It seems like a week doesn’t go by that I don’t hear a new nickname being coined for parents and their level of involvement in their student’s life (“helicopter” and “snowplow” being some of the most common). While they seem to get the most media attention, I think these particular comparisons are inaccurate, and ultimately, not helpful.
These nicknames and conversations usually revolve around the never-ending debate as to what level of parent involvement is appropriate once a student goes to college. While each family has their own unique relationship, please remember that you are the best partner in ensuring your student’s success in college and that our office exists to support you. Does this mean that you need to sit in class with your student or know every detail of their life? No. But a family’s love and unwavering support can motivate a student to focus on their studies, pass that challenging class, or navigate a tough decision about changing a major.
While we encourage students to own their UP experience, practice problem solving skills, and build resiliency to become independent and successful adults, we also recognize that you know your student best–and so are often their best source of guidance and support. With this philosophy in mind, I would like to propose that 2020 is the year of the tandem bike. We recognize that you and your student are on the bike together. You are involved in your student’s life, and for good reason, but we encourage you to let your student sit in the front seat and drive their UP experience, while you sit behind them, providing support and encouragement along the way.
As we practice this “tandem bike” approach, I recommend reading this insightful article from CollegiateParent (and my colleague at the University of Denver), which discusses “a new way to look at parent involvement in college” and provides helpful questions that can be used when coaching your student throughout the coming semester.
While you and your student ride the tandem bike, know that our office is cheering you along the way and ready to refill or patch your tires when needed. Utilize the resources and information on our Parent Website, and please don’t hesitate to reach out with questions at parents@up.edu. We look forward to working with you in the coming semester and throughout your student’s time at UP!
