Conversation starters for supporting your university-bound student

Choosing a program and university can be a difficult decision. Your kids need your love, guidance and support to choose the best program for them. Here are some important questions for you and your child to discuss during the university process. They can help ensure you are covering all the important topics and help make the decision-making process easier.

• 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 turn 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?

Creating a Personalized Degree

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

• If you had to choose, what would you minor in?
• What other fields of study would complement your program?
• Do you want to do an international exchange?
• What courses does the program offer?

At Laurier, we have more than 80 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?

These opportunities can better prepare students for their future, as well as differentiate their resumé 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 equally daunting for them to live independently 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 are available to you off campus?

The best way to get a feel for the location is to experience it for yourself. Bring them for an open house or take a campus tour and explore the surrounding area while you're here. 

Accessing Supports

Going to university is a huge life change, so it’s 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 support your emotional and mental health in university?
• Is there anything about attending university that worries you? What excites you?
• How can 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?