Parents and Family

College is a period of transition, not only for your child, but for you and other members of your family. The college experience changes every student, and it is likely to alter your family dynamics as well. Whether this is the first or last of your children to attend college, there may be times when you as parents and family members feel anxious, frustrated, or challenged by a situation that is taking place in your student’s life. Sometimes these situations may involve the health or wellness of the student.

If you are concerned about your child’s safety you may contact Campus Safety 24 hours/day at 386-226-6480, the Dean of Students Office at 386-226-6326, or Housing/Residence Life at 386-323-8000.

What can you do to help your student?

  • Communicate regularly.
  • Let the student structure some of your conversations.
  • Be specific about the plan for paying for tuition, fees, books, room, board, travel, recreation, and other expenses.
  • Set realistic expectations about academic achievement and grades.
  • If your student does experience difficulties, encourage him or her to take advantage of the many resources available to ERAU students.

How to identify or decide if your student needs counseling?

  • They feel an overwhelming and possibly prolonged sense of sadness and helplessness.
  • Their emotional difficulties make it hard for them to function day to day (affecting academic performance).
  • Their actions are harmful to themselves or others.
  • They are troubled by emotional difficulties facing family members or close friends.
  • They just need someone to talk with.

Your student’s confidentiality and privacy

It is important that students feel no hesitation to ask for help. Assurance of confidentiality is vital. Your student has the legal right to receive confidential care. All contacts are strictly confidential in accordance with Florida state privacy laws. Records are not available to individuals or agencies, either on or off campus, without a student’s specific written permission. Once your student becomes a counseling client, the only time confidentiality will be broken is in the case of a life threatening situation.