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We’re delighted that your family has chosen Purdue and the College of Consumer and Family Sciences for your son’s or daughter’s college experience. Here you’ll find outstanding programs, great facilities, and most of all, wonderful people. We will do everything we can to help your daughter or son succeed. At left are links to resources, information, and hints that we hope you will find helpful.
Thoughts to Ponder
Skills first-year college students need — and according to campus officials have often not yet fully developed:
- asking and negotiating for what they need
- sharing personal and communal living space
- exercising basic personal safety skills
- showing self reliance in the face of adversity
- tracking and controlling personal spending
- keeping healthy study, eating, and sleep habits
-- Paraphrased from the Wall Street Journal, "Out of the Nest"
During college and the first years after graduation, young adults should be learning to make decisions for themselves and dealing with the consequences. Parents can help or hinder that process.
-- Newsweek, "The Fine Art of Letting Go"
You have to let them fail and face those tough situations. It's not easy to do. But if you don't, think about the message you are conveying to your son or daughter — that they're not able to handle their own life.
-- Helen Johnson, Don't Tell Me What to Do, Just Send Money
Academics and Classes (back to top)
Academic Advising
Academic Success
Classes
FAQ: What will classes be like at Purdue?
Purdue classes can be rigorous, but students learn a lot. Students who exhibit responsibility, manage their time effectively, and go to their professors' office hours usually do the best. There will be a lot of work and some group work. It is up to your student to determine how they will handle this.
FAQ: What is it like taking a large class? How large are most classes?
You may think about encouraging your student to sit in an area of the classroom in which they will hear and see in a way that engages them. You should know that your student may have a few large classes, but only 11.4 percent of Purdue classes have more than 50 students.
Calendars (back to top)
Computing (back to top)
FAQ: Does my student need a computer?
This is a decision for you to make. There are many computer labs available on campus if you decide not to bring one. If you will be purchasing a computer, you may want to check out ITaP’s customer service center in STEW G65 or visit the ITaP Web site for discounted hardware and software packages.
FAQ: Would you recommend a laptop?
This is a personal decision. If your student really likes the mobility aspect, this may be something to look into. If you will be sending your student with a laptop, make sure that they keep it secure and never leave it unattended on campus.
Diversity/Cultural Centers (back to top)
Drugs/Alcohol (back to top)
The Student Wellness Office wants you to know about the alcohol scene at Purdue so that you can be an informed resource for your sons and daughters. The office has created a set of short videos that have information and guidance from many campus experts with information to share with your students. Watch videos.
FAQ: Do a lot of students drink or do drugs on campus?
Some students do drink alcohol. However, many students do not drink or do drugs on campus. This is an issue that you should have a discussion with your student about before they head off to school. The independence gained in college is a great thing. Your student will be establishing many personal values at this time. Let them know you are there to help them. This is a personal choice, but those who make poor choices may end up leaving the University. You can find information on Purdue's alcohol and drug policies in the Alcohol and Other Drugs Policy Guide.
FAQ: What activities are offered that do not include alcohol?
There is always something going on around campus. Try Purdue Student Union Board or any of the student organizations. FAQ: What happens during football games?
Tailgating happens all over campus and there are a variety of activities for all interests. Although some students who are 21 may choose to visit a local bar, Purdue really encourages positive, healthy campus activities. Again, if this is a concern for you please talk to your student about it.
Family Events and Resources (back to top)
Housing/Residence Halls (back to top)
FAQ: What is it like to live in the residence halls?
It’s a great experience. There are so many people to meet and lots to learn from others. You can study, sleep, and sometimes eat, all in the same location.
FAQ: The rooms seem really small… how do you fit all of your stuff?
Limit what you bring or only bring seasonal items during that season. Winter boots are not needed during check in. Utilize space by storing things under the bed or loft the beds so you have more room on the floor.
FAQ: What if my student gets a bad roommate?
The Purdue community is diverse, so students will likely have a roommate who is different from them. Suggest first that students talk it out. Lack of communication leads to sour relationships. If that doesn’t work, each residence hall has an RA that can help mediate roommates’ concerns.
FAQ: Which residence hall is the best?
All residence halls are unique and offer different amenities for students. Students should choose a hall based on their preferences so they may really enjoy their living environment. What works for one student may not work for other students.
Life in Indiana (back to top)
FAQ: What is the weather like there?
Indiana has a variety of weather. Students will enjoy all four seasons but should be prepared for them. Your student will need to invest in at least one winter jacket and learn to dress in layers. Many students also carry umbrellas or special footwear on rainy or snowy days. For more information, visit the Student Access, Success and Transition Programs "Life in the Midwest" Web page.
Money Matters (back to top)
FAQ: How much money will my student need to get by?
This is a good question for you and your student to determine. You may want to draft a budget together and estimate costs and expenses for the year. Planning a budget can be a very helpful skill for your student to learn.
FAQ: Should my student get a part-time job?
Research shows that students who work more than 20 hours per week have more academic difficulty. However, students who work less than 20 hours actually do better academically. If your student would like to get a part-time job, you may discuss with them how they will effectively manage their course work with this. Also, be aware that on-campus jobs are typically more flexible and can be scheduled around a student’s classes.
Safety (back to top)
FAQ: How safe is it there?
Purdue is a major college campus, and thus it does have crime. Statistically, it is a safe campus and further information can be found online at the Purdue Police Web site. There are many safety programs on campus including emergency phones, police patrols, the Safe Walk program, and RAD classes. You may want to talk with your student about making good decisions regarding personal safety.
FAQ: How would Purdue deal with a situation similar to what happened at Virginia Tech?
While no amount of training and precaution can guarantee absolute safety at all times, Purdue police and other public safety personnel are exceptionally well-prepared. Purdue has extensive emergency contingency plans in place. For the West Lafayette campus, which is by far the largest and most complex of our campuses, you will find good information about safety on the Purdue police Web site.
Staying Involved (back to top)
Are you sending your first son or daughter to college? If so, you may feel a little lost or worried about what could happen. Even if you've done this before, you might feel concerned. As a parent, it can be a challenge, but important, to let go and allow a son or daughter to make his or her way in the world — even to make mistakes and learn from them. Here are some ideas about how you can be involved in your student's educational experiences.
- Attend campus events when you're invited. Family Day is an excellent time to come to campus, spend some time with your student, and have a chance to meet some of the faculty in his/her department and college.
- Work out a plan with your student regarding how to best communicate with him/her while at college. Make sure each of you understands what the expectations are for keeping in touch throughout the school year.
- Read CFS e-News, a monthly electronic e-newsletter sent by Dr. Savaiano, Dean of the College of Consumer and Family Sciences. Give us feedback if you have concerns or suggestions. To subscribe to CFS e-News, send an e-mail to cfsalums@purdue.edu and write "Subscribe to CFS e-News" in the subject line.
- When your student needs help, refer her/him to campus resources. Start with your student's academic advisor who can identify others who can help.
- Urge your student to make his or her own appointments.
- Allow your student to choose courses, decide how to spend time, and learn to study. Don't expect perfection!
- Encourage your student to participate in campus activities that encourage him/her to develop new interests and to meet new people. A college campus provides students a safe way to step outside comfort zones and interact with other cultures and ideas. College can be a mind-opening experience!
- Encourage your student to consider a study abroad experience. There are many options available that allow a student to participate without delaying graduation, as well as scholarships available to encourage students to participate.
- Resist the urge to be in touch daily. Allow your student to initiate the contact and trust that things are going well.
- For further information on how to be a partner in helping your student adjust to college please visit the Day on Campus Parent and Family Orientation site.
Student Life (back to top)
FAQ: What is there to do in West Lafayette?
There are usually many activities going on around campus as well as in the community.
FAQ: How easy is it to get involved? Are most students involved?
There are many ways to get involved on campus. Throughout the year various clubs have call-outs. These are informational meetings to learn more about the club and students can sign up to be involved. Purdue students are usually in at least one extracurricular activity (or many more).
Transition to College (back to top)
FAQ: What if my student gets homesick?
If your student gets homesick, let them know that it’s normal! Help them to feel the comforts of home by keeping in close contact, sending care packages, and letting them participate in their favorite activities when they go home (favorite restaurants, etc.).
Transportation and Parking (back to top)
FAQ: Will my student be able to get a parking pass their freshman year?
Due to the large number of students on campus, Purdue does not offer parking passes for first-year students. Most students live on campus or within walking distance to classes. Students can also ride the CityBus for free with their student ID. If anyone feels they have an exception to the parking pass rule, they can speak with Parking Services.
FAQ: Do you use CityBus? How do you get information about it?
The best place to get accurate schedules is from the CityBus Web site.
- Express Air Coach (one way or round-trip ground shuttle service between campus and O'Hare airport in Chicago)
- Lafayette Limo (one-way or round-trip service between campus and the Indianapolis Airport)
CFS Undergraduate Student Services
Consumer and Family Sciences
700 W. State Street
Stone Hall, Room 110
West Lafayette, IN 47907-2059
Phone: (765) 494-8533
Fax: 496-1168
E-mail: cfsundergrad@purdue.edu |
