As the parents of a Ferris State University
student, you may have many questions about the opportunities,
requirements and challenges facing your student as he or she begins a stimulating and rewarding undergraduate career.
The number one question you may be asking yourself is: What role do I play in my child's
career development?
As a parent you have an integral role in assisting your student to
become a student who is capable of making successful academic and career
decisions. Ways to help your student make the transition to
independence include your willingness to:
- Listen to your students' ideas, hopes and fears, and remain
open-minded. They may begin to become more aware of their strengths and
weaknesses as they encounter our General Education
curriculum. Part of the purpose of a general education is to ensure
that students acquire a breadth of knowledge about the approaches of the
social sciences, the sciences, mathematics, the arts, and a substantial
knowledge about western (and possibly non-western) culture.
- Support their exploration of interests, majors and career paths,
even if it isn't what you imagined. They may be exploring different
avenues as part of their growth process. An exploration does not
necessarily mean a commitment. And if they should make that commitment
it will often be a result of their exploration.
- Encourage your student to begin educational and career planning early, and to visit
Educational Counseling and Disabilities Services to investigate available programs, Career Counseling and Educational Counseling services.
Thank you for giving us the opportunity of working with your student.
Deb Cox, LPC
Department Head
Educational Counseling & Disabilities Services Department
