2026_JHU-INSIDER_final_web

ADJUSTING TO COLLEGE ACADEMIC SUPPORT HEALTH & WELLNESS Important Dates

Contact Information

Campus Map

SUPPORTING

Their Next Big Step

College is a big step toward independence, but students still need support and guidance. Johns Hopkins Federal Credit Union works with families to help students learn responsible money habits while giving parents the confidence of a trusted financial partner. From simple checking accounts to digital tools that make managing money easier, we’re here to support your student to move forward in confidence.

Join today to secure their future.

jhfcu.org | 410-534-4500

Johns Hopkins Federal Credit Union (JHFCU) is a federally chartered credit union completely independent from Johns Hopkins University, Johns Hopkins Health Systems, and any of the Johns Hopkins schools, hospitals, or programs. JHFCU serves the employees, students, retirees and Alumni Association members of the Johns Hopkins University; employees and retirees of the Johns Hopkins Health System and its hospitals; and employees and retirees of other select entities. JHFCU is wholly owned by its members.

Neither Johns Hopkins University nor Johns Hopkins Health Systems select, endorse, or are responsible for the goods and services offered by JHFCU. | Equal Opportunity Lender | Federally Insured by NCUA © 2026 Johns Hopkins Federal Credit Union

STUDIO, 1, 2, 3, & 4-BEDROOM MODERN HOUSING • Less than 5 Minutes

from Campus • WiFi Study Lounge • Fitness Center • On-site Laundry • In-home Washer & Dryer Available • High Speed Internet Included • Garage Parking • Pet Friendly • 24-Hour Emergency Maintenance

410-467-9890

410-896-1139

500 W University Pkwy, Baltimore, MD 21210

3501 St. Paul St, Baltimore, MD 21218

Table of Contents

HH CRESMONT

NINE EAS T

443-339-9080

443-491 -9498

2807 CRESMONT AVE, BA LTIMORE, MD 2 1 2 1 1

9 E 33RD ST, BA LTIMORE, MD 2 1 2 1 8

1

Johns Hopkins University

6

Welcome to Johns Hopkins University

8

Important Dates

10 Important Contact Information 12 Navigating Campus 14 Homewood Campus Map

2

Adjusting to College

18 Get Familiar with Campus Resources 21 Secrets of Roommate Harmony

FOUR UNIQUE PROPERTIES ONE EXCEPTIONAL EX PERIENCE

24 Learning to Manage Money 27 A New Role for Parents

3

Academic Support

Dear Reader,

We are strong believers in the importance of a student's support system as they tackle the opportunities and challenges of college. Whether you are the parent, grandparent, stepparent, guardian, family friend, counselor, coach, or mentor of a college student, you can have a positive impact on the student you care about and their success.

This guide touches on many important and helpful topics. There are additional resources on CollegiateP CollegiateParent.com arent.com.

Sincerel y,

CollegiateParent

30 Study Time Matters 32 Building Strong StudentProfessor Connections 34 Mid-Semester Conversations 36 Career Prep Starts Now 40 Choosing a Major

CA MPUS S QUA R E

T HE A LLS T ON

41 0 -235-8920

41 0 -235-8920

2 71 9-2 733 N CHA RLES ST BA LTIMORE, MD 2 1 2 1 8

31 1 1 N CHA RLES ST BA LTIMORE, MD 2 1 2 1 8

4 Wellness Health &

CollegiateParent provides print and digital resources for families of college students via our website and in partnership with colleges and universities across the US. Please visit COLLEGIATEPARENT.COM to get our latest tips, and connect with us on social media.

50 Supporting Mental Health

INSIDER CONTENT (PART 2–PART 4) BY: Amy Baldwin, Ed.D.; Lori Bender; Marybeth Bock; Tami Campbell; Rob Danzman, MS, NCC, LCMHC; Kate Gallop; Ianni Le; Bridget Lockhead; Amy Mezulis; MJ O’Leary; Lisa Paniccia; Vicki Nelson; LaTrina Rogers; and CollegiateParent staff. To learn about our contributors, visit their author pages on COLLEGIATEPARENT.COM.

JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSIT Y

DESIGNED BY: Grace Cassara © 2026 CollegiateParent. All rights reserved.

44 Two Key Health Talks to Have With Your Student 48 Important Health and Safety Conversations

5

1

JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY

Welcome to

Johns Hopkins University To Our Newest Blue Jay Families, On behalf of the students, faculty, staff, and alumni of Johns Hopkins University — welcome to the Nest!

We are thrilled to count you and your student as lifelong members of the Blue Jay Family. This guide has been prepared to help orient you to Johns Hopkins. In it, you will find helpful information, websites, contact numbers, and important dates from the academic year calendar.

The core of your student’s time at Hopkins will be spent exploring their 6

academic interests and diving deeply into their major, including registering for classes, learning about major declaration, and the flexible curriculum that students can use to combine their interests.

Outside the classroom, your Blue Jay will also have many opportunities to grow socially and personally — building community, exploring their passions, encountering new experiences and differing perspectives, and developing leadership skills.

We invite you to join us on campus for Family Weekend from October 16-18, 2026. This Homewood tradition is an excellent opportunity to spend time with your student, explore campus, and discover Baltimore. More information will be coming later this summer.

Most importantly, know that Hopkins is made up of caring and supportive faculty and staff. We will work tirelessly to ensure your student thrives as they develop into the next generation of influential minds. Student Transitions and Family Engagement is here to provide resources and support as you and your student navigate the university

JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSIT Y

and the new and dynamic experiences that occur in the college environment.

Please do reach out and let us know how we can support you and your student.

We are so proud to have you join our Blue Jay community!

With best wishes,

Brittini Brown Assistant Vice Provost for Student Engagement & Dean of Students Bryan Capers, MSW Director for Student Transitions & Family Engagement 7

1

JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY

Important Dates Fall 2026

Spring 2027

August 31................................... Undergraduate Classes Begin

January 5–16............................. Intersession Classes

September 7 .. ............................ Labor Day Holiday

January 18................................. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

September 11............................ Last Day to Add Courses ..................................................... and Waitlists End

January 25................................. First Day of Classes

October 16–18.. ......................... Family Weekend October 22–23.......................... Fall Break November 23–27...................... Fall Recess December 11............................. Last Day of Classes December 14............................. Reading Days

March 22–26 . . ............................ Spring Break April 30 . . ..................................... Last Day of Classes May 3–7...................................... Reading Days May 10–18.................................. Exam Days May 27........................................ University Commencement

December 15–23...................... Exam Days

8

JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSIT Y

9

1

JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY

Important Contact Information

10

Department

Website

Phone

Hopkins Parents Fund

giving.jhu.edu/information-for-parents

410-516-3413

ID Card Services

studentaffairs.jhu.edu/jcard

410-516-5121

East Baltimore: 410-955-5585

International Student/ Scholar Services

ois.jhu.edu

667-208-7001

Homewood: 410-516-7777

Krieger School of Arts & Sciences

krieger.jhu.edu

410-516-8220

Peabody: 667-208-6608

Leadership Engagement & Experiential Development

studentaffairs.jhu.edu/leed

410-516-7414

Life Design Lab

imagine.jhu.edu

410-516-8400

Emergency Lines

Department

Website

Phone

Academic Advising (KSAS)

advising.jhu.edu

410-516-8216

Multicultural Affairs

studentaffairs.jhu.edu/oma

410-516-8730

Academic Advising (WSE)

engineering.jhu.edu/advising

410-516-7395

On-Campus Living

studentaffairs.jhu.edu/on-campus-living

410-516-7960

Academic Support Services

academicsupport.jhu.edu

410-516-7395

Parking & Transportation

ts.jhu.edu

410-516-7275

Alumni Association

alumni.jhu.edu

410-516-0808

Pre-Professional Advising

studentaffairs.jhu.edu/preprofadvising

410-516-4140

Arts & Innovation

studentaffairs.jhu.edu/homewoodarts

410-516-1154

Public Safety

publicsafety.jhu.edu

667-208-1200

Athletics

hopkinssports.com

410-516-7490

Recreation Center

studentaffairs.jhu.edu/recreation

410-516-4434

Campus Store

johnshopkinscampusstore.com

410-662-5850

Registrar’s Office

studentaffairs.jhu.edu/registrar

410-516-8080

Center for Social Concern

studentaffairs.jhu.edu/socialconcern

410-516-4777

Center for Student Success

studentaffairs.jhu.edu/student-success

410-516-8666

Religious & Spiritual Life

studentaffairs.jhu.edu/ religious-spiritual-life

410-516-1880

Commencement

commencement.jhu.edu

410-516-7711

Sexual Assault Help Line

sexualmisconduct.jhu.edu

410-516-7333

Counseling Center

studentaffairs.jhu.edu/counselingcenter

410-516-8278

Sheridan Libraries

library.jhu.edu

410-516-8335

Creative Media Center

studentaffairs.jhu.edu/dmc

410-516-3817

Student Accounts

studentaffairs.jhu.edu/student-accounts 410-516-8158

Dean of Students Office

studentaffairs.jhu.edu/student-life

410-516-8208

Student Disability Services

studentaffairs.jhu.edu/disabilities

410-516-4720

Family Engagement

studentaffairs.jhu.edu/parents-families

410-516-7355

seam.jhu.edu

1-877-419-5131

Financial Aid

finaid.jhu.edu

410-516-8028

jhu.edu/life/health-wellness

410-516-8270

Fraternity & Sorority Life

studentaffairs.jhu.edu/fsl

410-516-4873

Gender & Sexuality Resources

studentaffairs.jhu.edu/gsr

410-516-2452

Student Enrollment and Account Management Student Health & Wellness Center Student Transitions and Family Engagement Summer and Intersession Programs

summer.jhu.edu

410-516-4548

Gender-Based Violence Prevention

wellbeing.jhu.edu/ healthpromotion/services

443-927-3548

Technology Store

Global Education

studyabroad.jhu.edu

410-516-8400

University Experiential Learning

studentaffairs.jhu.edu/computing/ hopkins-technology-store studentaffairs.jhu.edu/ studentemployment

410-516-8400

Health Promotion & Well‑Being

wellbeing.jhu.edu/HealthPromotion

410-516-8396

Vice Provost for Student Affairs’ Office

studentaffairs.jhu.edu/viceprovost

Hopkins Dining

studentaffairs.jhu.edu/dining

410-516-3383

Whiting School of Engineering

engineering.jhu.edu

410-516-4050

Hopkins Office of Undergraduate Research

research.jhu.edu/hour

Writing Center

krieger.jhu.edu/writingcenter

410-516-4258

JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSIT Y

students.jhu.edu/studenttransitions-family-engagement

11

1

JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY

Navigating Campus Visit the following links to aid in getting around the Johns Hopkins Homewood campus!

Driving Directions Interactive Campus Map Homewood Campus Map (PDF)

Maps & Directions

Homewood Campus Parking Blue Jay Shuttle Map and Schedule Transportation Services

This is Chesapeake Commons HISTORY Originally home to Baltimore City College.

STYLE Outstanding architectural achievement.

UNIQUE and DISTINCTIVE No two apartments are alike!

LOCATION Close to shops, theatres, museums, and concert halls.

5% Discount

for JHU Students!

601 North Eutaw St Baltimore, MD 21201 410-539-0090 chesapeakecommons.com 12

JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSIT Y

13

1

JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY

Homewood

14

JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSIT Y

15

1

JOH NS HO P K I PARTNER N S U N IJOHNS V E R HOPKINS S I T Y UNIVERSITY FAMILIES OFFICIAL HOTEL

Inn at the Colonnade A DoubleTree by Hilton www.colonnadebaltimore.com

ROO M S, A M E N ITI E S & WH Y WE’R E DI FFE R E NT

125 well-appointed rooms. Steps from campus. With a garage.

Spacious rooms with Hilton Sweet Dream beds — and the only hotel near JHU with a 175-space covered parking garage attached directly to the building. Renovated 2026.

4 West University Pkwy, Baltimore, MD Your Home for ALL Tailgate Parties — Whether it’s football, lacross, or any Blue Jays game day, the Colonnade is your pre- and post-game headquarters. On-site dining, on-site parking, and right at the North Gate.

King guest room

Visiting your Blue Jay? Stay next door to Hopkins.

Directly across from JHU’s Homewood Campus — the closest, most comfortable home base for Family Weekend, move-in day, graduation, and every Hopkins visit.

Renovation completed 2026.

Guest rooms & amenities

The parking advantage

✓ King and double queen configurations

Unlike nearby hotels, we have a 175-space covered garage attached directly to the building — no street parking, no circling the block.

✓ Hilton Sweet Dream beds & premium linens ✓ In-room coffee, mini-fridge & flat-screen TV ✓ Alizee full-service restaurant & bar on-site

Coming Soon: Outdoor Patio Dining at Alizee — Our new alfresco dining terrace opens soon.

The perfect spot before and after every campus visit — and your home for all JHU tailgate parties.

16,000 SF event & meeting space

✓ Large fitness center with spa ✓ 4 exterior courtyards & patios

Pull in, check in, and your car stays safe and covered for your entire visit — for Family Weekend arrivals, move-in day, or game day tailgates.

EARN HILTON HONORS POINTS ON EVERY STAY Every night counts toward free future stays, room upgrades, and exclusive member discounts.

Book direct to maximize your points — points never expire while your account is active.

Free enrollment at hiltonhonors.com.

Hilton Honors — it pays to stay

BOOK DIRECT FOR BEST RATES

✓ Earn points toward free future stays

Mention Johns Hopkins Family Weekend for priority room assignments. 15 min from BWI, I-95, I-695 & I-83 access. Walking distance to Union Memorial & Space Telescope Science Institute.

✓ Member discounts when you book direct ✓ Points never expire while account is active ✓ Redeem at 7,000+ Hilton properties worldwide ✓ Free enrollment at hiltonhonors.com

410-235-5400 www.colonnadebaltimore.com

Renovated Lobby — 2026

16

Alizee restaurant & bar

Grand lobby lounge

JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSIT Y

17

2

ADJUSTING TO COLLEGE

Get Familiar with Campus Resources Your Student’s Road Map to Success The sooner your student gets to know their new campus, the sooner they can take advantage of its abundance of valuable resources. Independence in college doesn’t mean doing everything on your own — it means knowing what you need and advocating for yourself.

Parents should also learn their way around, at least virtually. Encourage your student to create their own personal map. Before classes start, they can:

→ Get comfortable with the university website.

→ Study the online interactive

campus map (print a copy, too).

→ Practice walking through their course schedule so they know how to get from building to building and also figure out where to get meals.

→ Make a list of other places to locate

and explore: libraries, writing center, health and counseling, fitness and recreation, registrar’s office, career services, tech support, public safety.

→ Do some more walking — maybe

with a roommate or new friend. It’ll be a confidence booster to know their way around without having to constantly consult their phone.

18

Academic Advisor

Tutoring and Writing Centers

Your student’s academic advisor will help them make important decisions such as choosing a major, selecting appropriate classes, and staying on track for their degree. An academic advisor can be an excellent partner during your student’s college career, but only if they take advantage of the advisor’s guidance and know-how.

Most tutoring centers offer help in many subjects and provide both professional and peer tutoring services. Peer tutors are fellow students who’ve done well in the subject and understand the struggles that students encounter.

Writing centers offer help with organizing and editing papers. Working with a tutor can help your student build confidence and improve their study skills and can provide accountability to help them keep up with assignments.

Wise student hint: Even if your advisor is wonderful, don’t rely solely on their information. Understand the curriculum and any Gen Ed/ major/degree requirements and keep your own records to stay on track. It’s also important to know how to calculate your GPA.

People and Places

Wise student hint: Start working with a tutor early in the semester before encountering real difficulty. This will help you establish a relationship with a tutor and be comfortable with the tutoring process well before midterm or final exam time.

These six resources should be on your student’s personal map. Talk to them about being the truly wise student who will make the most of each.

Professors Professors teach, but they also set aside office hours to get to know students and to provide help. Unfortunately, many students don’t take advantage of this one-on-one time with the professor. Your student shouldn’t feel shy; professors really do want to talk to their students! Using office hours allows students to get individual attention and targeted help with course material.

Wise student hint: Arrive for any meeting with the professor with specific questions. Bring papers or tests you want to talk over, and be prepared to listen and take notes. Don’t forget to thank the professor when you leave.

JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSIT Y

19

2

ADJUSTING TO COLLEGE

College Library

Career Center

Beyond the many online services, internet resources, and databases offered by the campus library, a visit to the physical building can uncover additional resources. Libraries provide quiet study spaces apart from the noise and distractions in the residence hall. Most also offer group study areas where students can work with others on projects or exam preparation. Librarians are trained to guide students through essential research steps and help them discover and access materials.

Campus career services are an essential link between your student’s academic work and their future career. The career center can help your student discover strengths and talents, explore careers within a chosen major, find and apply for on- and off-campus jobs and internships, craft resumes and cover letters, network with alumni, and practice interviewing skills.

Wise student hint: Librarians love questions. Bring your assignment with you and be specific about what you need to find. If you don’t know how to use a library resource, ask.

Wellness Services Most campus health centers offer onsite medical care for illness and minor injuries, mental health/ counseling services (possibly in a separate location), and general wellness education. In addition, the health center may provide prescriptions and over-the-counter medications, reproductive health care, nutrition counseling, vaccinations (including COVID and flu shots), and more.

Wise student hint: Locate the health and counseling centers early, before you need them. Ask about how to make appointments, what services are available, and what the hours are.

This way if you are sick or dealing with a mental health challenge, you’ll already be familiar with the process and staff.

20

Wise student hint: Visit the career center early to learn what they offer. Return regularly to take advantage of services and events and build relationships with staff members so they’ll keep you in mind when they learn of new opportunities.

Hidden Gems Hidden gems may not be on the map, but every campus and college town has them. Your student can ask other students and faculty members, “What’s your favorite place on (or off) campus?”

Find their special place. It might be:

→ A quiet lounge or out-of-theway corner of the library

→ A walking or bike trail → An art gallery or museum

Secrets of Roommate Harmony Living with a roommate is sure to be rewarding but also can be a challenging part of your first-year student’s transition to college. Harmony is possible!

Here are five tips to share, gathered from upper-level students.

1

Go in with an open mind.

Many students assume their roommate assignment will make or break their first year, imagining worst-case scenarios, best-case scenarios, and everything in between. Encourage your student to enter their new living situation with optimism and openness. College is a new experience for everyone and, if nothing else, their first-year roommate is someone who can make them feel less lonely during their adjustment.

2

Make rules before problems arise.

Unspoken expectations are at the root of a lot of conflict. Your student should make their needs clear while also remaining open to their roommate’s preferences. If they didn’t already complete a roommate agreement, covering things like cleanliness, quiet hours, visitors, etc., now’s the time. Their RA can be a great resource for advice and conflict resolution if needed.

→ A music practice room or empty concert hall

→ A chapel or meditation room → A coffee shop → A local park → The town library

� Vick i Nelson

“If you shake off your expectations, you’ll have a more natural and positive relationship. I loved my freshman roommate, but even people I know who didn’t learned more about themselves and learned to live with others better in the process.” — Sophomore JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSIT Y

“My roommate stayed up later than me most nights, and I had a hard time sleeping with her desk light on.

Finally I asked if she could go to the common room on our floor to study if I was trying to sleep. She was really understanding, and it made living with her a lot easier.” — Sophomore 21

2

ADJUSTING TO COLLEGE

4

Advice for Parents from “The Dorm Mom” Campus housing staff know that the first semester of college can be a nerve-wracking time for parents not used to being apart from their kids. We’re there for you even as we encourage you to step back a bit to show confidence and trust in your student. Giving them space to develop into the person they desire to become is one of the goals of higher education.

A few things it can be helpful to understand about residential life: → If a student experiences a problem, housing staff will not contact parents; it’s the student’s responsibility to communicate with their family. Housing staff can call parents for drug- and alcoholrelated issues or when a student is a danger to themselves or others. → Residential life staff do not keep tabs on students and can not give parents access to a student’s room. You will worry less if you take time during these early days of college to make a plan with your student about how often you’ll text or talk.

College is a time of growth, and campus housing is the perfect supportive space for this growth to happen. Your student will learn to do things on their own, whether it’s doing laundry or navigating a roommate conflict.

� LaTrina Rogers 22

Recognize that a good roommate and a good friend are different things.

Living with someone is very different from being friends. Some of the best roommate relationships are between students who don’t have a lot in common but respect each other and live well together regardless.

3

Be respectful of your shared space.

“At the start of freshman year, my roommate and I would go to events and grab food together, but as the year progressed we met more people, made different friends, and hung out less. Even then, it was so nice to come back to my room and have someone to talk to about my day.” — Junior

For many people, college is the first time sharing a room. Behaviors that seem harmless to one person can be annoying for another. In the first few weeks as they establish a routine, roommates should be prepared to make some compromises. There are lots of little things you can do to show consideration to your roommate:

5

Spend time outside of the room.

One of the best things about starting college is having a full campus to explore. Your student can try the food in different cafeterias and experiment with different places to study. On that subject, most students find that it’s easier to concentrate if they study outside of the dorm. Preserving their dorm room as a place where they can relax is also beneficial, and leaving the room during the day and spending time away from roommates can make getting along easier.

“Get to know your roommate, but get to know other people, too.

Find clubs or other activities to do that aren’t with your roommate so you both have space and alone time in your room.” — Junior

→ Use headphones when they are in the room

→ Ask before borrowing things → Take out trash before it smells → Don’t snooze your alarm → Ask if it’s okay before taking a call

� With contributions f rom K ate Gallop, Bridget Lochhead, and CollegiateParent staff JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSIT Y

23

2

ADJUSTING TO COLLEGE

The Fall Spending-Money Budget If you didn’t do this before the start of the school year, take time now to make a list with your student of their flexible/ recreational expenses (everything besides tuition, room, board, and student fees — although if they’ll contribute to these, put them in the budget as well).

Flexible expenses include: → Textbooks and software → Seasonal clothing → Electronics and school supplies → Toiletries and other personal items → Dorm furnishings

Learning to Manage Money

→ Laundry money → Food/drink outside of the meal plan → Entertainment → Local travel (bus pass, Uber trips) → Recreational travel and trips home

For first-year students, one of the biggest challenges outside the classroom is learning to manage money. They’re now responsible for paying for all sorts of things on their own, from textbooks and groceries to laundry and an occasional haircut.

They’re also responsible for their university Student Account and making sure tuition and fees are paid on time. If you’re paying these bills, your student can add you as an Authorized User, but keeping them in the loop about college costs is a great way to help them gain financial literacy and understand the investment you’re making as a family in their education.

24

Beyond this, parents can play a key role by helping students make a budget and keep an eye on the money going in and out of their bank account.

Printable budget worksheets are easy to find online, and there are many good smartphone budgeting apps.

→ Sorority/fraternity or club dues Next, estimate how much each item will be and agree on who’s paying for what, taking your student’s income into consideration. Their income will come from their savings, earnings from a campus job (if they will work), and possibly an allowance from you.

Make it a goal for your student to maintain a certain level of savings.

The ease of buying things online and with their phones means small purchases can get out of control. Peer pressure is another factor that can cause students to overspend, so talk about how they may need to say no sometimes to an activity or purchase that a roommate or friend doesn’t think twice about.

JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSIT Y

“Financial literacy can make the difference between building upon a good financial foundation from the start or learning from mistakes. It can help teens and young adults get through the ups and downs of life, and it provides a sense of security. ”

 Lisa Paniccia

Author of ‘ABC’s for Financial Independence’

On this subject, be clear about what will happen if they don’t stay within their budget — in case they assume you’ll automatically bail them out.

Fall semester will involve some experimentation. Your student may easily stay within their budget or run short each month. Over winter break, you can look back together at the experience and help them revise their budget for spring semester based on what they learned.

25

2

ADJUSTING TO COLLEGE

The Perks of Campus Employment A great way to balance income and spending is to get a campus job. A comprehensive NASPA study found that college students who work part-time during the school year get better grades than those who don’t, probably because they need to be more focused, organized, and conscientious about budgeting time for study.

Finding a job in the local community is an option, but on-campus positions have special advantages. The hours are usually flexible, and supervisors will accommodate your student’s class schedule. Student employees meet more of their fellow students as well as more faculty members, administrators,

and staff — a great network for career mentorship, professional references, and all-around support.

If Federal Work-Study is part of your student’s financial aid package, they can research and apply for available work-study positions, but there are usually plenty of campus jobs to go around for any student who wants one.

Departments that hire students may include the admissions and alumni offices, recreation center, library, dining facilities, bookstore, museums and art galleries, language and computer labs, and performance spaces.

� CollegiateParent S taff

Discover Our Newly Renovated Baltimore Hotel

A New Role for Parents Just before Thanksgiving break last year, I received a flurry of texts from my college student.

Daughter: “I’m so excited to come home!”

Me: “YAY!” Daughter: “Please don’t ask a million questions. I’ll talk more if you don’t pester me.”

Me: “Ummm…okay?”

A new era for Monaco Baltimore.

Kimpton Monaco Baltimore is entering a new era with a renovation that thoughtfully reinterprets our historic building for today’s traveler.

The refreshed design highlights the hotel’s original architecture while introducing modern finishes, warmer textures, and a cohesive sense of style throughout the guest rooms and public spaces.

2 North Charles Street | Baltimore, MD 21201 Reservations: 1.888.752.2636 | Hotel: 443.692.6170

26

BOOK NOW

As a developmental psychologist, I had a good chuckle. The contrast of the enthusiasm to come home with the preemptive “don’t bug me” so perfectly exemplifies this college age — no longer a child, but not quite all grown up either.

As a parent, honestly, I appreciated her clear statement about what she needed from me. She knew I’d have a million questions, and she also knew she didn’t want to have to talk on demand.

JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSIT Y

Parents of college-aged kids have to walk a fine line between letting go and continuing to provide the safety net for their inevitable stumbles. We may not always approve of their decisions — about classes, majors, where they go over the breaks — and yet we have less and less input into those decisions. Even if we approve of their choices, often they are also pulling away from us in subtle or sometimes not-so-subtle ways. The daily texts may go unanswered, the family group chat ignored, they pop home just to go out with friends again.

What does it mean to parent a young adult child? How can we foster strong and supportive relationships?

27

2

ADJUSTING TO COLLEGE

3

Invite, don’t demand.

One key goal these years is to create a relationship in which kids are spending time with us because they want to, not because they feel they have to. In order to create this culture, we must first acknowledge and honor that they may not want or need to talk to us regularly, to come home over breaks, or to participate as consistently in family events or traditions as we’d like.

Tips for Strengthening Relationships with College Students

1

Give space — and mean it.

Letting our young adult kids set the pace on contact gives them some much-desired control. After so many years of their time not being their own, college kids relish the opportunity to do what they want when they want.

If they don’t respond to your “just checking in” texts or phone calls, rather than upping the frequency, consider slowing it down. Understand they’re not being ungrateful or uncaring — they are just absorbed in their own lives, as is normal. They are also learning to rely on others for support.

Have an open and gentle conversation about how much communication you can both agree to. One scheduled and valued FaceTime call a week will feel better in the long run than daily texts that go unanswered and build resentment.

28

2

Focus on the important questions.

When you do have the opportunity to connect, be curious but nonjudgmental about their lives. Try to avoid the litany of pressing (to them) questions about classes, majors, job plans, grades, or social life that imply what you think should be happening in their lives.

Once we let go of the assumption that they must and reframe to we’d like them to, it can alter how we communicate. Instead of “I expect you to come home for the holidays” or “You need to go see Grandma when you’re home,” consider “Do you think you’ll come home for the holidays?

We hope so!” and “I know Grandma’s hoping you have time to visit with her.”

4

Create the home base they want to come back to.

If home remains a place they feel safe, can rest and recharge, and can connect with favorite foods/ traditions/people, then they will want to return. If home becomes a place of obligation or intrusive questions, they may not be eager. Not sure what your college student needs? Just ask.

An example: The first time my college daughter came home, I stocked up on all her favorite snacks then was flabbergasted when her first morning home she went to the grocery store and returned with items I’d never seen her eat before. These days I shoot her a text a day or two before she comes home: “Heading to the store. Any special requests?” This lets her know I want to “mom” her a bit but also allows her to have new tastes and preferences, like oat milk instead of half-and-half in her coffee.

Building a Bridge On the last night of that Thanksgiving visit, my 19-year-old sat near me at the kitchen counter sending emails while I unloaded the dishwasher. She started talking about her classes and her plans for declaring a major next term. She volunteered a little about a breakup she’d gone through, and from what she said I could tell she’d gotten needed support from her roommates. I asked a question here and there but mostly listened. After a while her phone dinged with an incoming call, she left to answer it, and the conversation was over.

She left the next day. She gave me a huge hug goodbye at the airport and several hours later texted from her dorm: “Back safely! It was such a great trip home. I love you!”

– Amy Mezu lis

Instead, ask the questions that really matter: Are you happy? What are you liking best? Anything that is harder than you expected? Can I help you in any way? These questions communicate curiosity and openness to their experience, and express that your concern is for their well-being not their achievement or success.

JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSIT Y

29

3

ACADEMIC SUPPORT

How to Fit It All In? Once we look at these numbers, the question that students often ask is, “How am I supposed to fit that into my week? There aren’t enough hours!”

Study Time Matters If a student is having trouble keeping up in class, the first question a professor or advisor might ask is, “How much time do you spend studying?”

Although it’s not the only factor, time spent studying is one of the basics. If your new college student is struggling, help them explore how much time they’re actually spending on schoolwork.

How Much Is Enough?

Very often, a student’s answer to how much time they spend hitting the books doesn’t match the professor’s expectation. The general rule of thumb is that students should spend 2–3 hours on outside-of-class work for each hour spent in the classroom.

Most college classes meet for three or four hours a week. Therefore, a student taking five 3-credit classes spends 15 hours each week in class and should be spending 30 hours on work outside of class. For most students this isn’t even close to their reality!

30

Why Such a Disconnect?

There’s significantly more “homework” in college than high school, but the total picture isn’t that different. In order to help students understand, we crunched some more numbers.

→ Spend time with friends who

study. It’s easier to put in the time when the people around you are doing the same thing.

Find an accountability partner who will help you stay on track.

Professors (and parents!) can remind students that there are 168 hours in a week. If a student spends 45 hours on class and studying, that leaves 123 hours. If the student sleeps eight hours per night (we wish!), that still leaves 9.5 hours/day for work or play.

→ Work on strengthening your time-

Many colleges recommend that full-time students should work no more than 20 hours/week at a job if they want to do well in their classes, and this calculation shows why.

→ If you have a job, ask if there’s

Making It Work

Most high school students spend about 30 hours a week in school. Add in the average amount of homework (4–5 hours/week), and the total time spent in class and on homework comes to 1,260 hours per school year.

Your student may not spend 30 or more hours a week studying, but understanding what’s expected may motivate them to put in some additional study time. That takes planning, organizing, and discipline.

Now let’s look at college. Most semesters are approximately 15 weeks long.

That student with 15 credits (five classes) spends 225 hours in class and should be spending 450 hours studying. That’s 675 hours/semester or 1,350 for the year, a bit more than high school, but only 90 hours, or an average of three hours more per week.

→ Keep a time journal for a few days

The problem isn’t necessarily the number of hours — it’s that many students haven’t flipped the equation and recognized the time expected outside of class to complete all their reading, writing, and studying. The hours are simply allocated differently and require discipline to make sure they happen.

What students sometimes see as “free time” is really just time that they are responsible for scheduling themselves.

→ Prioritize studying. Don’t

Here are a few things your student can try. or a week. Record what you’re doing each hour as you go through your day. At the end of the week, observe how you spent your time. How much time did you actually spend studying? Socializing? Sleeping?

Texting? On social media? At a job? Find the “time stealers.”

management skills. Block out study times and stick to the plan. Plan ahead for long-term assignments and schedule bite-sized pieces.

Don’t underestimate how much time big assignments will take. any flexibility. Can you schedule fewer shifts at prime study times like exam periods or when a big paper or project is due? Consider looking for a campus job that will allow some study time while you’re on the clock, such as at a computer lab, library, or information/check-in desk.

Being a full-time student is a full-time job.

Start by looking at the numbers with your student and then encourage them to create strategies that will keep them on task. With understanding and practice, your student can plan for and spend the time needed to succeed in college.

 Vick i Nelson

hope that you’ll find the time.

Schedule your study time each day — make it an appointment with yourself and stick to it.

→ Limit phone time. It may take

practice, but putting the phone away during designated study time can make a big difference in how efficient and focused you can be.

JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSIT Y

31

3

ACADEMIC SUPPORT

Start with a Positive Connection in Class

Building Strong Student-Professor Connections College students spend a lot of time with their professors, seeing them in class and labs on a daily basis. Establishing a real connection takes work, but there are many good reasons for students to get to know their professors better.

Any one of them could turn into a mentor or trusted advisor. Professors invite students to work with them as Research and Teaching Assistants, provide career advice, and write letters of recommendation for internships, scholarships, and graduate school applications. And they are interesting people to talk to!

Developing a bond is a two-way street.

Professors should be approachable, available for office hours, and respond to a student’s communication in a timely way. You can encourage your student to do their part, but first it can help to understand why many students hesitate.

32

→ If they haven’t interacted with

the professor outside of class, they may not know what to expect. What should they say?

How will the professor react?

→ Talking face-to-face can be

awkward. Many of us are more comfortable with texting and email.

→ In high school, the environment was

more casual and teachers were often the ones to reach out. Now students need to make the first move but, in a more formal higher ed setting, may not be sure about the rules.

The first step is to make the most of classroom interactions.

Students should think about how to set themselves apart, whether in a big lecture or smaller seminar.

Here are 10 tips to share: 1. Know the professor’s name.

Sounds obvious, but it’s surprising how many students don’t remember their professor’s name.

Learning it is a sign of respect.

2. Introduce yourself early

in the semester. Help the professor learn your name.

3. Have a reputation for excellence.

Be the student who stands out because their work is always done well and submitted on time.

4. Be engaged in class. Professors can tell who’s paying attention and appreciate students who participate actively.

5. Go to office hours. Stop by early in the semester so you can start getting to know one another, and be proactive about any potential challenges in the course.

7. Send professional emails. When

emailing a professor, include a greeting (Dear Professor ____), lean toward more formality, be clear about what you need, and proofread. Respond to your professor’s emails promptly.

8. Let them know if something going on in your life will affect your work and attendance. Share your concerns and be honest. Most professors want to help if they can.

9. Communicate early if there’s

an issue. Are you struggling with the material? Don’t let a minor problem grow into a major one.

10. Don’t ask the professor something

you should already know. Before you ask a question, read the assignment, the textbook, and the syllabus.

If you’re still unsure, then ask.

 Vick i Nelson

6. Make your interactions

meaningful. Keep it professional, but share who you are, be kind, and recognize that your professor is a person, too.

JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSIT Y

33

3

ACADEMIC SUPPORT

Mid-Semester Conversations Halfway through fall semester is a good time to check in with your first-year student — and also a time when they may need extra emotional support.

Midterms matter for a few reasons.

The midterm grade can be a reality check about how well (or not) they’re doing in a class. One of the biggest differences between high school and college academics is that students may not receive as much feedback on their work throughout the semester.

Some classes may even have only a midterm and final exam.

Before Midterms: Coping with Stress

that they have a few overlooked assignments or textbook chapters they didn’t get around to reading.

While some students thrive on pressure, for others it can feel debilitating.

Students need to develop their own strategies for dealing with stress (learn more on pg 50 50), but parents can provide guidance and support.

→ If they want to talk, sympathize

with their challenges. Listen a lot.

They may just need to vent about how much they have on their plate.

→ Steer them to resources. Encourage them to attend study sessions and faculty office hours and get individual tutoring in subjects where they’re struggling. Recognize that they need to figure this out. If they fail an exam, it will be part of their learning process and they’ll be stronger and wiser later.

Studying for midterms is a chance for students to solidify their grasp on material covered so far in a course and check for any gaps in their understanding. They’ll find out whether their study habits are working or if they need to make changes for the second half of the semester.

→ Provide perspective. Midterm

There’s no getting around it, though; stress levels ratchet up as midterms approach and students focus on just how much they have to get done. Exams are around the corner, projects and big papers are due, and your student might also discover

→ Send a care package or gift

34

stress is part of the rhythm of the academic year. It will pass and things will get better. And though midterms are important, there is other work in the course, and the semester is only half over. Most students won’t fail a course because of one exam.

card for a coffee shop or restaurant they like in town.

After Midterms: Reflect and Move Forward Midterms are over! Your student survived. How can you help them make sense of the information that midterm grades and assessments can provide?

→ Remember FERPA. The Federal

Educational Rights and Privacy Act gives students ownership of their academic information. Grades go directly to your student, not to you.

Ask whether they are willing to share their grades and talk about them.

→ If your student has great midterm grades, congratulate them. Don’t take good grades for granted!

→ If they’re not sure about their

midterm standing, or question a grade, encourage them to talk to their professor.

→ Remind them that midterms come at the calendar midpoint but not

JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSIT Y

necessarily at the midpoint in the coursework. There may be more than half of the work left — an opportunity to raise their grade by doing well.

→ Do they need to make changes in

order to get back on track? You can help your student interpret what midterm information is telling them they need to do. When they think about all of their courses together, are most grades solid with one low grade? Focus on that course. Are there several poor grades? Think about the amount of time spent studying or approaches to studying.

→ Suggest they meet with their

academic advisor. Is pass/fail an option? Should they consider withdrawing from a class? class Should they think more carefully about which courses to take next term based on difficulties and successes this go-round?

 Vick i Nelson 35

3

ACADEMIC SUPPORT

Career Prep Starts Now With so many new experiences during the first year of college, it can be easy to overlook career-related activities.

In fact, the first year is the perfect time to seek information on various fields and maybe even land a pivotal internship.

Starting early will set your student up for success.

Share these strategies with them! ✓ Focus on building strong study skills. Although GPA is only one factor employers consider when hiring graduates, it’s important to build a solid academic foundation as a first-year student. Most universities require the completion of general education courses before beginning higher-level classes. Using gen ed courses to learn how to study and excel will boost the grade point average right from the start.

✓ Don’t wait till senior year to investigate careers. College is about exploration and self-discovery, but it’s also about preparing for life, and a career, after graduation. Students should participate in resume-building activities each year of college! ✓ Explore clubs and organizations.

Co-curricular activities are a chance for first-year students to develop teamwork, organization, and leadership skills as well as to meet older students with shared interests who can guide and mentor them. And of course, they’re fun. ✓ Work part time or volunteer during the school year. An on- or offcampus job, volunteering position, or service learning class can expose your student to career possibilities they may not have considered.

36

Visit the Life Design Lab to explore careers, find a mentor and resources. www.imagine.jhu.edu

✓ Attend job and internship fairs. Even if your student isn’t ready to apply for a job or internship yet, they can attend job fairs in order to see how they work and start collecting info. Suggest they make a note of the following:

→ What companies are participating → What positions they’re hiring for → What qualifications they’re

looking for (major, GPA, year in school, past experience, etc.)

✓ Conduct informational interviews and job shadow. These are terrific ways to get a sense of what a particular job is like, gain confidence with interviewing, and keep building that professional network.

The career center can connect your student with opportunities, including with alumni, or you can tap into your own family network.

JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSIT Y

✓ Make connections on social media.

Your student should maintain an upto-date LinkedIn profile and can also use platforms like Instagram and TikTok to follow businesses that interest them. Remind them to be discreet on their personal social media accounts.

Potential employers often Google candidates before interviewing them. ✓ Join Handshake. Schools partner with Handshake to share information about career-related events, jobs, internships, on-campus employer visits, resume support, and more. Your student should create a profile on Handshake and download the app to have this resource at their fingertips.

 Tami Campbell, Mindy East, and Suzanne Shaff er 37

3

ACADEMIC SUPPORT

When Should My Student Apply for an Internship?

There’s no single time of year when it’s best to apply for internships.

It depends on the industry, the company, and the position — so the best approach is to look for opportunities continually.

As a general rule, students should identify and apply for an internship at least three to four months before the start date if the company has announced it that far in advance.

Prepare in Advance Before they start looking for internships, students should think about what sector they want to join, the type of internship (paid, unpaid, or for course credit), the skills they hope to acquire, and the qualifications they will need.

Family members can help students research companies online. Parents and families can also use their own personal and professional networks to identify possible internship opportunities, and you can help your student update and polish their resume to showcase their abilities best.

It’s your student’s responsibility to contact specific companies to learn more about the internship programs they offer and the application timeline.

Encourage them to practice these phone calls with you first, but don’t be tempted to do the work for them.

38

For all the times you’ll be here for them, we’re here for you.

The Study was created with Blue Jay families in mind— the emotional goodbyes, the proud milestones, the spontaneous visits just to check in. With elevated accommodations steps from JHU’s campus, each stay offers an opportunity to build meaningful connections and a shared joy in your college student’s journey.

Keep an Eye on Industry Schedules From one season to the next, most industries and companies follow a similar recruitment timeline:

3215 N CHARLES STREET | 410.243.0030 | THESTUDYATJOHNSHOPKINS.COM

pus

→ For a spring internship,

students should start looking in the late summer or early fall of the previous year.

→ The best time to apply for a summer internship is the beginning of the year in January or February.

→ For fall internships, students should apply in April or May because most of them will begin between late August and early October.

→ For winter internships, the period

Lease a Downtown Apartment Like None Other, and Get a 5% Student Discount on Rent!* Schedule your tour today!

Call 443.569.5371 or visit 2HopkinsApts.com.

between August and September is the ideal time to apply.

It’s never too early or too late to apply for internships! Of course, it can be too late for a specific position if the due date has passed, or even for a particular season because most companies accept applications months prior, but if a student is determined to find an internship program, there are always opportunities.

Approx. 10 min. drive to Homewood Campus Approx. 10 min. drive or Metro SubwayLink ride to JHU Medical School

2 Hopkins Plaza Baltimore, MD 21201 2HopkinsApts.com 443.569.5371

JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSIT Y

Close to public transportation and I-95

On-site garage parking Washer and dryer in every home Two fitness centers featuring spin/yoga room Pet-friendly living with pet spa and indoor dog park

*Some restrictions may apply.

See LIVEbe ambassador for more information.

39

3

ACADEMIC SUPPORT

Luckily, there are stress-reducing ways to support and guide students who are at this juncture. Here are six tips to suggest:

1

Relax.

No need to make this experience more traumatic than it already is.

Remember that it’s normal for the journey from major to career to twist and turn. Make an effort to keep things in perspective and you’ll be able to share this attitude with your student.

2 Choosing a Major Six Tips for Guiding Your Student Every parent wants their student to find their “calling” and click with a major that will help pave the way to a career. Students want that, too! But the process of declaring a major can be scary as well as exhilarating.

Amy Baldwin, Ed.D. 40

“Am I making the right choice?” they wonder anxiously. “Will I be able to find a job after graduation?” And then there is the classic question from well-meaning family and friends: “What are you going to do with that?”

For students whose majors are clear pathways to careers (think nursing or accounting), the last question can be answered easily. However, for undecided students worried not only about choosing the “right” major but also about how their degree will prepare them for employment someday, the question can increase their self-doubt. And with self-doubt comes even more anxiety.

Help them reflect on their past interests to shape their future.

One of the best strategies to use with college students is to encourage them to reflect on what they liked when they were younger, what they did in their spare time for fun, and what activities they participated in and why. Their past holds clues about the kinds of majors that might interest them. For example, someone who counseled their friends through difficult times may find themselves interested in psychology or social work. An athlete might gravitate to sports management or sports medicine.

3

Focus on passion, not perception.

The best way to erase self-doubt is to find a subject they like and that will help them build transferable skills. Ask what kinds of classes interest them the most and which classes challenge them to think and grow.

Their answers should give them an idea of what they want to spend several years studying. A student who says they want to major in business “so my parents will leave me alone” is not a student who will be happy for long with their choice.

JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSIT Y

4

Compare degree plans and course descriptions.

5

Connect with advisors and counselors regularly.

6

Interview recent college graduates.

Reading through the college’s course catalog is another way to narrow their choices. The course catalog and degree requirements can be found on the school’s website. If your student is choosing between economics and education, for example, suggest they read through the degree requirements, such as internships or foreign languages, to see which plan appeals to them more. Have them browse the course descriptions as well. They will spend a lot of time in their major courses and should be intrigued by the topics that await them there.

The academic advisor will help them navigate the process of completing a degree, and the career counselor can help them develop a plan to translate what they’re learning to workplace needs.

Meeting with both throughout college can keep your student on track and help them make any needed adjustments along the way.

Some of the best advice about college majors comes from recent graduates.

New graduates are likely to say that the skills they acquired in college (e.g., critical thinking, written communication, appreciation for diversity) are more important than the content knowledge they gained from their major. At the very least, their advice may ease the pressure to make a “right choice.”

41

3

ACADEMIC SUPPORT

What if my student wants to change their major?

Students change majors for a variety of reasons. In some surveys as many as 80% of students have switched majors at least once.

But it can still be worrisome to parents, who wonder if their student will be able to graduate on time. In addition to discussing what led them to this new direction (was it a single fabulous course or professor? a new career goal?), here are a few questions you can ask to help your student make the best decision:

→ How many additional courses

do you need to take? The earlier the change is made, the less likely your student will need to take lots of additional courses.

→ Will you need to take more credit hours per term or take summer classes to stay on track? In some cases, an additional course per term or a couple of classes during the summer may be all that’s needed to graduate in four years.

42

→ What other requirements does the new degree plan include?

Some degree plans require internships or practicums that must be taken into consideration. As always when working toward a degree, your student should consult with an academic advisor to ensure they are completing required courses in the right sequence.

JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSIT Y

43

4

H E A LT H & W E L L N E S S

Two Key Health Talks to Have with Your Student It’s challenging for young adults living on their own for the first time to take proper care of themselves.

Healthy behaviors reinforce one another; parents can help their college students understand the interconnectedness of sufficient sleep, proper nutrition, and regular exercise.Let’s distill it into two basic priorities: getting enough sleep and managing stress.

The Importance of Good Sleep Habits College students are notorious for being sleep deprived. Communal living arrangements, academic pressure, and FOMO (fear of missing out) are the main contributors. But without sufficient sleep, your student will find it harder to learn and to remember what they learned, and they will lack the energy to make the most of their college experience.

44

Get Ahead of Stress

Why eight hours? What happens when we sleep?

Pass along these tips for deep sleep:

Our bodies are busy while we slumber.

During sleep we fix damaged tissue, toxins are eliminated, hormones essential for growth and appetite control are released and restocked, and energy is restored. When sleep is cut short, the body doesn’t have time to complete this work.

→ Sleep in a dark room (or

Health risks of sleep deprivation include:

→ Impaired cognitive function:

Even one night of sleeping less than six hours can impact your ability to think clearly the next day.

→ Increased risk of accidents:

Sleep deprivation slows reaction time; you’re three times more likely to be in a car crash if you’re tired.

use a sleep mask).

→ Save your bed for rest; find other places to study.

→ Turn off screens at least an hour before bedtime.

→ Stop eating at least two hours before bedtime, and avoid processed/ junk food that makes your body work extra hard during the night to remove the toxins, leaving less time for healing and repair.

→ Exercise helps people fall

asleep faster and sleep longer, so try to exercise each day but not too close to bedtime.

Some amounts of stress are necessary to study productively, maintain motivation, and accomplish tasks, but the negative effects of stress (anxiety, exhaustion, hopelessness) can disrupt daily living and thriving. Students can learn to manage the pressures of college so the demands don’t seem as unbearable and the stress response is deactivated.

Five ways to manage stress!

1

Use a planner and create a study schedule.

Calendars and planners are a foundation for success and counteract a lot of mental health symptoms. By planning, you avoid the panic that comes with last-minute cramming.

Every hour of the day can be scheduled.

Write it out, draw it, color it, mind map it, keep it visible. Include:

→ Study breaks, sleep, recreation → 1.5–2 hours of study per class, then break

→ Increased emotional intensity:

→ Switch classes for the next

The part of the brain responsible for emotional regulation can be up to 60% more reactive when you’ve slept poorly.

2-hour study session

→ Use “backwards backwards planning” planning if this works for you

JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSIT Y

45

4

H E A LT H & W E L L N E S S

3

Hydrate and nourish.

Many college students eat a diet high in fat and sodium and lacking in essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. They also lean heavily on sugarsweetened and energy drinks.

2

Encourage your student to be mindful when they head into the campus dining hall. The goal is to limit fast food to an occasional choice and integrate more healthy items into their diet: fruits and veggies, legumes, nuts and seeds, whole grains, lean meats, and fish. In addition, it’s a good idea to have their water bottle always handy.

Determine your ideal study spot and times.

→ Pick the place you feel the most productive, calm, and focused.

Keep going to this spot for a few weeks to train your body and brain for study mode.

→ Notice what time of day/

4

Attend to self-care.

→ Notice how often and how much

you move your body. A short walk, jumping jacks, or push-ups will suffice if you can’t fit in a work-out.

night you study best. Use this time slot to prepare for your most challenging classes.

→ Engage in a fun activity: frisbee,

→ Be aware of what distracts you:

and counseling resources.

cell phone, friends, Netflix. These things belong in your life, but not when you’re studying.

basketball, a dance or fitness class.

→ Take advantage of campus social → Practice calming breathing exercises. → Take an extra shower a day during exam weeks. Get a haircut or manicure. Pamper yourself!

→ When your thoughts get stuck, or drift away from the material at hand, “reset” by standing up to move and stretch.

5

Fill your brain with positive mantras:

“I’m thankful everyday for the opportunity to go to college. I’m right where I need to be! With this comes tough times. I am tough enough — I will be just fine.”

THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE

here.

Johns Hopkins University Employee & Student Specials Whether you’re looking for city or suburban living, a studio for yourself or a three-bedroom to share, we have something for everyone. Contact us today and start living a little better with Southern Management!

Conveniently located in the following neighborhoods: Downtown Bromo Seltzer Arts District Mount Vernon Medfield Heights Pikesville Towson Full-Time JHU Employees Receive up to $500 off your first month’s rent Enjoy a $0 application fee

APPLY TODAY!

Full-Time Graduate Students $0 application fee $0 security deposit Pre-approved status Receive up to $500 off your first month’s rent Visit our site for more information: Southernmanagement.com/jhu-guide/

46

JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSIT Y

47

4

H E A LT H & W E L L N E S S

Important Health and Safety Conversations What are some of the other topics you want to touch on with your college student as the semester gets started and throughout the year? Here are just a few.

How Health Insurance Works

→ Don’t go to classes or the dining hall

Go over their coverage, whether they’re on the school’s health plan or still covered by your family insurance, and how and where to access services. Will they use the campus health center for all their non-emergency needs, or go there just for the easy/free stuff (such as flu shots and treatment for minor illnesses) and see a provider or specialist in the local community? Do they know how to fill their own prescriptions?

→ Don’t hesitate to visit the health

What To Do If They Get Sick Your student should have a first aid kit with a thermometer, bandaids, and basic over-the-counter remedies as well as a few rapid COVID tests. Talk through possible scenarios, ranging from treating a cold to how to know if it’s something more serious like influenza. A few basic reminders:

→ Wash your hands frequently.

when you’re symptomatic (fever, sore throat, cough, vomiting/diarrhea, etc.). center, and definitely go if symptoms don’t improve after a few days.

Healthy Relationships and Sexual Health Students enter college with a wide range of experience in relationships, and families vary widely in how comfortable and open they are when it comes to talking about sex. You may think you’re done having “the talk,” or that your student is smart and mature enough to make good decisions.

But sexual health concerns change over time, and for many reasons it’s important to keep engaging with our kids on this topic rather than assuming they understand consent and how to practice safe sex, especially in this new environment.

Wondering how to break the ice? Find helpful information and conversation starters: collegiateparent.com/healthsafety/talk-about-sex-with-your-student safety/talk-about-sex-with-you r-student.

Responsible Drinking Most families have strict rules about alcohol in high school, but in college an abstinence-only policy may not be practical. Though some students choose a sober lifestyle, the most recent survey from the NIH found that about half of college students drink, with nearly a third (29%) having engaged in binge drinking in the month preceding the survey.

By talking regularly with your student about the campus party scene, their experiences with alcohol, and what it means to drink responsibly, you can continue to have a positive influence. These conversations require that you know your facts, be honest and open-minded, and be ready to listen. For more, visit niaaa.nih.gov/publications/brochuresniaaa.nih.gov /publications/brochuresand-fact-sheets/college-drinking and-fact-sheets/college -drinking.

Don’t Forget About Marijuana With marijuana legal and readily available in many parts of the country, cannabis-related health problems for teens and young adults are on the rise. Learn more about the trends and risks of drug use in college and find advice specifically for parents and families at nida.nih.gov/researchtopics/college-age-young-adults topics/college-age-you ng-adults.

Whenever you see or talk to your student, help them reflect on their current health habits and make adjustments based on their experience of campus life.

Health Forms to Complete Two federal laws govern the privacy of a student’s medical records when they are over 18 and/or, in the case of FERPA, when they go to college.

The Federal Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) protects the privacy of educational records, which includes grades, academic standing, disciplinary events, and information relating to your student’s treatment at the campus health center.

HIPAA, the Health Information Portability and Accountability Act, protects sensitive information. Once a student turns 18, much like FERPA, HIPAA turns control of their health care and records over to them.

Because of FERPA and HIPAA, if your student seeks medical treatment on or off campus, or if they’re injured or fall seriously ill and require hospitalization, you won’t automatically be able to consult with medical providers, get information, and have input into their treatment.

Learn more about FERPA waivers, HIPAA release forms, medical power of attorney, and more by visiting collegiateparent. com/health-safety/importanthealth-forms-for-students.

→ Stay up to date on vaccinations.

48

JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSIT Y

49

4

H E A LT H & W E L L N E S S

✓ 3. Scope out services and have a plan.

Supporting Mental Health

All students, but particularly those who have already experienced mental health issues, should have a plan in place in case things get too difficult to handle. Call or make an appointment with the campus mental health or counseling center to learn what services are available.

A Checklist for Families Mental health issues are far more common than many people realize. Fifty percent of us will encounter a mental health challenge in our lifetime. And whether or not they have a mental health diagnosis, increasing numbers of college students report feeling scared, sad, unsafe, lonely, or helpless.

While starting college is exciting, some students find themselves overwhelmed by the transition to an unfamiliar environment full of new pressures and expectations. It takes most students a while — even a full semester — to feel at home and find their place on campus. Homesickness can linger into late fall, just as days grow shorter and academic pressure heats up.

The good news: Awareness and open lines of communication — with family members, professors/instructors, coaches, and friends — can go a long way toward making sure no student struggles alone. Check out these tips on how to empower and support your new college student.

50

The Checklist ✓ 1. Prepare them.

It’s likely that your student, or one of their roommates or friends, will experience a mental health issue while at college.

Prepare your student by talking about mental health on a regular basis. Review together what campus resources are available if they’re ever in a position to help a friend. By maintaining a dialogue, you’ll help them feel comfortable coming to you with questions and problems without fear of being judged.

If your student is already in the care of a psychiatrist or psychologist, make plans to continue that care with a clinician close to college. (The The campus mental health center may keep a list of convenient off-campus providers who work well with students.) Your student should have students. regular check-ins with a professional to monitor any changes. They can also register with disability support services to access helpful accommodations.

✓ 4. Forget stigma.

If your student is experiencing mental health issues, prioritize getting help over any concerns about tarnishing their transcript or reputation. Some students will need time off from school to recover and get back on track. Each college has its own policy about granting medical leave — you can contact the Dean of Students office to find out the procedure for taking a temporary leave of absence.

✓ 5. Stay in touch.

Make time for regular calls or FaceTime conversations in addition to texting your student. It’s easier to hear in their voice when something is bothering them than it is to read into a text message.

Keep an eye out for symptoms of depression, anxiety, hopelessness, irritability, restlessness, sleep difficulties, loss of appetite, suicidal thoughts, unexplained aches and pains, and tearfulness. A sudden drop in academic performance or loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities are other signs that support is needed.

September is National Suicide Prevention Month for a reason. Don’t be afraid to ask, “How are you really doing?”

Create a verbal bond that encourages them to seek you (or someone else) out. As the adult, shed the shame of staying connected with your student despite society’s convincing you that you are overprotective. There’s a difference between hovering over and solving your child’s problems for them and simply listening to their voice, laying eyes on their appearance, and noticing behavior changes.

 Tips f rom Active Minds, Lori Bender, and Ianni Le

✓ 2. Allow mistakes.

Perfection is not a realistic goal and it’s important to let your student know that you support them no matter what. Mistakes and failure are an unavoidable part of life and we can learn from them. A perfect GPA isn’t worth it if it comes at the expense of your student’s emotional well-being.

JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSIT Y

51