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Parent Guide

Parent Guide to Helping Young Adult Children Succeed in College

Once a parent always a parent. How we parent, however, changes as our children age. Initially we are directive and as our children become more independent we provide suggestions and guidance. Your child has entered college and you may worry that they will do well in their classes, develop friendships, “stay out of trouble”. College has many learning opportunities and sometimes a student can become overwhelmed. If you are a parent/guardian and you are concerned about your child, here are some suggestions to help ensure the safety & well-being of your child and calm your worries:

  1. If your child voluntarily admits that they need help, is stressed, anxious, depressed, feeling lonely, or not sleeping you can direct your child to the UCA Counseling Center, if you feel the symptoms are severe. If the symptoms are mild you may suggest exercising, talking with a mentor, or visiting with friends. A trip home for the weekend (if possible) may be helpful.  You may also direct your child to the Counseling Center if you feel that, although their distress is mild, meeting with a professional will be helpful.
  2. If your child has not spoken with you and you observe a difference in their behavior, let your child know you are concerned. Communicate to your child that you notice changes in their mood and behaviors that are causing you to be concerned. Discuss the changes you observe.
  3. Ask how they are doing and then listen to what they have to say.
  4. Inquire if they are concerned about anything.
  5. If your child indicates that there is nothing going on than accept that answer but remain in contact and observe for any additional changes. At this point, if you want to consult with a counselor at the UCA Counseling Center please call 501-450-3138.
  6.  If your child indicates suicidal thoughts then please direct them to the UCA Counseling Center. If it is after normal working hours then direct your child to call the UCA Police Department at 501-450-3111. The UCA Police Department will then call a counselor. If you are concerned about your child’s safety you can call the UCA Police Department directly and they can make contact with your child. Please note that counselors do not make house calls, but police officers can, and they can escort students to the counseling center.

Here are some resources that will be helpful for you to be aware of

  • Each residence hall has a Resident Housing Assistant (RHA) for the entire hall. Each floor in a hall has a Resident Assistant (RA). If your child is having roommate issues or emotional challenges they can talk with their RA.
  • The Office of Student Success has Success Coaches in all first-year residence halls. Success Coaches are fellow students trained to help with study skills, time management, and other academic skills. Your child can make an appointment by visiting the “MyUCA” webpage, choosing “GradeFirst” and selecting “Get Tutoring”.
  • If your child is housed in a Residential College there is a Resident Master that they can contact. A RM is a faculty member living in the hall.
  • There is a mental health counselor on call 24-7. They can be contacted via UCA PD (501-450-3111) after normal working hours. During working hours call 501-450-3138 to get additional information. Any student that visits the Counseling Center for crisis/emergency services, will be seen that day and appropriate recommendations. A follow-up to check in with the student will be advised. Confidentiality will be maintained if the student is not a threat to themselves or others.
  • Your child may be experiencing physical symptoms. They can visit the Student Health Clinic located on the first floor of the Student Health Center. They can be contacted by calling 501-450-3136 during normal working hours. After-hours your child may visit the emergency room or call UCA PD.