Leaving home and moving away to college brings a lot of changes and adjustments, some of which are more manageable than others for many students. It usually takes a semester to sort things out and learn the ropes. First semester grades are often a reflection of just how difficult an adjustment it can be. So when your student promises the next semester will be better, they are usually right. Know the services available on campus.
Students tend to call home for help when it usually is right under their nose.
They may have a high fever and sore throat and beg you to send an ambulance to bring them home because they don't know what to do. In reality, they may be able to throw a rock from their window and hit the roof of the health center. Most universities are like small communities and have services ready and waiting for most needs a student can present. It is always a good idea to have a contact person on campus, like your student's academic counselor or housing director to call for advice or reference. Be there for them no matter what.