FSW Families

Welcome parents, friends, and supporters to our FSW family. We want you to know you are an important part of your student’s success. FSW Families is here to offer information, resources, and opportunities to help you support your student on their college journey.

Upcoming Family Events

Buc Block Party - Fall Semester Family Weekend - Spring Semester

For details and dates, check Bucs Corner

Support Your Buccaneer

Tips For Your Student

First Generation Students

First-generation students, who are the first in their families to go to college, meaning neither of their parents completed a bachelors degree,depend on their parents and families for emotional support and guidance. They also need other resources to understand the campus's political, social, and academic life. It's very important for these `students to find a community that supports their success and well-being

Tips and resources for your student

First Year Students

For many first-year college students, adjusting from high school to college is a big challenge. In high school, teachers are available every day to help and reach out to students who need assistance. In college, professors are available only during office hours or by appointment, and students must take the initiative to meet with them. Besides seeking help from academic support services, building a group of friends is also important, especially on a large campus.

Tips and resources for your student

  • Get involved with your residence hall (if they are living on campus) and connect with your resident assistant (RA) for support and guidance.
  • Become a member of a student club or organization - check out Bucs Corner for all the possibilities.
  • Make friends with classmates and form study groups (this is really important for first-year commuter students)
  • Find an on-campus job. Check with financial aid to see if you qualify for work study and check in with the human resources department to see student job opportunities.

International Students

Adjusting to campus life can be challenging for international students. They have to deal with language barriers, new or different foods, traditions, social and academic expectations, and being far from family. This can lead to culture shock and feelings of isolation. International students often find it hard to fit in socially and adapt academically (Tsai, 2015). It's important for international students to get connected with community resources to help with their transition.

Tips and Resources for your student

  • If living on campus getting connected with your resident assistant (RA) can be helpful.
  • Connecting with the Office of Student Engagement can help with meeting other students and integrating into campus life
  • Visiting the Writing Center for help with papers and presentations
  • Stay connected with your academic advisor to make sure your are on track and taking the right classes

Military-Connected Students

Military-connected students often bring diverse life experiences. Many are transfer students, may have families, and have traveled the world due to their military service. They are usually protective of their military supported financial package, focused on classes, and balancing jobs and family obligations. Their needs differ from those of traditional college students. Finding a supportive on-campus community, like the Office of Veteran Services, can help them achieve their social and academic goals. The office offers tools and resources to help military-connected students integrate into the community.

Tips and resources for your student

Transfer Students

Many people mistakenly believe that transfer students have an easier time adjusting to a new school because they have already been to college. In reality, transfer students face their own challenges. Since they are often halfway through their college journey, it is crucial for them to quickly connect with resources and support services such as academic advising and career services.

Tips and resources for your student