1. “It’s really hard to make my 8:30 am class!”
Time management can be a real challenge during the college years. Whether or not attendance is factored into the grade depends on the instructor but the bottom line is you can’t learn if you’re not in class. The instructor is paid to share his/her expertise and relying on someone else’s notes is like purchasing stolen goods…you never know what you’re going to get. Encourage your student to look at how they use their time and to make any necessary adjustments. Possible campus resources to suggest: Academic Resource Centre Workshops, College Counsellor

2. “I didn’t think I needed to buy the book for that class….”
When money is short, students think they can save by not purchasing assigned textbooks. They try sharing with someone else or borrowing from the library. This often leads to frustration. Encourage your student to look at second hand book notices to cut back on cost. But only purchase a second hand book if it is the correct edition or his/her instructor approves the edition. Encourage them to look for other avenues of cutting cost – sharing transportation, bringing lunch from home, etc. Possible campus resources to suggest: meet with Dean of Students to discuss financial assistance & book waivers

3. “Nobody told me I had to start working on my final paper before the last week of class!”
For every college course, students receive a syllabus which outlines the course expectations (readings, assignments, tests, etc.) along with specific deadlines. Students often know from day one when assignments are due. Urge your student to be proactive by developing a system that helps him/her keep track of assignments, dates, readings, etc. College is about becoming self-reliant. Very few instructors will provide reminders but all will expect work to be submitted on time. Possible campus resources to suggest: meet with instructor during office hours to clarify expectations, Academic Resource Centre workshops, College Counsellor

4. “I’m so involved in work and activities that I don’t have time for school work.”
With so many choices and only 24 hours in a day, students must learn to prioritise. Learning when and how to say “no” is an important part of becoming an adult. Does your student have to work? If the answer is yes, then maybe having a look at a realistic number of courses needs to be considered. Now is the time for him/her to meet with their academic advisor or counsellor to explore options. If the answer is no, it’s time to consider talking with the boss about reducing hours.  What other activities involve time commitments and how important are they to your student’s development? And again, encourage them to review how they use their time. Possible campus resources: College Counsellor, Academic Advisor

5. “I don’t know what major to choose!”
Don’t panic if they don’t know what they want to do. College is one of the best places for exploring options and discovering their real interests. Encourage meetings with the counsellor, academic advisor and discussions with instructors. They have access to a wealth of information and resources. Possible campus resources: College Counsellor, Academic Advisor, Instructors