Advice for Parents When Your Child Leaves for College

The first few semesters can be an adjustment — especially for teens who have never been away from their families. While it’s tempting for them to head home most weekends, students who spend more time on campus often feel more connected and enjoy their college experience more fully. If you notice your child packing up to go home every Friday, gently encourage them to stay and try out campus events or join a student club or group.

Let your student know you’re always there to listen and support them, but that you also want them to explore all that UB has to offer — both inside and outside the classroom. Remind them that enrollment at UB includes mental health counseling services to help students navigate stress, homesickness, or any other challenges that may arise, ensuring they have the resources to thrive socially, emotionally, and academically.

Getting involved is one of the most impactful ways to acclimate to campus living. Encouraging your teen to engage on campus will help them set the stage for an unforgettable college experience. With 30+ clubs and organizations, NCAA Division II athletics, and on-campus events and activities, there’s something for every Purple Knight at UB!

Here’s a peek at some of the ways your student can immerse themselves in campus culture.

Clubs, organizations, and Greek life:

NCAA Division II men’s sports:

* The men’s team will participate in the Intercollegiate Rowing Association (IRA).

NCAA Division II women’s sports:

The shift from high school to college is a big one — and it doesn’t happen overnight. As your child transitions to higher education, their old study habits may change, and new ones will take shape. This is all part of the growth process.

During their first year, your child will be learning how to navigate life as a college student. They’ll be figuring out how to manage a class schedule, handle their finances, do laundry, and balance a social life — often for the first time without your guidance.

For many new students, managing these responsibilities can make staying on top of schoolwork daunting. If you notice your teen struggling to strike a balance, encourage them to seek out academic support services.

As a Purple Knight, your student can take advantage of accessible academic support services through the Heckman Center. Located on the second floor of Wahlstrom Library, the Heckman Center is their one-stop spot for strengthening their learning and paving the way for scholarly success.

Office of Student Academic Success:

At UB, academic advising is available to all undergraduate students, with a special focus on helping first-year students adjust from high school to college life. Advisors guide students in building the skills they need to make confident choices about their academic path, career goals, and personal growth. Your student will benefit from personalized one-on-one advising, educational workshops, and close collaboration with UB’s expert faculty.

Tutoring and Learning Center (TLC):

The Tutoring and Learning Center (TLC) offers free academic support to all registered UB students. From tutoring sessions and study groups to skill-building workshops and supplemental instruction, the TLC is here to help your student succeed. Whether they need help mastering course material or want to strengthen study habits and critical thinking skills, the TLC provides the tools and encouragement to excel.

Student Support Services Program (SSS):

For students who qualify for additional academic support or have a documented disability that requires accommodations, the Student Support Services (SSS) program offers personalized assistance at no extra cost. This program ensures that every student has the resources they need to succeed, both in and out of the classroom.

Center for Career Development:

Our Center for Career Development helps students turn their education into a meaningful career. Career advisors are available to guide your student as they explore career options, build essential job-hunting skills, and make professional connections that last a lifetime. The Center is home to the honors college and offers all UB students one-on-one advising (both in-person and virtual), resumé and LinkedIn profile reviews, mock interviews, job and internship search support, and more.

Students can also participate in skill-building workshops, attend career fairs, join networking events with employers and alums, and even get a professional LinkedIn headshot. By engaging with Career Development early, your child will harness the tools, confidence, and professional network they need to launch their career long before graduation.

Once your student heads to college, your communication with them will naturally change.

It’s helpful to have an open conversation early on about your expectations for staying in touch, and to ask your child how they prefer to communicate while they’re away.

Many families find that setting aside a regular time each week for a quick call or text helps everyone feel connected. And remember — you may hear from them more often during high-stress periods, like the beginning and end of the semester, when a little extra support goes a long way.

Campus Safety

UB takes student safety seriously. Our campus community uses LiveSafe, a mobile app that connects students, faculty, and staff with Campus Security at any time.

Through LiveSafe, users can send tips or messages to security, share their location with friends or family, find campus buildings, and receive real-time emergency alerts and preparedness information. Our Campus Security team includes 40 trained personnel and a dedicated dispatcher, ensuring help is always close by.

UB safety recognitions

Our commitment to safety has been recognized nationally. UB received the Jeanne Clery Campus Safety Award for going above and beyond in protecting our students and staff.

Mental health support

Safety also means making sure students feel supported emotionally and mentally. Remember: UB offers professional, confidential counseling services right on campus — at no cost to students. Our caring counselors provide a safe, judgment-free space where your student can find guidance, support, and strategies to thrive both in and out of the classroom.

Staying involved doesn’t mean hovering — it means finding ways to be present while allowing them to grow on their own.

UB offers opportunities for parents to stay engaged through our Parent Ambassador and Parents Leadership Council programs. These initiatives help you stay connected to the UB community, learn more about campus life, and support your student’s college journey — all while giving them the freedom to thrive.