At the University of Lynchburg, we know that sending a student to college is a big step — for them, and for you. Your role is shifting, but it’s still just as important. You’re not stepping away; you’re stepping into a new kind of partnership. One that supports your student’s independence, celebrates their growth, and stays rooted in connection and care.

Here’s how you can support your Hornet with heart through every stage of the college experience:

Encourage Independence with Confidence

College is a time of big transitions. Your student may face homesickness, new responsibilities, or academic pressure. That’s normal. The best thing you can do is believe in them and gently guide them toward handling things on their own. Encourage them to make appointments, manage deadlines, and ask for help when needed. Trust that you’ve given them the tools, and that we’ll be here to support them too.

Stay Connected, Not Controlling

Your student may not check in as often, and that’s okay. Set healthy expectations together for how you’ll stay in touch. Be present, listen more than you talk, and remember that a kind check-in can go a long way. Plan visits for special campus events like Homecoming/Family Weekend, and avoid the surprise drop-in. Respecting their space shows trust and builds confidence.

Know What’s Here to Help

You don’t have to solve every problem, but knowing where to point your student can make all the difference. Our campus is full of resources:

• HornetCare & TimelyCare: Free physical and mental health services, both on campus and virtually
• Accessibility and Disability Resources: Academic, housing, and dining accommodations
• Residential Experience: Safe, supportive on-campus living
• Campus Safety: 24/7 safety services, escorts, and emergency support
• Solutions Center: Help with billing, housing, financial aid, and more
• Career Services (CEO): Internships, jobs, advising, and networking
• Academic Support: Advisors, tutoring, writing help, and coaching
• Student Life & Belonging: Clubs, leadership, cultural groups, and more

Explore our website together and bookmark key pages. The more you both know, the more empowered your student will feel.

Respect Their Privacy (FERPA)

Once your student enrolls, their records like grades and schedules are protected by FERPA. They can choose to share certain information with you through proxy access in MyHive, but the choice is theirs. What you can do is keep the conversation open. Ask how they’re doing, not what their GPA is. Be curious, not intrusive. That trust goes a long way.

Be a Guide, Not the Driver

From filling out the FAFSA to reviewing a financial aid offer, you’re a key partner in helping your student navigate costs. You can also help them learn how to manage payments, budget wisely, and explore scholarships and work-study opportunities.

Offer Encouragement, Not Pressure

College can feel overwhelming, both academically and socially. Remind your student that it’s okay to struggle sometimes. Encourage healthy habits, time management, and asking for help. And remind them that finding “their people” takes time, but they will.

You’ve raised them well. Now, you get to cheer them on as they take the lead. And we’ll be here every step of the way to help them find their place, their people, and their purpose.