I am happy to welcome you to the Parents Website of East Stroudsburg University. I hope this website will assist you as you seek ways to support your student at the university. I would like to take this opportunity to introduce you to some questions frequently asked by parents.

What are some relevant social issues for today's university students?
Some of the major issues confronting contemporary university students include alcohol and drug use and abuse, sexual activity and sexually transmitted diseases, and safety. These are issues on most, if not all, university campuses. I recommend discussing and preparing your student before he or she enters the university. Let your student know that you understand that some students bring to the university with them, a history of partying and sexual activity. Know and discuss the rules and consequences with your student click here to request a copy of the university's student handbook in which you will find the student code of conduct. Prepare your student with tips on how to be safe on campus, such as utilizing the campus escort service, walking with friends, staying in well–lit areas at night, and using the call boxes located throughout campus in the case of an emergency.

What is my role in my student's life?
The university years will be a time for students to seek independence. They need your guidance and support, but you need to "let go" and give them responsibility to make choices (good and bad), so that they learn for themselves. Tips for parenting university students may be found by clicking here.

How can I help my student without interfering?
Become familiar with the university's resources so you can appropriately and discreetly direct your student to the proper area or person for assistance. Better yet, encourage your student to become familiar with and seek out these resources. Do not resolve problems for your student. Give your student the opportunity to grow and develop self-efficacy. Ask guiding questions such as, "Who is your professor? Can he or she help? When are his or her office hours?"

Will holidays and vacations be difficult times for the family?
Students' priorities change as they mature. You may find that in addition to enjoying his or her family, your student will also want to enjoy being with others outside the home. Your student may challenge past rules in the home. To provide a clear understanding of what types of behavior and habits are acceptable in the home, talk ahead of time about current rules, personal accountability, bringing home a partner, expectations for academic performance, and financial support.

What is university life like for students?
Prepare your student to seek out groups, clubs and athletic opportunities on campus. There are more than 70 clubs and organizations on campus that address the diverse needs of students. Let them know that you support the time that they will be spending at school and encourage them to meet new people. Click here to link to the commuter student page, or click here to link to the residence life page.

How long does a student's adjustment to college last?
Some studies state that the first six weeks are the most crucial in a student's adjustment. Frequently this is a longer time frame, such as 8 to 10 weeks. This allows students to go through the various cycles of adjustment to a new environment. Do not let them leave after one day or one week. Recognize the impact of the new environment on them and how frustrating and scary it can be. Encourage them to try as many orientation activities and residence hall events as they can to meet other students who are going through the same adjustment.

Does my student have to know what he or she wants to do for the rest of their life?
Let them explore what they want to do. Your student's time at East Stroudsburg University is their chance to try different professions to find something that fits them. Encourage them to find something that is interesting to them. Avoid trying to force or suggest a profession that you think they should consider. Think back to whether you are doing what you set out to do at age eighteen. Where can I learn more and gain a greater understanding of the University community and services offered at East Stroudsburg University? Right here on our parent's website! I hope that this introduction has been of help to you and your student. If what you are looking for is not on our website, please don't hesitate to call, that's why we're here. Click here to link to the University Directory. Thank you and best wishes to you and your student in the coming academic year.