Whether your student is setting off for their first semester in college or returning to F&M after a restful summer break, they may be experiencing some anxiety about their transition from home to campus. Experiences of homesickness, newfound independence and responsibilities, culture shock, meeting new people, and managing a rigorous course load may be daunting, but here are some tips to help ease your student’s anxiety about transitioning to college life. Feel free to share with your student. 

Use campus resources.

If your student is having a hard time with their adjustment, there are plenty of people around to help. 

• All first-year students are assigned a First-Year Advising Mentor (FAM), a fellow student who helps them navigate the academic culture and can provide tips for acclimating to life at F&M.
• If your student is living on campus, they will have access to dedicated student House Advisors (HAs). HAs are lead mentors to first-year students and offer a wealth of knowledge on F&M resources. 
• All students are eligible for six free counseling sessions at our Student Wellness Center.
• F&M’s DipCares program offers support for students who may be struggling with their mental health, academics, social relationships, or financial hardship and basic needs by connecting the student with relevant resources. 

Connect with friends.

About 65% of students agree that having a solid support network is essential to managing symptoms of anxiety (BestColleges, 2021). 

• Make a plan to meet for coffee at our campus coffee shop or take a walk around beautiful Buchanan Park, which borders our campus.
• Attend campus events and engage with your fellow College House residents for traditions like weekly bagel breakfast, Sunday Night Sundaes, or yoga.
• Join one of the College’s more than 80 student clubs and organizations! Not finding what you are looking for? Create your own!

Make time for self-care. 

The simplest acts of self-care are typically some of the most effective. 

• Making sleep a priority, staying hydrated and nourished, and regularly exercising are just a few proactive ways to manage anxiety and stress.
• Engage in activities or hobbies that bring joy, peace and overall feelings of wellness, or try something new with a friend.
• Create and maintain a daily routine that balances self-care, academics and social engagement. 

Visit the Jed Foundation for more tips on how to support your student’s mental health as they transition to campus.

DipCares

DipCares is a wellness program at F&M that ensures students, faculty and staff are aware of supportive resources available and how to access them.

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