1	The “REAL” Deal About College Albion Central School Parent Academy September 19, 2007 Howard Ward, Ph.D. Assistant Vice President Rochester Institute of Technology 1972 Albion Alumni HXWBSR@RIT.EDU
2	Professional History 29 Years Higher Education Experience 25 Years in Student Life 4 Years in Community Relations Worked at: Public & Privates Small & Large Campuses Rural & Urban Liberal Arts & Technical Religious & Non-Denominational
3	Final Thoughts Before Signing on the Bottom Line…. Fiscal Consideration Don’t use retirement money (401K) use Roth – no penalties for education. Be clear with student regarding what family will & will not contribute. Treat process like a “Business Plan” therefore clearly understands all costs, loans, etc.
4	"Fiscal Consideration" Fiscal Consideration -2- Check University Q &A websites for frequently asked questions. Be a “Savvy Consumer” & check everything ONE more time.
5	Fiscal Consideration -3- You can appeal Financial Aid Awards Keep in mind that tuitions will costs will go up each year – plan accordingly.
6	"Closer Examination Visit of Campus" Closer Examination Visit of Campus Evening visit (lighting, shrubbery, student movement). Weekend visit (dead or lively campus). Seasonal visit (coldness i.e. Albany). Distance from home (pros & cons), i.e. transportation.
7	"Parents Let Your Student Make..." Parents Let Your Student Make Final Decision Regarding Location & Major Narrow down to a “Short List” of about 4 campuses to visit. Be involved in ALL campus visits. Parents should be a Coach/Counselor.
8	Parents Let Your Student Make Final Decision Regarding Location & Major -2- Comfort & “RIGHT FIT” is more important than financial package (re: Transfer). DON”T get sold on the name of prestige of the university (Assess Right Fit)!
9	Closer Examination of Campus Visit -2- Make sure campus can handle pre-existing physical or mental challenges, confirm in writing. Know the program requirements, advisors, tutoring, & department heads. Job Placement rate in intended degree program. Check out the local area close to campus & off campus student hang outs
10	"Get Campus Crime Statistics" Get Campus Crime Statistics Most common is theft. Understand & appreciate more serious crimes. Don’t get fooled by campus location.
11	Final Thoughts Before Signing on the Dotted Line….. What questions do you have after this section?
12	What To Consider Once Your Student is On Campus Importance of Family Educational Rights & Privacy Act (FERPA). Grades & Bills You will not be given Room Information. Disciplinary action (Probation v. Suspension).
13	Importance of Family Educational Rights & Privacy Act (FERPA) -2- Divorce parent issues. Officials will check on student if you believe there are concerns.
14	Campus Involvement Join one or two organizations; don’t stay in your room on the computer! Fraternities & Sororities (Wait)! Varsity Athlete ( Time Consuming). Get a job on campus whether you need the money or not; great way to meet people.
15	What to Consider Once Your Student is on Campus What questions do you have after this section?
16	"My Thoughts After 29 Years" My Thoughts After 29 Years
17	It is O.K. to be Old Fashion Regarding Personal Safety Never walk alone at night (friend or call Escort Services) female or male. Never pick up a can or cup when left unattended at a party. Never key Access Cards or room key to anybody.
18	It is O.K. to be Old Fashion Regarding Personal Safety -2- Don’t bring valuables to campus (Suggest look alike i.e. Wal-Mart watches). Hide wallets & valuables in unusual room locations.
19	Make a Connection with at least One University Official This person can cut through red tape, get timely answers, advise you on how to approach a problem. Always get the name & title of the person you spoke to or met.
20	Away From Home Relationship Development To The Parents: Try not to return to campus for about four weeks (Parents Weekend). Stay in touch with your student but let them attempt to solve their problems on their own. Get ALL the facts before “Jumping In” to assist your student; don’t have Dean of Students number on your speed dial. Rudeness & “I pay $XXX,000 will get you no where!
21	Away From Home Relationship Development Parents Send your students old fashion mail, home town newspaper, & care packages. Understand that your student may be more independent & even strange looking when they come home. SUPPORT….SUPPORT…. SUPPORT & reinforce your family values.
22	Away From Home Relationship Development To The Students: If you get into trouble, be honest & contact your parents immediately. Work with University personal to solve minor issues then advise your parents. You might learn to make adjustments regarding sharing a room with someone. (Room change)
23	Away From Home Relationship Development If you get “Home Sick” stick it out because it will pass. Understand that your parents “HOME” rules may be the same even though you have changed. Ask parents if it is o.k. to bring a friend home & describe them to your parents (no surprises). Great Friends = Great Campus Life!
24	Importance of Faith & Prayer Don’t under estimate the power of prayer. Faith will play an important role in handling difficult situations. Remember Psalm 3:6 In ALL thy way acknowledge him & he will direct thy paths.
25	If You Need Assistance Don’t be afraid to e-mail me with any questions you might have about college. I might be ale to direct you to the right contact person at your college.