First Year Parents

During this year, students are formally and informally involved in assessing their skills, interests and abilities. They will do this through the courses they take, campus activities they are involved in, discussions with friends and faculty, and generally being exposed to and trying out different ideas and experiences. How you can help:

  • Support your child's exploration in new areas of study and interest.
  • Affirm the skills and abilities he/she has consistently demonstrated. Sometimes students overlook these. Students discover new things about themselves at college. Your willingness to listen will keep you in the loop.
  • Support your student in their choice of major or as they explore majors. Skills used in English, History and Art are valuable and transferable across all industries.
  • Support responsible involvement in campus activities. Help your student understand that these need to be balanced with maintaining classroom achievement.
  • Encourage your student to seek assistance with the Career Development Center (CDC) to help define skills, interests, and abilities.
  • There are two main programs the CDC sponsors for first-year students.
    • First Night, held in early February, is a ceremony which marks for the students the successful completion of their first semester at Bucknell and the beginning of their lifelong journey as Bucknellians.
    • First Year Carnival - Externship Kickoff in mid-February. At this event, the Career Development Center will share information about career decision making, career counseling and advising, as well as introduce students to the more tactical issues of resume and cover letter writing, interviewing, and networking. We will also introduce students to the Externship Program, which they will have the opportunity to participate in their sophomore year.

For more information about workshops and events being offered by the CDC click here.

For more information on how to support your son/daughter click here.

For more information about the career development process and how you can play a role click here.

Contact Us with any questions.