Transiton 101
Welcome!
Welcome to the Bellarmine University Transition 101! The following
pages have been created with you in mind. This program is a chance to
have your questions answered and to further your knowledge on the
transition your son or daughter is embarking upon. The departure of
your child from home can be as difficult of a transition for you as it
is for them. You have played an important role in the development and
success your student has demonstrated to attend Bellarmine. As a
parent you will continue to play a significant role in the life of your
student throughout their four years.
At
BU we strive to form a partnership with parents to achieve
collaborative initiatives for success. By being aware of appropriate
campus resources to refer your student to in times of difficulty, and
encouraging your student to self-advocate, you will help to further
develop responsibility within your student.
The
documents included within this curriculum should provide you with a
solid foundation of knowledge to be able to address questions and
concerns that may arise as your son and daughter prepare to arrive at
BU. Many parents have reported that they have felt overwhelmed by the
ambiguity that takes place in the transition; this guide will prepare
you to embrace this ambiguity and help others in your family do so as
well. Lastly, it is our hope that you will become familiar with the
numerous resources on campus and the services they each provide.
Just as we encourage your son or daughter to get involved, we also
invite you to get connected to the BU community through attending
Family Weekend, athletic events, and promoting Bellarmine pride to the
larger community. This webpage is a great starting place for
information, and we are anxious to work with each of you over the next
four years.
Best Wishes,
Patrick Englert & Jessica Hume
Assistant Dean/ Director of Writing Center/
Director of Student Engagement Parent Communication
Transition 101 Guide
Tips for a Successful Transition
8 tips to help you successfully navigate the transition of your son or daughter to the BU community
Tips for Parents (pdf)
Homesickness (pdf)
Steps to help your student find their home away from home
(pdf)First Year Student Concerns (pdf)
A monthly list of concerns and challenges your student may face
Campus Connections (pdf)
Finding their fit in the first months
Engaging on Campus (pdf)
Why getting involved and engaged in campus life matters
Social vs. Academic (pdf)
Helping your student to balance his/her involvement
Challenge and Support
A guide to follow to determine if it’s appropriate to get involved and who to contact
Family Weekend
Register for Family Weekend
FERPA: What does that mean?
An overview of the Family Educational Rights to Privacy Act
Suggested Readings (pdf)
A comprehensive reading list of books for parents
Resources and Referrals
Learn how to refer and what services BU offers
Residence Life Move-in Guide (pdf)
Frequently Asked Questions
Questions you may be asking as you prepare for your student to arrive at BU