How freshmen can adapt to student life: advice from Moscow Polytechnic University psychologists

Transition from school to university is always stressful for freshmen. The environment is changing and the very format of studies too. Parents are also worried, given admission of a son or a daughter to a university is also a new stage. However, the excessive custody during this period may affect formation of independence and self-confidence of a freshman, according to a psychologist of Moscow Polytech Anastasia Puziy. The specialist shared several important advices with parents about how to support their kids and, at the same time, not to violate boundaries of their independence.

•        1. Recognize the importance of independence

The university is not just a place of studies, but also the environment wh ere the adult life skills are formed. Allow kids to face new challenges on their own. This includes time management, budget and responsibilities.

•        2. Discuss expectations

Before kids leaving a home town for a university, discuss their expectations and goals. This will help you to understand how to better support kids with no interference. Let them know that you trust their capabilities of making decisions.

•        3. Support emotionally

Sometimes the easiest way is to offer assistance with ready-made solutions. However, most important is to offer emotional support, to listen and to empathize, but not to solve problems of a kid instead.

•        4. Give some space for experiments

Your kids may want to try new activities, come to know different people or even change their carrier plans. Support them in their search even if the choice differs from what you expected.

•        5. Stick to regular but unobtrusive communication

Determine the frequency of communication that will be comfortable for both sides. For example, weekly phone calls or messages may be a perfect way of staying in touch with no violation of the child’s personal space.

•        6. Allow kids to make mistakes. Mistakes are part of growth

Mistakes are inevitable, but we learn just through them. Give the kidы a chance to solve problems on their own. If they ask for advice, help, but do not take on their tasks.

•        7. Find new interests for yourself

Use this time in order to do something that you have been interested in for a long time, but you always did not have time for. This will not only help you to take your mind off thinks, but will reduce the level of anxiety.

•        8. Remember that your presence is important, but not everywhere