WITH A LITTLE HELP FROM OUR FRIENDS…

We are three weeks into the semester, and I know that members of the class of 2028 are spending considerable time and effort adjusting to college life—new courses and professors, working on making friends, learning to live with roommates, and the list goes on. So many changes in such a short period of time. For returning students, no doubt they have spent time reconnecting with friends, getting back into a routine of balancing academics and a social life, and based on their class year, beginning to review decisions they need to make which may impact them well beyond their time at PC.

Whether it is a first-year student struggling to fit in, or a senior anxious about finding a job after graduation, the beginning of each academic cycle brings new challenges for both students and families. What does remain constant is how the college continually works towards cultivating a strong sense of community in meeting the needs of our students. A big part of that is helping students to see their faculty, deans, hall directors, counselors, chaplains…as all part of their support network.

As I regularly connect with colleagues to learn more about their work to share with families, I am constantly reminded that no student has to make this journey alone—it unfolds in the company of friends and helpers. We all share a common goal of enabling students to become all they are called to be by providing so many levels of support and a place where students get what they need to flourish and a community that allows that to happen.

With that being said, remember that no one knows your student better than you, and no support is more important than yours. If you have heard me speak or read my e-communications, you know that I view your role as crucial in helping students to make use of support services. Clearly, the more you know about campus resources, the better able you will be to assist your students. Check out the Parent & Family website to help you in this process. And maybe, the next time you text, call, or have a conversation with your Friar, you might give them a little nudge to check out those resources, as well.