Your Student’s First Year
What to expect in your student’s first year
The first year of college is an exciting period of growth, independence, and adjustment. As your student begins their journey at UC Santa Cruz, your support remains incredibly important—even if your role begins to shift.
This page offers guidance on what to expect during your student’s first year, how to support them effectively, and where to turn when help is needed.
The first six weeks: a major transition
The first six weeks at a research university like UC Santa Cruz can be one of the most significant transitions your student will face. During this time, students are:
- Adjusting to a new environment
- Making new friends and navigating social life
- Beginning college-level coursework
- Learning to manage their time independently
- Finding community through clubs, organizations, and on-campus jobs
- Sharing a living space—often for the first time—with a roommate
It’s common for students to feel overwhelmed at first. Roommate conflicts, academic stress, and homesickness may surface. Encourage your student to talk to their RA, NA, or CA and to complete their roommate agreement early to set expectations. You can also encourage them to take advantage of tutoring and academic support services, which are available starting the first week of the quarter. These resources are designed for all students—not just those who are struggling.
Pro tip: Suggest your student aims for about 10 hours of study time per week for each class. The quarter system moves quickly, so time management is crucial.
Staying connected
As your student adjusts, they may not communicate as often as before. Don’t be discouraged—this is normal. Talk with your student about a communication plan that works for both of you. Decide how often and in what ways you’ll stay in touch.
Rather than asking if they’re feeling homesick, offer steady support by sending a text, writing a letter, or mailing a favorite snack to let them know you’re thinking of them. These small gestures remind them you’re there without overwhelming their space for independence.
Pro Tip: Surprise your student with a perfectly timed care package around week 3 or 4, when midterms are approaching and the initial excitement of starting the quarter may be fading.
Growth is natural—and expected
College is a time of transformation. Your student may explore new ideas, relationships, or interests that surprise you. They may change their major or reconsider their future plans. This is all part of the experience.
Change can be gradual or fast—but it’s normal. Be open to conversations, listen without judgment, and encourage your student to seek help if they seem to be struggling emotionally or academically.
Building independence
Learning to solve problems independently is a key part of the college journey. Whether it’s managing a conflict with a roommate or navigating academic challenges, support your student by encouraging self-advocacy. You can help them think through issues without solving them for them.
If they’re unsure where to turn, remind them that each college at UCSC has staff ready to help with academic, residential, and personal support.
Your family’s transition
When your student goes off to college, it’s a transition for the whole family. Whether it’s your first time or your last child leaving home, it’s common to experience a sense of loss or change. Staying active, revisiting hobbies, or connecting with friends and family can help ease the shift.
Keep the lines of communication open with everyone in your household. Siblings may also need support as the family dynamic changes.
Academic success
College academics can be a big adjustment. Your student may face new challenges, and that’s okay. Encourage them to:
- Talk to their professors or TAs early if they’re struggling
- Visit academic advisors regularly
- Use tutoring and learning support services from the start
- Consider the pass/no pass option when appropriate
GPA is important, but so is progress and learning how to manage setbacks.
Pro Tip: Remind your student that asking for help is a strength. Encourage them to reach out early—getting support is part of being a successful college student.
Keep the lines of communication open with everyone in your household. Siblings may also need support as the family dynamic changes.
Choosing a major and career path
Choosing a major or career is part of the college process, and students may change direction as they learn more about themselves. That’s okay. Remind your student:
- Most people change careers multiple times in their lives
- Their major doesn’t define their entire future
- Graduate schools value passion, performance, and well-rounded backgrounds
Encourage them to follow their interests—they’re more likely to thrive when they’re doing what they love.
Supporting your
student with campus resources
There’s a wide network of support available to your student at UCSC:
- Residential Life Office – Housing Office, Residential Life
- Financial Aid & Scholarships
- Study Abroad – Global Learning
- Academic Advising
- Tutoring & Learning Support Services (LSS)
- Career Success Center
- Student Health Center
- Counseling & Psychological Services (CAPS)
- Resource Directory – academic support, community, and well-being resources
- Belong – hub for identity-based and student support resources, connecting students to programs like Resource Centers, Educational Opportunity Programs (EOP), First Generation Initiative, Services for Transfer, Re-Entry, and Resilient Scholars (STARRS), and more.
- Get Urgent Help
When to visit
We recommend waiting to visit until after the first six weeks of the quarter. This gives your student time to adjust and fully participate in important programs and classes. UC Santa Cruz hosts Family Weekend in the fall, a great time to reconnect and explore campus together.
You should know
Under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), the university is only permitted to communicate directly with the student regarding their records and accounts.
Faculty and staff are only allowed to speak directly with the student about their educational records. In certain cases, students can grant special permission for family members to access specific information.
All official communication — including bills, grades, housing updates, and more — is sent to the student, typically through their UCSC email or student portal.
Students are encouraged to regularly check their UCSC email and keep their emergency contact information up to date in their MyUCSC portal.
Stay informed about campus safety
Families can stay updated during campus emergencies by signing up for UCSC text alerts. Simply text SLUGSAFE to 888-777 to receive real-time notifications. For more information on UCSC’s emergency notification systems, visit UCSC’s Office of Emergency Management website.