain involved include:

• Have conversations, not interrogations.
• Ask about what they are learning, not just what grade they are making.
• Discuss their new friends without being too intrusive or judgemental.
• Let your student know what’s happening in your life.
• Control the urge to contact them every day and let your student contact you when they want to talk.

You can also make a significant contribution to their growth by allowing them the liberty to explore various alternatives and reach their own conclusions about academic majors, career options and friends. Strive to serve as a role model by accepting change while remaining consistent with your personal values.

Helping your student live independently

Even as your student moves away from home, you still play a vital role in their life. They still need your support and guidance during their college years. Here are some ways you can express your caring and enhance your student’s experience at college.

Stay in touch

Reassure your student that you care and are available to talk them through anything, big or small.

Give them space

Allow your student to have indepedence without being overbearing with questions about their life at college. Listen actively and offer support and advice where you can.

Be honest about financial matters

Most students come to school with a plan about how their tuition, fees, books, and room and board will be paid for, and what the family’s expectations are about spending money. Being specific in the beginning may help avoid misunderstandings later.

Be realistic about academics and grades

Not every freshman who excelled academically in high school will be a 4.0 student at Morehead State, and that's OK. Developing the capacity to work independently and consistently can be more important than grades, as long as the student meets the basic academic requirements set by the University.

Encourage them to use MSU resources

If your student does experience difficulties, encourage them to take advantage of the many campus resources available for students.

Counseling and Health Services is available to help your student with non-academic issues that may be impacting their performance and there are a variety of other sources for academic assistance as well, including the Tutoring and Learning Center.

Visit Student Success for more information.