What this advisor-mom thinks about other parents

I’ve always known that I was a different type of academic advisor.  When I started out in higher education in June of 2009, I was the mother of a daughter who was almost nine.  I would hear other advisors talk about their frustrations with the “helicopter” and “snowplow” parents.  I found that as a parent myself, I was able to understand where those parents were coming from.  They have a vested interest in their children’s health, happiness, and education.  They are the ones that will be there every.single.day for their students and will also be going through quite a transition while their student/child attends college (no matter if they live at home or at school).  I wanted to be that advisor that will support the students’ transition from high school to college, but also help the parents in their transition.

As my daughter has grown, so has my compassion for the parents that place great faith and trust in the higher education system and the people that work within it.  I speak to students and let them know I’m a resource for them and make it a point to address parents directly during college visits and orientation, as well.  I let them know I’m a parent and although FERPA restricts me from discussing many things specific to their child, I can still answer general questions and give suggestions on how to best support their student/child.

I’d love to hear from you!  In the comments, tell me about a time that an academic advisor helped you feel comfortable and confident in sending your child to college.  If you haven’t gotten to this point yet, do you have any concerns with sending your child to college?

We’re in this together.  🙂
-LouAnna