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Staff and faculty associated with DBU International College, who engage with parents or guardians and their students, offer the following advice for new parents or guardians associated with DBU International College to assist them in supporting students’ success at the institution.

1. Embrace detachment.

Allow students to make their own choices, solve problems independently, select their own courses, and eventually, decide on their majors. When they do choose a major, encourage them to base the decision on intellectual passion rather than the perception of which major is the safest or most pragmatic.

2. Listen and provide reassurance.

At some point during their first year, many students may feel overwhelmed. They might reach out to express concerns about their admission. This is a common occurrence. Listen attentively, offer encouragement, and provide reassurance. Recommend that they consult with their academic advisor, the academic advisor in their residence, or their resident fellow. Remind them of the support resources at DBU International College, including tutoring, assistance with study skills, and counseling.

3. Discuss lifestyle choices, before they arrive on campus, and encourage them to be mindful of their well-being.

Have conversations with your children in advance about the decisions they are likely to face and help them define their values in terms of their behavior and that of others.

4. Motivate them to connect with faculty members.

 DBU International College’s academic program is designed to foster close interaction between students and faculty. DBU International College provides opportunities for students to build relationships with faculty members. 

5. Encourage them to pursue knowledge for its own sake.

The general education requirements at DBU International College aim to promote intellectual exploration. Encourage your children to study subjects they have never explored before. While many students are accustomed to accumulating credentials for college admission, urge them to learn for the sheer joy of learning.

6. Maintain communication, but perhaps in moderation.

Given their hectic schedules and shifting sleep patterns, reaching out to them may be challenging. Foster their increasing independence by, perhaps, maintaining less frequent communication than you are accustomed to.

7. Avoid fixating on grades.

When discussing academic matters with your students, try not to focus solely on grades. Inquire about the faculty members they have encountered, the classes they find enjoyable, what they are learning, and their recreational activities. Students often experience self-imposed pressure. What they need from you is the belief that you have in them.

8. Assist them in distinguishing between disappointment and failure.

Many students are accustomed to being top achievers. At some point, they may encounter what they perceive as failure, such as receiving a “C” in a course, even if it is not truly a failure. Not everyone can be at the top of their class. Reassure them that you expect nothing more than their best effort.

9. Reach out if you have concerns or need reassurance.

If you are worried about a student or need reassurance, contact us.