Important Deadlines for New Students

The start of fall quarter is just around the corner! Help your student complete the  Pre-Orientation Checklist tasks and they'll be ready to go.

New School Means New Beginnings

The first few weeks at Pacific Union College are full of new experiences — including orientation, Week of Welcome events,  Club Rush, new classes, first-year experience programs, and emerging friendships. These experiences are exciting and students have many opportunities to explore. Not every student will admit it, but most will miss home, especially during the first few weeks.

"I was so wrapped up in getting to know my roommate, preparing for classes, and exploring the campus that I forgot to check in with my parents. I remember when they called me a week later (a little panicked) and feeling comforted that they were supporting me in my new life." — Megan

Ask Questions

First-year students tend to want some personal space, but most also crave the assurance that family and friends will continue to be interested in their lives. Send a text message or a letter and ask about their classes, residence hall neighbors, and clubs in which they're getting involved. Familiarize yourself with campus resources such as the counseling center and TLC's peer tutoring program so that you can encourage your student to make use of these, as necessary.

"My first year at PUC, my family asked me all kinds of questions — about my classes, involvement, well-being, etc. When they started supporting my decisions, I realized that they were genuinely interested in my success. I knew that I would be able to reach out for help in any situation, and they would be there to support me." — Matthew 

Expect Change

Students change not only during their first-year but throughout college (and beyond) as well. Living with others in a residence hall, being exposed to new concepts in the classroom, and worshipping with peers and professors can influence students' personal behavior and choices. This is natural and inevitable, and it can be inspiring and beautiful.

"I was heavily involved in high school, and I was nervous that I would not be able to find a similar connection at PUC. To my surprise, I not only got involved, but I was able to experiment with my interests and skills. This opened the door to multiple leadership positions, meeting my closest friends, serving others, and establishing my identity within this community." — Alex

Your Student Still Needs You

Living away from home and navigating college-level work can be stressful. When things get difficult, your student may seek your advice. Listen, help your student identify coping strategies, and be patient. Also remember that your student might not tell you about any number of "good things" — a new friend, an "A" on a paper, or a new favorite meal in the Dining Commons.

You are an important part of your student's support network. Your encouragement will help your student successfully negotiate challenges.

"My parents helped me overcome my homesickness by reminding me of the reasons I chose PUC. All I needed was their support and some time for me to really recognize how much I was actually enjoying my college experience." — Anne

Everyone Experiences College Differently

Finding one's place as a student can take time and effort. Encourage your student not to use friends' social media posts as a measure of his or her own college experience. Each journey is — and should be — unique.

"It took me longer than expected to meet authentic friends. It wasn't until I started opening my door and joined a student club that I met people I could connect with on a deeper level." — Carlos

Trust Your Student

During one student's senior year, his mom wrote, "I love you and want for you all the things that make you happy, and I guess you are the one who knows best what those things are." Say that to your student now and believe it.

"I would not say that my child is a completely different person than when I moved her into Winning Hall that first year at PUC. However, she has definitely changed. A class, life experiences, worship talks, mission trips, and her dormmates made lifelong imprints on her. Know that the child you drop off will not be the same person you pick up a few years later. Trust in their growth and development, and know that you have given them the love and foundation they need to succeed in college — and in life. And trust the Lord walks each step with them through this journey." —Jennifer (Mom to a first-year student)

This is an exciting time of transition for the entire family, and it can be challenging.

Your student will encounter many new opportunities — and will have to make many choices. With these will come growth and change not only in your student but also in your relationship. Continue to build on a foundation of open communication, trust, and support to help ensure that the transition is smooth and the outcomes positive.

Encourage your student: Send text messages, emails, letters, cards, news clippings, and care packages. Initiate telephone calls, plan visits, and attend special events on campus. Pray for your child daily.

We encourage you to take advantage of the many resources that are available at Pacific Union College and to enjoy the college experience together.