Guide Your Student
Parent &
Family Roles
The college years are a time of exposure to new ideas and increased
knowledge of potential career options. Parents can play an important
role in supporting their student through this process. Here are some
tips:
Listen
Choosing a major or career path can be overwhelming and students are
anxious to have an opportunity to talk about their thoughts. Parents
can do this successfully by keeping an open mind and seeing the situation
from the student's perspective. Although it may be difficult, avoid
giving advice unless asked.
Encourage
Talk about the value of the Gateway Program with your student
and encourage them to get involved in the first year. Keep up to date
on the programs and workshops offered by Career Services throughout
the year and mention to your student those that you think he or she
might enjoy and benefit from. Let your student know that you see the
value in participating in a variety of activities and courses while
at Lafayette.
Inform
You have a wealth of career information available to you through your
own experience as well as your personal network of contacts. Talk to
your student about your own career development path, even if he or she
is considering a career quite different from your own. Connect your
student with people you know that can provide career insight and information
on internships and full-time jobs.
Partner
Help your student navigate the career exploration process by taking
the journey with them, not trying to lead them. Ask open-ended questions
to help your student clarify their ideas and goals. Provide positive
feedback when your student discusses their career-related activities
with you. Above all, let your student know that you trust them to use
all the resources available to them to make an informed decision.
Resources for
Parents
The Four-Year Parental Guide to the Gateway Program
Articles by NACE
Parents
Have Their Say...About Their College-Age Children's Career Decisions
A Career Planning Course for Parents
How Assessment Can Help You Choose
a Major or Career
A
Parents' Guide to Career Development
A Career Action Plan |
