Martina Forster

Students new to the University of Victoria aren't the only ones in transition - it's a big step for parents and overall family dynamics, too. Making the adjustment to an emptying nest, a new city and a brand new school is bound to raise a few questions and UVic's parent orientation program, held on Saturday, August 30 this year, is designed especially for these familial concerns.

The day runs from 10:00a.m. - 3:00p.m. and offers a parent-focused introduction to campus and an information fair with representatives from the many services available to students. UVic staff and students will give presentations on the various transitions involved in UVic student life and will focus on how parents can best support their son or daughter. Most importantly, the day provides an opportunity for parents to ask any questions they may have about university life or what they can expect their child to experience. For parents who attended Experience UVic, the Parent Orientation program is a similar event in terms of the flexibility offered for organizing your day. You won’t be able to do everything, so we encourage parents to think ahead about what they hope to get from the day so they can plan accordingly.

A few tips to keep in mind to make the most of your orientation experience:

• Prepare Questions Ahead. Think about things you or your son or daughter might need to know. Although it’s important to give your child their independence, you may be the first person they turn to when they have questions. Find out what resources are available so you will know who to refer them to if they encounter problems.
• Take Notes. Orientation day will be full of information. Jot down notes on the presentations and things you think are important. It’s easy to say, “I’ll remember that,” but with such a large volume of information it’s often impossible to remember everything.
• Get connected. This is a great opportunity to meet parents of other first-year students. These parents are going through the same transition as you and can be a very useful support network.
• Take tours. Although the weather might be hot and you might be tired, campus tours offer a great chance to see where your son or daughter will be studying and living for the next year.
• Attend the presentations. There will be two presentations at 10:00a.m. and 1:00p.m.. These are an amazing opportunity that parents should not pass up. The presentation will look at the parent and family transitions and will suggest ways for parents to best support their son or daughter. The presentations include a student panel, so you will hear first-hand the lived experiences of first-year university students. Parents will have the opportunity to ask these students any questions they might have. Susan Corner, emcee of the presentations and manager of Student Transition Services, recalls a student panel member saying "If I could have told my parents one thing it would have been not to worry so much."
• Be prepared to be emotional. The day itself may be much more emotional than some parents expect. Keep in mind this is a big transition for you as the parent, therefore it is perfectly normal to feel anxious about your son or daughter leaving.
• Take time to relax. There are so many students and staff who have volunteered their time to make this a great experience and to make sure all your questions and concerns are answered. Be patient, don’t stress the little things and have fun!
• Stay healthy! Orientation days are very long and tiring. It is important for parents to make sure they eat and drink plenty of water throughout the day. If you are planning to take a tour, remember that orientation programs often fall on days during the hottest time of year, so hats and sunscreen are a must.

Originally published in Volume 1, Issue 4 of the Fountain, July 2008

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