Conversation starters for supporting your university-bound student

Choosing a program and university can be a big, challenging, exciting, empowering and eye-opening decision - all at once. Your kids need your love, guidance and support to choose the best school and program for them, not to mention the right living situation and university lifestyle that will empower them to be successful. That's why we've put together some important questions that we hope help you and your child to discuss the university process openly and meaningfully. They'll help you know you're covering all the important topics and prompting the right kinds of critical thinking as your student considers their next steps.

• Choosing the right program.
• Creating a personalized degree.
• Graduating with practical work experience.
• Choosing a location.
• Accessing supports.

Choosing the Right Program

You know your kid, and you know what they’re passionate about. And for every passion, there are programs that will transform that passion into a successful career. Here are some questions to ask that will get your child thinking about programs in creative ways:

• What industry do you picture yourself in?
• What kind of work environment do you see yourself in? Are you at a desk, in a collaborative work environment, creating things or working outside?
• Do you want to work for others, with others or work for yourself?
• What careers do your friends and family have that are you most fascinated in? How did they get there?
• Do you want to make a difference in someone's life one-to-one or do you want to impact change in the broader society?
• How could you apply your interests, skills and hobbies to a job?
• Do you want your program to start broad or be focused right from the start?

Creating a Personalized Degree

Often there are many paths to the same destination. Whatever path students choose to take, a flexible degree will prepare them for their future. Your child will do their best studying a field that they're passionate about, so you should provide encouragement to create a degree that's a personal reflection of who they are and what they want to accomplish. 

• If you had to choose a secondary interest to study, what would you minor in?
• What other fields of study could complement your program?
• Do you want to do an international exchange?
• What elective courses does the program offer?
• Is there any particular aspect of this topic/program you'd want to specialize in?

At Laurier, we have more than 100 undergraduate degree programs, along with dozens of options and minors that students can add to their program to enhance their degree.

Graduating With Practical Work Experience

Just like there’s more to your kid’s life than the classroom, the university student experience is more than just academics. Though many schools offer similar degrees, not all programs at all schools provide the same learning experience. Here are some things to consider:

• Does the program offer co-op or practical work experience opportunities?
• Will you graduate with a portfolio or other hands-on experience?
• Do you want to get involved in entrepreneurship, or start your own company?
• Are there part-time employment opportunities on campus?
• What kinds of volunteer opportunities could you participate in there?

These opportunities can better prepare students for their future, as well as help their resumé stand out from the crowd when they're ready to enter the workforce full time.

Choosing a Location

Though it may be difficult to imagine your teenager leaving home, it can be as equally daunting for them to live on their own for the first time. Knowing them as well as you do, you can help your child determine which school’s location is the best fit for their needs and personality. You can ask questions like:

• Would you rather be in a smaller town or a big city? 
• How close or far do you want to be from home? 
• Do you want to live on campus in first year?
• How will you travel around the city?
• What amenities would you need available to you off campus?
• If you lived at home throughout university, what would your ideal schedule look like?

Universities are located all across Canada, and some universities have multiple campuses (Laurier has Brantford, Milton, and Waterloo). The best way to get a feel for the location is to experience it for yourself. Bring them to an open house and explore the surrounding areas while you're there. 

Accessing Supports

Going to university is a huge life change, so it’s also important to consider the non-academic supports your child might need. Check out the health and wellness services, extracurricular activities and career services that are offered at each institution. 

• How can you prioritize your emotional and mental health in university?
• Is there anything about attending university that worries you? What excites you?
• How will you get involved and meet new people?
• What clubs and associations would you consider joining?
• What support is there for career development, resumé writing and career planning?
• What access will you have to athletic and physical wellness services?
• Have you found out what you need to know about accessibility on campus?
• What kinds of learning supports and accommodations are available?
• Do you feel like the school will be inclusive and equitable?

Knowledge is power. We hope that by sharing this knowledge with you as you take this huge next step with your child, you are given the power to to make the right university choice with them.

Looking for more thoughtful conversation starters, or maybe you have more questions? Reserve your campus tour today to get your questions answered, explore some inspiring locations, and see in person what life at Laurier could feel like - for you and your child.