Academic support

Finding ways to excel

In this edition of FYE News for Families, we'll highlight some of the ways your student can find help succeeding in and out of the classroom.

Dennis Learning Center online resources

It’s common for first-year students to struggle with time management, perfectionism, procrastination, and test-taking and study tactics during their first term. Your student can explore support resources through the Dennis Learning Center for help with these and all kinds of academic skills.

Is your student stressed about midterms?

Remind your Buckeye that visiting instructors during office hours is a good place to start for academic support. Beyond office hours, encourage your student to take advantage of the wide range of campus services designed to help them thrive, including:

• General Chemistry Success Centers
• Mathematics and Statistics Learning Center
• Physics tutoring
• The Writing Center
• Younkin Success Center
• Tutoring resources

Helping your Buckeye find their crew

Starting college is an exciting opportunity for your Buckeye to expand their circle and make lifelong friends! While they already know how to build great relationships, coming to Ohio State opens up a world of new possibilities.

The 5-Point Icebreaker is a fun way to start a conversation. Have your student share five quick details about themselves: their name, major, hometown, where they live/commute from and something they do for fun. This gives the other person five easy entry points to find common ground and keep the conversation going. A quick, simple introduction is usually all it takes to spark a connection!

Roommate / suitemate agreement

Living with a roommate/suitemate means more than just sharing a space — your Buckeye is building a shared experience. While roommates don’t need to be best friends or spend all their time together, open and respectful communication is essential. This agreement is a tool to help roommates talk through expectations early, before challenges arise. By having these conversations now, students can create a more comfortable and cooperative living environment for the year ahead.

Your Buckeye’s RA is a great resource as they work through this agreement. Encourage students to complete their roommate and/or suitemate agreement by going to Ohio State's Housing Portal.

Major exploration

It's completely normal for your student to change their mind about their major. Many students start college with one path in mind — and through new classes and experiences discover different interests, strengths or career goals. 

If your student is reconsidering their major or interested in exploring other possibilities, encourage them to make an appointment with a University Exploration advisor. These advisors will help your student investigate new opportunities and determine how the course work they've already completed meets degree requirements in other majors and programs.

First Year Experience website

FYE is excited to announce the launch of our redesigned website featuring a new family and supporters section. Whether you are looking for campus resources, answers to FAQs or how to help your student navigate campus, this new hub will keep you connected and informed.

Master evolving communication

As your Buckeye begins their college journey, your relationship may start to shift. They’re growing more independent, and sometimes that means needing a little more space. When they do reach out, try listening with empathy rather than jumping in with solutions. Often, they just want to feel heard — and your steady support can mean more than advice.

And don’t underestimate the power of sending a care package! A few favorite snacks, a note from home or something that makes your Buckeye smile can go a long way in keeping your connection strong. 

Got questions? Ask us!

As your student learns to navigate Ohio State, you may find that you have questions but don't know where to turn for the answer. Don't worry — we're here to help! Email us anytime at askfye@osu.edu.