Supporting Your Students First Year at Penn State
Starting college is a major milestone—not just for your student, but for your family too. As your student steps into this next chapter, you play an essential role in helping them feel confident and supported while encouraging independence and growth. Whether it’s understanding campus resources, planning for arrival, or talking through tough decisions, we’re here to help you feel informed and connected from the start.
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- Sign up for the Parent & Family Hub to receive personalized emails and updates.
- Learn about New Student Orientation
- Explore additional resources
- Have your student add your number to PSUAlert to receive campus text alerts.
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- Visit the arrival page for campus-specific move-in details.
- Stop by the Office of Parent and Family Engagement table during arrival weekend to meet staff, connect with other families, and get questions answered.
- Arrival dates and event info are shared through Parent & Family Hub emails.
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Before Move-In
- Submit required immunization records
- Add current health insurance information in LionPATH
- Make sure your student packs insurance and prescription cards, and has access to info for any maintenance medications.
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Help Them Take the Lead
- Review the FERPA guidelines to understand your student’s privacy rights in college
- Your student must complete the Financial Responsibility Agreement and consent to electronic communication in LionPATH
- Tuition statements are emailed at the beginning of the month—usually due by the 22nd
- Encourage regular checks of their Penn State email for official communications
Set Up Access
Ask your student to:
- Grant “delegate access” so you can view grades or financial info
- Add you as an “authorized payer” if you’re paying tuition (emails will be sent to the student and the authorized payer)
- Consider adding funds to their LionCash account
Family Conversations that Make a Difference
Before your student arrives, talk about:
- Expectations for staying in touch
- Campus safety and responsible decision-making
- How to handle academic pressures, study strategies, and time management
- Life skills—laundry, meals, banking, healthcare access
- Making good choices when it comes to alcohol and drug use
- The importance of rest, sleep, and exercise
- Finances and budgeting basics including what the student is expected to pay
- Talk with your student about how to schedule and attend medical appointments
- Encourage them to regularly check messages from their healthcare provider’s secure portal
- Remind them to reach out if they’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure—physical and mental health resources are readily available
Pre-Arrival Conversation Starters
- What are you most looking forward to in college?
- What are you most worried about as you begin college?
- What will you do when confronted with difficult choices?
- How can we help you during your transition into college?
Celebrate the Start, Together
Student Send-Off Events
Hosted by Penn State Alumni Chapters across the country, these informal gatherings help students and families connect with local alumni and each other before the semester begins. Your student will receive an invitation if an event is hosted in your area.
Family Weekend
Come back to campus to experience Penn State through your student’s eyes. Family Weekend includes a full schedule of events—tours, performances, social gatherings, and more.